Beginner's ice skating FAQ
Short answers to the questions new skaters and parents ask most. Each one links on to a page with more detail.
No. Romford Ice Arena on Rom Valley Way closed in April 2013 and the building was later demolished. Romford's rink today is Sapphire Ice & Leisure in the town centre, which opened in February 2018 and is run by Everyone Active. This site is an independent guide, not the official site of either.
Usually, yes. Most rinks, including Sapphire, sell public sessions online in advance and popular slots (weekends, school holidays, evening discos) sell out. Book through the operator's own website or app.
Many rinks run parent-and-toddler sessions and learn-to-skate classes from about three or four years old, once a child can walk confidently and fit the smallest hire boots. Check the minimum age and the adult-supervision rules with the rink, as they vary.
Many rinks require gloves for everyone, and it is sensible anyway: hands are the first thing to touch the ice when you fall, and blades are sharp. Thin, close-fitting gloves are better than bulky mittens.
Snug enough that your heel does not lift when you bend your knees, with laces firm across the instep and around the ankle, but not so tight that your toes go numb. Loose skates cause wobbly ankles and blisters; most beginners lace too loosely.
Layers you can move in: leggings or tracksuit bottoms, a long-sleeved top and a light jacket or fleece, plus gloves and one pair of ordinary-thickness socks. Avoid jeans (cold and stiff when wet), scarves with loose ends and very thick socks.
Beginners learn the snowplough: bend your knees, push your heels outwards and your toes slightly together, and scrape the inside edges of both blades until you slow down. A lesson or a couple of sessions of practice makes it reliable.
Bend your knees and lower yourself sideways onto your hip or bottom rather than putting your hands straight out behind you. Keep your fingers curled in, then get up by kneeling, putting one foot flat, then the other.
For young children it is strongly advised, and some rinks require helmets for under-fives or for classes. Adults learning are increasingly wearing them too. A cycle or multi-sport helmet is acceptable at most rinks.
Once you are skating every week or have started lessons, yes. Your own well-fitting boots are warmer, steadier and sharpened properly, and progress is faster. For a first few sessions, hire skates are fine.
Figure skates have a longer blade with a toe pick and suit learners and figure skating. Hockey skates are shorter and more manoeuvrable, without a toe pick. Learn-to-skate courses accept either; choose by what you want to do next.
Yes. The Romford Raiders play home games at Sapphire Ice & Leisure in the NIHL National League, usually on Sunday evenings during the season (September to April). Tickets are sold by the club.
Where to read more
- First time on the ice: standing, gliding, stopping and falling.
- What to wear and protective gear.
- Public skating in Romford and lessons.
- Buying your first skates and kit for children.