11:00 AM – 1:00 PM:ย NEW! Fun Family Friday Social Skate
What’s New This Summer
Fun Family Friday Social Skateย combines Skater-Tots and Home Schooler’s Recess into one inclusive session
Open to ALL families (not just homeschoolers) while school is out
Family-friendly format suitable for ages 2 and up
Children under 7 skate FREE with paid sibling or parent admission
Rolling Ambassadors and Coaches available to help new skaters
Parents welcome to walk the rink with children for extra support
What’s Different This Summer
Classes now start at 11 AM (no more 10 AM sessions)
Advanced classes (Level II) are paused
Beginning and advanced students practice together with focus on fundamentals
Please Note: We don’t operate snack bar or game center services during social skates to maintain focus on skating skills development. Skate Mate trainers are not available during these sessions.
Almost half the year has floated by like a cloud, and yet we’re still looking up — seeing visions of roller skates sliding through the moves we’ve been working so hard to master! If you’ve been dreaming of landing that elusive turn or maneuver, we’re here to help make those dreams a reality.
What’s your summer plan? We hope you’ll carve out time to skate with us at El Centro Skate Rink – whether for fun, fitness, or that little break from the unpredictable summer weather. Rain or shine, the rink is here to keep you rolling!
What’s on tap for Classes this week?
This week, our classes spotlight SHARP TURNS AND DEEP EDGES, and finds examples in our favorite dances and skills moves. We’ll review some foundational skills and add some new twists (literally) that’ll have you eager to show off your progress!
Both groups will focus on edging techniques, with the GrooveSk8 Class building on last week’s lessons in cross-overs onto an edge, while the Artistic Expressions skaters will refine edging precision in the dances we’re prepping for our upcoming SPRING SHOWCASE.
Want your skating to look polished and dynamic? It’s all about learning how to LEAN and AIM – and we’ll help you master both!
2025 Spring Showcase: CARNIVAL!
Don’t forget our 2025 SPRING SHOWCASE is happening at El Centro Skate Rink on June 10th (Tuesday) from 5 – 6:30 pm, with a special ROLLING THROUGH THE YEARS exhibit of roller skating memorabilia generously provided by our legacy skaters from as far back as 1956. We’ll also be recognizing the skaters and volunteers that have made our brand new program such a success during our inaugural year with a special AWARDS PRESENTATION to honor some very deserving recipients.
Our Class and Competitive skaters are working hard to perfect their routines for the Showcase, then they’re off to Portland to compete at our Regional qualifying competition the very next weekend. We’d love to have you come experience either (or both!) of these events that celebrate our skaters’ hard work in achieving the skills to perform at a high level on a National stage. (*It’s not too late to join in the fun and be a part of our Showcase performances! See Linda or Patrick if you would like to join in a group number or the Grand March.)
2025 marks the inaugural year of El Centro Artistic Skating Team’s participation in this prestigious competition to determine the skaters who will represent the Region at the USARS National Championships in Reno, NV in July. Please join in wishing these hard-working skaters GOOD LUCK in their efforts to make the cut in order to bring their skating skills to the National skating floor! The skaters representing El Centro are Linda Sewell, Javier Aragon, and Justine Briley. To these skaters, along with all of the talented competitors from the PNW Region… SK8 GR8!!!
SUMMER SCHEDULE
We’re also unveiling our SUMMER SCHEDULE with just a few small changes to the regular lineup. The Summer Season for in-person classes at El Centro will now start at 11 am with our regularly scheduled Social Skates on Tuesdays and Thursdays, followed by our popular Groove Sk8 Class on Tuesday and the Artistic Expressions Class on Thursdays from 1 – 2pm. The early 10 am Advance Groups for each of these classes will be paused through the summer, but we’ll combine the advanced and basic groups from 1 – 2 pm in order to focus on some fundamentals and review of basic skills through the summer months.
