Blade Barber Portable Skate Sharpener

INFORMATION

The Radius of Hollow (ROH) refers to the curve ground into the bottom of your hockey skate blades. It is a critical factor in determining skate performance, as it creates the inside and outside edges that directly impact your grip and glide on the ice.

How ROH Works

• Measurement: ROH is expressed in fractions of an inch (e.g., 1/2", 5/8").

• The Inverse Relationship: * Smaller Radius: Results in a deeper hollow and sharper edges.

  • Larger Radius: Results in a shallower hollow and flatter edges.

• The Trade-off: ROH is all about finding the perfect balance between Grip and Glide.

Deep ROH (Smaller Numbers: e.g., 3/8", 1/2")

• Pros: Deeply bites into the ice for superior grip. Ideal for sharp turns, quick stops, and explosive acceleration. Perfect for agile, aggressive skaters.

• Cons: Higher friction reduces glide. It requires more energy to maintain speed, which can lead to faster fatigue.

Shallow ROH (Larger Numbers: e.g., 5/8", 3/4", 1")

• Pros: Reduced friction provides excellent glide. Ideal for maintaining high straight-line speeds and conserving energy during long shifts.

• Cons: Less "bite" or grip on the ice, which may cause sliding during tight turns or sudden stops. Requires precise edge control.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your ROH

Choosing the right ROH depends on your skating style, body weight, ice conditions, and position.

Body Weight

• Lighter Players: Can benefit from a deeper ROH to ensure the blades "bite" into the ice despite less body weight.

• Heavier Players: Naturally exert more pressure on the ice; therefore, a shallower ROH often provides plenty of grip while maximizing glide.

Skating Style & Position

• Agile Playmakers (Forwards): Often prefer a deeper ROH for quick pivots, starts, and stops.

• Speed Specialists (Defensemen): Often prefer a shallower ROH to improve glide and straight-line speed. Note: Goalies may prefer a deeper hollow for quick lateral pushes.

Ice Hardness

• Soft Ice: The blade sinks easily, so a shallower ROH is recommended to prevent "digging in" too much.

• Hard/Cold Ice: The surface is slippery, so a deeper ROH helps the edges grip the hard surface.

Conclusion

ROH is a highly personal preference in ice hockey. There is no "perfect" setting—only the one that feels most comfortable and efficient for you. We recommend experimenting with different radii to find the optimal setup that unlocks your full potential on the ice.

TIP