FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are Thermablades illegal? 

Thermablades are NOT illegal. Almost every league in the world has allowed them for use. The NHL recently decided that further testing is necessary before clearing heated blades for use. After rigorous testing and many man-hours of use during actual NHL games, the concern remains that heated blades are potentially an "artificial advantage". This debate continues to evolve. 

How much faster can I expect to skate: 

Speed is tough to quantify. Our scientific data and on-ice feedback shows that the real benefits are improved quickness and less fatigue:  

  • On fresh ice there is an increase in acceleration in the first 3-5 strides. This will get you to the puck and away from your checker quicker
  • On old ice (late in the period/game) the benefit is more dramatic in helping to maintain the feeling of fresh ice. In other words, with reduced friction you are not fighting the poor ice conditions
  • The combination of these conditions means that you will always feel fresh, use less energy, and be a step instead ahead late into your shift

Do Thermablades damage the ice? 

The NHL has conducted an official ice impact assessment. The results confirm that Thermablades have no negative impact on ice quality.  Normal skating does not impact the ice surface; the trauma comes when players dig ruts into the ice during aggressive turns.

I've heard that Thermablades are "glitchy". Are they? 

Mechanically, Thermablades are as tough as any blade on the market. The first generation did have several quality issues with the internal electronics but the current generation have been through even more rigorous testing on the ice and in the lab. These tests have confirmed that the complete assembly can withstand the rigours of the game of hockey. 

How long will batteries last?

The blade is intelligent and knows when you’re on the ice and it cycles off when you are on the bench. With a minimum 75 minutes of power, the player will get power through a full practice and well into multiple overtime periods of a game situation.


What happens if I forget to charge my blades: 

If for any reason your blades are not charged, you will simply be skating on a regular unheated stainless steel blade. 

What happens if my blades get excessively wet?

Thermablade has found a method of waterproofing the critical electronic components.

How long will it take to recharge the battery of my blade?

To attain an 80% charge takes approximately 1 hour and to attain a 100% charge takes approximately 2 hours. 

Will the battery be destroyed if it is ‘over-charged’ or left plugged in too long?

No. The charger unit will shut off automatically when the blades are fully charged.

I've heard that Thermablades are hard to sharpen. Are they? 
Thermablades are sharpened in exactly the same manner as a regular stainless steel skate blade. An added benefit is the potential to switch to  a flatter hollow or any of the new sharpening techniques that are evolving.   These combinations wit the benefit if heated blades can lead to even more precise stops and turns that may result in improved overall ice quality and maintaining a feeling of “fresh ice” late in the period. Talk your pro shop about this and consult our blade hollow document for more information.

How many times can I sharpen my Thermablades?

Results will vary depending on the  skate technician that is sharpening your skates. However, our testing confirms a minimum of 50 sharpenings can be expected. 

Are Thermablades heavier?

Our design when mounted on a boot, results in an increase of less than 10% when compared to the lightest skate on the market.

Where are Thermablades made?

Thermablades are made in Canada!