Our new FUN FAMILY FRIDAY Social Skate every Friday from 11 – 1 pm will combine our 10 – 11 am SkaterTots with the Home Schooler’s Recess Social Skate. While school is out, we’d like to invite our non-home schooler friends to join us for this inclusive, FAMILY FRIENDLY session centered around the younger skaters and their parents and siblings. The format is suitable for skaters as young as 2, and children under 7 are free with the admission of a sibling or parent.
Just a note; we don’t provide snack bar service or game center operation during our social skates in order to maintain the focus on learning to skate with special games and activities that build skating skills. For this reason, we also don’t provide the Skate Mate trainers during this skating session. Our Rolling Ambassadors and Coaches are available to assist new skaters, and we also allow parents to walk the rink with their children for added support.
Summer is here – make time for skating!
Whether you roll outdoors or prefer a smooth indoor session, El Centro Skate Rink is the place to soak up some laid-back summer vibes while refining your skating goals.
Join us, bring a friend, and make the most of the season – one stride at a time!
ATTENTION: Important announcement about the upcoming Showcase Event
Hello Skaters,
Due to an unexpected scheduling shift, weโve made a small adjustment to our show date. Our much-anticipated performance will now take place on June 10th, 2025, with practices scheduled for June 3rd and 5th. Everything elseโshow format, times, and all the exciting detailsโremains the same!
Hereโs the silver lining: we now have one extra week to fine-tune our routines and make our performances even more spectacular. I know some of you may have already made plans and invited family and friends to attend, and I sincerely hope this shift doesnโt cause too much inconvenience.
Our skating community is built on adaptability, dedication, and support for one another, and I have no doubt that this will be another shining moment for all of us. Thank you for your understanding, and I canโt wait to see everyone on the rink, bringing our best energy to the show!
If you have any questions or concerns, please donโt hesitate to reach out to me at **linda@artisticskating.com**.
**With gratitude,**
Coach Linda
Rolling into this weekโs Classes: Hereโs what weโre working on!
/
/With recital season in full swing, itโs the perfect time to explore the art of performing on skates! Whether you dream of dazzling an audience or simply want to refine your presence on the rink, understanding performance fundamentals can elevate your skating experience.
Not every skater aims to performโbut even those who prefer solo skating in a personal bubble of rhythm and flow benefit from moments of deep connection with music and movement. These โzen skatingโ sessions are where skills are solidified, muscle memory is built, and artistic choices take shape. That dedicated practice time is essential.
But for those ready to step into the spotlight, performing for an audience transforms skating into something moreโa shared experience, a celebration of artistry, and a chance to showcase the dedication behind the gliding magic. Our club offers two annual opportunities to take the floor and let family, friends, and skating enthusiasts witness the hard work and passion that fuel our craft.
Since many of our skaters are new to performance, this weekโs class will focus on techniques to help you feel comfortable, confident, and connected to the audience. Whether you’re a soloist commanding the stage, part of a group creating a dynamic ensemble, or simply demonstrating skills in the center of a busy rink, performance skating is all about presence, precision, and storytelling.
Hereโs what weโll cover:
โจ **Expressive Body Language** โ Your posture, gestures, and facial expressions add emotion to every movement.
? **Musicality & Rhythm** โ Understanding how to accent beats and pauses enhances your skating artistry.
? **Smooth Transitions** โ Fluid movement keeps performances engaging and professional.
? **Confidence & Presence** โ Own the space with strong posture and assured movements.
โ๏ธ **Balanced Energy** โ Nervous energy can throw off timingโlearn how to control excitement for polished execution.
? **Spatial Awareness** โ Whether solo or in a group, know how to orient yourself within the performance.
? **Storytelling through Movement** โ Every routine tells a storyโmake yours memorable.
โ **Recovery Techniques** โ Mistakes happen! Learn how to recover seamlessly and keep the magic alive.
Throughout the week, weโll practice entering and exiting the floor with confidence, connecting with the audience through eye contact and engagement, and using audience participation techniques to bring spectators into the performance.
By the end of the week, you’ll not only be stronger, more intentional skatersโyou’ll also have the tools to *shine* when it’s time to perform. Letโs take the skills weโve worked so hard to develop and share them with the world!
