KwikRink Blog | Best Synthetic Ice

26
May

Synthetic Ice Rinks: How do They Work and How Long do they Last?

Posted by KwikRink

What Are You Skating On?

When you apply pressure to ice, it melts. When you ice skate, the blade of your skate presses against the ice which creates a thin film of water that acts as a lubricant to allow the blade to slide. While skating, you are really skating on a thin film of water. At Kwik Rink, we’ll recreate that same experience for you using synthetic ice panels. Ask us how.

What is Synthetic Ice?

Synthetic ice, sometimes referred to as artificial ice, is a surface that simulates that of frozen h²o. Synthetic ice panels have been around for decades, enabling year-round skating but due to a multitude of performance issues, synthetic ice rinks never quite caught on. Thankfully, we’ve made significant improvements in synthetic ice panel designs that have drastically improved the quality and experience of synthetic ice rinks.

You Need an Even Surface

Most synthetic ice rinks use a puzzle or dovetail system in which ice panels are interlocked horizontally but not vertically. This system can cause a shift in the panels, which causes the ice to be uneven. Puzzle connections are long and can allow dirt and water to enter, creating an uneven surface or shifting panels.

By utilizing a tongue and groove, the ice panels are interlocked both horizontally and vertically. Interlocking the synthetic ice panels this way prevents the panels from shifting in any direction. This connection system creates a smooth, even surface, just like real ice.

Less Friction = Better Skating

Many synthetic ice panels are composed of low-quality materials that cause friction. This friction causes an unsatisfactory skating experience, dulling skates in the process. A skater’s smooth flow requires there be no friction. Friction makes gliding difficult, requiring more effort, and also makes a skater exert more energy which detracts from the enjoyment of skating. The highest quality materials must be used to create synthetic ice panels to get the best skating experience.

You Want An Authentic Ice Experience

Most companies utilize new technologies to manufacture synthetic ice panels in an attempt to make skating as easy and as pleasant as possible. However, most plastic ice rinks fail to recreate an authentic ice-like feeling on their synthetic surfaces. You need to look for ice rinks that use the newest high-quality material and create a response identical to that of authentic ice. Only when a skater feels they are truly skating on ice can they reach their highest potential.

No More Shavings and Abrasions

The Synthetic Ice Buyer’s Guide lists shavings and abrasions as one of the top considerations in selecting a synthetic ice panel for purchase. Inferior quality synthetic ice panels cause shavings and abrasions. These low-quality panels make the ice rink messy, are hard to clean, and leave skaters unhappy. Using self-lubricating panels adds to the quality of the synthetic ice rink.

No Additional Chemicals

No chemicals need to be added to self-lubricating synthetic ice panels to create a smooth surface. However, this alone does not guarantee exceptional performance. Every aspect of the synthetic rink process from the production of the synthetic ice panels using the highest quality materials, to the mechanism and pattern by which the panels are connected, to the care of the panels themselves, determine a quality synthetic ice rink.

Stop Dulling Your Blades

If you want to stop blades from being dulled from friction, you will need a premium glide technology with enhanced molecular structure. Low-quality plastic ice rinks do not incorporate this technology, which makes skating difficult and miserable. Synthetic ice rinks that utilize a premium glide technology enhance the skaters’ glide and allow you to have a better grip just like real ice rinks. These are the perfect conditions for you to attain your skating goals.

High-Quality Materials are a Bargain

Buying cheap synthetic ice panels will cost you in the long run. There are many lower priced, synthetic ice panels which are also of lower quality that will not last. Low quality, cheap, synthetic ice panels, get discolored from the sun and changing weather conditions, many even begin to break down and degrade considerably.

Assurance Your Rink Will Last

High-quality synthetic ice panels incorporate UV protection. The manufacturers know high-quality raw materials are vital to ensure the life and usefulness of quality synthetic ice panels. If you purchase a quality synthetic ice rink, it will provide long-lasting enjoyment. A high-quality synthetic ice rink will be well worth your investment

Accessories Are Important

Using low-quality accessories will ruin a synthetic ice rink. If your skates are sub-par or your dasher-boards are foul, they’re going to impact your rink negatively. If you want to maintain that even, flawless, synthetic ice, the use of high-quality, compatible, durable accessories is essential to your success. Don’t skimp on the accessories!

Synthetic Rinks Are Gaining Popularity

Using synthetic ice panels to create ice rinks is gaining popularity. Synthetic ice panels have some significant advantages over traditional ice rinks. Synthetic ice panels can get used continuously without re-surfacing and gliding on synthetic ice panels is much more consistent than that of real ice.

The glide factor on traditional ice starts at 100% then reduces to approximately 80% after just a few hours of usage, unlike glide-factor of synthetic ice panels on which does not diminish over time.

Synthetic ice panels are more economical than traditional ice. There is no need to replenish water or use electricity for refrigeration. Synthetic ice panels are environmentally friendly.

Skate Anytime You Want

By utilizing synthetic ice panels, you can have that ice rink you’ve always dreamed. You can have the flexibility to practice your sport at any time. You can play ice hockey in the summer and fulfill all of your icy desires.

Let’s Get Skating

Are you in the market for a fantastic, all-year ice rink? If so, Kwik Rink has what you are looking for. At Kwik Rink we’ll provide you the realistic feel of an ice rink in the form of the highest quality synthetic ice panels preferred by professionals and experts. We use only the highest quality materials and employ the newest technology to provide you a fantastic synthetic ice rink experience.

Give us a call at Kwik Rink, and we’ll get you skating right away.

tags nhl synthetic ice, synthetic ice tiles

18
May

Cool Places to Build Synthetic Ice Rinks

Posted by KwikRink

If you think you need a covered stadium to build an ice skating or hockey rink, think again! The advent of cool, ice-less synthetic rinks means that you can create a place to skate year-round in all kinds of nifty places, and this includes your very own backyard!

At KwikRink Synthetic Ice,™ we’ve been involved in creating and manufacturing synthetic ice since the mid-1990s. We’ve seen the product grow and get even better for feeling like real ice. We’ve also been part of some advances to make synthetic ice more flexible and affordable. That means that more people and localities can install synthetic ice rinks and enjoy skating without the high costs of refrigeration and maintaining a real ice rink.

Here are some cool places that you can build a synthetic ice rink. Give us a call if you want to get started on one!

Your Basement

A basement can be the perfect place to transform into a hockey rink. You need a flat surface to install synthetic ice, and basements typically have a concrete slab floor. You can turn unfinished storage space into fabulous rink space for practice and fun.

Have a smaller basement? Turn a portion of it into a practice area for stick-handling and shooting. Set up a goal in the corner and have a short space to dribble, pass, and score — or defend.

Your Driveway

A synthetic rink can be built up using side-boards and a foundation to make a flat area, kind of like an above-ground pool. If you have available street parking or a long driveway with an extension, you can turn your rectangular area into a home rink for practicing those skating moves.

Your Backyard

If you have room enough in your backyard for a swimming pool, you have room for a rink. You can build a deck from wood or pour a slab if you want something more permanent. Install your synthetic ice rink on top of it. You could also create benches or other seating areas for spectators and other skaters. Imagine sipping a cold one on a summer’s day and watching your kids play hockey in the backyard. It could happen!

Game Courts

If you have a multi-purpose room at your school, community center, or parks and recreation site, you can turn your game court into a hockey rink by installing synthetic ice. If you need to use the court for many purposes, you can install a synthetic ice rink by snapping the panels together on the floor.

It’s quick and easy and only takes a rubber mallet to get the job done. It’s not a permanent installation, and you can lift the synthetic ice panels and store to convert the gymnasium back into a basketball court or for dodgeball.

If you do want a year-round ice rink solution, you can still use synthetic ice. The installation changes slightly to put in anchor plates to make it a permanent fixture. You can keep it synthetic ice at all times, for the closest thing to real ice you can find. KwikRink’s synthetic ice has 90% of the friction of actual ice, and skates and pucks behave very similarly.

Synthetic ice means you don’t have to maintain refrigeration of the ice or use a Zamboni to maintain it. A synthetic ice rink can be a cost-effective solution for many rec centers.

If you install a synthetic ice rink but have cold winters where keeping ice frozen is not a problem, you can have your cake and eat it too. In the winter, you can flood a synthetic rink with water and create an actual ice rink on top of it. When the weather warms, thaw and remove the ice, and your synthetic rink is ready to go with a little mopping.

Garages and Outbuildings

You can easily convert your garage, with its poured concrete floor, into a synthetic ice rink. Our KwikRink synthetic ice is strong enough that you can even park your car on it. That means you don’t have to remove the synthetic ice to use your garage for your car sometimes.

Just remember to back it out when you want to skate and remember that although synthetic ice isn’t as slick as actual ice, it is still slippery. When you walk to or from your car, treat it like real ice to avoid falls!

You can also construct or use a pre-fab shed or outbuilding with a poured or wooden floor to create a synthetic rink. Sheds are low-cost additions, and synthetic ice rinks do not require access to water, plumbing or power, so you can save money and still get your covered rink on your property.

On a Rooftop

You’ve heard of rooftop pools and patios. Why not a rooftop synthetic ice rink? Many condo buildings, apartment buildings, or hybrid towers have large flat roofs that they have turned into community amenities and features. A synthetic ice rink doesn’t create the weight of an actual ice rink, so it doesn’t stress your roof’s structure.

