DROP OFF SERVICE
To ensure consistent quality, Capital Clubhouse offers a convenient drop off service. Drop your skates off after practice and they will be ready to pickup by 2pm the following business day or leave until your next practice or lesson.
$10 - Standard sharpening
Save time and complete the form before you arrive.
How Skate Sharpening Works
First off, let’s explain what is actually going on the bottom of those skate blades. Unlike most other knife-like objects with a single sharp edge, skate blades have two sharp edges that are connected by a hollowed-out region in between.
This hollowed-out region is created by passing the skate blade along a grinding wheel. The shape of the grinding wheel’s surface determines the size of the hollow on your skate blade. In turn, the size of the hollow on your skate blade will affect how the skate feels and performs on the ice.
Different Types of Hollows
There are several different types of hollows to choose from, but pro shops will commonly use 1/2” as their “standard” cut. The 1/2” hollow offers a respectable mix of glide and control for most players but adjusting the depth of the hollow can offer several benefits when done correctly.
For example, a lighter player can benefit from a deeper hollow (7/16" or 3/8") by providing them with the ability to cut deeper into the ice. This type of sharpening provides more bite for the user, allowing for more responsive turns/stops and quicker overall acceleration. However, it does allow for more energy to be lost into the ice and will slightly reduce the user’s top speed.
A more shallow hollow (5/8” or 3/4”) can benefit a heavier player – someone who doesn’t need any additional help digging into the ice. The flatter cut allows for less energy to be lost into the ice, allowing for more glide and a greater top speed. This type of sharpening will slightly diminish the ability to make quick, sharp turns and quickly accelerate.
