Tights and skating skirts question [Archive]

Skittl1321

03-19-2006, 08:16 PM

I'm looking into getting a skating skirt for my practices because I very much think that looking the part helps you learn. So, obviously I need tights. Although I currently have a huge supply of pink ballet tights- I have no beige tights.

So here are my questions, to be answered by the experts before I buy.

Do you skate in one pair of tights or two? My drill team always wore 2 pairs of beige tights, but in ballet we only wear one pair of pink- and the pink is more see through. Which is more common in the skating world?

What brand or material of tights is your favorite?

Do you prefer over the boot or in the boot tights? Why?

Thanks :) I am currently high bidder on a really cheap, but cute skirt on ebay- that I'm kind of hoping I'll be outbid on, I'm not too sure it's going to fit. And after I found that I found an adorable Capezio one. Eh, I'll ask that here too- (just changed the subject line)

Where is your favorite place to find skating skirts? I've found them harder to find on websites than skating dresses, which I'm not really looking for at this point. What style skirt do you like most?

froggy

03-19-2006, 08:25 PM

Recently I bought mondor style #3310 footed tights in suntan, I just ordered to put on top of that the footless version of that which is mondor 3312. the extra footless on top will give me more warmth. I have also skated with just regular black opaque tights and capezio black footless dance tights on top. However the suntan will look better against my skirts that are colorful and not black. At first I felt silly wearing skating tights but y'know what sometimes if you dress the part you feel it more. same with ballet, in ballet I wear a leotard even though some of my peers come in yoga stlye clothes. Oh i chose not to buy over-the-boot, since I've seen so many other skaters with holes in them, no sense buying these expensive tights and then having to throw them out. check out ebay for some good buys on tights.

WhisperSung

03-19-2006, 08:59 PM

I buy danskin tights (I think that's how it's spelled). I wear one pair of footed tights and one footless that tuck into the skates.

I think whether or not you get over-the-boot tights or not is basically just a personal preference. I used to wear over the boot tights all the time and then switched over. There really is no different for me, though.

As for skating skirts, sorry, but no idea. I buy my skating dresses from a dressmaker locally (well, as a treat, very rarely, since they cost over $100 a pop. . .they're great, though. I buy them once a year at most).

phoenix

03-19-2006, 09:35 PM

Make sure you buy tights that are specifically for skating, they're thicker (ie, warmer), & won't run the first time you fall! I wear one pair, I know some people wear 2--I think maybe it depends on how cold your rink is. I wear thicker tights, & one pair is fine for me.

icedancer2

03-19-2006, 09:48 PM

I only wear one pair -- have never worn two.

Have liked all of the major brands, especially Danskin, Capezio and Baryznakov (I like them, but can't spell).

Suntan or Toast is the color most often worn by figure skaters. I used to wear black when I lived in Boston, but then again, everyone in Boston wore black for everything. Here on the West Coast, suntan is in, I guess!!

I used to always wear footed tights, now I don't like how they feel in my boots (too slippy or something) so I wear footless tights pulled down over the top of my boots. NOT over-the-boot tights which I think are about the weirdest things on the planet.

What? You have a blade on the bottom of your bare foot? Is that the point of those?

Anyway, end of rant.

I know a lot of people wear two or sometimes even three pairs of tights. I can't imagine how hot that would be, even in a cold rink -- if you are working hard, one pair should be enough, but maybe it's my ample body fat that keeps me warm!

flippet

03-19-2006, 09:49 PM

I just wear one pair of tights (unless the rink is freezing). I prefer the footless style, because then I pull them down over my laces. I wear nylon knee-hi's on my feet. The way I see it, I like to be able to get to my feet quickly if I need to, without having to undress. I do have a pair of footed tights, but I don't wear them much. I've tried Mondor tights, and I don't really like them much--I don't think they're sized well for an adult body. I really like the Capezio microfiber tights. They look teeny right out of the package, but they stretch really well. And they just feel nice.

Re: skirts--with a wrap skirt, you'll need a leotard. Since you do ballet, I'm sure you've got that covered. Otherwise, you can look for a pull-on skirt. I got mine at a competition booth, but I think Rainbo (http://www.rainbosportsshop.com) is one place to find them. I honestly don't wear mine much--I usually end up pulling on cotton aerobic shorts over my tights.

daisies

03-19-2006, 09:57 PM

I don't wear flesh-tone when I practice -- I wear regular microfiber tights in a dark color, usually from Target or somewhere cheap, and then those black ribbed Mondor footless tights, made out of a sweater-like material.

For competition I wear Capezio light suntan tights with Capezio over-the-boot tights -- I use OTB tights for competition because I wear bunga sleeves, and without the OTB they would show and look really bad.

icedancer2

03-19-2006, 10:02 PM

Oh -- the wrap skirts don't have attached panties -- you can either wear a leotard, or buy some of what we used to call "trunks" in the old days -- thick panty-like objects.

My little secret for this: I wear black cotton stretch underwear (like Jockey for Women-type undies) over my tights. No one is the wiser.8O

Leotards are a pain in the butt since you have to basically take off everything if you have to go to the bathroom, and that is just no fun!!

beachbabe

03-19-2006, 10:04 PM

well, i only wear tights for testing and competitions. I just get plain old mondor footed tights because i hate the look of over the boot tights and i have to have something between my foot and the boot or it feels strange. Never wore two pairs..I'd get too hot.

I know you are sure about tights, but I wanna reccomend to you leggings. I always practice in under armour black or navy blue leggings and they are perfect for skating. They keep you warm and don't get in the way, and aren't a huge hassle like some over the boot tights are. They are jsut so comfortable...ideal for skating.

Chico

03-19-2006, 10:21 PM

I wear two pairs of tights in the winter and one pair in the summer. I skate in a cold rink. I also wear black Danskin tights over these. Many skaters at my rink just wear a wrap skirt over the black tights/leggings. My local dance shop sells skating tights, Danskin tights/leggings and wrap skirts. If you sew try making your own skirt. I tend to like tights that pull down over my ankle but not my boot. I just wear knee highs for "socks". Wash your tights on the gentle cycle and air dry. The dryer kills them in my experience. Clear nail polish stops runs from becoming huge. Of course this does have it's limits.

TashaKat

03-20-2006, 12:14 AM

I always used to wear a pair of matt (so you don't get the 'double sausage skin' effect if the top pair are a bit shiny) Danskin footed tights (Model 73 I think) with either Mondor thick OTB/stirrup/footless tights over the top for practise or the more sheer OTB for tests/comps.

Although I don't like the look of OTB close up they look ok on the ice and give the illusion of a longer leg line as long as you point your toe .....

NickiT

03-20-2006, 02:44 AM

I just wear one pair of tights - Danskin 73 footed tights. It's never occurred to me to put more than one pair on and I'd worry about them feeling a bit too tight if I had on more than one pair. I guess I'm pretty lucky as I (apparently) skate at the warmest rink in the UK.