Imagine a multi-purpose rooftop patio with some folks barbecuing in the corner, some others sunbathing, reading, or looking at the views, and still some others playing a pick-up game of hockey. If you don’t want to have the hockey rink installed all-year-round, synthetic ice comes in panels or tiles that you can put down and pick up again quickly.

Get Started on Your Custom Synthetic Rink

As you can see, you can install a synthetic ice rink almost anywhere! When you’re ready to consider a project that turns underused space in or near your home or business into a fabulous place to play and exercise, give the pros at KwikRink a call or complete our rink configuration form. We’ve got a bank of ideas for cool places to build synthetic ice rinks and a gallery of completed projects to help spark your imagination.

At KwikRink, we stand by our product and have a customer satisfaction guarantee. Enjoy long-lasting durability and superior performance with a KwikRink synthetic ice rink. Give us a call, and let’s see what we can build for you.

tags cool synthetic rink locations, places to put ice rinks

11
May

Synthetic Ice: What it Is and Why it’s so Cool!

Posted by KwikRink

Perhaps you love to ice skate, or you are just a weekend hockey player. Maybe you used to play hockey but couldn’t fit getting down to the rink into your schedule. Maybe your child wants to take up figure skating or ice hockey, and they need a place to practice. Do you have a secret love for curling, and are preparing for your Olympic debut? Or perhaps your child is already an accomplished skater and is trying to compete at a higher level.

Wouldn’t it be great if you could have access to an ice rink close to your home and all-year-round?

That’s not an impossible dream anymore. With advances in technology, you can now install synthetic ice anywhere, indoors or out, in any weather climate. At KwikRink Synthetic Ice®, this is our business. We can bring a fun, safe, and affordable year-round ice rink to your home, school, or business.

Here are seven reasons why synthetic ice is so cool.

1. You Can Install it Anywhere

Synthetic ice is made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) an oil polymer that is slick, similar to ice, that gets extruded into sheets or panels with interlocking edges. You can install it like puzzle pieces into existing areas and cut it to fit as needed. You can quickly turn your backyard, driveway, or basement into a small rink area to practice, install it over a larger amount of square footage for a half-size or even full-size rink.

2. It Doesn’t Melt

Made with high-density polyethylene, and not water, synthetic ice doesn’t need to stay frozen. You don’t have the excessive cooling costs associated with a traditional ice rink. It’s also self-lubricating, so it remains slippery. You can keep your basement at average home temperature, and skate without an issue. It doesn’t matter if it’s in the heat of summer, you can get your ice skating practice done with a synthetic ice rink.

If you’re installing your synthetic ice outdoors, you’ll be pleased to know that it is UV coated to protect the surface from damage from the sun. It’s okay if your synthetic ice gets rained on; you’ll want to clean it of any debris before using.

Best of all, you don’t need a Zamboni to maintain it. Just a broom and a mop.

3. You Can Put It Down and Take It Up

Synthetic ice isn’t a permanent installation. Since it snaps together with edge-locking grooves, you can install it for a while and then pick it up if you need to use the space for another purpose. Garages make perfect places for home-based synthetic ice rinks since they are large and flat. If you need to host a family reunion or use the space for another purpose, you can lift the synthetic ice panels and store them to use again later.

4. It’s Close to Real Ice But Gives You a Better Workout

High-quality synthetic ice such as KwikRink is made with silicone additives to decrease the friction and get as close in feel to actual ice. Synthetic ice isn’t as slick and frictionless as water-based ice, but it’s quite close, within about 10-15% of the friction of real ice. That means you have to work a bit harder to propel yourself across the synthetic ice.

Much like trainers attach weights to swimmers’ legs and arms or have runners run through sand and snow, the extra friction of synthetic ice means that if you train on it, you’ll build up additional strength and speed. When you return to actual ice, you’ll be even faster and perform better, thanks to your synthetic ice training.

5. Customizable and Easy to Install

You can order the number of synthetic ice sheets you need to fit the space you are installing them. Synthetic ice comes in various sizes so you can customize it for your unique space. You don’t need to pay for extra materials, only the ones you use.

Since synthetic ice snaps together like puzzle pieces, you don’t need expensive installation equipment or tools to get your customized ice rink. All you need is a rubber mallet to tap the pieces together securely.

You can also order edge guards and add goalie creases, face-off dots, and lines as you prefer.

6. Long-Lasting and Durable

Top quality synthetic ice like KwikRink will last up to 10 years with minimal maintenance. You can practice for countless hours and many years with a single investment. You can even travel with your synthetic ice panels. Load them up in your van and install them on site for an ice-skating party or vacation.

7. Puck and Stick Handling Practice

You don’t need a full-size rink to practice your shooting and stick handling. A 10’ x 10’ area is enough to practice critical skills to up your game. You can practice these skills in your tennis shoes and back yard, but then you’re building muscle memory without your skates, and the puck handling isn’t nearly the same.

When you practice on a synthetic ice installation, you get a very close approximation of how the puck moves across the ice. You can practice passing, cradling, dribbling, and shooting with realistic ice-feel and from the height of your skates, which makes for better transfer of practice skills to the actual rink situations.

Contact KwikRink to Install Synthetic Ice for your Location

Not all synthetic ice is made the same. Lesser quality synthetic ice has a lot more friction and your skates, nor the puck will glide properly. It can also dull your blades and even leave plastic shavings you have to clean up. Cheaper synthetic ice will only last a few years and not provide the smooth slick ice feel you want. You want the synthetic ice you install to provide the quality, durability, and glide you need.

KwikRink Synthetic Ice is located in Maple Grove, MN, and we are proud to have installed synthetic ice rinks in many locations here at home. You can find KwikRink installations around the world in five continents. We are a pioneer in developing synthetic ice, and we’ve been in the business since the mid-1990s. We are continually reinventing our product to make it even better, and we’ve just introduced our fifth generation product, which provides unsurpassed glide and reduced drag.

Give us a call at (888) 275-2345 or fill out our rink configuration form to get started. We stand by our product and have a customer satisfaction guarantee.

tags residential synthetic ice, Synthetic ice

21
November

KwikRink Synthetic Ice Holiday Sale!

Posted by KwikRink

Expect big savings, as KwikRink is offering a synthetic ice holiday sale! This is currently active, and will continue to be active while supplies last. The biggest savings will be to our residential clients. We still are the leader in custom synthetic ice rink applications, while offering all commercial accessories to complete your synthetic ice rink. Find out what type of savings to expect, why you should choose KwikRink, and how to get started creating your own home ice advantage!

Synthetic Ice Holiday Sale

Currently, we are offering a $36 discount per panel on our 3/8″ thick surface, which is what the majority of residential synthetic ice applications use! This attributes to huge savings, and grows as the orders become bigger! We are also offering a $23 discount per panel on our heavy duty 1/2″ thick surface. Get a quote now!

Why KwikRink Synthetic Ice?

Not only are we the Pioneers of the industry – introducing synthetic ice to the hockey market over 20 years ago, but we also provide the best synthetic ice surfaces in the industry. We always strive to make ourselves available to answer questions, and take a very hands-on approach with our clients. There is nothing more that we want than a happy client!

Home Ice Advantage

Now is the time to create your own home ice advantage with KwikRink Synthetic Ice. Find ideas and inspiration for your new home synthetic ice rink by checking out our website gallery and Facebook page. We have helped thousands of clients design their home synthetic ice rink applications from scratch. This includes all components, like: custom synthetic ice, markings, dasher boards, netting containment, shooting tarps, etc. As rink design consultants, we make this process as simple and straight forward as possible. Nearly any space with a hard and flat surface can become your own “Home Ice Advantage!”

tags best synthetic ice, Hockey, residential synthetic ice, Synthetic ice, synthetic ice holiday sale, Synthetic Ice Rink

31
October

Can you skate on synthetic ice?

Posted by KwikRink

Toronto Maple Leafs Synthetic Ice by KwikRink

Can you skate on synthetic ice? Although synthetic ice has been around for decades, many people still do not know much about it. Below, we have posted answers to some of the most common synthetic ice questions that we frequently receive. It can also be hard to find accurate information on the web, as most of it is posted by companies with an agenda. Since 1996, KwikRink Synthetic Ice has been selling premium skating surfaces and are considered the elite experts in the industry.

Can you skate on synthetic ice?

This is a question we get a lot…Can you skate on synthetic ice? Really, can you? Yes, you can, but not all synthetic ice tiles are created equally – Some will skate better than others. Many competing brands sell surfaces that we were selling in the 199o’s…That is old! We currently manufacture our own synthetic ice formulas in the USA. KwikRink V panels are the best self-lubricating skating surface in the industry.

How long does synthetic ice last?

There are a lot of variables to consider when answering a question like this. Ultimately, the answer to this question will depend on factors like; frequency of use, intensity of use, number of users, weight of users. We sold and installed a KwikRink to the Toronto Maple Leafs of the NHL. We expect up to 10 years of lifespan with a team of professional hockey players using the surface intensely every day. Most commercial training facilities, and especially residential rinks, can get a lot more life out of their synthetic ice. We have been in business for over 20 years, and have not seen a residential rink wear out. The only exception is when the synthetic ice is used for goalie training. Goalies do put more wear into the synthetic ice tiles, as they stay mostly in one spot while training.

KwikRink V (3/8″) – 10+ years on average

KwikRink V (1/2″) – 15+ years on average

Will Synthetic Ice Ruin my Skates?

