technical skating question

[U23...@uicvm.uic.edu]

I'm an experienced hockey player but hav only recently begun experimenting with
taping my skates around the ankles for support. I've found that taping improve
s my balance and pivoting but reduces manueverability and quickness somewhat. I
wonder, though, if my quickness will improve as I get used to the new style of
skating and build up muscle strength.
Question #2: Anyone have any experience with using orthotics (custom made inso
les or foot beds) in skates? I use prescription orthotics in my skates, which h
elp my skating tremendously, but the orthotics were not made specifically for s
kates. I'm considering getting orthotics designed for skiing, which I can have

made for me by a ski shop for about $100. I expect that ski orthotics should wo
rk very well in skates but would like to know if anyone has heard of using them
in skates. (By the way, anyone know how many pro or college players use orthot
ics (custom made footbeds)? and what about custom made skates: do pros tend to
have their skates custom made or not?

A question regarding skate fit: I have trouble finding skates that fit me. I ha
ve a long, narrow foot (size 13). Currently I have a pair of Bauer 3000's in si
ze 11.5, B width, which don't fit too badly (they're the only skates I've ever
had in which my heels don't slip) but they're too big in the instep, that is, t
here's a gap between the top of my foot and the tongue. I've heard that Riedell
s tend to fit narrow feet better. Anyone have any tips?