I also prefer to wear a dress in practice rather than a skirt. I find that with a skirt my top goes up and my skirt goes down, especially on a sit spin, and I hate my lower back being exposed. I don't get that with a dress!

Nicki

Mrs Redboots

03-20-2006, 05:26 AM

I think Slough is just warmer than your rink, Nicki, but it's a close-run thing!

I wear thick black supermarket tights for practice - the kind that are sold 3 pairs for a fiver! And our discount supermarket recently had some wonderful microfibre tights that I stocked up on. It doesn't really matter what you wear, as long as they're warm enough - the only thing is, a hard line at the thigh is a bit ugly, so try to get a pair that doesn't have that. And well worth buying specialist tights - either footed, or OTB, whichever you prefer - for "best" (i.e. test, competition, dance socials, etc).

Usually, for competition, I wear over-boot tights, but always with pop-socks underneath so I can fold the top of the socks down over the lace pegs and protect the tights. And I have one pair of stirrup tights, bought by mistake, which are blissfully warm, so I sometimes wear them to dance club, and then I do wear another pair underneath, but just ordinary 15-denier everyday tights.

Skittl1321

03-20-2006, 05:39 AM

Great- thanks all for the responses! It gives me a lot to go on. I wouldn't have thought to get "skating tights" as opposed to just tan tights.

Thanks also for the advice on the wrap skirts- don't worry I have both leotards and trunks in supply from dance- I can't imagine the person who would have forgotten them, but I appreciate those who stated the obvious to make sure I didn't :)

I just won this skirt- http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=ADME:B:BCA:US:11&Item=7226411641 on ebay. For only $6 including shipping, I figured if it won't fit I can just give it away. I'm so excited- I've always wanted a skating skirt :)

VegasGirl

03-20-2006, 07:01 AM

Do you skate in one pair of tights or two?

1 pair... no need for more.

What brand or material of tights is your favorite?

My favorite brand is Mondor, specifically the opaque over-the-boot tights. They're nice and thick plus the hooks are already sewn on. I've had my pair for about 1 1/2 years now and though the over-the-boot part on the right foot is pretty torn from doing lunges I won't give them up!
A close second is Danskin, also over-the-boot tights... pretty much the same thickness as Mondor but not quite as matching to my skin tone in color and the hooks are not sewn on... also the foot part tends to be a bit tight on my size 9 wide skates... still a good pair of tights!

Do you prefer over the boot or in the boot tights? Why?

Definitely over-the-boot!!! My first pair of tights were footed and thus for in the boot... I wore them once and never again. I hate how it feels to have my foot in tights and how that feels inside the skate. I prefer wearing nice cotton socks (is warmer too) and that's why I like the OTB tights... not to mention that I like the longer leaner look you get with them (just make sure not to pull them all the way down over the heel... the heel should remain out).

Where is your favorite place to find skating skirts? I've found them harder to find on websites than skating dresses, which I'm not really looking for at this point. What style skirt do you like most?

The only two skirts I own were handed down to me from a relative who gave up skating, but in general I love Ebay for skate wear... can't beat the price!!!
Another site I like is www.tidewaterice.com and they carry quite a few skirts as well. My favorite style in skate skirts is the straight flat front with slits on the side... looks more mature... a fact I like since I'm not a little skate girl any more (actually never was since I didn't start skating till I was 38). :)

Isk8NYC

03-20-2006, 07:06 AM

In terms of skating skirts, check out your local pro shop for sales. I picked up a pair of skirts for my kids that ended up costing about $21 each. They were on sale for 40% off, so that was a good buy, with no shipping expenses.

I prefer the pull-on skirts with the attached panties, which are more expensive than the circle and wrap skirts. Easy to change into when we come right from school to the rink. (There's a debate on another board about that topic!)

Tights: same deal. Make a note of how much they cost and check out the displays at skating shows and competitions as well as the pro shop. Local dancewear places can order them. If you find a brand/style you like, take the tag to the dancewear place and ask about a discount if you order 10 pair.

VegasGirl

03-20-2006, 07:08 AM

Suntan or Toast is the color most often worn by figure skaters. I used to wear black when I lived in Boston, but then again, everyone in Boston wore black for everything. Here on the West Coast, suntan is in, I guess!!

Just moved up from NV, not quite West Coast but close enough, and have a couple pairs of black tights. I like them better than the tan ones with a couple of my dresses and one of my skirts since it gives such a nice long continuous lean line.

NOT over-the-boot tights which I think are about the weirdest things on the planet.

What? You have a blade on the bottom of your bare foot? Is that the point of those?

Eehm, no it's not as the heel of the boot should still be showing... it just gives the skater a longer looking leg/line that's not cut off at the top of the boot. Since most skaters tend to be on the shorter side and thus often with short legs I find it gives them a nicer look... but that's I guess in the eye of the beholder as all questions of beauty.

VegasGirl

03-20-2006, 07:12 AM

I prefer the footless style, because then I pull them down over my laces.

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that as one of the reasons why I prefer OTB tights... I too like to have my laces covered!

I've tried Mondor tights, and I don't really like them much--I don't think they're sized well for an adult body.

Did you buy an adult size?
I find that my Mondors fit better than my Danskins... but I guess it would also depend on what shape your body is.

jenlyon60

03-20-2006, 07:16 AM

I just wear plain tan footed dance tights under microfleece leggings for practice. My favorite brand of the moment is Main Street Dancewear (Wolff Fording).

For tests/competition, I wear the same dance tights, plus I wear a pair of the Mondor microfiber over-the-boot tights. If the rink is really really really cold, I'll wear the Mondor heavyweight OTB tights.

Most days I am doing the quick-change artist imitation to get into my work clothes after skating and head to work, so I find leggings & tights much more convenient (and if all else fails and they're nice leggings, I can just wear them tucked into a pair of boots with a nice hip-length sweater).

VegasGirl

03-20-2006, 07:21 AM

In terms of skating skirts, check out your local pro shop for sales. I picked up a pair of skirts for my kids that ended up costing about $21 each. They were on sale for 40% off, so that was a good buy, with no shipping expenses.

In the future check out this site as well:

http://tidewaterice.com/mondorpage3.htm

The skirts almost all cost less than $21 without being on sale and shipping is not all that much (I think around $5 if I remember correctly) since the skirts (or dresses for that matter) don't weigh much and fit in a padded envelope.

Skittl1321

03-20-2006, 07:36 AM

(There's a debate on another board about that topic!)

Which board? I'm new to the skating world- so I'm still looking to find the best ones for skaters- most seem to focus on spectating.

Isk8NYC

03-20-2006, 07:49 AM

Thanks for the link. I still made out great with the ones I bought at the pro shop, but I'll check them out next time I'm buying.

The "other board" is for skating directors and coaches, but if you search in Groups under Yahoo or Google, you can find adult skaters' boards.

