Section 2: Equipment
2.1 Skates
- Blade type: Fixed-blade speed skates. Clap skates (used in long track) are not permitted in short track because the hinged mechanism could be dangerous in pack racing with frequent contact.
- Blade length: Minimum 30.5 cm (12 in); maximum proportional to boot size. Blades are typically longer than ice hockey blades but shorter than long track speed skating blades.
- Blade offset: The blade is positioned slightly to the left of centre on the boot, allowing the skater to lean more aggressively into left-hand (counterclockwise) turns without the boot contacting the ice.
- Blade radius: 11–12 m rocker radius, significantly shorter than long track blades, enabling tighter cornering on the small oval.
- Blade grinding: Blades must be symmetrically ground. Asymmetric edges are not permitted. Athletes sharpen their own blades using jigs to maintain consistent edge geometry.
2.2 Helmet
- Hard-shell helmet: Mandatory at all times on the ice. Must conform to ISU specifications for impact resistance.
- Chin strap: Must be securely fastened. If the chin strap comes undone during racing, the skater must not continue and will be directed to leave the ice.
- No protrusions: No aerodynamic aids, cameras, or external attachments permitted on the helmet.
2.3 Protective Equipment
- Cut-resistant suit: The entire racing suit must meet ISU cut-resistance standards (EN 388 or equivalent). The suit material must withstand blade contact to prevent laceration injuries in crashes and collisions.
- Neck protection: Cut-resistant neck guard mandatory. Protects the throat and major neck blood vessels from blade contact.
- Shin guards and knee pads: Mandatory. Must be worn under the suit. Provide impact and cut protection during falls and collisions with other skaters or the boards.
- Gloves: Cut-resistant gloves with hardened fingertips on the left hand. The left-hand fingertip protectors allow skaters to touch the ice in turns for balance (a technique called “ice touching”) without injuring their fingers. Right-hand gloves may also be reinforced.
- Eye protection: Glasses or goggles optional. If worn, must be shatter-resistant and securely fitted.
2.4 Uniform Requirements
- Number patches: Visible number patches on both thighs and on the helmet. Numbers must be clearly legible for officials and television cameras.
- National team uniform: At IIHF-level competitions, all team members must wear matching uniforms with national identification.