Best Speed Skates of 2020
IW staff chose the best speed skates of 2020 based on comfort, value and performance.
To see last year's line-up check out:
Best Performing Skates
Comfort: 8/10
Built-in microfiber liners with perfect padding are surprisingly comfortable for such stiff, high-performing boots. Top boot-maker Sergio McCargo designed the XXX boot with an asymmetric shape that offers a more natural fit than traditional boot lasts. The carbon fiber and Kevlar construction make this boot highly heat moldable to obtain a true glass slipper fit.
Value: 7/10
If you're not s sponsored and/or a professional skater, this skate is a substantial investment. The price tag does buy you the highest quality components in every aspect of the skate (boot, frame, bearings, wheels)if you are looking for the best of the best, no holds barred. If you're not going for the gold, your wallet will thank you for looking at a slightly more reasonable skate setup.
Performance: 10/10
If you want the best of the best available to the mass markets, this is the skate for you. Modeled after Sergio McCargo personal custom skates, the boots are ready for some serious business. XXX Frames are long-standing world leaders and Matter wheels make this skate ready to win gold out of the box.
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Best Value Speed Skates
Comfort: 8/10
The Luna Boot is completely heat-moldable for a customizable fit. The tongue fastens to inside of boot to prevent slippage and avoid lace-bite. A push release ratchet buckle fastens lace cover with a second diagonal velcro strap toward the toe, making it feel very secure on the fit, we love this new fastening system. True to the Bont fit style, you can expect a low toe box with thin padding that protects but doesn't add much in the way of additional comfort.
Value: 10/10
When the Luna was introduced, we were a little puzzled at the low price. The construction is on par with the Strut and the buckle & velro closure combo adds a sense of luxe to this affordable boot. Couple that with the insanely affordable Atom Striker Mark II frames and you end up with what we consider the best-valued skate of 2020.
Performance: 8/10
The short version, Bont works hard to build in performance and does so with great results. Mark II Frames benefit from engineering provided by EO Frames (known for high-end carbon frames) for a fraction of the cost of comparable frames. Atom Matrix Wheels are good all-purpose wheels for training. Race day may call for an upgraded wheel, but the IW Swiss bearings can roll with the best of them.
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Best Entry Level Speed Skate
Comfort: 8/10
The Atom Pro boot was designed for beginners, with a more relaxed fit in the forefoot and a less rigid fit throughout the boot. The cuff higher than most traditional speed skates, giving added support for those learning the sport. The microfiber uppers and liners give a comfortable fit that you can rely on.
Value: 10/10
A heat-moldable speed skate under $250 was unheard of but Atom did it! The components aren't top of the line but they are a perfect match for beginning speed skaters that need a quality offering that won't bankrupt them.
Performance: 7/10
Like we said, this isn't a top of the line model, but you can still expect some big dollar performance. The carbon fiber shell packs a punch and while the frame is on the heavy side, it's solid and with good power transfer. Overall, this skate far outperforms its price tag.
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Shop Our Picks
Honorable Mentions
These skates nearly made the cut! Didn't find something from the list above? Check these guys out, they may be right up your alley!
Feeling extra picky? We get it! Contact our Customer Service Team for personalized recommendations based on your needs!