Hockey Players Are Calling This New Winter Sport a Game-Changer

When ice time is hard to come by, hockey players are turning to skiskating - a sport that brings hockey-style moves to the snow. Using Snowfeet Skiskates, players can glide, carve, and stop just like on the rink. These short, lightweight skates (only 17 inches long) fit in a backpack and work with ordinary winter or snowboard boots. No clunky gear. No roof racks. Just grab and go.

Why are they a hit? They mimic hockey movements perfectly - side pushes, sharp turns, and hockey stops feel natural. Plus, setup takes minutes, and you’re off gliding in no time. With a price tag starting at $190 and over 5,500 glowing reviews (4.9/5 average), they’re a practical option for hockey players looking to stay sharp when the rink isn’t available.

Key Highlights:

Compact and portable (fits in a backpack).
Works with regular winter or snowboard boots.
Perfect for hockey-style agility and control.
Easy to learn for anyone with skating experience.
Affordable compared to skis or snowboards.

If you’re a hockey player looking to bring your on-ice skills to the slopes, Snowfeet Skiskates might just be the perfect winter gear for you.

Snowfeet Skiskates vs Traditional Skis and Snowboards Comparison

Problems Hockey Players Face in Winter

Limited Access to Ice Rinks and Training Facilities

Even though winter is prime hockey season, finding ice time can feel like striking gold. Rinks are packed with leagues and public skating sessions, leaving players scrambling for practice slots. And when you do snag some ice time, it often comes at a cost - literally and figuratively. Early morning or late-night sessions might work for vampires, but they’re not ideal for athletes trying to stick to a regular training routine.

Hockey performance thrives on four key skills: acceleration, transition, speed, and stability. Without consistent ice practice, keeping these skills sharp becomes a real challenge. Hockey players need training options that mimic on-ice movements, like side-pushing strides and quick pivots. Unfortunately, the lack of accessible ice time makes it tough to maintain peak performance, exposing the shortcomings of traditional winter options.

Traditional Winter Gear Is Too Bulky for Hockey-Style Movement

Beyond the ice-time struggle, the gear itself can be a roadblock. Traditional winter equipment like skis and snowboards just doesn’t cut it for hockey-style agility. They’re heavy, clunky, and designed for completely different movements. Long skis, for instance, don’t offer the quick responsiveness hockey players rely on, and stiff boots limit ankle flexibility, making sharp turns and stops nearly impossible.

On top of that, traditional gear requires a balance point that feels unnatural for hockey players, creating an awkward and frustrating experience. And let’s not forget the hassle of lugging around bulky gear - it’s a storage nightmare and a pain to transport. For hockey players, this mismatch between winter gear and their needs is yet another hurdle to overcome.

Skiskating: A Winter Sport Built for Hockey Players

What Is Skiskating?

Skiskating combines the smooth motion of ice skating with the excitement of skiing, allowing you to glide on snow using sideways pushes - just like a hockey stride. Instead of relying on the traditional downhill skiing technique, skiskating focuses on lateral movements for momentum. The key to this sport is the use of ultra-short skis - less than 20 inches long - known as skiskates or Snowfeet. These give you a skating-like experience, making it a natural fit for anyone with ice-skating skills.

While the concept of skiskating dates back to 1862, Snowfeet* has given it a modern twist. The company raised over $68,000 on Indiegogo in 2019 and has since amassed more than 5,500 reviews with an impressive 4.9/5 rating. By offering a lightweight and compact alternative to bulky winter gear, Snowfeet* has made skiskating a go-to option for hockey players looking to bring their on-ice moves to the slopes.

How Skiskating Replicates Hockey Movements

For hockey players, skiskating feels like second nature because it uses the same muscle memory built through years of skating. The motion starts with a sideways push of the legs, while balance is maintained by distributing weight properly from front to back. Thanks to the compact design, your feet stay light and free, allowing for quick pivots and rapid directional changes - skills that are essential in hockey.

Stopping on skiskates is just as familiar. By tilting the edges, you can execute a hockey stop with precision and control. The metal ski edges on Snowfeet* ensure a firm grip on groomed slopes, making sharp turns and controlled stops easy to achieve. Because of these similarities, skiskating is a smooth transition for anyone with skating experience, making it an excellent off-ice training option for hockey players.

"It is very easy for hockey players, ice-skaters, and roller-bladers, since it is very similar to skating." - Snowfeet Team

Why Snowfeet* Products Work Better Than Traditional Skis and Snowboards

Snowfeet

Easy to Carry and Store

Traditional skis can be a hassle. At 5 to 6 feet long, they often need roof racks and take up a ton of space. Snowfeet* products? They’re under 20 inches long and fit easily into a standard backpack. That means you can head out for a snow adventure anytime, without worrying about storage or transport.