[Edited to add:] Learn something new every day - here's a cool site: Ice Skating Addict (http://www.iceskatingaddict.com/index.htm)

flippet

03-20-2006, 08:10 AM

Did you buy an adult size?
I find that my Mondors fit better than my Danskins... but I guess it would also depend on what shape your body is.

Yeah, I got an adult size. The 'sweater' pair was particularly bad--too narrow in the thighs, and the crotch was, I swear, a mile long. I could have pinned it to my bra and had material left over. :roll: And no, it was not a 'body sock'. The stirrup pair I had had those glittery flecks in it, and the material was far too easy to snag. I've never had a problem with my Capezios--even pulling them over the hooks doesn't seem to snag them.

LoopLoop

03-20-2006, 08:17 AM

I wear two pairs of Capezio ballet tights. There are a lot more colors to choose from, and I can find some that are much closer to my skin tone than the typical "suntan." Yes, I'm a bit anal, but especially for competition I like to have the color of my legs approximate the color of my arms.:lol:

I wear two pairs because, as they're dance tights and not skating-specific, they're very thin.

Skate@Delaware

03-20-2006, 09:44 AM

I have taken to wearing 2 pair of footless tights because we officially have hockey ice and it's very very cold!!!. Mondor opaque don't know what model #. I also wear a pair of socks. I don't pull my tights over my laces (I hate that look). I'm weird.

Sometiems I wear a dance skirt and leotard combination for ice dance class-makes me feel pretty when dancing.....different strokes I guess. All the other times I wear pants (and the 2 pair of tights).

figure_skater

03-20-2006, 09:48 AM

i just wear one pair of tights...
my fav. brand is mondor... i love those in suntan.
i swear by over the boot tights. wouldnt give them up any day.

quarkiki2

03-20-2006, 09:53 AM

For practice, I wear a pair of black microfiber tights with a leotard. I wear a pair of leggings over that, pulled down over my laces. I have a fear that I'll get a blade caught in a lace. And a stretchy shirt of some sort. I know I'm a lard-butt, but I also believe that it's important for my coach to see all of my body line and.

My synchro team wears suntan over-the-boot tights so we all look alike. Except for our cumpulsory program -- we're wearing black pants, so we all have black boot covers. I still wear tights under the over-the-boot and under the black pants. I wear tan dance tights under the suntan because black shows through.

twokidsskatemom

03-20-2006, 11:58 AM

My daughter always wears two pair,footed and either OTB or footless.For comps its always been OTB.She was tiny so OTB showed her leg better.She is getting taller now but her coach still likes OTB for the line of her leg.
As a mom, I like mondor best, seems to last longer.:)

coskater64

03-20-2006, 01:45 PM

I wear the Danskin microfibre tights that are footed as an underlayer and the wear the mondor heavyweight footless tights on top for comp. For practice I wear a hiking legging from the northface that is wonderful but pricey @ 75 per pop. I don't like the over-the-boot tight but I already have a long line and it doesn't need to be any longer.:P

Mercedeslove

03-20-2006, 03:34 PM

I wear two pair of tights. One footed pair and another over the boot kind.

slusher

03-20-2006, 03:57 PM

I wear Mondor stirrups for practice and footless for competition. I'm too cheap to pay for over the boot tights and because I have rather large feet, do feel that they give me large beige lumps instead. I do like my laces covered and sometimes use shin tape to tape down the laces to keep the hooks from poking holes in my tights.

I don't wear socks so do not wear footed tights.

SkatingOnClouds

03-20-2006, 04:23 PM

To my eyes over the boot tights make your feet look bigger. Yes, I agree they make your legs look longer, so you have this nice long leg, with these clumps on the bottom. Sort of reminds me of a tree growing out of a weird shaped stump. And the thinner the legs, the worse it looks, in my opinion.

For a longer leg without the tree stump effect, I prefer the look of footless tights that you can pull down over the ankles and hooks. Call me old-fashioned, I don't see a problem with neat white boots at the bottom of the leg.

Raye

03-21-2006, 12:34 PM

I wear thin footed tights with thicker over the boot tights, both in suntan - for practice - that way my skates stay nice and white for competitions, tests and exhibitions. For singles and dance, I only wear the thin tights and for synchro we all get matching thin over-the-boot tights for competitions and exhibitions.

flo

03-21-2006, 01:02 PM

One pair of danskin tights (73) and beige boots. I don't care for the look of over the boot tights, like horse feet on skates.
Leggings from Target - the Circo kids holiday leggings (spider webs, moons, candy canes, flowers) are $6 and great and the L or XL fit fine.

vesperholly

03-21-2006, 02:45 PM

For a longer leg without the tree stump effect, I prefer the look of footless tights that you can pull down over the ankles and hooks. Call me old-fashioned, I don't see a problem with neat white boots at the bottom of the leg.
Ugh! I think this is the worst look of all! Your eye follows the dark line of the tights, to be stopped by a stump! In practice, who cares, but in competition? NEIN! :twisted:

When I compete, I wear OTB tights for dance, and tuck in a pair of footless tights for freestyle.

In practice, I pull the footless tights down over the heel of my boot. I wear Capezio run-resistant footed tights, and Mondor 3312 footless on top. They've very thin and not too warm, but they don't feel bulky and have more stretch than the cottony ones. The Mondors run like crazy, but it's just practice so I'll wear them until the runs creep past my knees. :) The Capezios hardly ever get runs, but lately I've been getting holes on the heel of my left foot. Odd.

Chico

03-21-2006, 10:16 PM

I like white boots showing too. =-)

Chico

blisspix

03-21-2006, 11:16 PM

I know a lot of people wear two or sometimes even three pairs of tights. I can't imagine how hot that would be, even in a cold rink -- if you are working hard, one pair should be enough, but maybe it's my ample body fat that keeps me warm!

When I was younger, I used to skate in 2-3 pairs of tights, socks, and a pair of leggings and a dress over the top, and sometimes a sweater. I don't know how I didn't die of overheating in that. Must have been all the time I spent yapping and not practicing ;)

These days, I wear one pair footed tights (no socks!), 3/4 leggings, leotard and a closely fitted tank or tshirt, and a headband to keep my hair out of my face. I have a nice blue warmup jacket I got in Canada for particularly cold days. I do have one pair of over-the-boot tights, but don't wear them.

tend to only buy leotards and leggings etc that I can wear to all of my skating, ballet, yoga etc sessions. I have a couple of skirts if I am feeling like a skirt that day.

I'm planning on buying lots of new stuff at Capezio etc when I'm back in the US soon! Practice dresses etc. I have attempted to make my own but I can't quite come to grips with sewing in the elastic - any tips? Perhaps I need a different setting or foot on my overlocker.

aussieskater

03-22-2006, 12:07 AM

Hi Blisspix, Skate@Delaware might have some tips too as I gather from her posts that she does lots of leotards (sorry S@D! :) ), but here's my basic method, FWIW.

