Expert Insights on Figure Skate Fitting and Sharpening: Q&A with Steve Ness

At Fergus Home & Hardware, we pride ourselves on offering exceptional skate fitting and sharpening services. Today, we’re excited to share insights from Steve Ness, an expert with extensive experience in figure skating. Steve has been trained by leading organizations and certified by SkatesUS, making him a go-to resource for skaters of all levels.

Q: What experience do you have with figure skate fitting and sharpening?

Steve Ness: I’ve received specialized training in skate sharpening from Edge Specialties of Alexandria, MN, Precision Blade Honing Enterprises of Canada, and Ice Skate Conditioning Equipment in Littleton, CO. In June 2024, I was re-certified as a SkatesUS Certified Fitter and Shaping Technician, and I continue to use online resources from other skate manufacturers to stay current.

Q: Can you describe the process you follow for fitting a new customer for figure skates?

Steve: First, I conduct an interview with the skater to understand their skill level and goals, whether they are beginners or seasoned performers. There are various boot designs tailored to different levels, so it’s important to match the skater with the right boot based on their needs and aspirations.

Q: What factors do you consider when selecting the right figure skate for a customer?

Steve: Several factors come into play, including the skater's age, weight, foot shape, and sometimes recommendations from their coach. These details help me determine which boot and blade combination will work best for their level and skills.

Q: How do you determine the correct sharpening radius for different skaters?

Steve: Most figure skate blades come with a manufacturer's recommended radius of hollow (ROH), which serves as a starting point. I use specialized tools to measure the depth of hollow with precision, adjusting as necessary based on the skater’s skill level—competitive skaters often require a deeper ROH than recreational or beginner skaters.

Q: Can you walk through the process of sharpening figure skates?

Steve: I start by visually inspecting the blades for any rust or damage. Using a skate sharpening machine, I set the desired ROH and make multiple passes to achieve the correct depth and level edges. I then fine-tune the sharpening using a diamond stone or strop to remove any burrs, ensuring the blade is smooth and ready for optimal performance.

Q: How do you handle special requests, such as custom blade adjustments?

Steve: Blade adjustments typically happen when the blades are first mounted. After mounting, the skater will test the alignment, often with feedback from their coach. If adjustments are needed, I can fine-tune the blade placement by re-drilling or moving screws to ensure a perfect fit.

Q: How do you ensure customers are comfortable and confident with their skates after fitting?

Steve: Time spent in the skates is key. I encourage skaters, especially younger ones, to wear their skates at home with skate guards on, so the boots mold to their feet as they break them in.

Q: How do you educate customers about proper skate care and maintenance?

Steve: During the fitting, I go over everything from blade care and lacing techniques to proper skate guard use and how to store and dry skates. I also advise on how often to sharpen skates and inspect for potential wear and tear.

Q: What sets your skate fitting and sharpening services apart from a standard in-store purchase?

Steve: We take the time to address each skater’s individual needs, providing a custom experience. We help customers understand the differences between boot and blade manufacturers, and we ensure that they walk away with the best skate for their investment in the sport.

Q: How do you stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in figure skating equipment?

Steve: Manufacturers send out updates and newsletters, and I also stay in tune with industry trends online. But the real key is listening to what skaters are asking for.

Q: What are the differences between figure skates and hockey skates?

Steve: Figure skates maintain a traditional, nostalgic appearance while incorporating modern support and customization technologies. Hockey skates, on the other hand, focus on lightweight design and protection, with the blades permanently attached to the boots.

Q: How would you address a skater’s concerns about performance or comfort in their current skates?

Steve: Each skate brand and model offers different levels of support. Depending on the skater’s specific concerns, I may recommend a different blade with a new toe pick design or suggest adjustments to the rocker for better comfort and performance.

Q: What are some common misconceptions about skate sharpening or fitting?

Steve: One big misconception is that you need an expensive machine to achieve proper sharpening. While advanced machines are great, understanding how to calibrate and measure the sharpening accurately is far more important. Another misconception in fitting is that all skates fit the same—different brands use different lasts, so one model may fit entirely differently from another.

Q: Have you worked with customers with unique foot shapes or medical conditions?

Steve: Yes, many times. The Edea figure skating boot, in particular, allows for adjustments to fit bunions, bone spurs, and other unique foot shapes. I can modify the boot by shaping areas like the toe box or the Achilles to provide a more comfortable fit.

Q: What do you enjoy most about working in figure skate fitting and sharpening?

Steve: Helping skaters choose the right boot and blade combination to enhance their performance is incredibly rewarding. And there’s a special satisfaction in producing a perfectly sharpened blade that helps them glide smoothly on the ice.