No, synthetic ice will not “ruin” your skates. Most of our clients will use their primary pair of ice skates when skating. Again, all synthetic ice tiles are not created equally. Some will dull your blades faster than others. Some of the hardest surfaces will dull the blades very fast, so it is important to find a synthetic ice surface that has the proper hardness balance. While skating on KwikRink, you can expect your blades to dull at about the same rate as if you were skating on an outdoor pond on a cold day – a huge improvement over competing brands.

Can I do a Hockey Stop on Synthetic Ice?

Yes, hockey stops are possible on synthetic ice. All skating maneuvers on KwikRink V synthetic ice tiles, such as; backwards skating, transitioning, and hockey stops, are 100% natural movements when compared to real ice.

What type of maintenance is required for my synthetic ice rink?

The simple rule of thumb for any synthetic ice rink – The cleaner it is, the faster it will skate. Dirt and debris create extra friction between the skate blade and synthetic ice tiles. Make sure to sweep and mop your rink, as needed. If outside, using a pressure washer works very well to clean rinks that show signs of neglect.

Can i wear shoes on synthetic ice?

Yes, you can wear shoes on synthetic ice. We always recommend to keep a clean pair of gym shoes to use when not wearing skates. This will help keep the surface clean and performing at its best. The synthetic ice tiles are designed to be slippery to the skate blade, but are not as slick on the shoe. That being said, you are purchasing the rink for ice skating, which is what its intended use is. Synthetic ice will not be an ideal surface for intense running and jump-cuts.

tags ice skating, Synthetic ice, synthetic ice panels, Synthetic Ice Rink, synthetic ice tiles

19
September

Synthetic Ice Panels – 4 Reasons Why Bigger Is Better

Posted by KwikRink

What is the ideal size for synthetic ice panels? As the saying goes, “the bigger, the better”. “Bigger” panels certainly have the disadvantage of being less convenient than smaller panels when it comes to shipping and receiving. From a purely functional standpoint, however, a bigger sized panel is much better for several reasons.

At KwikRink Synthetic Ice, our default panel is a whopping 8′ x 4′ size .Many other companies are selling panels as small as 1.5′ x 1.5′! These are great for shipping, but the advantages stop there. Below are 4 reasons why bigger synthetic ice tiles are the way to go!

1. Larger synthetic ice panels make for less seams in the surface.

While smaller panels are easier to move around, they also will have substantially more seams when the panels are connected. This simply leaves a lot more opportunity for things to go wrong in a synthetic ice rink.

2. Larger synthetic ice panels provide more forgiveness when a substrate is flawed.

Most sub-floors are not perfect. The smaller the synthetic ice tiles are, the less “forgiveness” they provide in a flawed substrate. Aside from the extra seams, this leaves the panels much more likely to have seams that lip up. This is a problem that can stop pucks and trip skaters. In short, the larger size synthetic ice panels are able to cover up substrate flaws much better than smaller panels.

3. Larger synthetic ice panels allow for a quicker installation.

This one is a bit obvious, but having to connect less panels makes doing an installation much faster. These panels will not be as easy to move around as the smaller ones, but connecting one KwikRink synthetic ice panel to another is comparable to connecting up to 16 smaller panels from a different supplier.

4. Larger synthetic ice panels offer the best bang for your buck.

Bigger synthetic ice panels will provide the best value for your money. Most competing brands that offer the smaller panels, are doing so for shipping and convenience of mobility to the consumer. Although these aren’t bad reasons, consumers are left with even less panel for their dollar due to the desire to cut overhead costs and oblige to various shipping restrictions. This is also why you often will see “Free Shipping” for the smaller panels. It is not really free, but built into the cost, as they are vastly overpriced for what is received.

tags Synthetic ice, synthetic ice panels, Synthetic Ice Rink, synthetic ice tiles

29
August

Best Synthetic Ice – What is it?

Posted by KwikRink

What is the best synthetic ice? Really…what is it? The market is flooded with options for synthetic ice. Its a tough world for consumers, as you are generally needing to make a costly investment in a surface before trying it out. The below points outline some of the things to look for in a synthetic ice product.

Glide

This is the starting point, as there are a lot of synthetic ice surfaces out there that put a black eye on the whole industry. There are still companies selling similar synthetic ice surfaces that we were selling in the mid 1990’s! All of these will need a lubricant spray to achieve any glide. Many companies are currently selling “self-lubricating” surfaces. These are surfaces that achieve glide without any lubricant aids.

This is where it gets tricky…to what degree is the glide comparable to actual ice? Even within the “self-lubricating” category, there will be a vast array of how the glide performs. Synthetic ice is generally made with a resin and a “slip agent”. The slip agent is what makes the synthetic ice glide. The biggest difference in glide among competing companies will be what specific slip agent is used, and how much of it is used.

Cheaper synthetic ice brands tend to use less effective slip agents, or use it at a much lower percentage than the best synthetic ice surfaces. The glide will be much stickier, and may even require a lubricant spray to achieve its true desired effect (many cheap brands won’t tell you that ahead of time). Generally speaking, with an increase in the proper slip agent, comes an increase in the glide (resin dependent). This also will cause an increase in price, as it is more costly to manufacture. The best synthetic ice has a glide in excess of 90% when compared to real ice.

Hardness Balance

The hardness of the synthetic ice surface is imperative for durability and a natural feel. Many cheap surfaces are much too soft or too hard. These products tend to use a cheaper resin, which softens the surface. Or they use little-to-no slip agent, which hardens the surface (slip agents tend to soften synthetic ice). Durability or performance for these synthetic ice surfaces will be dramatically affected in a negative manner.

Skating on soft surfaces, feels similar to real ice that is too soft. You will dig into the ice and feel like you are skating on a train track. This also adds friction and slows down the glide. On the other-hand, surfaces can be much too hard and dull the blades very fast. These tend to be seen in older surfaces, and surfaces with no slip agent added to the resin. We often refer to these synthetic ice surfaces as, “dead cutting boards”.

Achieving the right balance of hardness in synthetic ice leads to natural ice-like skating surfaces, that are not too hard or too soft on the blades. The best synthetic ice has the perfect hardness balance.

Seamless Connection

There are two main ways that synthetic ice panels are connected. These two methods are known as the “tongue and groove” and “dovetail” connections.

The tongue and groove connection came first. In fact, this is how we connected our panels back in the late ’90’s. This connection is a lot more work for the end user, and makes it very difficult to install and take apart. This connection can also pose problems in larger spaces, as panels like to pull away from one another and don’t want to connect.

The dovetail connection is what we currently are using. This connection allows for fast and easy installation/tear down. The key to the KwikRink Lock-Rink Dovetail assembly is that the male and female joints have a slight overbite for a snug fit. With proper sub flooring, this connection is seamless and will not trip skaters or stop pucks. The best synthetic ice surfaces are seamless!

Best Synthetic Ice

The best synthetic ice surfaces have glide in excess of 90% when compared to real ice
The best synthetic ice surfaces have a natural ice-like feel – not too hard or soft
The best synthetic ice surfaces have a seamless connection

Searching for the best synthetic ice in today’s market can leave the average consumer with a headache. At KwikRink Synthetic Ice, we invest heavily in R&D, and have been manufacturing our own surfaces for 20 years. It would be much easier for us to purchase pre-made synthetic ice surfaces like most of our competitors, and resell them under our own name. Manufacturing our own synthetic ice allows us to make the best synthetic ice!

tags best synthetic ice, dovetail, glide, hardness balance, resin, seamless connection, slip agent, Synthetic ice, tongue and groove

25
July

Synthetic Ice Underlay – Is it Necessary?

Posted by KwikRink

Is an underlay for my new synthetic ice rink necessary? Well, this depends on a lot of variables. It is very important that the synthetic ice panels be laid on top of a hard and flat surface. In this article, we will dive into three categories that all sub-floors fall into when it comes to the necessity of having a synthetic ice underlay; no underlay, simple underlay, and advanced underlay.

No Synthetic Ice Underlay

When no underlay is needed for a synthetic ice rink, it tends to be in an inside space with a very flat and hard sub-floor. We also see this outside on sport courts that were done correctly by the contractor. These are any floors with no flaws.

Indoor rooms/basements
Sport courts
Tennis courts
Leveled decks

Simple Synthetic Ice Underlay

A “simple underlay” is needed when the sub-floor has some flaws, but is mostly hard and flat. Undulation in the sub-floor is the biggest reason for a simple underlay – most of these surfaces are still hard (concrete,asphalt, wood, etc.). This can require something as simple as using 3/4″ OSB tongue and groove plywood. The plywood is very flat, and will provide extra forgiveness in a flawed sub-floor. Rubber matting can also be used as an underlay for your synthetic ice panels in these type of scenarios.

- driveways
- parking lots
- streets
- on pavers

Advanced Synthetic Ice Underlay

An advanced synthetic ice underlay is necessary when hardness of the sub-floor is not up to par and/or the sub-floor is very un-level. These tend to be a little more work, as these have the worst sub-floors to place synthetic ice panels on. The best ways to remedy this is to pour a concrete slab (like a sport court) or build a raised wooden deck. The deck platform does not have to be very high off of the ground, but does need to be made level.

grassy areas
some parking lots
turf
carpet

Synthetic ice rinks are possible anywhere with the right sub-floor. It is important to assess to which degree a synthetic ice underlay is necessary for optimal performance of the skating surface. Often times, no underlay is needed at all. Don’t fall for these added costs from other suppliers…We will help you determine the best underlay treatment for your synthetic ice rink!

tags hard and flat surface, Synthetic ice, synthetic ice panels, synthetic ice rink installation, synthetic ice underlay, underlay

14
June

Synthetic Ice Rent with Option to Buy Program

Posted by KwikRink

At KwikRink, we understand that any transaction for a synthetic ice application is quite the investment and should not be taken lightly. This is why we offer our clients the “Synthetic Ice Rent with Option to Buy Program”. This program entails all brand new materials shipped to the end user on a monthly rental program. When that time has completed, the synthetic ice can be returned or purchased at the remaining balance of the cost to own.

