Skate Sharpening - More than just a sharp blade
Skate sharpening is more than just making your blades "sharp." It's about meticulously grinding a concave groove into the bottom of the steel, creating two distinct edges and a hollow in between. This "Radius of Hollow" (RoH) is measured in fractions of an inch (e.g., 1/2", 5/8", 3/4"), and it's a critical, often overlooked, factor in a player's on-ice performance. The right hollow can enhance speed, grip, agility, and comfort, while the wrong one can lead to frustration and fatigue.
Understanding the Radius of Hollow (RoH)
Imagine a circle. The radius of that circle determines the depth of the cut in your skate blade.
Smaller Radius (Deeper Hollow): A smaller number (e.g., 3/8", 7/16") means the grinding wheel is closer to a point, creating a deeper, more pronounced concave groove.
Effect: More bite into the ice, greater grip, sharper turns, quicker acceleration, and better stopping power.
Trade-off: Increased friction, which can lead to more drag, reduced glide, and greater energy expenditure, potentially causing more leg fatigue.
Larger Radius (Shallower Hollow): A larger number (e.g., 5/8", 3/4", 1") means the grinding wheel is flatter, creating a shallower concave groove.
Effect: Less bite into the ice, more glide, greater top-end speed, and less friction, leading to less fatigue.
Trade-off: Less grip, which can make turns less sharp, stopping more difficult, and overall control feel "slippery" for some players.
Factors Influencing Your Ideal Hollow:
The "perfect" hollow is a personal preference, but it's heavily influenced by several key factors:
1. Player Size and Weight
Lighter Players (Children, Smaller Adults): Generally benefit from a deeper hollow (smaller RoH, e.g., 3/8", 7/16", 1/2"). A deeper cut allows their lighter body weight to "dig" into the ice sufficiently to gain grip for turns and stops. Without enough bite, they might feel like they're sliding too much.
Heavier Players (Larger Adults): Typically benefit from a shallower hollow (larger RoH, e.g., 5/8", 3/4", 7/8"). Their greater body mass naturally provides more pressure on the ice, allowing them to achieve adequate grip even with a flatter cut. A deep hollow for a heavy player can feel like their skates are "stuck" in the ice, causing excessive drag, chatter on stops, and rapid fatigue. Many NHL players, who are generally large and strong, skate on shallower hollows like 5/8" or even 3/4" to maximize glide and reduce fatigue over a long game.
2. Player Ability and Skating Style
Beginners: Often recommended to start with a mid-range hollow (e.g., 1/2" or 5/8"). A 1/2" provides a good balance for learning to control edges, while 5/8" offers more glide, which can reduce effort. A shallower hollow can actually be more forgiving for beginners learning to stop and turn, as it's less likely to "catch an edge" and cause a fall.
Agile / Shifty Skaters (Forwards, Playmakers): Often prefer deeper hollows (e.g., 7/16", 1/2") for maximum bite, allowing for rapid directional changes, tight turns, and explosive acceleration. They prioritize quickness and edge control over top-end glide.
Power Skaters / Straight-line Speed (Some Forwards, Defensemen): May opt for shallower hollows (e.g., 5/8", 3/4") to maximize glide and reduce friction, allowing them to maintain higher top speeds with less effort. Defensemen, in particular, might prefer a flatter hollow for easier lateral movement along the blue line and powerful stride push-offs.
Goalies: Often have unique preferences. Many goalies use very deep hollows (e.g., 3/8", 7/16") to get maximum bite for powerful pushes across the crease and quick, explosive movements. However, some prefer a shallower hollow (even 1" or more) for easier, smoother gliding side-to-side, particularly less experienced goalies.
3. Ice Conditions
Harder/Colder Ice: A deeper hollow might be preferred to ensure sufficient grip on the very hard surface. If your hollow is too shallow on hard ice, you might feel like you're sliding excessively.
Softer/Warmer Ice: A shallower hollow can be beneficial. Soft ice allows the edges to dig in more easily, so a flatter hollow can prevent the skate from "sinking" too deep into the ice, reducing drag and fatigue.
Common Hollow Recommendations:
Youth / Junior Players (Lighter): 1/2" is a common starting point.
Adult Beginners / Recreational Players: 1/2" to 5/8" is typical, offering a good balance.
Aggressive / Agile Forwards: 7/16" or 1/2"
Power Forwards / Defensemen (seeking glide): 5/8", 11/16", or 3/4"
Goalies: Highly variable, from very deep (3/8") to very shallow (1" or flatter).
The "Flat Bottom V" (FBV) Sharpening
Beyond the traditional Radius of Hollow, some sharpening machines (notably Sparx and Blackstone) offer a Flat Bottom V (FBV) cut. Instead of a purely rounded concave, the FBV creates a flat bottom with sharper "fangs" on either side.
Claimed Benefit: The FBV aims to offer the glide benefits of a shallower hollow (due to the flat bottom) with the bite of a deeper hollow (due to the sharper edges).
Measurements: FBV cuts are typically denoted by two numbers, e.g., 100/50, 90/75, etc., which refer to the width of the flat portion and the height/angle of the "fangs."
Trial and Error: Many players try FBV as an alternative to traditional hollows, finding it offers a unique feel. It's also a matter of personal preference and experimentation.
Finding Your Ideal Hollow:
The best way to determine your perfect skate hollow is through experimentation and communication with your skate sharpener.
Start with a Common Recommendation: Begin with a widely recommended hollow for your size and ability (e.g., 1/2" or 5/8").
Pay Attention to Feel: On the ice, notice:
Too Deep (Too Much Bite): Do you feel like your skates are "stuck" or dragging? Are your legs burning out quickly? Do you chatter excessively on stops?
Too Shallow (Not Enough Bite): Do you feel like you're constantly sliding? Do you have trouble stopping or turning sharply? Do you feel like you're "chasing" your edges?
Make Small Adjustments: When you go for your next sharpening, tell your sharpener what you felt. Try a slightly shallower or deeper hollow (e.g., from 1/2" to 9/16", or 5/8" to 7/16").
Consider Ice Conditions: If you play on a variety of rinks, you might even consider adjusting your hollow based on the typical ice conditions (e.g., a bit deeper for colder, harder ice, flatter for softer, warmer ice).
Don't Be Afraid to Ask: Your skate sharpener is a valuable resource. Explain your skating style, position, and what you're looking for in terms of grip and glide. They can offer insights and recommendations.
Proper skate sharpening is an art and a science. By understanding the relationship between the hollow, your physical attributes, and your on-ice needs, you can work with your sharpener to dial in the perfect cut that maximizes your performance and enjoyment of the game.
