Custom Edge has the ultimate solution for mounting blades which results in the blade being straight with no tension or twist. The fundamental component of this solution is to completely eliminate the gap between the sole of the boot and the blade with a special blade leveling compound.
Unfortunately very few blades match the contour of the sole of the boot. This fact is true even with companies that manufacture both the boots and the blades. If the blades are just screwed to the sole (even when the sole is sanded) the blades will be under tension. These blades are often twisted and rarely straight.
It is agreed upon by all blade manufacturers that figure skating blades should be mounted straight and not be under tension. The main reason for cracks at the stanchions, boot heel separation, and screws not holding under general use, is that the blade was mounted under tension. From a skater’s perspective, a blade under tension has a spring action that can negatively affect performance.
The solution is to fill the gaps between the sole and blade plates with epoxy which can stand the stress and impact of competitive skaters while being resistant to water and temperature extremes. The process is involved but the reward is substantial in that it ensures consistent blade response and eliminates any blade movement over time. Our skaters talk about feeling the blade as they progress through complicated footwork maneuvers and when setting for jumps and spins. A skater reaches a new level of skating when they become aware of their edges and can hear and feel their blades glide through the ice.
Custom Edge is the only shop in Newfoundland using this technique for mounting blades to figure skating boots, and we are the only shop in Newfoundland with the specialty tools to be able to achieve this with your blades. This process has been proven throughout the world and is in use with many world elite figure skaters from many countries.
