10 Best Ice Skates For Beginners 2026 in the United States

The Jackson Ultima Classic 200/500 ice skates are designed with beginners in mind, especially women and girls learning recreational figure skating. They feature a padded lining and felt tongue that provide good comfort and help reduce irritation, which is important for new skaters who may spend longer times building confidence on the ice. The reinforced vinyl upper offers decent boot support to aid balance and control, though it may not be as firm as higher-end models meant for advanced skaters.

The factory-sharpened stainless steel Ultima Mark I blade is suitable for beginners, helping with edge control but might require resharpening after some use. The lacing system is traditional and straightforward, allowing for a secure fit but might take some time to adjust properly for best support. Sized at a children's 12 medium width, these skates are lightweight and manageable, which helps beginners develop their skills comfortably.

The boot material and overall build are more geared towards casual or recreational use, so those aiming for serious figure skating might eventually need to upgrade. These skates offer good comfort, decent support, and beginner-friendly blades, making them a solid choice for women and girls just starting out on the ice.

The Jackson Ultima Artiste Women's/Girls Figure Ice Skates are designed with beginners in mind, offering a combination of comfort, support, and quality. The skates provide increased comfort with a softer topline, microfiber lining, and memory foam ankle padding, making them suitable for extended periods on the ice. The foam-backed tongue adds to the comfort, helping to prevent pressure points during skating sessions.

Boot support is crucial for beginners to develop confidence and skills, and these skates do relatively well with a Flex Notch Technology designed to minimize strain while enhancing stability. Their light support rating indicates they may offer less rigidity compared to those made for more advanced skaters. The Ultima Mark IV blade, made from stainless steel, promises durability and ease of maintenance. It comes factory sharpened, which is helpful for beginners who might not yet be familiar with blade sharpening techniques. The quality of the blade ensures a smooth glide, essential for learning basics.

For the lacing system, these skates feature a traditional design, which is reliable but might require some practice to master tightness and comfort adjustments. For those who prefer an easier system, quick lace options might be more appealing. The elegant, durable construction with a polyurethane-coated upper and stylized PVC outsole allows for easy maintenance and a stylish appearance, making these skates a good aesthetic choice for young skaters. They may be better suited for those with some experience rather than complete newcomers due to their advanced skating lessons support rating.

The Riedell Soar Adult Ice Skates are designed with beginner and casual skaters in mind, offering a comfortable and supportive experience on the ice. The boots feature a soft, foam-backed velvet lining and extra padding, which helps keep your feet cozy and dry thanks to 3M Thinsulate insulation. This makes them a good choice for skating both indoors and outdoors, even in cooler conditions. The support level is light, rated at 25 out of 100, which means they provide enough stability to help new skaters maintain balance without feeling too stiff or restrictive. The split tongue design and durable uppers add to this comfort and support.

The simple lacing system is easy to manage, making it quick to get the skates on and off. The blade is made of stainless steel with a spiral design, intended to offer a smooth glide suitable for beginners, though it’s not specialized for advanced figure skating moves. These skates are not for children under 12, and the support might feel insufficient for those looking to progress quickly or perform more demanding skating techniques.

While the fit is said to be comfortable, checking the sizing chart carefully is important since proper fit is key to enjoying your skating experience. The Riedell Soar skates present a solid option for those starting out or seeking a casual skate with good comfort and basic support, but skaters needing higher performance or stronger ankle support might want to explore other models.