photo: empty ice rink in pines at sunset

Backyard Rinks

Ice-skating is something that's sometimes better in theory than in practice. Once you get to the rink (which may mean first shoveling your car out from under a foot of snow) there are the lines and the uncomfortable rental skates, the pricey hot chocolate and blaring music that might not be your style. Then when you finally get on the ice, you're told to get off in order to make room for the Zamboni.

Backyard rinks mean family fun all winter long.

Those who have their own backyard rinks, however, don't have all these issues.
Take hockey-enthusiast Scott Byburg of Toronto-he's been building backyard ice-skating rinks for more than 20 years. "For most people to go skating, it takes an hour to get the kids ready and an hour to get to the local rink," he says. "Then you spend an hour watching the kids and an hour getting back home. That's four hours. Me? I can get my rink set up in 20 minutes."

Byburg's website provides all of the information needed to create a framework and lining for your very own backyard rink. He also sells a "Rink Rake," which can be dragged around the rink to make the top layer of ice extra glassy.

For those who are less do-it-yourself inclined, the Ice-N-Go kits provide everything you need (minus water) in order to make a rink that will fit almost any yard. Just lay down a frame, put a liner on top of it, apply a special "protective border," fill with water, wait for it to freeze, and then pray spring comes late this year. For a finishing touch, you can even get your own mini Zamboni!

There are also synthetic rink kits for people who live in warmer climates or those who don't have outdoor space. So what does all this mean? It means there's now no reason not to be outside perfecting that double axel, you pro.

Posted on January 16, 2006