Jackson Ultima GS180 SoftSkate Women's Ice Skates - Blue, Fleece, Pink, Purple | Figure Skating, Recreational Ice Skating, Ice Rink & Outdoor Use

Jackson makes an excellent skate for several levels. This is a wonderful ADULT beginner skate which does not necessarily mean you have never skated before. I am a 62-year-old woman who has not skated in 30 years and got these to get back on the ice and take a few lessons. I've had these skates for 3 years and maybe 50 hours on the ice and I love them.1. Low profile boot (sits lower to the ground) better for balance but not for doing really deep side to side leans b/c the boot will come in contact with the ice the deeper you go. A more elevated (advanced) skate is better for this.2. The toe pick is basic non crosscut and the first pick is not as low as a more advanced skate. This is good for a beginner, so you won't be constantly tripping on the toe pick. But again, the higher toe pick is not suited for jumping, an elevated toe pick is found on a more advanced skate.3. Sole is PVC which is great for low maintenance (you don't have to worry about it getting wet) but PVC and sole is not rated for any rotation jumps. The ankle and sole are enough for ½ jumps or no rotation jumps, just bunny hops, ballet jumps and so on.4. Ankle has good support -above a level 15 (which is pretty low) but does not have enough support for jumps (see #3).5. It has a small flex notch at the ankle for good forward leaning6. Blade is fully mounted (riveted not screwed) on the bottom so you cannot adjust your blade. If you are a skater who knows you will be adjusting their blade, these are not the skates for you. I recommend a few things. First, these are not hiking boots so don't get nice think fluffy ankle socks for them. Socks that don't go up your calf will slide down constantly and will also cause irritation at the ankle. Socks with texture and thickness will give you hot spots and/or blisters. Knee high nylon support socks work well or skaters' socks. Also, since the boot is fairly stiff around the ankle, try to leave the top two hooks unlaced for the first 10 hours of skating, then lace up one hook for another 5 or so hours and then all the way up.