Important Notice: The Artistic Skills Class (4:30PM – 5:30PM) will not be held this Thursday, May 3rd. All other classes and social skates will continue as scheduled. Regular Artistic Skills classes will resume the following week at the usual time. We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your understanding.
Subscription Renewal Reminder: If you’re a Skate & Save package subscriber, your monthly membership will renew automatically on the 1st. You’ll receive an email shortly after with your new digital access pass for the upcoming month.
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Need to manage your subscription? Visit our Subscription Management FAQ’s for information on pausing, changing, or updating your membership from your account settings.
While we have conducted extensive research and have personal experience with many high-end artistic skating equipment options, we are not certified experts in skate mounting or mechanics. This guide represents our accumulated knowledge and experience, but we encourage readers to consult professional skate technicians for specific technical questions. The information provided here is meant to serve as a starting point for your research.
Introduction
Investing in a new pair of artistic roller skates is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of multiple factors. This guide aims to help you navigate the complex world of artistic skating equipment, whether you’re upgrading from recreational skates or replacing your current artistic setup. We’ll address common misconceptions and provide evidence-based recommendations while acknowledging that individual needs vary based on skating style, skill level, and physical characteristics.
Best for: Skaters seeking immediate comfort, lighter weight options
Understanding Stiffness Ratings
Different manufacturers use varying scales to indicate boot stiffness:
Typical Stiffness Scale
Beginner (20-40): Minimal support, appropriate for recreational skating
Intermediate (40-60): Moderate support for basic jumps and edges
Advanced (60-80): Substantial support for advanced elements
Elite (80-100): Maximum support for competitive elements
Factors Affecting Stiffness Needs
Skater’s weight: Heavier skaters generally need stiffer boots
Skill level: Advanced elements require more support
Ankle strength: Weaker ankles benefit from stiffer boots
Skating discipline: Different disciplines have different support requirements
Brand-Specific Considerations
Riedell: Uses a numerical scale (generally 1-336)
Harlick: Custom options with varying support levels
Edea: Uses dance, figure, and freestyle categories with numerical indicators
Risport: RF/RS model designations with varying support levels
Understanding Boot Fit and Measurement
The Importance of Proper Measurement
One of the most crucial aspects of selecting new skates is getting the right boot size and fit. Unlike recreational skates or hand-me-downs, professional artistic skates should be fitted precisely to your feet. The investment in proper fitting will significantly impact your skating development and comfort.
How to Measure Your Feet
If you can’t visit a professional dealer, accurate foot measurements are essential. Here’s our recommended process:
Required Materials:
Large piece of paper
Pencil or pen
Measuring tape or ruler
A friend to help (recommended)
Measurement Steps:
Place the paper on a hard, flat surface
Stand barefoot with feet shoulder-width apart
Maintain slightly flexed knees
Distribute weight evenly on the foot being measured
Have someone trace your foot with the pen held perfectly vertical
Mark the center of your heel
Mark the furthest point (may not be your big toe)
Measure and record length in millimeters
Measure and record width at the widest point
Special Considerations:
Measure both feet (they may differ in size)
Take measurements in the evening when feet are typically largest
Consider sock thickness if you plan to wear specific skating socks
Expert Demonstrations and Resources
Video Demonstrations
For visual learners, we highly recommend watching expert demonstrations:
Stock widths: Most manufacturers offer B, C, or D widths as standard