Our program offers turnkey solutions for communities and businesses interested in a synthetic ice skating rink. The rental period acts as a trial, so there is no long-term commitment that needs to be made upfront.

Who/What does this Synthetic Ice Rental Program benefit?

Holiday celebrations
Annual festivals
City parks
Schools
Churches
Shopping centers
Company parties
Private celebrations

The “Synthetic Ice Rent with Option to Buy Program” offers a unique experience for attendees and at an affordable price for the individual/company/community that is holding the event. When you compare the cost to support real ice, synthetic ice rentals are a fraction of the cost – no electricity or water needed. These synthetic ice rinks can hold up in any climate, which often brings an awe factor in any location where outdoor ice is unsustainable.

What does this Synthetic Ice Rental Program offer?

Custom-sized synthetic ice rink tailored to your needs
Decorative fencing
Rental skates
Skate sharpeners
Rubber matting
On-site supervision and installation

KwikRink is your one-stop-shop for all items needed to make your event a success. All materials are quoted in an itemized fashion, as you may pick and choose what products are needed for your specific application.

We will work with you before, during, and after the initial process to ensure the rental period and potential purchase are a big success. These types of applications have drawn rave reviews from our past clients. The most important aspect when it comes to setting up events with synthetic ice applications is to bring people together for a fun time!

Get started with a quote today!

tags one-stop-shop, rent, rent with option to buy program, rental synthetic ice rink, Synthetic ice, turnkey solutions

16
May

Installing a Synthetic Ice Rink with On-Site Obstacles

Posted by KwikRink

Residential synthetic ice rink with obstacles

Are support beams or other obstacles stopping you from adding synthetic ice to your home or commercial space? it shouldn’t! We work with several clients that are hesitant to add synthetic ice due to support beams, “jut-outs”, or odd shaped exterior dimensions, in their potential space. At KwikRink, we have the capabilities to custom cut your synthetic ice rink to exact specifications. As a wise man once said, there is always a way! Often times, we find that these obstacles work as training aids, creating better hands and agility.

Support Beams

With proper on-site dimensions, we can have our expert programmers devise a CAD tailored to your space. When working with support beams, it helps to work off of two adjacent walls to nail down exactly where the support pole(s) line up. The goal is to always have the supports lineup on the seam of the synthetic ice panels. This allows the client to make a nice and neat cut around the support pole, without wasting excess material.

Spaces with “jut-outs”

In any scenario where a room has portions that “jut-out”, have no fear, as there are easy ways to work around these obstacles, as well. Any small obstacle like this is best dealt with on-site for the tidiest cut possible. If necessary, we will also line this up on a seam of two connecting panels, but often times we do not need to do this. We recommend using a skilsaw with a 24 tooth blade for cutting around the obstacle. The synthetic ice will cut like butter – no problem!

Odd Shaped Rooms (Exterior)

This has been discussed in other blog posts, and you can click here for more information. When filling a hard room in wall-to-wall, it is quite rare to find that some amount of customization is not needed. Our machines are very precise and can save you a lot of money in a custom space. We can send you your rink with precision cuts to the exact specifications of your room. All you will need to do is simply connect the panels, like a giant puzzle! Most home synthetic ice rinks can be installed in 20-30 minutes depending upon the amount of on-site cutting involved.

Don’t let on-site obstacles stop you from your dream synthetic ice space. These types of obstacles are common, and can potentially be seen as a plus rather than a negative!

tags commercial synthetic ice, custom, obstacles, residential synthetic ice, Synthetic ice

24
April

Synthetic Ice Earns A Place In NHL Training Regimens

Posted by KwikRink

Attempts to imitate the glorious gliding of a frozen ice rink have been around a long time.

In June 1844, the Glaciarium opened in London, after a couple of smaller rinks concocted by inventor Henry Kirk convinced investors a bigger venture was commercially viable. It wasn’t, as the public never quite adjusted to the smell of the “ice” — a mixture of salts, sulphate of copper and lard — and the Glaciarium closed within the year.

The first synthetic ice surfaces — formed from a plastic known as polyoxymethylene — arrived in the 1960s. But, with rough, draggy surfaces that prompted skates to be re-sharpened in less time than it takes to play an NHL period, they were slow to catch on.

Things are different now.

There are a variety of products on the market, some claiming a coefficient of friction roughly that of real ice, others claiming no reliable scientific comparison exists. But inarguably, synthetic ice is gaining wider acceptance as a tool for NHL players — as well as amateur skaters of every stripe — to augment their time on frozen pond.

Puck-Friendly Playability

Unlike most rink alternatives, synthetic ice allows the use of a real puck. Thus, many around the NHL have embraced such surfaces as an economical way to extend opportunities to shoot and handle the puck.

Heading into the 2017-18 season, the Toronto Maple Leafs installed a synthetic pad at their training center — a shooting range next to their main rink, displayed as a 60-foot zone from the blue line (pictured above).

Tampa Bay’s Nikita Kucherov, who this year became the youngest Lightning player ever to score 100 points in a season, works on his shot on a synthetic pad in his two-car garage — 20 minutes per session, twice a day during the offseason.

Many other current and former NHL players have installed synthetic ice for personal use as well.

Training’s Friendly Faux

Most of us, when we can’t afford or access ice time, have limited training options: a slide board, roller blades, maybe a nice tile floor and portable net. But there’s no real puck, no ice skates, no opportunity to work on many of the skills you’ll need on the ice.

Synthetic ice affords the opportunity to practice shooting, stick-handling and skating on a surface that closely mimics a real rink. Some of the training benefits of synthetic ice include:

It’s easier than ice. With synthetic ice, there’s no refrigeration and no climate control necessary to maintain a surface that can be installed in virtually any indoor setting from a basement to a garage to a warehouse. And a vacuum is a lot cheaper than a Zamboni.
It’s harder than ice. You see runners doing sprint training harnessed to parachutes. Baseball players swing weighted bats. Pro hockey players know one of the great benefits to synthetic ice workouts is that the material isn’t quite as smooth as the real thing — it takes more effort to get where you want to go. It’s a subtle boost to your workout that will make you feel that much faster when you hit the ice.
It’s cheaper than ice. Especially in warm-weather months and climates, real ice is hard to find, and time on it can get expensive. Synthetic ice is one way to clear the cost and availability hurdles, and can even be installed on a smooth outdoor surface.

Melting Apprehension

When it comes to skating surfaces, it might not be ice — but synthetic products are still pretty cool. At least, that’s the take the Florida Panthers came away with when hosting the first hockey clinic in Barbados during the summer of 2017.

On a 60-foot-by-35-foot synthetic surface, locals showed some impressive skills.

“It’s a little bit different skating on,” defenseman Alex Petrovic said. “But some of the kids that come here regularly are actually really good at skating on it.”

Which is really the point, isn’t it? Synthetic ice can help create better skaters — and shooters, and stick-handlers — anywhere by reproducing the playability characteristics of ice at a fraction of the cost.

Author bio: AJ Lee is Marketing Coordinator for Pro Stock Hockey, an online hockey store that offers pro stock hockey equipment. He was born and raised in the southwest suburbs of Chicago, and has been a huge Blackhawks fan his entire life. AJ picked up his first hockey stick at age 3, and hasn’t put it down yet.

tags nhl, nhl players, nhl synthetic ice, Nikita Kucherov, Synthetic ice, Toronto Maple Leafs, training

30
March

Synthetic Ice “Panel Loss” vs Exact Customization

Posted by KwikRink

Synthetic Ice Layout

Synthetic ice layouts are extremely important, as each client has different needs. We will touch on “panel loss” vs exact customization in this article post. Regardless if you digest the below information or not, KwikRink Synthetic Ice is here to determine the best route for the client with their goals and budget in mind.

KwikRink’s standard synthetic ice sheet has exterior dimensions of 95″ x 48″ (#1 cut), typically yielding 94″ x 47″. This is by design, so that the panels can be connected every which way. Because they are so close to 8′ x 4′, we go by these increments for simplicity, and many of the quote inquiries we get, also follow this guideline. The dovetail pattern is 1″ deep, and when connected, this causes the loss of 1″ every 4′ of connection. This is called “Panel Loss” or “PL” for short. If i am losing you here, it will be simplified below…

Examples using all #1 cuts:

40′ x 20′ PL = 39’3″ x 19’8″ (25 Panels)

32′ x 16′ PL = 31’5″ x 15’9″ (16 Panels)

24′ x 12′ PL = 23’7 x 11’10” (9 Panels)

Why #1 cuts?

Using the default cut panels is the best bang for your buck when it comes to choosing a synthetic ice rink layout. You will have no charges for custom cutting, no excess scrap, and be able to rotate all panels in your synthetic ice rink to expand the lifespan. Anything that is custom cut is often locked into that specific spot on the rink. #1 cuts can be used for synthetic ice rinks that do not need to fill in an exact space (think wall to wall – inside). Outdoor rinks and open areas work the best.

