Finding the right size for figure skates is essential for both performance and comfort. Skates that fit too loosely provide poor control, while skates that are too tight can cause pain and injuries. With proper measurement and fitting, you can avoid problems and get the most out of your training!
In this guide, we show you how to measure your feet at home—and why it is always best to try them on in a store whenever possible.
⏰ When should you measure your feet?
Timing is more important than you think! Your feet change throughout the day, and this affects the size you need.
✅ Best time: Late afternoon or evening
❌ Avoid: Early in the morning, when your feet are “rested”
Why? Your feet can swell by up to 5% during the day when you are active. Measuring in the afternoon gives you a more realistic picture of how large your feet are when you skate.
🧦 Important: Always wear thin skate socks when measuring—thick socks will result in an inaccurate measurement!
Method 1: The quick method – use your shoe size
If you want a quick estimate, you can use your usual shoe size as a starting point. However, keep in mind that figure skates should fit much more snugly than regular shoes!
📏 General sizing rule:
- Children and juniors: 0.5 size smaller than regular shoes
- Adults: 1.0–1.5 sizes smaller than regular shoes
- Wider feet: May sometimes need only 0.5 size smaller
⚠️ NOTE! This is only a starting point. Different brands and models fit differently, so it is always best to try them on or measure precisely. Preferably use your size in dress shoes or classic shoes—not athletic shoes, which often have a more generous fit.
Method 2: Exact measurement – trace around your foot
For the most accurate measurement, we recommend tracing around your feet. This method provides both length and width, which are important for the right fit.
📦 You need:
- An A4 sheet of paper (or larger)
- A pen or pencil
- A ruler or measuring tape
- A helper (makes measuring easier)
- Your skate socks
Step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Prepare
Place the paper on a hard surface (not a carpet or soft surface). Position the paper against a wall so that one edge is tightly against the wall.
Step 2: Stand correctly
Put on your skate socks and stand on the paper with your heel against the wall. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, with your weight evenly distributed. This is important for getting an accurate measurement!
Step 3: Trace around your foot
Have someone else trace around your foot with a pencil. Important: The pencil should be held upright (at a 90° angle to the paper), not tilted, to create an accurate outline.
Step 4: Mark key points
Mark the center of the heel and the farthest point of the toes (usually not the big toe but the second toe!).
Step 5: Measure length and width
Measure the distance from heel to toe in millimeters or centimeters. Also measure the width at the foot’s widest point (usually across the ball of the foot).
Step 6: Repeat for the other foot
Repeat the exact same procedure for your other foot. Use the back of the paper or a new sheet of paper.
💡 Important tips for accurate measurement
🦶 Always measure both feet!
It is completely normal for your right and left feet to be different sizes – some people may have up to a half-size difference! Always use the measurement from your larger foot when choosing a size.
📐 Width is just as important as length!
Many people only consider foot length, but width plays a huge role in comfort and performance. Different brands offer different width options:
- Narrow foot: A or B width
- Average-width foot: C or D width (most common)
- Wide foot: E width or wide models
👠 The heel is most important!
The most important thing is that your heel is held firmly and cannot move inside the skate boot. If your heel slips, it can cause blisters, poor control, and even injuries. The forefoot can be adjusted through heat molding, but the heel must fit correctly from the start!
Different brands – different fits
It is important to know that different brands fit different foot types. At Tinas Figure Skating Shop, we work with Jackson, EDEA, Risport, and Wifa—all with their own unique characteristics:
🇺🇸 Jackson
Often suitable for wider feet and offers many different width options.
🇮🇹 EDEA
Known for an anatomical fit and measured in millimeters.
🇮🇹 Risport
Italian quality with a classic fit and high comfort.
🇦🇹 Wifa
Austrian tradition with a focus on durability and fit.
Even if you measure accurately at home, the same measurement can result in different sizes across different brands. That is why professional fitting is so valuable!
Do you want to be completely sure about the right size?
At Tinas Figure Skating Shop, we have over 20 years of experience fitting figure skates. We help you find the perfect brand, model, and size for your feet!
✨ What is included in our fitting service?
- ✅ Professional measurement and analysis of your feet
- ✅ Try-on of different brands and models
- ✅ Heat molding of the skates if needed
- ✅ Expert advice based on your level and needs
- ✅ 45–60 minutes of personal service
📅 Book your fitting appointment today!
No queues, no waiting—just professional service at a time that suits you. Perfect for both beginners and experienced skaters!
Book an appointment here →Do you live far from the store?
We understand that not everyone can visit us in person. If you have measured your feet according to the guide above, you can contact us with your measurements, and we will help you find the right skates! In selected cases, we can also send skates for home trials.
📧 Send us:
- Foot measurements for both feet (length and width in cm/mm)
- Your age, height, and weight
- Technical level (beginner, recreational skater, competitor)
- Current skates and size (if applicable)
- Any issues with previous skates
Contact us: By email or phone, and we’ll guide you further!
The right skates make all the difference in your development as a figure skater. Whether you measure at home or visit us in the store—we are here to help you find the perfect fit!
⛸️ With over 20 years of experience, we help you get the most out of your skating ⛸️
