10 Best Recreational Ice Skates 2026 in the United States

The Jackson Classic Fleece SoftSkate 380 is an excellent choice for beginner ice skaters, especially women and girls who are just starting lessons. It offers medium recreational support, which is ample for those new to the sport. The reinforced vinyl upper ensures both strength and durability, meaning these skates can withstand regular use without falling apart easily. The padded tongue and thick, soft, padded rolled collar enhance comfort, providing warmth and support during skating sessions. This makes them particularly suitable for colder environments.

Additionally, the factory sharpened Ultima Mark I blade is of good quality for beginners, facilitating smooth gliding on the ice. The boot material, which includes a fleece lining, adds an extra layer of insulation, keeping your feet warm during use. The traditional lacing system offers a snug and adjustable fit, although it may not be as convenient as modern quick-lacing systems for some users. On the downside, the skates are relatively heavy at 2.19 kilograms, which might be a bit cumbersome for some skaters.

Also, while the medium support is ideal for beginners, more advanced skaters might find it lacking in terms of ankle stability. The classic antique tan color gives a traditional look, which might appeal to those who prefer a vintage aesthetic. These skates offer a strong combination of comfort, support, and durability, making them a solid choice for beginners.

The Jackson Ultima Excel Women's/Girls Figure Ice Skates, available in size 9, are a solid choice for recreational skaters looking for a blend of support, comfort, and style. These skates feature a vinyl-coated upper and a felt-backed vinyl/mesh comfort tongue, which offer decent support and stability.

The Ultima Mark II blade is polished and attached with screws, providing a good glide on the ice, which is essential for smooth skating experiences. The skates incorporate a fashionable design with brown PVC outsoles that require minimal maintenance, making them both functional and stylish. Comfort is enhanced with foam reinforcement and a fully synthetic liner, keeping your feet warm during your time on the rink.

The lacing system is straightforward, allowing for a snug and secure fit, essential for maintaining control and preventing injuries. While the vinyl material is durable, it might not offer the same level of breathability as leather, which could lead to some discomfort during extended use. The medium shoe width is suitable for most users, but those with wider feet might find the fit a bit snug. Additionally, at 5 pounds, the skates are somewhat on the heavier side, which might be a consideration for younger or less experienced skaters. They are ideal for recreational skaters and beginners looking for reliable and comfortable ice skates without breaking the bank.

The Riedell Soar Ice Skates are designed with beginners and casual skaters in mind, offering a comfortable and stylish option for recreational ice skating. They feature a soft foam-backed velvet lining that enhances comfort and helps keep your feet warm and dry, thanks to the 3M Thinsulate insulation. The simple lacing system makes them easy to put on and adjust, which is great for those new to skating.

These skates provide light ankle stability with a split tongue design, balancing freedom of movement and some protection. However, their support rating is on the lower side (25 out of 100), so they may not be ideal for more intense skating or advanced users seeking firmer ankle support. The blades are made from smooth stainless steel and come factory-sharpened, promising a decent glide on ice surfaces. It is recommended to have them professionally sharpened after purchase to maintain performance.

The boots use synthetic and PVC materials, which help keep the skates lightweight but might not offer the durability or rigidity found in higher-end models. Riedell Soar skates are a solid choice for beginner and casual skaters looking for comfort, warmth, and ease of use on both indoor rinks and outdoor ponds. They are not designed for children under 12, and advanced skaters might quickly outgrow the level of support they provide.