When is Custom cutting is needed?

For commercial or residential synthetic ice rinks that need EXACT dimensions, often times custom cutting is required, as the #1 cuts natural dimensions will not get you there. KwikRink specializes in custom cut synthetic ice solutions. It is also necessary with custom markings (lines, creases, circles, dots, etc).

When we say Exact, what do we mean?

We truly mean exact. If your space is 24’6 1/2″ x 15’3 1/4″, KwikRink can do it with world-class precision machining. Often times, residential basements that are interested in adding synthetic ice for home training have pole supports to work around in the area. We can design a layout with custom cut panels, so that the seams of a panel line up at the pole. This allows for the easiest cut around the pole.

In conclusion…

When it is not necessary to have exact dimensions, “panel loss” is the way to go. This will get you to 8′ x 4′ multiples minus a few inches each way, depending upon how big the rink is. Exact is they way to go when…well you need exact dimensions to fit into a hard space. Get your quote today!

tags #1 cut, commercial synthetic ice, custom, Panel loss, residential synthetic ice, Synthetic ice, Synthetic Ice Rink, synthetic ice rink layout

03
February

Super Bowl LII Synthetic Ice Rink Installation (Photos)

Posted by KwikRink

The temperature was hovering in the teens all day, but it could have been much worse on a late January day in Minnesota. The installation took place on January 28th and was completed in approximately 12 hours. This is one of the most complex jobs that we have done and certainly is one to be proud of.

Ice Rink

The synthetic ice surface was to be cut around the Medtronic “Horn” sculpture. This is not your standard synthetic ice rink installation. When dealing with a very abstract project like this, it is important to be able to ad-lib as you go. There is no blueprint for this type of installation.

Ice Rink

The flooring/substrate around the sculpture was very unlevel with a lot of undulation. This can pose problems for the seams on any synthetic ice surface. We were forced to individually shim each panel as it was laid down. If this rink were to be permanently placed here, an underlay substrate may have been necessary.

Once the installation got towards the arms of the Medtronic Sculpture, the project slowed down a bit. It was important to make precise cuts around these arms. Skaters will be skating through this sculpture during pregame Super Bowl LII festivities – open to ticket-holders only.

Ice Rink

As we close in on our 11th straight hour on the job, we see the end in sight. Day turns to night, and the Medtronic Sculpture lights up creating a beautiful visual of the rink right in front of U.S. Bank Stadium.

Ice Rink

A clean look at the finished synthetic ice installation. This is game-day ready as soon as the perimeter fencing is installed. Freestyle skaters and figure skaters will be providing some eye candy for those walking into the big game!

tags artificial ice, fake ice, Medtronic Sculpture, Super Bowl, Super Bowl LII, Synthetic ice, U.S. Bank Stadium

26
January

PRESS RELEASE: Synthetic Ice Rink At U.S. Bank Stadium For Super Bowl

Posted by KwikRink

Contacts: Don Mason: 612-483-3020; Brett Mason: 612-387-1288

Synthetic Ice Rink At U.S. Bank Stadium For Super Bowl
Minnesota-Based Company Constructing Skating Rink on Plaza at U.S. Bank Stadium

What Is Synthetic Ice:
The KwikRink Synthetic Ice provides skaters about 95% of the speed of a natural ice surface. It can be installed virtually anywhere, in any climate and temperature.

When Is The Rink Being Constructed:
Installation will take place on Sunday, January 28 starting at 8 a.m.

Where Is The Synthetic Ice Rink Being Constructed:
At U.S. Bank Stadium at the Medtronic Plaza, right outside of the Legacy gates. The rink will be intertwined with the Medtronic “horn” sculpture.

Why Is The Rink Being Constructed:
Minnesota is proud of it’s skating heritage, with more than 200 indoor ice facilities and thousands of natural ice rinks at parks and frozen ponds that are used all winter for ice sports. The KwikRink Synthetic Ice will capture the spirit of this history and feature skaters on the surface only for ticket holders to enjoy, only on February 4 from noon until game time.

Who Is KwikRink:
KwikRink is a Maple Grove, Minnesota-based company founded, owned and operated by Don Mason. KwikRink synthetic ice surfaces can be found around the world in private homes of athletes and celebrities, training facilities, ice shows, five-star resorts, garages, backyards and even on the beach! For more information, pictures, and videos, log on to www.kwikrinksyntheticice.com.

tags horn sculpture, Legacy Gates, Medtronic Plaza, Super Bowl, Synthetic ice, Synthetic Ice Rink, U.S. Bank Stadium

02
May

Spotlight: Gentry Academy Installation

Posted by KwikRink

In Vadnais Heights (MN), you can find a brand new hockey school called Gentry Academy. The beautiful building that houses this school just completed in March. The Gentry Academy Galaxy are a sanctioned Tier 1 hockey program.

The training area is in the basement and will have a fully equipped surrounding workout area. The synthetic ice portion covers a roughly 35′ x 30′ area using KwikRink V synthetic ice. There is one NHL goal crease in the surface to accommodate goalie training.

The area will be available for students to practice for fun during downtime. There will also be formal training sessions with experienced instructors to supplement on-ice training. Gentry Academy has it all!

tags commercial synthetic ice, install, KwikRink V, Synthetic ice, training

27
February

2017 Let’s Play Hockey Expo

Posted by KwikRink

Who: KwikRink Synthetic Ice at the 2017 Let’s Play Hockey Expo

What: We will have a 24′ x 12′ demo area setup with our latest surface, KwikRink V. Bring your skates and find out what all the hype is about!

Where: RiverCentre, 175 W Kellogg Blvd, St Paul, MN 55102 (connected to Xcel Energy Center)

When: Friday 3/10 (10am – 6pm) and Saturday 3/11 (10am – 5pm)

Why: Because Minnesota is the state of Hockey!

KwikRink V: Luxury Synthetic Ice

Posted by KwikRink

KwikRink V is ferociously changing how people view synthetic ice as an alternative training tool to ice. The surface has only been officially released for 2 months, but several panels have made their way into residential homes of hockey moms and dads, as well as some current and former NHL players and teams (more to come on this).

This new surface is hitting the highest performance levels in the industry, and is considered to be 95% the speed of real ice. The breakthrough in this surface compared to other fully lubricated panels is that the “slip agent” does not migrate out. It is dry and not injected. Some competitor brands will skate great until its injected oils run dry, making the surface skate similar to synthetic ice that was sold in the mid 90’s. Our products are manufactured in the USA with our dedicated team of chemists, which allows us greater attention to detail. The majority of what you find on today’s market is bought from China and resold.

This new state-of-the-art surface is as close to ice as you can find on today’s market.

“KwikRink V is easy to install and maintain. It feels as close to ice as any alternative I’ve skated on. Transitions and stops are close to the real thing, thus great for edge technique, stick handling with movement as well as shooting. My whole family uses the sheet – I love this stuff.”

– Nick W, MN

“KwikRink Gen 5 surface skates like real ice and the puck slides around as if it where on real ice. My son is a goalie, and does a little goalie work on it , but he usually skates and shoots on it , and he can do everything from skating backwards to hockey stops.”

– Scott S, IL

As a manufacturer in an industry that only has a handful, we are proud to say that our products are unique from all other brands on the market. No other company sells the same surfaces that we do.

tags industry, KwikRink V, manufacturers, Synthetic ice

30
December

Failproof New Years Resolution

Posted by KwikRink

Customized Indoor Synthetic Ice Hockey Rink

Every 365 days a new year comes around. Each year we hear about so many resolutions in an attempt to create a better year than the following year. Some people are successful, and many are not. We live busy lives, and sometimes our resolutions fade away come February.

We don’t generally think of kids having resolutions within their mostly carefree lives. Some parents that we work with unknowingly make these resolutions for their kids. The holiday season is a hot time of the year for us, as it is for many businesses. We have created home ice advantages for countless families this holiday season.

With the main premise of creating healthy-fun exercise for their kids, KwikRink delivers without hesitation. In a world with TV binge-watching, video games, and social media, we often find that our children are not being as active as they should be. Jim from Michigan says, “After purchasing the KwikRink surface for my basement, I can’t get my kid or his friends off the stuff.” Sometimes, it is a battle to get him off of the ice for dinner, but it sure beats video games!”

The other obvious benefit to the KwikRink surface is that it allows unlimited ice time, and ice time can be scarce in certain areas of the world. Being able to skate as you please will certainly make for a better hockey player in 2017 and beyond.

If you make any resolutions for your kids this year, make sure that it is to create a year filled with activity disguised as fun. Have fun and improve your game with KwikRink synthetic ice premium ice surfaces!

KwikRink V Synthetic Ice: Changing an Industry

Posted by KwikRink

KwikRink has officially released its 5th generation formula. We call our latest formula, KwikRink V (KwikRink 5). This new formula has a dry slip agent throughout the panel, and requires no topical sprays or liquids. KwikRink V will change the perceptions of current industry limitations. The most common consumer complaints in the industry have to do with; surface glide, backwards skating and transitioning, and oily panels.

Surface Glide

One of the most common complaints about synthetic ice is that it doesn’t glide anything like real ice. You can YouTube countless videos of people skating on “synthetic ice”, but it looks more like they are walking with skates on. KwikRink V has a surface glide of up to 50 plus feet with just one stride. Check out the video here.

