Synthetic Ice Buying Guide: How to Choose xSynthetic Ice
xSynthetic Ice™ begins by utilizing virgin proprietary materials, which are SINTER-PRESSED through one of eighteen 170-ton computer-controlled presses to create a premium skating surface. Formulated glide additives are mixed thoroughly within the raw material resin prior to pressing. This ensures equal distribution of glide throughout the panels, to create consistent performance for the life of the product. Our product is UV-protected for outdoor use and cuts cleanly to accommodate virtually any area (garage, basement, backyard pad or commercial training space). This guide explains the difference between our four offerings of various thicknesses and connection systems. In addition, we’ll provide information from sizing to freight expectations across the United States, so you can select the right option for your specific application.
Four xGlide options at a glance
| Model | Thickness | Tile Size | Weight | Lock | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| xGlide8 | 8 mm (5/16 in) | 102 cm × 102 cm (40.15 in square) | 18 lbs | Interlocking tile | Home and light residential use: garages, basements, shooting pads |
| xGlide10 + Enhanced Lock | 10 mm | 102 cm × 102 cm | 20.5 lbs | Enhanced Lock | Medium-heavy duty: serious home setups and light commercial use |
| xGlide15 + Enhanced Lock | 15 mm (3/5 in) | 102 cm × 102 cm | 40 lbs | Enhanced Lock | Heavy-duty commercial: training facilities, community rinks, goalie creases |
| xGlide18 + H-Lock | 18 mm (7/10 in) | 100 cm × 75 cm | 36 lbs | H-Lock | Heavy-duty commercial panel for large, high-traffic surfaces and severe climate or temperature swings. Note: H-Lock connectors must be added, which will make this the most expensive option. |
It is key to note that all four options utilize identical materials, construction and precise machining, to ensure an identical pro-skating experience across the entire lineup. The difference is in the variables of thickness and connection systems. Each of these options employs a thickness and corresponding connection system that has been designed for a specific application (considering environment and intended use). The thicker the tile and more robust the connection system, the more directional weight, traffic and temperature change it absorbs.
For light-traffic home use on a very flat surface, the xGlide8 would be a great choice, but for a more robust home user, they would most likely be better served by selecting xGlide10. For a commercial training facility, the starting point would be xGlide10 and the robust system would be xGlide15. Then there is the most unique and ultimate xGlide18 system. This option is ultra heavy duty and ONLY designed for the harshest conditions such as complete regulation-size arenas or municipal outdoor rinks that are frozen over in the winter. Once xGlide18 is fully assembled with H-Lock connectors, the entire surface is basically fused into one solid sheet, making it perfect for absolutely permanent applications. Note that this option will be the most expensive, as you need to add the cost of the H-Lock connectors to the price of each individual panel, which can only be calculated once the final rink size has been determined.
How sizing works
Measure the width and length of your area in feet. The xGlide8, xGlide10 and xGlide15 tiles are all 40 inches square, but the connection systems vary which impacts the overall dimension once connected. Separately, xGlide18 panels are exactly 39.37 in × 29.52 in (100 cm × 75 cm) as they are connected with H-Locks. To assist, each of our product pages has a length and width calculation image to help you determine how many panels are required for your intended area. This provides a visual snapshot into understanding the cost of creating your space. Don’t worry, when you complete the quote form, our team will ensure that you have enough material to cover the area you specify.
Goal creases
Goal creases are available for every option within our xSynthetic Ice lineup and are specifically designed to completely lock into their respective system for safety.
Longevity
xSynthetic Ice is built to be the last surface you buy for the lifetime of your training. xGlide8, xGlide10 and xGlide15 carry a life expectancy of 40+ years. xGlide18 is rated at 20 to 25 years under heavy commercial traffic and the harshest possible conditions and it still carries a five-year outdoor and ten-year indoor warranty. The slick surface remains consistent for the life of the product, simply because the glide enhancer is completely infused through the entire material thickness (rather than applied as a coating).
Shipping and delivery in the USA
This product ships on a pallet via freight carrier to each address across the United States. All prices on xHockeyProducts.com are in US dollars. When we prepare your quote we ask how you can receive freight, as this directly affects the carrier fees:
- Home delivery with a lift gate (where available to your location), or hand unloading the truck yourself.
- Business delivery with a lift gate, a shipping dock, or a forklift on site. A dock or forklift reduces costs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between xGlide15 and xGlide18?
Both are heavy-duty panels designed for every type of area, including commercial spaces. ONLY consider xGlide18 for areas over 1000 square feet or for regulation-sized arenas or municipal outdoor rinks that are frozen over in the winter. Once xGlide18 is fully assembled with H-Lock connectors, the entire surface is basically fused into one solid sheet, making it perfect for permanent applications, but not suited for customers who wish to easily move or reconfigure their space. Note that this option will be the most expensive, as you need to add the cost of the H-Lock connectors to the price of each individual panel, which can only be calculated once the final rink size has been determined.
Is there a minimum order?
Yes, we require a minimum of eight tiles for the first order, but you may choose smaller quantities on subsequent orders (to extend your existing surface).
Can xSynthetic Ice be used outdoors?
Yes, every option is UV-protected and our line-up provides a connection system for each specific application. Outdoor projects require additional planning for drainage, temperature movement, and site preparation. This being said, the right system may also be used as a base to freeze over in winter.
Do I skate on it with normal ice skates?
Yes, standard ice hockey skates work on xSynthetic Ice. Since there is more resistance than refrigerated ice, your coach may consider this a training benefit.
How much does a synthetic ice rink cost?
Make sure to review our product pages, as each one has a length and width calculation image to help you determine how many panels are required for your intended area. This provides a visual snapshot into understanding the cost of creating your space. Once you’re ready, request a quote from the product page for an all-in accurate price for your exact area.
Ready to start? Open the product page for xGlide8, xGlide10, xGlide15 or xGlide18 and use the Get an Official Quote button.