If you’ve ever watched speed skating on TV and thought, “Those skates look wild,” you’re not wrong. Long track skates are a whole different beast compared to figure skates or even short track gear. They’re built for speed, endurance, and efficiency. But there’s more to it than just longer blades.
Whether you’re a newbie looking to get into the sport or you’re eyeing some long track speed skating equipment in Toronto, understanding what sets these skates apart is key to making the right choices.
Built for Speed, Not Tricks
Long track speed skating is all about gliding fast over long distances. So, the design of the skates reflects that purpose. The blades on long track skates are significantly longer—usually between 14 to 18 inches. That added length helps create smoother, more stable strides. It also reduces the number of pushes needed to maintain high speeds.
These blades are also thinner and flatter than the ones you’d find on hockey or figure skates. That means less friction with the ice and more glide with every push. You cover more ground with less effort, which is a huge deal when you’re racing laps around a 400-meter oval.
Clap Skates: The Game-Changer
One of the biggest differences in long track skates is the “clap skate” design. Instead of being fixed to the heel like traditional skates, the blade on a clap skate is attached with a hinge near the front. This allows the heel to lift while the blade stays in contact with the ice just a little longer.
It might not sound like a big deal, but that little extra contact time gives skaters a more powerful push-off. That means more efficiency with each stride and better speed overall. It’s no surprise that once clap skates were introduced in the ‘90s, world records started dropping like crazy.
Boots: Stiff and Supportive
Long track boots are a different story altogether. They’re low-cut, giving the ankle more freedom to move. At first, that might sound risky, but it actually helps with technique. Skaters rely on strong lower-body control, and the flexibility allows for deeper knee bends and longer strides.
Most high-level boots are made of carbon fiber or other stiff materials. They mold to the foot over time, creating a snug, performance-focused fit. The idea is to eliminate any energy loss from a loose or soft boot.
So, if you’re shopping for long track speed skating equipment in Toronto, make sure you’re getting boots that offer both support and mobility. Fit is everything in this sport.
Ice Surface = Big Differences
Another reason long track skates differ so much is the ice surface itself. Unlike short track or hockey, long track skating takes place on a massive oval. The corners are wide and smooth, and the straightaways are long. This setup encourages more gliding and fewer sharp turns. Because of this, skaters don’t need the tight maneuverability you’d get from shorter blades or high-cut boots.
Why It Matters for Beginners
If you’re just starting out, using the wrong skates can set you back. Some folks try to use hockey or short track skates on a long track oval and quickly realize it’s not going to work. The feeling is completely different.
Even for recreational skaters, having the right setup makes a big difference. You’ll learn better technique, reduce fatigue, and avoid unnecessary strain on your joints. Plus, once you try real long track skates, you’ll immediately feel how much more fluid and natural the glide is.
Finding Quality Gear in Toronto
If you’re on the hunt for long track speed skating equipment in Toronto, you’re in luck. The city has a growing community of speed skaters and several specialty shops that cater to the sport. Whether you need clap skates, molded boots, or sharpening tools, there are plenty of places that know their stuff and can help you gear up properly.
Before buying, try a few setups if you can. Some shops and clubs offer demo days or rentals. It’s a smart way to figure out what fits your foot and skating style best before dropping money on high-end equipment.
Final Thoughts
Long track skates aren’t just longer—they’re smarter. From the unique clap mechanism to the lightweight, stiff boots, every detail is designed to help skaters move fast and smooth. The difference in feel, control, and speed is huge, especially once you’re out on a full-size oval.
So whether you’re training for competition or just skating for fun, the right gear makes all the difference. And if you’re looking for top-notch long track speed skating equipment in Toronto, make sure you choose wisely. Great skates won’t automatically make you faster—but they’ll definitely help you get there.