Backwards Skating and Transitioning

The next most common issue regarding synthetic ice has to do with backwards skating and transitioning. These skills have had a very unnatural feel across the industry, and are entirely impossible on some of the surfaces out there – until now. Again, if you aren’t buying it – check out the video here. KwikRink V is the closest synthetic surface to ice, made to date.

Oily Panels

There are other fully/self lubricated panels on today’s market. These panels do not require any type of topical spray. The problem with the majority of these panels is that the slip agent will migrate out over time, rendering the surface a dead cutting board within a few years. This leaves you with an oily surface that eventually turns into a useless piece of plastic. KwikRink V’s slip agent is completely dry and will not migrate outside of the panel.

KwikRink is proud to be one of the few manufacturers of synthetic ice in the entire world. This allows us infinite quality control over our surfaces. Many companies selling synthetic ice purchase cheaply made plastic from China for resale. We brought this product to the hockey market over 20 years ago. We know hockey. We know synthetic ice. The best comes from the pioneers of the industry.

tags formula, fully lubricated, industry, KwikRink V, manufacturers, skills, Synthetic ice

31
October

KwikRink Synthetic Ice in Association Hockey

Posted by KwikRink

Synthetic ice from KwikRink is becoming an increasingly popular tool to supplement off-ice training in youth hockey associations. Many associations struggle to find adequate ice time in their local community to support youth hockey development. Both traditional and non traditional hockey areas are finding it increasingly difficult to supply the growing demand for ice time. This makes ice time very expensive, and also makes youth teams practice very late at night, or very early in the morning. In many areas, hockey moms and dads have to drive countless miles just to get their child to the ice rink. Many of these hockey associations are turning to KwikRink commercial synthetic ice to help remedy this problem.

Woodbury Area Hockey Club (WAHC) is a youth hockey association located in the eastern part of the Twin Cities in Minnesota. Woodbury has a large hockey association and only so many rinks to go around. They recently purchased the rights to Harding Ice Arena in St. Paul, MN. Harding was an arena that was no longer in use, and WAHC saw this as an opportunity to create ice time that was so desperately needed. Woodbury wanted to use as much of the building as possible for training, not just the one sheet of ice that the building already has. In a spacious 70′ x 30′ area upstairs next to the ice sheet, WAHC installed a beautiful training area consisting of; 4 shooting lanes, 1 goalie training lane, and 2 stick handling zones. (pictured above). KwikRink works closely with the purchaser to help design the optimal layouts for an alloted space.

Supplementing KwikRink synthetic ice is an inexpensive and convenient way to create more ice time for youth hockey players. The sport of hockey has been growing every single year. We have seen 100,000 more members to USA hockey in the past 10 years alone. Demand for ice time will continue to increase, and the current construction of ice rinks is unable to adequately supply what is needed. Supplement with KwikRink synthetic ice surfaces and #DontSuckAtHockey!

tags commercial synthetic ice, Synthetic ice, training

07
October

Winter Wonderland Rinks

Posted by KwikRink

The holiday season is just around the corner, and people across the world are gearing up for some special times spent with family and friends. Many of us in colder climates associate these times with snow and ice skating. As climates change, supporting outdoor ice even in these colder climates has been a challenge, to say the least. We have worked with several communities and event planning companies across the world to bring holiday themed pleasure skating rinks for the locals to enjoy. KwikRink synthetic ice does not need cold weather to support its magic, which makes it a hit in warm climates and assures stable skating conditions in colder climates that have had unreliable weather to support good ice.

KwikRink Lock-Rink dovetail pattern allows the panels to be installed and torn apart very easily – like a puzzle. The high performing synthetic ice is a fraction of the cost of refrigerating real ice. It also is much lower maintenance compared to manufacturing real ice with an expensive refrigerated system. These convenient qualities make KwikRink the perfect surface for such events.

Some of the coolest seasonal rinks are done in the most nontraditional climates. Imagine ice skating outside in Bermuda with someone special. The Planning Factory – Bermuda has worked with us to make this a reality. This rink is currently being added onto – pictures to come soon! Pleasure rinks are simply about bringing people together! See below pictures for more seasonal rinks!

Winter Wonderland – Rockford, IL

wwrinksmall

This Winter Wonderland pleasure skating rink shows the versatility of KwikRink synthetic ice panels. President, Don Mason, designed this layout himself.

Target Corporate Headquarters – Minneapolis, MN

Target setup synthetic ice for employees to blow off some steam during the winter months, and hosted a corporate holiday party with the skating rink as the main attraction, surrounded by the Minneapolis skyline!

Oakville Winter Wonderland – Ontario, Canada

oakville-winter-wonderland_edit2

The city of Oakville put on a fun holiday event to bring the local community together…Rental skates on site. Happy Holidays!

Pleasure Rink – Izmir, Turkey

pleasurerinkedit

A pleasure rink setup with rental skates for all to have a good time. Turkey does not have the type of climate that you would expect to offer outdoor skating. What a cool novelty in a nontraditional location!

People are intrigued by novel ideas. With the ability to build rinks anywhere, seasonal rinks with KwikRink are a hit! This is due to its versatility, convenience, and affordable cost. Bringing people together is the inevitable byproduct that KwikRink synthetic ice offers. Endless possibilities and themes allow for some of the most unique skating applications anywhere on the planet.

tags pleasure rinks, seasonal rinks, Synthetic ice

21
September

10 Dream Home Rinks

Posted by KwikRink

Hockey nuts will love what this article has to offer. At KwikRink we have serviced several private residences with their own home ice advantage. Generally, the client installs a home rink for their kids (or themselves) to have fun and train for hockey. Others will dedicate an area in the house for shooting pucks in between periods of the game. Some do it, simply because they can, and they love hockey. Below are 10 ideas for your dream home rink. “If you build it, they will come” rings true. You wont be able to get the kids off of this (or their teammates), so I would recommend investing in convenient feeding strategies like the pizza oven offers. The best perk for parents is that the home rink acts as a babysitter, so mom can get a little more of that “me” time she deserves. Some supervision may be required for when the games get a little heated. We have yet to hear of any bench clearing brawls, however.

Basement Overlook Rink

Michigan Indoor Basement Hockey Goal Practice

This Indoor Basement rink is actually a level lower than the rest of the basement. It features a plexiglass protected overlook viewing area equipped with a ledge, and bar stools for the parents. How about some ice cold beverages and hockey?

Pole Barn Rink

Indoor Synthetic Ice Hockey Rink in Rochester

This hockey family put a home rink in an added on pole barn. Roughly 50′ x 25′ area allows some fun and fast paced games. The high ceiling is an ideal setup for flying pucks!

Backyard Rink

backyard_deck_rink-2

This 32′ x 16′ back yard rink is one of our favorites. There is nothing like skating in the middle of July surrounded by woods, is there? I can envision some backyard hockey tournaments complete with a family BBQ. Maybe even some fireworks, as the teams enter!

Garage Stall Rink

branco_complete-3

If you have one garage stall to spare, this 18′ x 10′ size area could become a nice little home rink for you. This rink has enough size to improve stick-handling, shooting, and skating agility. Check out our blog on small area games if you aren’t buying it.

Under Garage Rink

indoorrink-2

An under garage space with odd dimensions, and cut outs, turns into a game-ready indoor rink. This one has an off camera penalty box, and mom is the referee.

Upstate NY Outdoor Rink

outdoor_ny_rink_40x20-2

Ignore last nights rain on this one. Let’s just say the Zamboni driver had a few too many, and didn’t resurface properly. This 40′ x 20′ outdoor rink with markings and boards is really something to admire.

Ex-storage Room Rink

enebakrink-2

Another 18′ x 10′ size rink with a view from the locker room, fully equipped with rubber matting for changing into skates. This rink offers a crisp and clean look, completed by the NHL style dasher board system.

Ex-Playroom Rink

enebak-2

How about a playroom that the kids will never grow out of? This family dedicated a portion of their home for this, roughly, 34′ x 13′ size rink. I would look for these kids in the 2030 NHL draft.

Minnesota Wild themed Rink

mnwildrink-2

Building a home rink is all about getting creative and having fun with it. This rink was certainly fun to install. A really nice sized 20′ x 13′ rink equipped with a shooting tarp, and NHL player Fatheads, bringing this one to life. What team do you root for?

Castle Rink

castlerink-2

Okay, so this actually isn’t beside a real castle, but it sure looks like one, and provides a really cool home rink. Beware of flying pucks above to the king and queen of this castle.

The above pictures just show some of the ideas out there that have been done. These home rinks certainly require some dedication, and most likely some passion for the game of hockey. Having a home rink allows unlimited ice time and fun. If you get creative enough, you can probably do something like this at your home, and the hockey players of the house will surely be happy. The first step is to find an available space around the home, and then send in an inquiry for a quote, and free design ideas. KwikRink are the experts in the synthetic ice industry, and have been designing layouts for home rinks and training centers around the world for the last 20 years.

tags design, home ice advantage, residential synthetic ice, small area games, training

13
September

Goalie Training on KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

KwikRink synthetic ice has been an extremely popular tool for goalie training at all levels. Professional and amateur goaltenders regularly use KwikRink to supplement their on ice training. The surface allows goalies to practice slides, and all the skills that they would on real ice at a fraction of the cost. Many goaltenders will install KwikRink synthetic ice in their own home to create an unparalleled home ice advantage when it comes to training.

