Just finished this new pair of custom ST boots for Maddie. (A newly named jr. category 1 skater BTW.) They turned out as good as can be expected for someone who is just making it up as I go! I used a little bit of Simmons, SS, and Marchese in the design. Dark gray neoprene liner, several layers of carbon fiber + resin epoxy, aluminum, lots of pink glitter and two different materials for the upper outer portions. Velcro, nylon strapping, glues (contact cement and Sumo), some rectangular rings, thread, eyelets and other secret (forgotten) ingredients went into the mix. The sole is as hard as a rock (ie. overbuilt) and the ankle is stiff but not as stiff as Maddie's custom Simmons as seen in this blog's banner photo. The left boot weights in at 348 grams and the right at 360 grams. Not too bad but not as light as the Simmons which are about 60 grams lighter.
When will they see the ice? Not sure. Maddie really doesn't need new boots! This was just a hobby project that burned up a lot of spare hours. If I had to make speed boots for a living I would be a very hungry man. I did learn a lot and if I do it over again I can save time and make a better boot - of that I am sure.
I have to give credit to my wife, Tenley, who did all the sewing on this project, which I kept to an absolute minimum. It was all done on a home machine with regular weight threads, but almost all sewn portions are also held together with Sumo glue so not to worry, nothing is going to let loose anytime soon.
1 comment:
The boots look great!
I am starting my own personal boot project this year. Your site has been a great resource. Thanks for the photos and congratulations on a good looking boot.
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