First, I don't use the overlocker for elastic at all - just the sewing machine. For adult women, I mark on the leotard each "quarter leg" from side seam to crotch seam, front and back, giving four marked sections. The front two "quarters" should be smaller than the back two (at least they are in the Kwiksew patterns I use! :P ).

Then I join the elastic ends together on the machine (a cross-zigzag does nicely), mark accurate quarters on the elastic loop, and match the marks on the leotard (the side seam and the crotch seam on the leotard are your other "marks") to the marks on the elastic. The elastic is (correctly) tauter in the back because it's got more lycra to accommodate. This means that the leotard will grip under the backside and minimise riding up. Pin the elastic on to the wrong side of the edge of the leotard, making sure the marks still match.

Set your sewing machine to the widest possible zigzag with a slightly longer than average stitch length, and (stretching as you go to fit the lycra to the elastic) zigzag the elastic onto the leotard. Try the garment on to make sure you're happy with it, then reduce your stitch width and length to a bit less than halfway, fold the elastic under to the wrong side (pin if necessary) and stitch the elastic down from the right side of the leotard.

Hope this helps. :D

stardust skies

03-22-2006, 01:19 AM

What? You have a blade on the bottom of your bare foot? Is that the point of those?

No, the point of over the boot tights is in part to protect your $800.00 skates from getting scuffed and scratched. Sure the tights get holes and runs in them, but better on the tights than on the boots! The tights won't protect your boots against ALL the scuffs, but they'll absord a good majority of them.

Also as a general note to the original poster- don't feel like you have to buy a skirt to "look" like a figure skater. Most serious skaters past age 12-15 wear leggings. It's usually the beginner adults and little girls who wear the skirts and dresses. Serious skaters mostly wear leggings and long sleeved shirts or tank tops, depending on how cold it is. Or unitards. These things are more comfortable, way less expensive, and look a whole lot better. I compete in dresses, but I wouldn't be caught dead with one on practice ice. Haven't since I was about 14. Just like I stopped wearing tutus in ballet class after age 5 or so. They're fun when you're little, but there's really no need for the frills. The real dancers aren't concerned with looking pretty. Unless they are on stage, in which case there's room for tutus. But not in class. Same with skating and dresses, IMHO.

jazzpants

03-22-2006, 01:30 AM

I would love to show off my purple boots during competitions, but my "very image conscious" primary skating coach would KILL me if I did!!! :roll: (Hey! This is a guy who's very first comment at my very first comp was "You're NOT going to wear your hair in a ponytail, riiiight???" :twisted: :lol: )

During practice though, everyone sees the purple skates...and the ponytail too!!! :mrgreen:

Mrs Redboots

03-22-2006, 05:48 AM

blisspix

03-22-2006, 06:02 AM

Hi Blisspix, Skate@Delaware might have some tips too as I gather from her posts that she does lots of leotards (sorry S@D! :) ), but here's my basic method, FWIW.

snippy snip.

Brilliant! I will give it a go. Anything to reduce the hideous cost of skating dresses.

blisspix

03-22-2006, 06:05 AM

Serious skaters mostly wear leggings and long sleeved shirts or tank tops, depending on how cold it is.

LOL. That's me - pretending to look serious. :lol:

Wish I'd worn the over the boots today - giant slice in the top of my right boot from a dodgy double loop attempt. D'oh. Was bound to happen.

VegasGirl

03-22-2006, 06:51 AM

Most serious skaters past age 12-15 wear leggings. It's usually the beginner adults and little girls who wear the skirts and dresses. Serious skaters mostly wear leggings and long sleeved shirts or tank tops, depending on how cold it is. Or unitards. These things are more comfortable, way less expensive, and look a whole lot better.

Speak for yourself... :roll:

Skate@Delaware

03-22-2006, 06:58 AM

snippy snip.

Brilliant! I will give it a go. Anything to reduce the hideous cost of skating dresses.
AAARRRGGHHH!! There goes all my sewing secrets :frus: !!!! ha-ha!
Actually, I do so many a serger is necessary. And with the Kwik-Sew pattern I use, you can't quarter the elastic, there needs to be a bit more for the booty part that gets stretched (the part in the front doesn't get stretched)......

However, I did the "quarter the elastic and stitch with a triple-zig-zag" for years and it was extremely effective!!!! Skating is expensive enough without putting out tons of $$$$ on outfits!

but because I also sell stuff to people, they expect things to look like off-the-rack stuff :roll: so I had to get a serger.....and it gets me out of the sewing room faster so I can SKATE!!!

Skittl1321

03-22-2006, 07:56 AM

Also as a general note to the original poster- don't feel like you have to buy a skirt to "look" like a figure skater. Most serious skaters past age 12-15 wear leggings. It's usually the beginner adults and little girls who wear the skirts and dresses. Serious skaters mostly wear leggings and long sleeved shirts or tank tops, depending on how cold it is. Or unitards. These things are more comfortable, way less expensive, and look a whole lot better. I compete in dresses, but I wouldn't be caught dead with one on practice ice. Haven't since I was about 14. Just like I stopped wearing tutus in ballet class after age 5 or so. They're fun when you're little, but there's really no need for the frills. The real dancers aren't concerned with looking pretty. Unless they are on stage, in which case there's room for tutus. But not in class. Same with skating and dresses, IMHO.

Thanks for the note :) I have zero plans to wear a skating dress to practice in until I'm good enough for competition. Most of the adults at the session I went to were in skating skirts and long sleeve shirts.

That seems comfortable enough, and it appeared the rink circlers were more likely to yield to those in skirts. (Even while I was doing my lesson- they didn't even try to get out of my way. The advanced freeskaters did while I was on lesson -which made me feel bad because they were so much better than me, and I felt like I should have been getting out of their way- but not the people who skated in a circle for an hour) Maybe they need to see a skirt to realize you are doing something?

For my group lessons I'll probably just wear leggings- until I see what other people wear.

icedancer2

03-22-2006, 11:40 AM

jazzpants

03-22-2006, 12:58 PM

So for practice, I understand why you would want to wear OTB tights or boot-covers, but for competition, PLEASE wear regular suntan footed tights because it just looks better, more classic, no matter how short you are!! Actually I expect that many many skaters are short and that is okay!!Hmmmm? What if I'm not wearing your traditional white boots, huh? :twisted: (The point of my having to wear OTB tights at competitions *IS* to cover up the purple boots, which my coach considers a bigger offense than having over the boot tights at competitions.)

quarkiki2

03-22-2006, 01:00 PM

As a singles skater, I would not choose to wear over-the-boot tights in competition. I prefer white boots.

