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 Horizon Recreational Ice Skates are a solid choice for beginners looking for comfort and support without being overwhelmed by heavy or complex features. These skates offer light ankle support, which is enough to keep you stable while allowing natural movement—ideal if you’re just starting out or skating casually. The boots have a plush padded lining and a synthetic upper that is waterproof, making them durable for both indoor and outdoor use. The stainless steel Spiral blades provide a smooth glide, which helps new skaters gain confidence on the ice.

The support rating is quite light (20 out of 100), so if you need stronger ankle stability, these might feel a bit soft. The skates have a simple lacing system and a classic look in white, suitable for both men and women. Although they don't feature advanced elements like quick lace hooks or high-end blade materials, their durability and ease of use make them well-suited for beginners who want a dependable skate without extra fuss. If you plan to skate frequently or advance quickly, you might want to look for skates with more robust support and premium blades, but for casual and new skaters, the Riedell Horizon offers good value and comfort.