KwikRink is featured in many goalie training camps around the country. MEGA Goaltending, a Minnesota based goalie training camp, has used KwikRink as part of their training regimen for several years. MEGA consists of highly experienced staff members working with a small group of goalies to offer a truly in depth goalie training experience. A synthetic ice area with two creases was recently installed at Elk River Ice Arena to add to their arsenal of training tools.

“KwikRink has become a proven and invaluable surface for us to use when working with our goaltenders. We have found KwikRink to be the ideal surface for us to train our goalies on save techniques and receive a ton of repetitions. It also allows us to keep the costs down for families, in comparison to the cost of training on ice. We have trained over a thousand goalies on KwikRink synthetic ice, and the results have been fantastic.”

– Justin Johnson, Founder of MEGA Goaltending and Minnesota Golden Gophers Men’s Goalie Coach

The first synthetic ice crease was created by KwikRink in the late 90’s. Many residential clients will install their own goalie school inside their homes. The ideal setup has a permanent inset goalie crease, providing positional guidance, and has the depth and width to work on shots at all angles. An ideal goalie area would be something like 16 feet wide by 24 feet long. This would allow the goalie to work on common angles, as well as, taking screened shots. Many of these clients do not have this kinda of space in their home to dedicate to hockey training. You can still get a lot out of a goalie area with limited space. The minimum area would be 10-12 feet wide by about 16 feet long. This would still provide room to practice slides, and work at head on shots. When it comes to training, nothing compares to getting in your skates and doing the work.

tags goalie, install, skills, Synthetic ice, training

19
August

5 Steps to KwikRink your Game

Posted by KwikRink

Are you contemplating the idea of a commercial or residential rink? KwikRink is here to help you design a rink that will meet the goals you have for it. We share the same concepts as you when it comes to hockey training. We want you to improve, while having a great time. Below, is a step-by-step process resulting in unlimited ice time and fun.

1. find an available space, indoors or outdoors, that can be dedicated as your home or commercial rink. The best areas include, a hard flat surface (wood or concrete), high ceilings, and 2:1 ratios.

2. What is the purpose of your rink – Is it to train a goaltender? To practice stick handling and shooting for skaters? Do you want to be able to play 3 on 3 games? These questions will determine the size and layout of the rink.

3. Measure the available space. What are the dimensions? Take measurements, and get your quote request into KwikRink. We specialize in providing a proper layout with the clients rink purpose in mind.

4. Sit back and wait for KwikRink to contact you. We will request pictures of the area, design a mindful layout, and send a specific quote for the project. KwikRink can always be added onto down the road. We can offer you a “Cadillac” package with all the bells and whistles, as well as a budget proposal with only the core necessities.

5. Decide how you want to complete the project, and buy KwikRink! #DontSuckAtHockey

Following these steps will surely put you on your way to unlimited ice time. KwikRink synthetic ice offers unmatched performance in the industry, and expert design services no one else does. We innovate our own formulas with our team of chemists, creating the elite alternative ice skating surfaces in the industry. Act now, before your competitors do!

tags commercial synthetic ice, design, formula, industry, layout, residential synthetic ice

02
August

KwikRink V: A New Synthetic Ice Formula Set to Revolutionize the Industry

Posted by KwikRink

KwikRink will soon be releasing its 5th generation product that has been in the works for years. It will be known as “KwikRink V”, with the V standing for Roman numeral five. Several years of work with KwikRink’s team of top-notch chemists has finally paid off, as the synthetic ice industry has not seen a product like “V”. The first shipment of test panels brought both good and bad news. The panels had broken its packaging and were in disarray all over the truck. The good news was that they were that way because the surface was so slippery. We had to develop a new way to hold the panels together for shipping, but we knew we were on to something right away.

“KwikRink V” is a fully lubricated surface that requires no topical sprays whatsoever. The slip agent will not ooze out of the surface and run dry in a few years like many of the “self-lubricating” panels sold on today’s market. The speed and performance will be unmatched in the industry. One of the biggest differences you will notice on the KwikRink V is in backwards skating and transitioning. Because of other synthetic ice surfaces resistance, you will often notice a big difference from real ice to synthetic ice when it comes to transitioning. You will slow down as you transition, and backwards skating does not feel as natural. On “KwikRink V”, this drag or resistance is dramatically decreased.

The new “KwikRink V” surface is set to revolutionize the synthetic ice industry by changing the perceptions of the products limitations. Boasting performance and speeds as close as you can get to real ice, “KwikRink V” is sure to help everyone not suck at hockey!

tags fully lubricated, industry, KwikRink V, Synthetic ice

28
June

KwikRink by the Numbers

Posted by KwikRink

1996 – The year KwikRink brought synthetic ice to the hockey market. KwikRink boasts the “Pioneer” tag of the industry.

90 – Percentage that correlates to the speed of KwikRink 4th Generation surface compared to real ice. This slight resistance makes this synthetic ice a perfect training tool.

20 – The number of years attending the Let’s Play Hockey Expo as a vendor. (St. Paul, MN)

1 – KwikRink started out as a one man business (Don Mason) for a number of years, but has grown since.

30 – average time in minutes it takes to install a rink using KwikRink’s proprietary Lock-Rink assembly, which assures a virtually seamless surface.

6500 – Square footage of KwikRink’s 4th Generation synthetic ice in the Hockey Sports Academy training center in Clinton Township, Michigan. The layout was designed by President, Don Mason.

18 – Years since the first permanent synthetic ice goalie crease was started as a garage project in Minnesota!

tags install, Let's play hockey, lock-rink assembly, Synthetic ice

03
June

A Look Inside an Installation: The Hockey Headquarters

Posted by KwikRink

You can find a beautiful synthetic ice facility in Sioux Falls, SD. The Hockey Headquarters did not hold anything back with their 76′ x 32′ size training rink (pictured below). In front of the building is a full on hockey store, selling the latest and greatest skates and twigs to hit the market. The rink is located in the back, and is fully equipped with NHL style boards and glass.

1. The Synthetic Ice arrives

Roughly 75 panels weighing 80 lbs each arrive on the work-site… The panels are 8′ x 4′ in size, with some other custom cut pieces. Ideally, having a forklift will save a lot of time during the unloading process. Luckily, we had several high school hockey players on site to help unload the heavy panels from the semi-truck to the rink site. It took a couple of hours to hand unload each panel one by one.

When you have the synthetic ice budding up to a wall or boards, there is quite a bit of strategy that goes into how it is laid out. It is important to allow for expansion and contraction of the synthetic ice surface during hot and cold temperatures. We prefer the boards to be installed first, which is what took place here. The boards are actually lifted slightly to allow the ice to slide underneath them.

2. Installation begins…

We decided to first put the crease together and then build around it. The crease has a few more parts, and does take a little bit more time than laying down the basic panel, but it sure looks awesome in the rink. The crease is then essentially a floating slab of many pieces that we have to move to a perfect center.

From here, we can build forward and really get going on the installation. It is important to start on a side wall and build it vertically before going side to side. We set everyone loose on pounding the 8′ x 4′ panels home. This application was beginning to take the form of an ice rink.

3. The Tricky Parts

After we had most of the rink completed, besides the far end and entire last row of panels on the right side, we ran into a few tricky parts. As you can imagine, with the boards in place, the custom dimensions need to be spot on. For the entire right side, we connected about 8 panels vertically (64′ x 4′). With a lot of man power and good timing we slid this one long piece under the board slot and into place on the right side.

Lastly, On each end where the boards circle, we had to do some custom cutting to create that authentic round about look. This is done with precision cutting, as there were no pieces to spare.

4. Finished project

The rink turned out to be an absolute beauty, and is a site that both KwikRink and The Hockey Headquarters are proud of. Many items have to fall into place to complete such a perfect installation. When installing synthetic ice, you are always “last on site”. By this I mean, if the previous work in the building is off (crooked walls/incorrect board dimensions), you have to be able to adjust. The naked eye wont notice a small misstep on the boards installation, but it can completely change your approach with the ice surface. We worked with top notch professionals on every level of the install, and the below picture shows the outcome.

installprogressions

More Than Sellers – Rink Design Consultants

Posted by KwikRink

Back in 1996, KwikRink was the first company to bring synthetic ice to the hockey market. Now in 2016, the industry is saturated with several companies trying to claim a portion of this thriving market. There are really only a handful of companies out there that pay enough attention to detail to deserve your attention as a consumer.

Purchasing synthetic ice is an investment. Like buying a car, you should put in the time and effort to make sure you are spending that hard-earned paycheck wisely. It is important that it delivers the results you are looking for. Many companies today offer a click and buy approach. Synthetic Ice is not meant to be a click and buy the product. Would you buy a vehicle online without talking to a dealer? I am guessing no. there is too many details to cover to not talk to a live person. When you call KwikRink, you will get Don (President) or Brett (Operations Executive) on the phone. No salespeople.

At KwikRink, we prefer to speak with you on the phone about your application. We have 20 years of experience designing both residential synthetic ice applications and commercial synthetic ice applications. Using the dimensions of the area, we can design the blueprint for an ideal use of the space with the potential clients criteria in mind. We can install the application for these clients, or offer on-site supervision. many of our residential clients will have their home builder install the rink, in which case, we work directly with the builder to make sure the job is done correctly. In commercial applications, a lot of the same variables hold true. Most commercial applications or training centers share a common goal. That common goal is to have a very high return on investment. If you have ever seen a home remodeling show, it does matter where all the parts fall. Our specialty is making sure that they fall in the right place.