But on the synchro team, we have a couple of skaters who have tan boots. We need to wear over-the-boot tights so we look alike.

icedancer2

03-22-2006, 01:02 PM

Hmmmm? What if I'm not wearing your traditional white boots, huh? :twisted: (The point of my having to wear OTB tights at competitions *IS* to cover up the purple boots, which my coach considers a bigger offense than having over the boot tights at competitions.)

Oh, you devil!!:lol:

So - do you wear WHITE boot covers at least????:twisted: I wonder how many pairs you would have to put on to cover the purple?? Actually, I would rather see purple boots (which shows you are a creative person) than over-the-boot tights. Just tell your coach I said so...:halo:

Actually I have some black leather boot covers which I think are pretty hot!!:twisted:

flo

03-22-2006, 01:59 PM

I'd like to see the purple boots as well. And perhaps a pair in pink.
I think most of the older and advanced skaters in my rink also wear leggings. It's easier to put in/take out crash pads in pants/leggings than up a dress. They are also a bit less expensive. If I'm working on doubles and I know I'll be falling, I'd rather beat up the leggings than a dress. The little girls tend to wear dresses, and they're very cute.

Vicki

03-22-2006, 03:37 PM

I know you are sure about tights, but I wanna reccomend to you leggings. I always practice in under armour black or navy blue leggings and they are perfect for skating. They keep you warm and don't get in the way, and aren't a huge hassle like some over the boot tights are. They are jsut so comfortable...ideal for skating.

Where do you find Under Armour leggings? My local Sport Chalet carries tops so I didn't know they made leggings. Do they run short? I have long legs and find that leggings usually run too short.

beachbabe

03-22-2006, 04:00 PM

Where do you find Under Armour leggings? My local Sport Chalet carries tops so I didn't know they made leggings. Do they run short? I have long legs and find that leggings usually run too short.

actually I order them on amazon.com. However, I've seen them sold at Dick's and at Omega Sports sometimes. hav ealso seen them at Sports authority I think.

Actually they are quite long. I'm 5'7 and i get a good 2" extra to pull over my skating boots. Actually these are the best leggings i've ever had in my whole life. they keep you perfectly warm if you keep moving and I've had my msot recent pair for about a year now and sakting in them at least 3 dyas a week they show no wear.

most other leggings seem to get caught on the hook on my boots and then get torn or scratched up.

stardust skies

03-22-2006, 06:27 PM

Speak for yourself... :roll:

I'm speaking for pretty much 100% of the population of any and all rinks I've frequented in my lifetime, so I guess I'm speaking for about...500+ people, but you're free to speak for yourself and whoever agrees with you, if you'd like. Not sure what was so offensive about my comment or why it deserved an eyeroll, but I guess you like dresses? Good for you. No need to take it so personal, I didn't insult anyone. It's true that I only see kids and beginner adults wearing dresses, and that the serious kids (there are no competitive adults at my rink but from the sounds of it, a lot of the ones here who compete wear mostly pants too...) wear leggings. I can't help it, it's a fact. If you're different that's great. But that doesn't mean you're the majority. Or that being a minority is a bad thing.

GAH, either way, I have no idea how you could've taken this post wrong, when all I was doing was reporting clothing trends at various ice rinks. What, if I said I don't often see people wearing yellow and orange together, and you happened to have an orange and yellow shirt on, you'd get angry? Sheesh.

PS to Icedancer: don't worry, I don't wear over the boots tights in competitions. From what I've been told, most judges absolutely hate them and actually have been known to take off some presentation points for them. Not worth it. :P

icedancer2

03-22-2006, 06:35 PM

PS to Icedancer: don't worry, I don't wear over the boots tights in competitions. From what I've been told, most judges absolutely hate them and actually have been known to take off some presentation points for them. Not worth it. :P

You know I've been thinking about this a lot this afternoon (shows where my head is I guess) -- it strikes me that seeing people have really good stretch and extension is really what I want and not necessarily what their boot looks like.

For instance: IMO Sasha Cohen can wear anything she wants and still look good -- she wears OTB tights sometimes, sometimes not -- in practice she wears leggings or tights -- she always seems stretched, extended and pointed (just to give an example). So if you are really good at the extensions, stretch, etc., it doesn't matter what you are wearing. But if your free knee looks bent and your toes aren't pointed, I think it looks worse in OBT than just plain white boots.

I have been a judge at local competitions, though, and I can tell you that I am so busy trying to figure out the placements (still doing 6.0 system here for this stuff) and counting revolutions and trying to see cheats on jumps, give deductions, etc., I am not paying attention to the kind of tights the competitor is wearing. I might notice if they have good extensions, toe-point etc., but otherwise....8O -- judging is hard!!

VegasGirl

03-22-2006, 08:47 PM

GAH, either way, I have no idea how you could've taken this post wrong, when all I was doing was reporting clothing trends at various ice rinks. What, if I said I don't often see people wearing yellow and orange together, and you happened to have an orange and yellow shirt on, you'd get angry?

No I wouldn't because you didn't put it the way you put your post in regards to skating dresses and adults. I don't know, but maybe if you read your own post you'll see what I mean... it just sounds patronizing/condescending:

Also as a general note to the original poster- don't feel like you have to buy a skirt to "look" like a figure skater. Most serious skaters past age 12-15 wear leggings.

Which sounds to me like you're implying that those of us adult skaters who skate in dresses are either not serious skaters just wanna-bes or beginners... or that we act childish.
Why not just say: "You might find that a lot of adult skaters for whatever reason prefer wearing leggings instead of dresses." That would have been neutral...

It's usually the beginner adults and little girls who wear the skirts and dresses. Serious skaters mostly wear leggings and long sleeved shirts or tank tops, depending on how cold it is. Or unitards.

See I've experienced the exact opposite and actually don't know any beginner adult skaters (nor have I seen any so far) that wore dresses, they've at best worn leggings but a lot of times not even that but rather jeans, sweats or warm-ups... me included... I started out skating in leggings or jazz pants, I would have felt totally out of place wearing a dress, sort of silly at that level. I didn't start waering dresses until I became a more serious skater and started competing since I did have to wear a dress for that and thus get used to it, be able to feel comfortable in it, not self conscious.
Found out I'm much more comfortable and secure skating in a dress... should actually have figured as much since even in the midst of Winter I run in shorts because I'm not comfortable running in leggings or sweats... And again it sounds like you're implying that skaters who do wear dresses must be beginners as serious skaters would most likely not.

These things are more comfortable, way less expensive, and look a whole lot better.

Pretty presumptious isn't it?

I compete in dresses, but I wouldn't be caught dead with one on practice ice. Haven't since I was about 14. Just like I stopped wearing tutus in ballet class after age 5 or so.

Come on be honest, you can't tell me that you don't find that that sounds condescending, almost insulting... so all of us adult skaters... over the age of 14 mind you... look absolutely silly like little 5 year olds in tutus and should drop dead from embarassment.

They're fun when you're little, but there's really no need for the frills. The real dancers aren't concerned with looking pretty. Unless they are on stage, in which case there's room for tutus. But not in class. Same with skating and dresses, IMHO.
Sheesh.