Custom widths: Many high-end boots can be ordered in AAA to EEE widths
Special considerations: Some manufacturers offer split widths for skaters with different left/right foot widths
Custom orders: Typically require 4-12 weeks for delivery depending on manufacturer
Heat Molding
Many modern boots can be heat molded for a custom fit (both leather and thermoformable boots). While some skate shops offer this service, it’s possible to do at home with proper research and caution. Methods include:
Professional heat molding at specialized skate shops
DIY methods (follow manufacturer guidelines strictly) – some of these may include using your oven, hot water, or a hair dryer but we urge you to do tons of research and asking your community before attempting
Stretching and Adjustment Options
For Boots That Are Too Tight
Professional stretching: Boot fitters can target specific pressure points
DIY stretching devices: Boot stretchers designed for specific areas (toe box, width, instep)
Spot stretching: Techniques to address individual pressure points
Breaking-in techniques: Methods to accelerate the molding process coming soon
The distance between your front and back wheels (“wheelbase” or “axle spread”) significantly impacts your skating experience. Your ideal plate size depends on several factors:
Shorter Wheelbase Benefits:
Enhanced maneuverability for tight turns
Improved agility for quick direction changes
Better control in confined spaces
Ideal for artistic skating elements requiring precise footwork
Longer Wheelbase Benefits:
Increased stability, especially for larger skaters
Better balance on uneven surfaces
Reduced tipping risk during deep edges
More controlled ride for beginners
Plate Sizing Guide
Using Manufacturer Charts
Most boot manufacturers provide plate sizing charts that match their boot sizes to recommended plate sizes across popular brands:
These charts offer a convenient starting point for plate selection
Example: A 260mm Edea boot might recommend a 160 Roll Line plate
Charts can be found on manufacturer websites or through authorized dealers
Understanding Sizing Recommendations
Important considerations when using these charts:
Manufacturer recommendations typically lean toward longer plates
These suggestions often assume beginner or intermediate skaters who benefit from more stability
Advanced skaters may prefer a size smaller than recommended for greater maneuverability
Dance and freestyle skaters often select shorter plates than figure skaters
Custom Sizing Considerations
To determine your ideal plate size beyond generic recommendations:
Measure the distance between your heel and the ball of your foot
Compare this measurement to available plate sizes from your preferred brand
Consider your skating style (figures, dance, freestyle) and technical preferences
Factor in your body weight and height
Consult with experienced skaters in your discipline if possible
Custom Modifications
An important consideration when mounting ice skating boots on roller plates is the use of power wedges (also known as shims). Here’s what you need to know:
Mounting Wedges
Purpose: Power or Mounting wedges are specially designed to fill the gap between curved ice skating boots and flat roller plates
Function: They maintain the foot’s natural position and prevent boot deformation
Benefits: Provide secure contact between boot and frame, resulting in more powerful pushes and strokes
Usage: Strongly recommended for ice boots mounted on flat roller frames
Exception: Not necessary for roller frames that already have a sloped front
Other modifications you might consider:
Installing power wedges (shims) when using ice skating boots
Understanding the importance of proper boot-to-plate alignment
Optimizing cushion configuration
Experimenting with mixed cushion setups
Adjusting king pin angles
Modifying mounting positions
Understanding Cushions and Their Impact on Skating
What Are Cushions?
Cushions (also known as bushings) are crucial components of your roller skates that directly affect how your skates respond to movement. These rubber or urethane cylinders fit over the kingpin on either side of the trucks and provide the suspension system that allows you to turn, lean, and control your edges.