If you’re a hockey player, you already lug around enough gear. The last thing you need is more bulky equipment that doesn’t fit in your car or takes up valuable space. With Snowfeet*, you can hike up a trail with the skiskates in your bag, strap them on at the top, and glide down the slopes. No roof racks, no awkward carrying, no extra hassle.

And forget about those stiff, pricey ski boots. Snowfeet* keeps things simple and portable, giving you more freedom to enjoy the ride.

Better Agility and Control for Hockey-Style Moves

Snowfeet*’s compact design isn’t just about convenience - it’s about performance. At 44 cm, these skiskates let you move like you’re skating on ice. Unlike traditional skis that lock you into a forward glide or snowboards that fix your stance, Snowfeet* gives you the freedom to pivot, turn, and change direction with ease - just like on the rink.

With metal ski edges on both sides, you can carve with precision and even pull off a perfect hockey stop. Their lightweight, compact size means your feet feel free and responsive, making it easy to twist, jump, and transition between moves.

"These skiblades are so much fun and easy to control. Never going back to regular skis." - Andrew B.

Plus, the natural weight distribution keeps you balanced over the middle or back of your feet, so you’re not forced to lean forward like with traditional ski setups. It’s all about giving you control and comfort on the slopes.

Snowfeet* vs. Traditional Skis and Snowboards: Comparison

Here’s a side-by-side look at how Snowfeet* stacks up against traditional skis and snowboards:

Feature	Snowfeet* Skiskates	Traditional Skis	Snowboards
Portability	Fits in a backpack; lightweight	Requires roof racks or large carry bags	Bulky and heavy to carry
Learning Curve	Quick - hockey players learn within minutes	Often requires several days of lessons	Steep learning curve with frequent falls
Agility	High - enables skating moves, spins, and quick turns	Limited by long length; clunky in tight spaces	Moderate - restricted by a fixed stance
Movement Style	Natural skating motion with sideways pushes	Forward gliding only	Primarily side-to-side carving
Footwear	Compatible with regular winter or snowboard boots	Demands expensive, specialized ski boots	Requires specialized snowboard boots
Cost	$190–$590	Generally higher due to additional gear costs	Generally higher due to equipment and boot costs

With over 5,500 verified reviews and an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, Snowfeet* products have won over snow lovers everywhere.

"Absolute game-changer! They're light, fast, and incredibly fun to ride." - Nathan F.

If you’re used to the speed and precision of hockey skating, traditional winter gear can feel clunky and stiff. Snowfeet* brings that same ice-rink agility to the slopes, making every run feel smooth and responsive.

Snowfeet* Skiskates (44 cm): The Best Choice for Hockey Players

If you’re a hockey player itching to bring your skills to the slopes, the Snowfeet* Skiskates 44 cm model might just be your perfect match. At just 17 inches long, these skiskates are designed to feel like an extension of your skates, offering that familiar ice-rink agility while gliding smoothly on groomed snow. They’re compact, portable, and packed with features that make them a standout choice for hockey enthusiasts.

What sets these skiskates apart is their certified sustainable wood core, handcrafted in Europe. They’re built with cap construction, steel edges for sharp carving, a sintered graphite base for speed and durability, and reinforced layers to withstand the quick stops, spins, and jumps hockey players love. This sturdy, professional-grade design means you can confidently execute hockey-style moves - whether it’s a sharp stop or a tricky spin - just like you would on ice.

The adjustable, tool-free bindings are a game-changer. They’re compatible with ski boots (US sizes 4.5–14.5) and snowboard boots (US sizes 6–14.5), making setup a breeze no matter what gear you’re using.

One of the standout features is their parabolic shape, narrow waist, and a 6.2-meter turn radius. This combination allows for quick, tight turns and instant responsiveness - ideal for hockey-style direction changes and tricks. Unlike traditional skis that lock you into wide, sweeping arcs, the 44 cm length gives you the freedom to maneuver through tight spaces and pull off moves with precision.

"In my opinion, Skiskates is the best product for slopes we developed so far. I love how easy they are to ski and skate and how many different kinds of tricks I can perform without much effort and almost no restrictions." - Zbyněk, Snowfeet* founder

With a stellar 5.0 out of 5-star rating from 111 verified reviews and a price tag of $590, these skiskates deliver the performance you need without the bulk of traditional winter gear. For hockey players, they’re the ultimate crossover - seamlessly blending rink skills with mountain fun.

How to Learn Skiskating as a Hockey Player

Getting Started with Snowfeet* Gear

Getting your Snowfeet* Skiskates ready is a breeze - it takes under five minutes. The 44 cm model comes with adjustable, tool-free bindings that work with ski boots (US sizes 4.5–14.5) or snowboard boots (US sizes 6–14.5). To get the best performance, make sure the bindings are snug but comfortable.

