Figure Skating Ankle Protection: Stop Rubbing, Chafing and Ankle Bone Pressure

Figure skating boots are built stiff to support jumps and landings, and that stiffness is hard on ankles. For more than 30 years, coaches and skaters have relied on Bunga gel protection to keep skaters on the ice through new-boot season and long training days.

Skate comfortably and stay in the game. Keeping Skaters in the Game™ since 1994.

The two biggest problems for figure skaters

1. Rubbing and chafing around the ankles

Every bend of the knee and every landing moves your ankle against the inside of a stiff boot. The result is rubbing, chafing, raw skin and bruising all the way around the ankle. The Bunga Gel Ankle Sleeve is a gel-lined tube worn over the ankle. The gel deflects the pressure, shock and vibration from the boot, so the rubbing and chafing stop.

2. Pressure on the ankle bones

The inside and outside ankle bones (the malleoli) press directly against the boot, and that focused pressure can make every session painful. Bunga Gel Discs cushion the ankle bones and take that pressure away.

Why skaters choose the Skater’s Kit

Wearing the gel ankle sleeve and gel discs together solves both of the biggest problems at once. That is exactly what the Essential Skater’s Kit gives you: two 5″ gel ankle sleeves and one pair of gel discs. It is our most popular product for figure skaters.

Other common problems

• Achilles and back-of-heel pain. A stiff heel counter can rub the back of the heel and Achilles area. The Achilles’ Healpad puts gel right where the boot rubs. See Achilles & back-of-heel pain.
• Toe problems. Toes pressed into the front of the boot can bruise, rub and form corns. Toe caps and gel tubing cushion individual toes. See toe pain, corns & hammer toe.
• Lace bite. Less common for figure skaters, but if the tongue presses across the front of the ankle, the Lace Bite Preventer can help. See our lace bite guide.

Breaking in new figure skates

1. Have boots fitted (and heat-molded if your boot maker recommends it) by an experienced skate technician.
2. Start with short sessions off-ice and on-ice, and increase the time over one to two weeks.
3. Lace snug around the ankle for support, but don’t over-tighten the hooks.
4. Protect the pressure points from day one with the gel ankle sleeve and gel discs, so irritation never gets started.

“I have been using the ankle sleeves for 17 years now. They make all of the difference in the world! I strongly recommend all of my students to purchase a pair as soon as possible!”Teresa S., Bunga Pads customer

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This guide is general information, not medical advice. If pain is severe, keeps coming back or you notice swelling or numbness, see a medical professional.

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