Need I repeat myself?

PS to Icedancer: don't worry, I don't wear over the boots tights in competitions. From what I've been told, most judges absolutely hate them and actually have been known to take off some presentation points for them. Not worth it. :P

And another doozy adding 'insult to injury'... :roll:

If you really just wanted to say that most female adult skaters you've encountered so far tend to wear leggings or such rather than dresses then why didn't you just say it like that rather than sounding so judgmental?

vintagefreak

03-22-2006, 10:42 PM

I've skated in several different areas of the USA and found dresses vs. leggings in adult women depends a lot on the rink and outdoor temps. In the South I found lots of women wear dresses or skirts. Its hot. I tried to wear leggings a few times and boiled. I found more of the advanced adult women in dresses, to be perfectly frank. In the NE I've found more adult women wearing leggings. Could be a temp thing. When its 20 degrees outside and my house is chilly, the last thing I want to do is put on a dress. I think its more about practicality than how advanced the skater is or WHATEVER. Geez it's just getting to be catty crap....

As far as over the boot vs. not-I've seen quite a mix, too. I've noticed many of the talented skaters at Un. Del wearing dresses or skirts and really nasty, holey, runny OTB tights during practice. I've seen Kimmie Meissner wearing leggings almost 100% of the time for practice. I personally don't think they give a rat's behind if others like what they're wearing or whether or not their damned tights are in or out of their boots. They're wearing what works for them. Last test session I was at with about 60 applicants, mostly girls and women, probably 90% had OTB tights on. Did the judges care? Nope b/c most of them passed. So who cares, ya know?

For me, I think the OTB is warmer when its hockey ice. I hate the look of boot covers and that little added material on your toes aint half bad. I also like the look of stirrup tights for practice. I think OTB is good for comps if the white boot is distracting with the rest of the dress, otherwise I favor the footed as long as the boots are polished and laces tucked. Thats my 2 cents. I think the bottom line is-do what works for you. If you're focused on what everyone else is wearing, you're not all that focused on your own skating now are ya.

vesperholly

03-23-2006, 12:28 AM

No, the point of over the boot tights is in part to protect your $800.00 skates from getting scuffed and scratched. Sure the tights get holes and runs in them, but better on the tights than on the boots! The tights won't protect your boots against ALL the scuffs, but they'll absord a good majority of them.
Or, you could tape your skates. Not perfect, but neither are fabric boot covers. Personally, I hate the look of boot covers, although I will admit that years ago I wore them. :halo: White ones, underneath neon blue stirrup pants and a matching skirt. The skirt had two layers - the top was blue, the bottom was a neon flower pattern, and the leggings had a diagonal insert on the lower leg in the same flower pattern. Ahh, fashion. :P

Also as a general note to the original poster- don't feel like you have to buy a skirt to "look" like a figure skater. Most serious skaters past age 12-15 wear leggings. It's usually the beginner adults and little girls who wear the skirts and dresses. Serious skaters mostly wear leggings and long sleeved shirts or tank tops, depending on how cold it is. Or unitards. These things are more comfortable, way less expensive, and look a whole lot better. I compete in dresses, but I wouldn't be caught dead with one on practice ice. Haven't since I was about 14. Just like I stopped wearing tutus in ballet class after age 5 or so. They're fun when you're little, but there's really no need for the frills. The real dancers aren't concerned with looking pretty. Unless they are on stage, in which case there's room for tutus. But not in class. Same with skating and dresses, IMHO.
I agree with Vegas Girl. Condescending much? It's one thing to say, "Most serious skaters I know wear leggings." You imply that skaters are not serious if they wear skirts or dresses. Your experiences are NOT universal truths. Yes, I see more elite/high-level skaters in leggings than I do in skirts/dresses. But that doesn't mean that if a skater doesn't wear leggings, they're not serious. I think people might be able to take your point seriously if you didn't insult them while making that point.

I'm serious about my skating. I'm a real skater. I wear dresses because I feel they are more flattering. End of story. It's awfully judgemental of you to assess the seriousness of skaters based on what they wear.

Not to mention, there's a big difference between practice dresses and competition dresses. I have seen serious ballet dancers wear practice skirts to their classes, but never a full-on tutu. If a skater wore their competition dress with 1800 rhinestones to practice in, then I'd think they are a little... off. :)

racytracy

03-23-2006, 12:30 AM

for tights, i prefer to wear footed tights. i have been known on cold days to wear a pair of footed tights under with a footless pair over top. i kind of really just hate the look of over the boot tights but would never judge a skater for their personal preference. they just don't elongate anything for me. i mean - yr skating, WE KNOW YOU HAVE SKATES ON. i find them more distracting than anything.

50% of the time i wear dresses and the other half i wear leggings. it depends on how i feel that day. in fact, i'm more self conscious in leggings than in a dress. When i do wear leggings i don't wear tights at all but the body wrappers knee highs which i then fold over the top of the boot to hold my laces in.

it's just a personal preference, i think. i've seen really amazing skaters only practice in dresses and really terrible skaters practice in leggings. there is no hard and fast rule about skating attire.

in the immortal words of Michael Kors and Santino on Project Runway, "LIGHTEN UP IT'S JUST FASHION!" :)

jenlyon60

03-23-2006, 03:47 AM

At my rink, there doesn't seem to be any preference. A lot of the girls wear skirts/dresses at all levels, probably equal numbers wear leggings. Same with our adult skaters.

I wear leggings the bulk of the time for convenience, since I am usually going straight from the rink to work. If I am running a bit late (often), it's much easier to dash into the building in leggings than in a skating dress, get started on my computer at work, then go to the ladies room and change clothes.

Mrs Redboots

03-23-2006, 04:08 AM

Am I the only person actually to prefer the look of OTB tights? Or, at worst, beige skates with tights the same shade?

I absolutely hate skating, whether in practice, test or competition, without covering my boots with something - covers in practice, OTB tights for "best" - as I'm totally paranoid about catching my blade in my laces. If, for any reason, I forget my boot-covers, I have to put thin socks on and fold them down over the top of my boots.

Besides which, at this time of year, woollen knitted boot covers do help to keep your feet warm!

cassarilda

03-23-2006, 05:20 AM

VegasGirl

03-23-2006, 05:56 AM

Am I the only person actually to prefer the look of OTB tights? Or, at worst, beige skates with tights the same shade?

No your not, I do too and that's why OTB tights is what I wear. :)

Mrs Redboots

03-23-2006, 08:56 AM

Oh and OTB tights arent going to protect your boots from your partners toepicks in dance ;)
Nothing protects your boots from your partner's toepicks in dance! The black marks on your skates are due to your partner's carelessness in kicking you; the white marks on his skates are due to his carelessness in not getting his feet out of the way.