Here’s how to set up: place your boots on the anti-slip surface, adjust the straps for a secure fit (no tools needed), and attach the safety leashes to keep the skiskates from coming off. If you’re using snowboard boots, you’ll also benefit from solid ankle support and waterproofing.

Start on flat, well-groomed snow to get a feel for how the skiskates handle. The motion is similar to ice skating - push your legs out sideways to gain speed. Keep your knees slightly bent and your stance about shoulder-width apart, just like you would on the ice. For extra balance, position one foot slightly ahead of the other.

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you can bring in your hockey skills. This way, you’ll keep the agility and control that you’re used to on the rink while adapting to the slopes.

Using Hockey Techniques on Snow

Now that you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to adapt your hockey moves to the snow. Your skills transfer pretty seamlessly, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Focus on keeping your weight centered over the middle or back of your feet. Unlike skiing, leaning forward can throw you off balance - those short tips might dig into the snow and send you tumbling.

Stopping works a lot like a hockey stop. Use the steel edges of the skiskates to create friction, and distribute your weight evenly across both feet for a clean stop. The 44 cm Skiskates are designed for control, with steel edges for sharp stops and even a built-in heel brake for a slower, more gradual stop if you need it.

Turning is intuitive: tilt the skiskates onto their edges and steer by shifting your body and legs in the direction you want to go. Keep your knees bent, just like on the ice. Thanks to the 6.2-meter turn radius and parabolic design of the 44 cm model, you’ll notice the turns are tight and responsive - much quicker than the wide 14–22-meter turns of traditional skis.

As you gain confidence, stick to groomed slopes and snow parks. Avoid deep powder (anything over 4 inches) and steep, ungroomed terrain for now. These conditions can make it harder to control your skiskates, especially while you’re still getting the hang of it.

Conclusion

For hockey players wanting to stay sharp when the rinks are crowded or closed, the 44 cm Snowfeet* Skiskates are a game-changer. They’re compact enough to fit in a backpack, lightweight, and designed to work with your existing ski or snowboard boots - no need for roof racks or oversized gear bags.

These skiskates mimic the quick, precise moves you’re used to on the ice. Users often rave about how natural they feel, and with a perfect 5.0/5.0 rating from 111 reviews, it’s clear they deliver on performance.

Setup is a breeze, so you can hit the slopes right away. Plus, the steel edges and built-in heel brake give you solid control on groomed slopes or snow parks. At $590, they’re an investment in keeping your hockey skills sharp all winter long.

Snowfeet* has built a bridge between traditional ice training and winter sports. With over 50,000 riders worldwide and recognition as an innovation finalist at ISPO, these skiskates are changing the way athletes train in the off-season. Ready to take your winter training up a notch? Grab your 44 cm Skiskates and hit the slopes today!

FAQs

How are Snowfeet Skiskates more portable than traditional skis and snowboards?

Snowfeet Skiskates are a game-changer when it comes to portability. At just 17 inches long and light as a feather, they can slip right into a regular backpack - no special gear required. Even kids can carry them with ease! Compare that to traditional skis, which can be 5 to 6 feet long, or snowboards, which often weigh 6 to 8 pounds and need bulky bags or roof racks.

Thanks to their compact and lightweight design, Snowfeet Skiskates are perfect for spontaneous winter outings or quick trips to the slopes. No fuss, no hassle - just grab them and go wherever the snow calls.

Can skiskating help hockey players stay sharp during the off-season?

Skiskating is an awesome way for hockey players to keep their skating sharp during the winter off-season. The movements - quick turns, agility, and overall flow - are super similar to skating on ice, making it a great cross-training option.

Snowfeet’s Skiskates and Skiblades are a game-changer for hockey players looking to hit the snow. They’re lightweight, easy to carry, and let you glide over snowy terrain without the hassle of bulky skis or snowboards. Plus, they’re simple to use, so you can focus on fine-tuning your skills while soaking up the fun of being outdoors!

Why are Snowfeet Skiskates perfect for hockey players transitioning to snow?

Snowfeet Skiskates take the quick, sharp moves hockey players love on the ice and bring them to the snow. Thanks to their small size and lightweight build, they’re super easy to control, letting you pull off tight turns, quick pivots, and fast stops - just like skating on a rink. Unlike bulky skis or snowboards, these little guys are portable enough to toss in your backpack. Plus, you can use them with your own winter boots, so there’s no need for pricey or heavy gear.

They come packed with features like adjustable bindings, anti-slip surfaces, and a snug, secure fit. This means you get great control and grip, perfect for pulling off those hockey-style moves. And here’s the kicker - they cost way less than traditional ski or snowboard setups. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, the park, or even just messing around in your backyard, Snowfeet Skiskates offer an easy, budget-friendly way for hockey fans to enjoy the snow.