Free shipping on orders over $100 learn more

New in store! See

Have you ever heard of Nordic blades?

Nordic blades have been used for over a hundred years in Holland and the Nordic countries for skating on frozen lakes, rivers and streams. They are more like a speed skate than a hockey skate.

In Quebec, we use them mainly for skating on frozen lakes and for sporting events like the pentathlon.

These blades are mainly used with cross-country ski boots without skates, but they can also be combined with a combi cross-country ski boot.

The advantage of Nordic blades over traditional speed skates is the comfort of the cross-country ski boot and liner, as well as improved stability when used on frozen lakes and rivers.

Types of blades

Here are the 2 types of blades available to skiing enthusiasts

  • For frozen lakes and rivers (Nordic Ice Skate)

    These blades have a longer nose. This allows them to be more stable and to overcome imperfections found on unmaintained ice.

    See

  • For ice rings (NORDIC ICE SKATE COMPETITION)

    Unlike the river and lake blades, the Nordic Ice Skate Competition has a shorter nose and a higher steel hardness. They are therefore better suited to ice that is regularly maintained.

    See

Interview

Your Nordic blades can have a very long life if you provide them with the proper care. All Zandstra blades come with a good sharpening from the factory. So they are ready to use from the first day.

An easy way to tell if your Nordic blades are due for sharpening is to scrape each blade against your fingernail. If the blade scrapes the surface of your fingernail, it is still sharp.

We always recommend wiping and drying your blades after use. The best way to transport your blades is with Nordic blade straps. You can also use a well-ventilated bag, avoiding the blades coming into contact with each other. You can rinse your blades as needed, but you should avoid storing them in a damp place at all costs. Rust is your blades' worst enemy.

Sharpening

Nordic blades must be sharpened regularly. This service is offered at the Le coureur nordiqe store.

You can also sharpen the blades yourself. To do this, simply watch our video and obtain the following equipment:

  • Support for your blades (Jig)
  • Natural sharpening stone or diamond stone
  • Chisel or diamond stone for chisel

Fasteners

Since Nordic blades are used with ski boots, not skates, the bindings used must be chosen according to the boots used. The bindings will be screwed onto the blades using the screws and nuts provided by the manufacturers.

Back to top