Best Ice Hockey Skates

Whether you are a seasoned veteran ice hockey player or if you are brand new to the game, we are here to help you find the best skate for your skill level! For each category, we pick one skate for 'Overall Performance' based purely on tech and spec and another winner for 'Overall Value' that more heavily considers price, continue reading below to see why we chose each one!

When it comes to finding the perfect balance of power, performance, and comfort, the CCM Tacks XF Pro Skates take the crown. Built for players who dominate the game with explosive speed, the XF Pro maximizes energy return and efficiency in every stride. CCM continues to raise the bar year after year, and the XF Pro is another standout in their pursuit of excellence.

The most exciting update this year is the FORS composite boot, which combines responsiveness, lightweight construction, and moldability in one impressive package. Much like the recoil of a stick during a shot, the FORS material stores and releases energy, propelling the foot forward with an enhanced, responsive feel. Pair this with the Game-Ready Fit 3.0, which delivers a pre-molded boot shape straight out of the box, and you’ve got a skate that feels custom from day one and only improves with time.

Staying true to the "maximum power" design philosophy, the XF Pro introduces the Flex Tendon 3.0 to optimize energy transfer with an unparalleled range of motion. The aggressive forward tilt improves stride extension while offering consistent Achilles protection and better feedback throughout every movement. Add to this the deeper fit profile and straighter top eyelets, and the XF Pro ensures unmatched stability and comfort, whether it's your first shift or the final buzzer.

Last but not least, the Tacks XF Pro comes with a 30-Day Satisfaction Guarantee, ensuring players can hit the ice with confidence knowing they can return or exchange their skates if they aren't completely satisfied!

For players looking for a custom-like fit, premium responsiveness and speed without breaking the bank, the True Catalyst 9X4 Skates are the go-to choice.

Featuring NeuroFit+ and True Shell technologies, this one-piece composite boot features a unique thermoplastic insert near the eyelets that creates heat molding properties unlike anything else on the market. At IW Hockey, we always advise on baking your True skates before trying them on because the level of adjustability they offer is second to none. This means a perfect fit for exceptional energy transfer and unmatched comfort.

The CCM Tacks XF90 Skates are a top-tier choice for the competitive player who demands elite performance at a more accessible price point. CCM didn’t cut any corners here, building these skates with a pro-level RocketFrame composite one-piece boot that delivers outstanding power, comfort, and fit for the cost.

Right out of the box, the XF90 provides an exceptionally plush feel, thanks to the multiple layers of memory foam lining the interior. Once baked, the fit only gets better. The upgraded TotalDri Pro Liner not only keeps feet securely locked in with its moisture-wicking properties but also enhances durability, ensuring these skates last through the grind of a long season.

And yes, your eyes aren’t deceiving you, those are premium Step Steel runners in the XS holder. Widely regarded as the go-to option at the pro level, Step Steel offers superior edge retention, longer sharpening life, and more profiling options to suit any player's needs.

The True Catalyst 5X4 Skates are an impressive contender at this performance-level price point, delivering pro-inspired features without the premium price tag. With True's groundbreaking one-piece construction and the new Poly Fusion Shell, these skates offer a remarkable fit, top-notch performance, and incredible value for serious players.

At the core of the Catalyst 5X4 is the NeuroFit Poly Fusion Shell, which contours to your foot like no other skate in this category. This advanced design not only provides a nearly custom fit but also ensures exceptional energy transfer and efficiency through every stride.

Inside, the HydroFoam Clarino liner stands out with its elite moisture management and durability, keeping feet dry and locked in for the game's duration. Meanwhile, the multi-layer black felt tongue protects against lace bite and impacts, ensuring unmatched comfort and security.

The True Catalyst 3X4 Skates stand out as the ideal choice for casual or new hockey players looking to take their game to the next level. True's innovative one-piece boot construction delivers a fit and feel that recreational-level skates with traditional two-piece designs simply can’t match, offering unmatched value and performance.

With a Poly Fusion shell and NeuroFit technology, similar to what’s found in higher-end models like the 5X4, the 3X4 provides players with impressive efficiency and speed. The addition of the Shift Max Holder and Shift Max 3CR steel makes these skates an excellent starting point for those looking to step into competitive hockey.

Rounding out the package, the multi-layer black felt tongue and traditional Blackwick liner ensure ample comfort and protection, making these skates more than capable of handling the demands of recreational play.

The CCM Next Skates are a fantastic option for beginner hockey players or casual skaters who want to enjoy the ice in comfort without breaking the bank. Built for the recreational level, these skates offer an easy, accessible introduction to hockey or skating with features designed to make every stride smooth and enjoyable.

The 3D Injected Boot sets a new standard for comfort and durability at this price point. It delivers the ideal balance of support and stiffness, helping new skaters perfect their stride while the plush collar padding ensures the ankles stay irritation-free. Add to that the pre-sharpened SpeedBlade runners, and these skates are ready to hit the rink straight out of the box, no trip to the pro shop required!

Inside, CCM has packed extra foam padding into the ankle area and 7mm felt tongue to maximize comfort.

Did you know we offer professional skate sharpening services where your skates are delivered to your doorstep sharpened and even custom profiled? You simply select the hollow and custom profile when you add your skate or runner to your cart and we take of the rest!

If you love your sharpening or custom profile as much as we think you will, we even offer an Express Mail-In Sharpening and Profiling Service where you send in just your runners to have them sharpened or profiled.