Parts that wear out
Laces fray, steel gets lower with every sharpening and blade guards crack. These parts cost little next to the skate itself, and replacing them on time keeps the skate safe and comfortable. The usual suspects are holders and runners, laces and blade guards.
Matching parts to your skate
Steel is sized by the holder, not by the boot. In Bauer's chart a size 8 skate takes a size 8 runner of about 272 mm, while wide Fit 3 boots often take one size smaller. Runners only fit the holder system they were made for, so check your holder model before ordering. Laces are chosen by skate size too: Bauer recommends 108" (274 cm) laces for senior sizes 6 to 10.5. Full runner and lace charts are in our size guide.
Comfort and fit
Skate socks are thinner than everyday socks and help the boot sit close to the foot, and cut-resistant versions add protection at the ankle. A better feel inside the boot comes from insoles and tongues, such as the Bauer Aetrex orthotic insoles. Fitting gauges and skate ovens for shops and teams are under tools.
For goalies
Goalie steel and holders differ from player parts, so they have their own section: goalie skate accessories. For the skates themselves, see ice hockey skates.
