Rust on ice skate blades is more than just an eyesore—it can seriously impact your performance on the ice.
Rusty blades drag, feel less smooth, and can even damage the ice.
Preventing rust doesn’t require a lot of effort, but it does involve a few simple habits, like drying off your skates properly and storing them in a cool, dry place.
In this guide, I’ll explain why rust prevention matters and share some practical tips to keep your blades sharp, smooth, and ready to glide!
Why Are My Ice Skates Rusting?
Ice skates tend to rust because of moisture. Every time you step onto the ice, your blades come in contact with water. That’s just part of skating.
That water, combined with the metal in your blades, creates the perfect recipe for rust.
Even tiny water droplets that you can barely see can start the rusting process.
And it’s not just from skating – leaving your skates in humid places, storing them while they’re still wet, or even the moisture in the air on a rainy day can all lead to rust forming on your blades.
Also Read: How to Maintain Ice Skates
The steel used in skate blades, while durable, is particularly prone to oxidation when not properly cared for, so that can lead to rusting too.
How Do You Keep Ice Skates From Rusting?
Good news – preventing rust isn’t complicated. It just takes dedication and the right approach.
You just need to develop some good habits and stick to them every time you skate.
Here’s exactly what you need to do to prevent ice state rust keep those blades in pristine condition:
#1 Dry Blades After Each Use
This is your first and most important defense against rust.
As soon as you step off the ice, pull out a clean, dry cloth – microfiber works great, but any clean, absorbent cloth will do.
Start at the toe pick (if you have one) and work your way down the blade.
Don’t forget the sides and the area where the blade meets the boot. Water can hide in the smallest spaces, so pay extra attention to the mounting hardware and any grooves in the blade.
You might need to go over it a couple of times to get all the moisture.
All this might add a few minutes to your post-skating routine, but it’s time well spent.
Also Read: 6 Basic Ice Skating Skills For Hockey
#2 Use Blade Soakers, Not Hard Guards
Hard guards are designed for walking to and from the rink, and that’s it.
When it comes to storage, always use blade soakers. They’re made from absorbent materials that help pull away any remaining moisture from your blades. Plus, they’re soft enough to let air circulate.
When choosing soakers, look for ones that fit your blades well and aren’t too worn out.
You can keep a couple of pairs handy so you can rotate them, letting each pair dry completely between uses.
And remember to wash your soakers regularly – clean soakers work better at protecting.
#3 Apply Rust-Preventive Oil
Think of rust-preventive oil as a protective shield for your blades.
It creates a barrier that keeps moisture from reaching the metal.
But you need to use the right kind – look for oil specifically made for ice skates, as other oils might be too heavy or not protective enough.
Apply it after you’ve thoroughly dried your blades, using a clean cloth or cotton swab. Start with a small amount – you can always add more if needed.
Make sure you cover the entire blade surface, including the edges, but be careful not to get any oil on the boot as it could damage the material.
#4 Avoid Leaving Skates In The Bag
Your skate bag might seem like a convenient storage spot, but it can actually create problems.
When you zip up that bag, you’re trapping whatever moisture is left on your skates inside a closed space. Even worse, if you’ve got other damp items in there – like gloves or a towel – you’re creating a mini humidity chamber.
Take the extra minute to remove your skates from the bag when you get home.
Let them sit out where air can circulate around them.
Your blades will stay drier, and as a bonus, your bag won’t develop that musty smell that comes from trapped moisture.
Also Read: Expert Tips For Edging Ice Hockey Skates
#5 Store In A Dry, Cool Place
The way you store your skates makes a huge difference in preventing rust.
Find a spot in your home that stays relatively cool and dry throughout the year. Avoid places like the garage or basement where humidity tends to build up.
Especially avoid those places during summer months!
If you live in a particularly humid climate, consider investing in a small dehumidifier for your storage area.
Keep your skates away from windows where temperature changes could cause condensation, and definitely avoid storing them near heating vents or radiators.
A closet or shelf in your living space usually works well.
Why Should You Prevent Ice Skate Rust?
Preventing rust is about more than just maintaining your equipment – it’s about your performance and safety on the ice.
Rusty blades won’t grip the ice properly, which affects everything you do out there.
Your edges won’t be as sharp, making it harder to stop or turn precisely. If you’re doing jumps or spins, you might notice they don’t feel quite right.
Plus, over time, rust can actually eat into the metal, weakening your blades.
And let’s talk about cost – replacing blades or paying for professional rust removal isn’t cheap. Regular maintenance is much more affordable in the long run.
Bottom Line
Keeping your ice skates rust-free is all about developing good habits and sticking to them.
Yes, it takes a little extra time and effort after each skating session, but it’s worth it.
When you make all these a part of your routine – proper drying, using the right protective gear, careful storage, and regular maintenance – your skates will stay in great condition for years.
Remember, well-maintained skates mean better skating, and better skating means more fun on the ice!
FAQs
Do Skate Guards Prevent Rust?
Yes, skate guards can help prevent rust. They create a barrier between the metal parts of your skateboard and the elements, like moisture and salt, which can cause rust.
Can Skate Trucks Rust?
Yes, skate trucks can rust. They’re made of metal, so they’re susceptible to rust, especially if they’re exposed to moisture or salty environments.