KwikRink offers more than just a product to its consumers. We offer education and design as the expert consultants of the industry. Available areas vary widely when it comes to synthetic ice applications. The most important element is the utilization of the available area in the most effective and efficient manner possible.

tags commercial synthetic ice, consultants, design, industry, residential synthetic ice

13
May

Home Ice Advantage: Residential Synthetic Ice Rinks

Posted by KwikRink

Some of us don’t have a rink nearby. Some of us live in warmer climates, where the only available ice time is at a booked ice rink. Even the cooler climates aren’t having the usual cold weather that supports outdoor ice. Minnesota is known as the land of 10,000 rinks for all of its outdoor ice venues available. This past winter was awful for outdoor ice. More and more people are starting to look at an alternative solution to unlimited ice time. It is time to install a residential synthetic ice rink in your home and create an unparalleled home ice advantage for your hockey players.

Where? Indoor or outdoor? Basements, garages, and backyards are all plausible areas for home ice advantage. Many people get very creative in answering this question. I have had a client transform what was supposed to be a home movie theater into their own home ice advantage. I have seen a bedroom turned hockey rink, 3rd stall garage, and even an attic. The most important aspect is that the floor space is hard and flat (concrete or wood).

What size is enough for my hockey players to have fun and improve their skills? Ideally, you would shoot for a 2:1 ratio in length to width. Often times, this is not possible with available space indoors. Small kids can get a way with a 12′ x 8′ size rink, which fulfills our minimum order requirement. We recently installed two home rinks that came to roughly 18′ x 10′ dimensions. This is a solid size to use as a shooting lane, improve quickness, and hand skills. I have had clients add on to their garages and go quite big in size (50′ x 25′).

With skill development and fun in mind, a lot of our residential rinks share a common theme. You’ll often see a shooting tarp on one or both ends. Dasher boards on the side walls will protect the walls and bring authenticity to your home rink. We offer design ideas and installations. Every application is different and should be treated as such. Customization is essential when it comes to creating your own home ice advantage.

tags home ice advantage, residential synthetic ice

27
April

Synthetic Ice Industry Evolution and Misconceptions

Posted by KwikRink

Throughout the years, the synthetic ice industry has evolved and grown quite substantially. Back in 1996, we were the first company to bring the product to the hockey market. At that time, there was not much to it besides a hard plastic that you can skate on. It certainly worked for skating, and people seemed to be in awe when seeing it for the first time, although it would not have been considered high performing. Fast forward to today, and the synthetic ice surface becomes a complex chemistry formula (at least for our company). This evolution has created a very realistic alternative surface for ice skating.

There are many misconceptions about the synthetic ice industry. As the experts in this space, I would like to touch on some of those.

The first of which is that, not all synthetic ice surfaces are created equally. The synthetic surfaces themselves may look the same, but it is really about what the synthetic has “under the hood.” If you are looking at a new Ferrari, one with an engine, and one without, which one is better? I am assuming you want to hit the Autobann with the engine equipped Ferrari!

The next big one I hear has to do with a technical term known as the “coefficient of friction” test. It sounds very scientific, and you could certainly be persuaded that this rating can tell you how awesome the synthetic surface is! Wrong. There is no scientific test that correlates to how it will perform on ice skates. The only way to find out what works best, is to use the ancient “guess and check” method with real skaters. Although, it is not so much guess, as it is the tweaking of a current formula. The key is to find the right balance of hardness and lubricant.

Some companies have switched over to a UHMW plastic, which is very expensive, but not necessarily better. The problem with these types of plastic is that they constantly bleed out lubricants (kids may be allergic), and will eventually become a dead cutting board with no lubricants left inside of the panel. There isn’t any off-the-shelf plastic that is good for ice skating. It must be created.

KwikRink uses our own proprietary formula when manufacturing our panels. Our goal is to provide a synthetic ice surface that skates the best in the world. We are hockey people, providing a high end product to other hockey people.

tags coefficient of friction, experts, formula, industry

09
April

Hockey: A Way Of Life

Posted by KwikRink

From five in the morning practice as a kid to beer league or the pros as an adult, hockey has shaped everything from A to Z in our lives. The game has taught us to persevere through the inevitable obstacles that life throws at us on a daily basis. Speaking personally, I would not be where I am today without the greatest sport in the world on my resume. Hockey has given us even more off the ice than it did on.

Beginning in youth hockey, we form friendships that end up lasting a lifetime. Camaraderie is naturally created from the agony of a sudden death loss in the extra period. It is created from the glory of a championship victory in double overtime. Experiencing the ups and downs with teammates gets us ready for the roller-coaster ride of ups and downs in life.

Hockey has shaped our culture. As our career in the sport continued throughout the years, our language was changed for better, or for worse. We could probably write a new dictionary on hockey slang from our time around the rink. Often times we will see that the entire team has neglected a visit to the local barber, as our hair starts to flow every which way out of our helmets.

The game has given us priceless memories throughout the years. Memories were created with the best of friends and family, in locations spanning states/provinces, which will last a lifetime. Some of our fondest memories come from the time spent in a locker room full of the biggest beauties around.

Whether you are just starting youth hockey or have already hung them up for good, we can all agree that hockey has shaped our lives in some form. Once a hockey player, always a hockey player. Cheers to the greatest sport known to mankind. Cheers to hockey.

tags beauties, beer league, camaraderie, hockey player, youth hockey

28
March

Small Area Games

Posted by KwikRink

Many of our clients buy rinks for their basement or garage, which are typically small areas and only have so much space available. Often times they worry whether the rink will offer enough space for their kids to practice skills and have fun with friends. The majority will quickly find that the KwikRink surface, regardless of size, has improved their kids skills in an immense way.

Practicing skills in small areas can be a blast for kids, simply because it doesn’t feel like practice. It’s like that vegetable you slip in their fruit smoothies that they can’t even taste, but they still receive the benefit from it being there. Kids have many options when it comes to small area games, and most just come naturally. Some examples of these games would be; 1 on 1, 2 on 2, 3 on 3, keep away, or stick handling games a lot like what you see in the picture above with NHL superstar, Patrick Kane. All of these small area games are going to translate to a noticeably improved skill-set on game-day.

One of the main areas most kids will improve upon is their hands. When working with a smaller area, you must learn to handle the puck with quick hands protect the puck using your body and stick angles intelligently. Another vastly improved skill is quickness, both physically and mentally. In tight areas, players are required to process thought and act in a lightning quick manner.

“It’s very important to learn how to play in tight areas. We still do drills to this day that are tight area games where it’s 2-on-2, 3-on-3 down low, maybe 1-on-1 in the corners. They teach you how to battle and how to maneuver in tight space.”

– Patrick Kane on Small Area Games

tags hands, kids, Patrick Kane, quickness, skills, small area games

16
March

20th Year at the Let’s Play Hockey Expo

Posted by KwikRink

As vendors, we thoroughly enjoy attending the Let’s Play Hockey Expo. This event gives us the opportunity to connect face-to-face with individuals from a very special community, which also happens to be our market. As our business has grown throughout the years, we are proud to be embraced by Minnesota’s hockey-rich market.

tags hockey expo, hockey vendor, minnesota hockey

Kwikrink news

Posted by KwikRink

What Are You Skating On?

What is Synthetic Ice?

You Need an Even Surface

Less Friction = Better Skating

You Want An Authentic Ice Experience

No More Shavings and Abrasions

No Additional Chemicals

Stop Dulling Your Blades

High-Quality Materials are a Bargain

Assurance Your Rink Will Last

Accessories Are Important

Synthetic Rinks Are Gaining Popularity

Skate Anytime You Want

Let’s Get Skating

Posted by KwikRink

Your Basement

Your Driveway

Your Backyard

Game Courts

Garages and Outbuildings

On a Rooftop

Get Started on Your Custom Synthetic Rink

Posted by KwikRink

1. You Can Install it Anywhere

2. It Doesn’t Melt

3. You Can Put It Down and Take It Up

4. It’s Close to Real Ice But Gives You a Better Workout

5. Customizable and Easy to Install

6. Long-Lasting and Durable

7. Puck and Stick Handling Practice

Contact KwikRink to Install Synthetic Ice for your Location

Posted by KwikRink

Synthetic Ice Holiday Sale

Why KwikRink Synthetic Ice?

Home Ice Advantage

Posted by KwikRink

Can you skate on synthetic ice?

How long does synthetic ice last?

Will Synthetic Ice Ruin my Skates?

Can I do a Hockey Stop on Synthetic Ice?

What type of maintenance is required for my synthetic ice rink?

Can i wear shoes on synthetic ice?

Posted by KwikRink

1. Larger synthetic ice panels make for less seams in the surface.

2. Larger synthetic ice panels provide more forgiveness when a substrate is flawed.

3. Larger synthetic ice panels allow for a quicker installation.

4. Larger synthetic ice panels offer the best bang for your buck.

Posted by KwikRink

Glide

Hardness Balance

Seamless Connection

Best Synthetic Ice

Posted by KwikRink

No Synthetic Ice Underlay

Simple Synthetic Ice Underlay

Advanced Synthetic Ice Underlay

Posted by KwikRink

Who/What does this Synthetic Ice Rental Program benefit?

What does this Synthetic Ice Rental Program offer?

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink

Posted by KwikRink