If you’re buying your first pair of hockey skates—or even upgrading to a new model—you might be surprised to hear that hockey skates don’t fit like regular shoes. In fact, one of the most common questions people ask is: “Do hockey skates run big or small?”
Short answer? Hockey skates typically run smaller than your regular shoe size, but there’s more to the story. Skate fit depends on brand, model, foot shape, and even skill level. In this guide, we’ll break down how hockey skates fit, how sizing works, and how to make sure you get the right pair the first time.
1. Do Hockey Skates Run Big or Small?
They Usually Run Small—But Not Always
Most hockey skates are 1 to 1.5 sizes smaller than your regular shoe size. For example, if you wear a men’s size 10 in sneakers, you’ll likely wear a size 8.5 or 9 in hockey skates.
But here’s where it gets tricky:
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Different brands (like Bauer, CCM, and TRUE) have different sizing systems.
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Some skates are made with a narrow or wide fit in mind.
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Performance-level skates may have a snugger fit for better control and responsiveness.
Bottom line: Hockey skates generally run smaller than your street shoes, but exact sizing depends on the brand and model.
We reviewed the best hockey skates – click here to read our guide.
2. How Hockey Skate Sizing Works
Hockey skate sizing is not just about the number—it’s about how the skate fits your foot shape. Here’s what to know:
General Skate Sizing Guidelines:
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Senior sizes (for adults): Typically 1–1.5 sizes smaller than your shoe size.
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Junior sizes (youth): Often similar or a full size smaller than shoe size.
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Youth sizes (kids): Usually match their shoe size or run a little small.
Fit Profiles by Brand:
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Bauer offers three fit profiles:
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Fit 1: Narrow
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Fit 2: Medium
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Fit 3: Wide
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CCM uses three lines:
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Ribcor: Flexible and narrow fit
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JetSpeed: Tapered fit (narrow heel, regular forefoot)
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Tacks: Anatomical fit (more snug overall)
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Performance Fit vs. Recreational Fit:
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Elite/Pro skates: Snug, glove-like fit for responsiveness (less forgiveness).
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Recreational skates: More forgiving and comfortable, looser fit.
3. How to Find the Right Size Hockey Skates
Here’s how to ensure your skates fit correctly:
✅ Measure Your Foot
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Trace your foot on paper, measure the length in inches or centimeters.
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Use skate brand size charts (Bauer, CCM, TRUE) for an accurate conversion.
✅ Try Them On In-Person If Possible
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Wear thin hockey socks or performance skate socks.
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Your toes should just barely touch the toe cap when standing.
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When you bend your knees, your toes should pull back slightly from the cap.
✅ Watch for Pressure Points
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A good fit = snug heel, no heel lift, no major pressure spots.
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Too loose = poor control and energy transfer.
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Too tight = numbness, blisters, pain.
4. Common Fit Problems and How to Fix Them
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Heel Lift: Try using heel pads or switching to a narrower fit profile.
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Toe Pain: The skate may be too small—consider going up half a size.
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Arch Pain: Add insoles or look for skates with better arch support.
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Blisters on Ankles: Ensure you’re wearing proper socks and breaking in the skates correctly.
5. Tips for Skate Fit Success
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Don’t size based on your shoe size alone—use actual foot measurements.
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Break in your skates gradually and consider heat molding if available.
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Skates should feel snug, not painful. You want maximum control without sacrificing circulation.
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Replace or upgrade insoles for better arch support if needed.
Conclusion
So, do hockey skates run big or small? They typically run smaller than your regular shoes, but sizing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your best bet is to base your decision on actual foot measurements, the skate brand’s sizing chart, and your preferred fit profile. Whether you’re a casual player or chasing elite performance, the right fit will make or break your time on the ice.
Pro tip: Always break in your skates before hitting the rink hard. And if you’re unsure, visit a pro shop for a fitting—you’ll thank yourself later!