Not a lot protects your legs, either! Last year I had the most wonderful graze across the top of my shin, you could see every pick on the whole rake! It didn't even hurt, and scarcely bled, but it did scar - and I milked it for all I was worth! Well, wouldn't you???? ;) ;) ;)

flo

03-23-2006, 10:32 AM

"I milked it for all I was worth! Well, wouldn't you???? "

Too funny! I also tend to have the leggings with multiple holes and gashes. That's one reason I really like buying the kids leggings from Target - inexpensive and made for kids wear and tear. They can take my splats!

blue111moon

03-23-2006, 11:38 AM

I bought a pair of UnderArmor leggings a TJ Maxx (a US discount chain) a couple months ago and love them, especially in my super-cold rink. Nice stretchy fabric. I do wear cotton lycra leggings over them but that's because my butt's big and the slight flare at the ankles to the cotton leggings balances that out a (very) little.

At my rink, what I wear depends on the session I'm skating on. For public sessions or for club sessions where most of the kids out there are basics skills or very low test, I wear sweats or casually loose pants. For lessons with my coach, I like tighter leggings because she can see the line better. In the summer I might wear a skirt and the Mondor heavy weight tights.

I don't like the OTB tights or boot covers. I worry more about catching the heel of my blade on the cover than in my laces. Plus, even though I have short legs in comparison with my long torso, I don't think the OTB tights make my legs longer. They just make my feet look bigger. :)

flo

03-23-2006, 12:00 PM

I'll have to try the under armor. Thy're made here and often have local sales and promotions. I did try a top - I got my usual size and it felt like shrink wrap!

blisspix

03-23-2006, 11:06 PM

Not a lot protects your legs, either! Last year I had the most wonderful graze across the top of my shin, you could see every pick on the whole rake! It didn't even hurt, and scarcely bled, but it did scar - and I milked it for all I was worth! Well, wouldn't you???? ;) ;) ;)

Of course! I had a similar scar from synchro for many years. It didn't even make a hole in my tights!!!!

Mrs Redboots

03-24-2006, 05:06 AM

Of course! I had a similar scar from synchro for many years. It didn't even make a hole in my tights!!!!No, nor did mine - and the scar is still there, I had a look this morning in the shower. I can't think why it scarred, it really was only a very superficial graze, but it looks as though it was a huge gash! Remind me, Flo, and I'll show you at the MC!

crayonskater

03-24-2006, 09:16 AM

I like the look of OTB tights on others, but I've never tried them on myself. Don't own any skirts yet. I usually skate in running tights or dance capris with a long-sleeved t-shirt, sometimes with a pair of running pants over the tighter layer.

At my session (all collegiate), everyone's in some sort of leggings or pants. Occasionally a skater will wear a skirt, but usually only in April or September, 'for fun', or 'because it's so nice out.'

As a beginner, I'd be reluctant to wear a skirt unless we were taking pictures or something, because it would be seen as having a bit of a wannabe complex since I can't skate, or at the least a wannafreezamybuttoff complex, as we have hockey ice that is soooo cold.

Skate@Delaware

03-24-2006, 10:06 AM

I'll have to try the under armor. Thy're made here and often have local sales and promotions. I did try a top - I got my usual size and it felt like shrink wrap!
I found a top at a Goodwill store-size XL....so it fits snug but not tight and it was $3!!!!! SCORE!!! the color is what I call "really dark caribbean tan" but who cares! Very warm!

I'm going to look into the leggings. I didn't know they made them.

NickiT

03-24-2006, 10:30 AM

Also as a general note to the original poster- don't feel like you have to buy a skirt to "look" like a figure skater. Most serious skaters past age 12-15 wear leggings. It's usually the beginner adults and little girls who wear the skirts and dresses. Serious skaters mostly wear leggings and long sleeved shirts or tank tops, depending on how cold it is. Or unitards. These things are more comfortable, way less expensive, and look a whole lot better. I compete in dresses, but I wouldn't be caught dead with one on practice ice. Haven't since I was about 14. Just like I stopped wearing tutus in ballet class after age 5 or so. They're fun when you're little, but there's really no need for the frills. The real dancers aren't concerned with looking pretty. Unless they are on stage, in which case there's room for tutus. But not in class. Same with skating and dresses, IMHO.

While I appreciate that lots of skaters wear leggings to train in, I have to disagree that serious skaters don't! Having skated now for 14 years I've skated in leggings, skirts and dresses and I have to say that I ALWAYS wear a dress for practice and lessons. I've had too many accidents where I've caught my blade in the bottom of my joggers while doing a backspin, not to mention I actually feel I skate better in a dress. At least when I come to compete it's one thing less to worry about since I've been wearing dresses all year round. The only time I wear joggers is when we are practising for our ice show. We never do much skating and there's a lot of standing about so it's more sensible, but the rest of the time I skate in a dress. Another point I'd make is that my original coach liked all her skaters to wear tights so that she could see the "line" so I guess I just conformed and now can't see any reason to change.

Nicki

beachbabe

03-24-2006, 12:34 PM

While I appreciate that lots of skaters wear leggings to train in, I have to disagree that serious skaters don't! Having skated now for 14 years I've skated in leggings, skirts and dresses and I have to say that I ALWAYS wear a dress for practice and lessons. I've had too many accidents where I've caught my blade in the bottom of my joggers while doing a backspin, not to mention I actually feel I skate better in a dress. At least when I come to compete it's one thing less to worry about since I've been wearing dresses all year round. The only time I wear joggers is when we are practising for our ice show. We never do much skating and there's a lot of standing about so it's more sensible, but the rest of the time I skate in a dress. Another point I'd make is that my original coach liked all her skaters to wear tights so that she could see the "line" so I guess I just conformed and now can't see any reason to change.

Nicki

i havta agree, in the end its whatever feels more comfortable. I prefer leggings simply because i am not interested in replacing tights that have ripped from scratches. To me leggings are better because they don't egt in the way. Other people like tights more so they can wear them. but it is true that in general the more advanced skaters seem to prefer leggings. At my rink the people that wear tights and dresses are msotly little kids and middle aged women who can hardly skate. but I have seen other people wearing the dresses too. In my opinion its hust too cold and gets in the way.

sue123

03-24-2006, 04:58 PM

i havta agree, in the end its whatever feels more comfortable. I prefer leggings simply because i am not interested in replacing tights that have ripped from scratches. To me leggings are better because they don't egt in the way. Other people like tights more so they can wear them. but it is true that in general the more advanced skaters seem to prefer leggings. At my rink the people that wear tights and dresses are msotly little kids and middle aged women who can hardly skate. but I have seen other people wearing the dresses too. In my opinion its hust too cold and gets in the way.

Doesn't Alissa Csziny (sp?) practice in a dress? When she was on Ice Diaries, she was always shown in a dress or skirt at her practices. I'd say she's a pretty serious, high level skater. At my rink, most of the high level girls actually wear skirts, so it could be a local thing. But in the dead of winter, when the rink is actually colder than the outside, just about everyone wears a pair of tights with fleece leggings over them.

