We associate ice skating with winter, cold weather, Christmas, family, and smiles. But do you know where it came from, why it began, or what the first skates looked like? At N-Ice, we want to bring you closer to the sport we are passionate about and work on all year round… discover our latest blog post!
Ice Skates as a Means of Transport
In cold-climate countries such as the Netherlands, people began using ice skates as a means of transportation around the 12th century.
The earliest ice skates were made from animal bone
Real animal bones! They were tied to the wearer's shoes with leather straps or ropes. It wasn't until the 19th century that ice skates began to resemble the ones we know today, although they have continued to evolve and improve ever since.
The first ice rinks were artificial and outdoors
Ice skating became so popular that, by the 19th century, it had begun to develop into a sport.
The father of figure skating is… Jackson Haines
An American skater who combined his knowledge of ballet with his experience on the ice to create the sport as we know it today.
Where Do the Most Famous Figure Skating Spins Come From?
Most of the moves and jumps we know today are named after the skaters who first introduced them in competition, such as Denise Bielmann, Jackson Haines, Alois Lutz, Axel Paulsen and Ulrich Salchow.
How to Choose the Best Ice Skates
A good ice skate should be as lightweight as possible while also being rigid enough to provide excellent ankle support.
Does Wearing Blue Bring Good Luck… Fact or Myth?
According to popular belief, wearing blue in major competitions brings good luck. Perhaps it's time to put that theory to the test!
At N-Ice Skating, we continue to learn every day while sharing our greatest passion with you: ice skating.