Switch from Phantom Specials to Paramount?
I have been wearing Phantom Special blades for about 15 years now. I've always loved them, but I am now contimplating switching to the new Paramount blades. Has anyone made a switch to Paramount? Please let me know your experience.
P.S. I'm working on triples. I'm just afraid a different toepick will affect my jumps in a negative way.
Comments
I've worn the standard Phantom for many years. I also have skated in Paramount 420's. The change in rocker from 7' to 8' takes a little to get used to -- it's a flatter blade. The pick is a little rougher than the Phantom and it's also straight cut like the Pattern 99. The Paramount toepick is also smaller than the Phantom Special. Personally, I prefer the 7' rocker on the Phantom for better turns. I always feel like I'm leaving something on the ice with the 8' rocker blade.
The Paramounts are definitely lighter weight. That is no joke. It will be even more a weight savings for you since the Phantom Special has the full sole plate.
The toepick is nothing to be worried about except that it is going to be smaller. I would be more concerned about the transition to the 8' rocker.
If you have good technique, it probably won't break your skating. There are a number of up-and-coming good skaters wearing the Paramounts who have had success with them.
I think it has more to do with how well you adjust to Paramount blades. According to their web, they model their blades after Pattern 99. My friend changed to the advanced Paramount before her axel and she took one session to get used to it.
Having been on Phantom Special for 15 years, it might take a longer time for you to switch. However, Paramount blades are lighter as everyone knows and thus will likely help the height of your jumps.
I doubt it will affect your jumps much since people do buy Paramount Sk8s and the business is still well and running.
I've never tried Paramounts. But anytime you switch blades, it is going to take some getting used to. Why are you switching from a blade you've been using for so long and are obviously comfortable with? Has your coach recommended Paramounts? If your coach thinks you should use them, then they don't think the blade will negatively affect your jumps.
I've heard many good things about these blades, and I'm sure that you would do well with them after you had time to get used to them. Here is an article by "Mr. Edge" on the Paramount blades http://www.usfigureskating.org/Magazine.asp?id=55&...
Hi,i have never tried them however it will take you time to get use to them.good Luck
http://figureskating.about.com/b/a/000291.htm
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I've never tried them, but here's a review.
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