Tessa

03-24-2006, 06:14 PM

I wear legging-like pants (usually yoga pants or track pants). Sometimes, if it's cold or if I feel bloated, I'll wear tights under my pants. I'm an advocate of 2 pr of tights while wearing dress/skirt.

I also like skating in my jeans! Comfy.

beachbabe

03-24-2006, 09:31 PM

Doesn't Alissa Csziny (sp?) practice in a dress? When she was on Ice Diaries, she was always shown in a dress or skirt at her practices. I'd say she's a pretty serious, high level skater. At my rink, most of the high level girls actually wear skirts, so it could be a local thing. But in the dead of winter, when the rink is actually colder than the outside, just about everyone wears a pair of tights with fleece leggings over them.

I don't know why, it really must be regional. At my rink anyone over 12 that wears a dress and tights, get weird looks from everyone else. I dunno i don't want people jusdging me just b/c of what I'm wearing, plus I'm too cold in tights. It seems like around here if you wear a dress, people immediately think you have something to live up to and smirk if you fall or something. Its not a nice atmosphere.

Mrs Redboots

03-25-2006, 07:08 AM

I don't know why, it really must be regional. At my rink anyone over 12 that wears a dress and tights, get weird looks from everyone else. I dunno i don't want people jusdging me just b/c of what I'm wearing, plus I'm too cold in tights. It seems like around here if you wear a dress, people immediately think you have something to live up to and smirk if you fall or something. Its not a nice atmosphere.
Where I skate, nobody cares what you wear. But I remember calling at a rink in Boston just after we'd arrived during my first visit, in 1998 - we weren't about to skate, just to pick up another friend who had arrived earlier, so was able to have a practice - and being astonished to see that every female skater on the patch was wearing a skirt or practice-dress!

At one stage, coaches would tell their female skaters to wear skirts so that they could check on their leg lines. I imagine that has changed in the last few years?

I also remember an on-line conversation about regional differences in wearing full make-up and tidy hair while on the ice.....

twokidsskatemom

03-25-2006, 01:04 PM

At one stage, coaches would tell their female skaters to wear skirts so that they could check on their leg lines. I imagine that has changed in the last few years?

My daughter coach has ALL her students in dresses/skirts.From the 4 year olds, to the 17 year old Junior dancers.Even our senior ladies wear skirts.

NickiT

03-25-2006, 01:34 PM

It may well be a regional thing. There are a few adults at my rink who train in dresses or skirts. Our highest level adult always wears a dress and I guess test-wise I'm second highest at my rink and wear a dress too. I noticed our ex-British Championship skater who no longer skates competitively as she's at uni, is now back for Easter and back on the ice...in a skirt. So I really don't agree that higher level or more experienced skaters don't wear dresses. It's certainly not the case at our rink. I would add though that our rink is very warm and if it were that much colder, maybe we'd all be in leggings!

Nicki

Mrs Redboots

03-25-2006, 01:55 PM

mikawendy

03-25-2006, 05:35 PM

In a cold rink you wear a skirt rather than a dress so that you don't have to strip whenever you need to get rid of some used coffee! I do own two practice-dresses, but seldom wear them for that very reason!

LOL, used coffee!! :lol: :lol: :lol:

I wear a leotard with 2 layers of tights, a wrap skirt, and layered tees or long-sleeved shirts on top. It IS quite inconvenient when one is in a hurry.... :roll: :lol: However, I prefer it to wearing pants (I never really extend my legs enough if I'm wearing pants) and I also prefer it to wearing a pull on-skirt as my abdomen and lower back get cold that way for some reason, even if my sweater comes down over the skirt!!

Mrs Redboots

03-26-2006, 03:08 AM

I was looking round our rink this morning at what people were wearing, partly because one young lady who normally wears leggings turned up in a skirt. This was because she was trying out with a rather delicious dance partner :yum: - hope it comes off for her. The "rule" this morning seemed to be that people who skate with a partner - or have skated with one - tend to wear skirts; those who skate solo tend to wear leggings or trousers of some sort. Makes sense to me!

stardust skies

03-26-2006, 03:42 AM

Of course, if youre skating enough (ie. everyday), youre going to have to replace your boots after a year anyway ;) :lol:

Oh and OTB tights arent going to protect your boots from your partners toepicks in dance ;)

Just being picky :lol:

Please dont hurt me! 8O :P

Yeah but sadly it doesn't take me a year for my skaters to look like crap. More like a week. :halo: OTB tights keep them decent enough for comps throughout the year, and tests too.

I meant to reply to the whole leggings vs dresses thing since people took what I said differently from the way I meant it to be taken, but I really don't have the courage to go through the replies and my own post and try to explain my intent behind each sentence. So, I'm sorry if I offended anyone, but that wasn't my intent, and I didn't mean it the way most everyone took it.

NCSkater02

04-04-2006, 04:11 PM

Most serious skaters past age 12-15 wear leggings. It's usually the beginner adults and little girls who wear the skirts and dresses.

Wow....imagine finding out that I'm not serious about skating because I prefer to wear a dress over pants. Guess I'll have to quit and leave more ice for the snots that are serious.:giveup:

I'm (nearly) 43 and I am serious about my skating. I skate as much as my work schedule and budget will allow. I guess I'm not serious because I don't have Nationals, Worlds, or the Olympics as my goal. Most of the skaters at my rink wear both pants and skirts on a rotating basis--from the little ones all the way up to the one that competed at Nationals this year.

Do you realize how snotty your comment was? It makes you sound like you think you are better than every one else--but then again, maybe you are.

luna_skater

04-04-2006, 09:50 PM

Do you realize how snotty your comment was? It makes you sound like you think you are better than every one else--but then again, maybe you are.

I thought this was particularly rude considering you responded AFTER stardust skies tried to apologize.

At my rink, I'd say pants vs. skirts is about half and half. And not very many skaters really stick to one or the other...the same skater might be wearing pants or a skirt on any given day. I usually wear pants at rinks that I know are going to be freezing, or if I know I'm not going to have a very intense session (so I will stay warm).

SDFanatic

04-04-2006, 10:33 PM

When I wear pants or leggings I usually wear one pair of tights, preferably Danskin, I've found that the regular Mondors run to easy. If I'm wearing a skirt or dress I typicaly wear two pairs of tights, usually Danskin footed ones first, then either Danskin footless or Mondor woolies over them. I also have a few Capizio ones, but they feel a bit cooler then my Danskin ones.

As for skirts, I've picked up a few at www.thecostumecloset.com You can pick up a number of items from there at a reasonable price.

Most of my outfits are in velvet, if its a warmer day, I'll wear lycra or something with an open back or short sleeves.

Steven

VegasGirl

04-05-2006, 06:13 AM