18/09/2026
The hollow radius, the concave groove ground along the blade’s running surface, determines how much of the steel contacts the ice and at what angle.
A smaller radius (deeper hollow) increases edge bite and grip on the curve, but also raises drag, slowing the glide between elements.
A larger radius (shallower hollow) reduces friction and supports speed, but demands cleaner edge control on the ice to hold a precise arc. The correct choice depends on skater weight, skating discipline, blade geometry and ice conditions, not on habit or convention.
Understanding this relationship is the first step toward a setup that actually serves your technique.
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