Temperature Sensitivity: More affected by ambient temperatures
Cost: Lower initial investment
Best for: Budget-conscious skaters, beginners
Characteristics: Good basic performance, but less consistent in varying conditions
Urethane Cushions
Replacement Schedule: Every 2-3 years (or when showing wear)
Temperature Sensitivity: Minimal effect from temperature changes
Cost: Higher initial investment
Best for: Serious skaters, competition use
Characteristics: Superior rebound, more consistent performance
Cushion Hardness Selection Guide
Primary Considerations
Skater’s weight (most important factor)
Skating discipline
Skill level
Personal preference for edge control
Common Issues
Too Soft:
Insufficient support for heavier skaters
Over-responsive turning
Potential stability issues
Too Hard:
Can damage boot through lack of flex
Difficulty achieving proper edges
Reduced maneuverability
Discipline-Specific Configurations
Large Circle Figures
Upper Cushions: Hard
Lower Cushions: Extra hard
Rationale: Maximizes edge stability and control
Variations: Some skaters mix extra hard and hard based on individual edge quality needs
Dance Skating
Configuration: Typically matching hardness top and bottom
Rationale: Provides consistent response for quick, precise movements
Focus: Balanced edge control and maneuverability
Freestyle Skating
Upper Cushions: Harder durometer
Lower Cushions: 1-2 levels softer than upper
Benefits:
Stable landing platform
Enhanced maneuverability for jumps and spins
Better edge control for technical elements
Fine-Tuning Your Setup
Adjusting Action
When standard adjustments aren’t achieving desired results:
Start with changing one cushion (upper or lower)
Upper cushion considerations:
Carries most of the skater’s weight
Primary factor in edge stability
Usually maintained at harder durometer
Lower cushion considerations:
Affects edge quality and transitions
Can be more flexible
Influences turning response
Mixing Hardnesses
Start with your standard hardness
Experiment with slightly more flexible options
Consider discipline-specific needs
Allow time to adjust to changes
The 8-click rule (Roll-Line):
If you find yourself adjusting your trucks more than 8 clicks in either direction, you don’t need a different adjustmentโyou need different cushions.
This advice is specific to Roll-Line plates which all have their Click Action adjustment system which provides optimum, accurate, and consistent Action adjustments.
Maintenance Tips
Regular Inspection
Check for compression
Look for cracking or deterioration
Assess rebound quality
Monitor edge control changes
Replacement Guidelines
Document when cushions were installed
Keep spare sets for different conditions
Replace complete sets when possible
Consider seasonal adjustments
Expert Demonstrations and Resources
Video Demonstrations
For visual learners, we highly recommend watching expert demonstrations:
Specific configurations for different skating disciplines
Visual diagrams of wheel placement
Performance benefits of each configuration
Personal Experience with Mixed Wheels
In our experience, experimenting with different wheel configurations yielded surprising benefits:
Starting with two hardnesses (from Roll Line’s Professional line) initially improved 3-turns
Later trying three hardnesses (Mustang, Panther, and Leopard) provided the perfect balance of slip and grip exactly where needed
Tips for Experimenting with Wheels
Connect with other skaters in your community to try different wheels
Start with the manufacturer’s recommended configurations
Pay attention to how different setups affect specific elements you’re working on
Give yourself time to adjust to new configurations before making judgments
Consider using Crystal Lock Nuts (available at Skaters Oasis) which allow for tool-free wheel changes
These decorative nuts come in cute shapes with crystals
The design allows for easy twisting on/off without tools
Perfect for quick wheel swaps during practice sessions
Expert Demonstrations and Resources
Video Demonstrations
For visual learners, we highly recommend watching expert demonstrations:
Skatie’s Wheel Hardness Testing Video – Former world competitive artistic skater Skatie demonstrates the differences between wheel hardnesses both indoors and outdoors, providing an excellent visual reference for how hardness affects performance.
Skatie’s Wheel Size Video – Skatie demonstrates why different sizes of wheels may be optimal for different disciplines. (Wearing small wheels on one foot and large wheels on the other in one example)
Exceptional communication for custom mounting. Excellent selection of artistic skating equipment.
Maintenance and Care
Break-in Period
New boots require careful breaking in:
Gradual wearing schedule
Proper lacing techniques
Monitoring for pressure points
Regular adjustments as needed
Long-term Care
To protect your investment:
Regular cleaning and maintenance
Proper storage
Periodic professional adjustments
Monitoring wear patterns
Conclusion
Investing in artistic roller skates is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of multiple factors. While this guide provides a foundation for making informed choices, remember that personal preference and individual skating style play crucial roles in equipment selection. We encourage you to:
Take accurate measurements
Research thoroughly
Consult with professionals when possible
Consider your long-term skating goals
Factor in your budget for both initial purchase and maintenance
Remember that the perfect setup is highly individual, and what works for one skater may not work for another. Take time to understand your needs and preferences, and don’t be afraid to make adjustments as you develop as a skater.
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