SPORTS

From Hockey to Figure Skating: How Synthetic Ice is Revolutionizing the Sport

When it comes to hockey, most people think of a highly competitive sport where players play one-on-one. But what about figure skating? Synthetic ice is a skating surface made from carefully interlocked panels coated with a polymer material. It doesn’t require cold or a lot of maintenance and can be used all year round. Today’s premium products use a sintering process to embed lubricants throughout the product, providing an incredible skating glide.

Why Synthetic Ice?

Skaters of all levels are drawn to synthetic ice for several reasons. For one, it’s affordable, durable, and able to be used all year round. It also doesn’t require the same maintenance as natural ice. It’s not uncommon to see professional athletes train on synthetic ice as it allows them to focus on their stickhandling, shooting, and other skills in a more controlled environment. In addition, synthetic ice skating is safer for younger skaters who aren’t quite ready to train on natural ice yet. Synthetic ice is made from layers of high-density polyethylene, or ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE), fused using a unique interlocking system to create a seamless rink surface. Additionally, the surfaces of synthetic ice products are typically self-lubricating so that they can be skated on without the need for liquid surface enhancements.

The best synthetic ice is crafted from the highest quality raw materials to ensure that it responds like conventional ice and offers skaters the ultimate experience on the ice. Many professional ice hockey players, figure skaters, and other ice sports professionals have adopted synthetic ice as a training tool. The results are precise to see how their performance and technique improve on the artificial ice.

The Glice Experience of hockey

Ice skating can be a great way to improve balance and coordination, build muscle strength, and foster creativity in figure skating and ice dancing. However, finding the time to go to the rink and practice can be expensive and complicated. Glice offers an alternative solution for those wanting to hone their skills in the comfort of their home or on a commercial rink that can be used year-round. Their premium synthetic ice is manufactured with patented Super-Glide interlocking technology and can be assembled on virtually any surface. This innovative material reduces friction, providing an accurate glide and a realistic feel.

In addition, the rinks are easy to maintain and require no refrigeration or water. The Glice panels feature a self-lubricating surface that mimics the feel of natural ice. When skates are used on the rink, the skate blades lightly scratch the surface, opening up the ice and releasing more lubrication. Glice rinks can be customized according to the needs and aesthetics of each hotel, aligning with branding or thematic elements. They are ideal for families who comprise a significant portion of a hotel’s clientele. 

The Ultimate Glide of hockey

Ice sports captivate the imaginations of millions and unite communities in celebrations of skill and teamwork. Traditionally associated with climates that support natural ice surfaces, ice sports are now accessible year-round with the advent of synthetic rink technology. Synthetic ice rinks deliver a consistent skating experience without energy-intensive temperature regulation. Modern ice rink panels feature state-of-the-art techniques like micro texturing and self-lubricating materials that help to simulate the feel of natural ice for athletes. Hockey players benefit from the durability of these artificial ice tiles, which offer an excellent glide and a realistic training experience. They also require less maintenance than a natural ice rink, eliminating the need for costly maintenance and energy-intensive refrigeration systems.

Figure skaters also appreciate the consistency of synthetic ice, which helps to improve their ability to perform jumps and spins. In addition, these synthetic ice tiles are easy to assemble and install at home. The revolutionary Revolution tiles are an excellent choice for hockey and figure skaters seeking an exceptional skating surface that is durable, affordable, and eco-friendly. They provide a smooth skating and puck-handling experience, are self-lubricating for minimal maintenance, and are more forgiving during falls than traditional ice surfaces, reducing the risk of injury.

The Advantages of Synthetic Ice

One of the critical benefits of synthetic ice is that it’s safer than natural ice. It’s not susceptible to cracks and chips that can cause skaters to trip and fall. Plus, it’s often installed with a shock-absorbing underlayer that further reduces injury risk. Another benefit is that it’s more affordable and accessible to maintain than natural ice. It also provides access to ice sports for a broader range of people, including those who wouldn’t otherwise be able to participate due to cost or weather conditions. For professional athletes, synthetic ice is an essential training tool. Its consistent surface allows for focused skill repetition, accelerating skill development and precision. Additionally, it can replicate diverse ice conditions and enable innovative drills that would be challenging on traditional ice.

Leading synthetic ice manufacturers offer various rink products for hockey and skating facilities, community and commercial, residential, and even home ice-skating rinks. It requires less maintenance than natural ice and works all year round!

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