An Ice Rink Without Ice? Iceless Rinks & Skating Explained

Hockey players skating on iceless ice

When you think of ice skating, you envision a frozen, shimmering surface of ice. But what if we told you that you can experience the thrill of ice skating without actual ice? Enter the world of iceless ice rinks, where synthetic ice is the protagonist. We’ll tell you all about the concept of the ice rink without ice and dive into the fascinating world of ice skating without ice.

 

What is Iceless Ice Skating?

Iceless ice skating refers to the act of skating on synthetic ice surfaces. Although the experience may differ just slightly from traditional ice skating, iceless ice provides a remarkably similar feel. It allows skaters to practice their skills and enjoy the thrill of gliding on a smooth surface. Thanks to synthetic ice, skaters can ice skate anywhere and whenever they like, making it much more  versatile than refrigerated ice.

 

Who can skate on synthetic ice rinks?

Iceless ice rinks are suitable for a wide range of skating activities, including figure skating, ice hockey, recreational skating, and even some events and competitions. Skaters can perform all kinds of spins, jumps, and other maneuvers with ease, with no need to worry about panels or blades. Our hockey training facilities for example allow for a year-round improvement of skills and speed. The Zero-Energy rinks make ice skating accessible to anyone, allowing for the continued development of their skills.

Little girl figure skating

What is an Ice Rink Without Ice?

An iceless ice rink, also known as a synthetic ice rink, is a specially designed surface that mimics the characteristics of electricity-powered ice. It is made from a synthetic material that allows for gliding and maneuvering, just like on refrigerated ice. Eco Ice panels are typically made from a durable polymer and lubricant to provide low friction. The right formula creates a surface that gets close to traditional ice, making it a suitable environment for ice skaters of all kinds.

Family skating on synthetic ice

What does a synthetic ice rink feel like?

There exist just as many opinions on artificial ice as there are synthetic ice manufacturers. That is caused mainly by the differences in quality. You can find a wide range of iceless skating rinks and prices, and you will find that their performance varies a lot. Our synthetic ice tiles best mimic the experience on natural ice. In the beginning, skating on our ice rinks will be slightly different from what you’re used to, but with time, as the lubricants get released, it will feel almost the same as on refrigerated ice.

Where can I install a synthetic ice rink?

Anywhere! All you need for our Eco Ice rinks is a flat surface where the panels can be installed. Our synthetic ice rinks have made it to places that seem unreal at first sight, including rooftops, beaches, and mountain tops. And you do not need to worry about melting, as our synthetic ice rinks do not depend on winter weather. Install and skate on them in whichever part of the world, no matter the season.

About Glice Synthetic Ice Rinks

Glice is a pioneering company at the forefront of the iceless ice revolution. We specialize in the development and manufacturing of Eco Ice solutions that closely replicate the sensation of skating on real ice. Glice’s synthetic ice panels are made from a specially formulated combination of high-quality polymer and embedded lubricants that guarantee optimal gliding properties and durability. This carefully Swiss-born engineered formula makes us proud of our Eco Ice Rinks that get so close to traditional ice.

Boys playing hockey on synthetic ice rink

Advantages of Iceless Ice Rinks from Glice

  • Versatility: Unlike traditional ice rinks that require freezing temperatures, our iceless ice rinks can be set up and enjoyed in any climate. They are not affected by external weather conditions, allowing for year-round skating. You can set them up indoor
  • Durability: Glice’s Eco Ice panels are engineered to withstand heavy usage and extreme temperatures, ensuring a long-lasting investment in your iceless ice rink. We provide a warranty of up to 12 years for our Eco Ice.How to maintain a synthetic ice rink
  • Low Maintenance: Synthetic ice rinks require minimal maintenance compared to refrigerated ice rinks. There is no need for refrigeration systems or resurfacing with water or Zamboni’s, resulting in cost savings and less work. Also, they do not cause any noise from generators that are used for electricity-powered ice.
  • Economical: Besides saving a lot on maintenance costs and lowering your water and electricity bills to almost zero, our Eco Ice rinks are also 20-50% more economical to purchase than refrigerated ice rinks. Considering the longevity of our rinks, you can count on huge savings.
  • Accessibility: Iceless ice rinks provide greater accessibility to the sport of ice skating. They can be installed in various locations, such as indoor facilities, backyards, or community centers, making skating more accessible to people who normally may not have access to electricity-powered ice rinks.
  • Sustainability: Glice’s Eco Ice is eco-friendly, requiring no water or energy for freezing. You can enjoy guilt-free skating while minimizing environmental impact. On top of that, we are dedicated to creating a positive impact on our environment. Our Skate for the Planet initiative is a project that we implement to archive this goal. Together with our partner Eden Reforestation Projects, we plant one tree for every panel produced, and our partner Habitat for Humanity uses our end-of-life panels to build shelters to support humanitarian efforts.

Family skating on ice

What makes Glice stand out

There are a number of factors that make us stand out from our competition, like our high-quality panels or our excellent customer service.

Superior synthetic ice rink

Glice Eco Ice panels are the outcome of 8-year-long intensive research focused on providing the best possible experience for ice skaters of all levels. Our high standards for ourselves, and our team, made of athletes, provide you with only the best results. Our state-of-the-art technology includes a one of its kind tongue and groove interlocking system and the perfect mixture of polymer and lubricants to create a smooth-gliding surface. This allows skaters to perform their moves with confidence and enjoyment.

Couple figure skating on synthetic ice panels

Outstanding customer service

We can be where you are thanks to our global but local structure. Our local representatives provide personalized rinks adapted to your needs, never losing sight of the local demand. Behind them is a globally acting team with lots of expertise.

We want to ensure your Eco Ice rink becomes a thriving attraction for your customers. Not only do our local representatives guide you every step of the way, but our Glice Academy goes even further. It is an online training platform that shows you simply and efficiently how to install and maintain your Glice rink.

Packages that provide all you need

Our full packages provide all you need for a functioning rink business. They have all the required equipment, foremost ice skates, and dasher boards. Furthermore, we supply a wide range of maintenance tools and our specially developed Glice Care and Glice Clean formulas. Please find our complete catalog here. 

Iceless skating outside

Conclusion

Iceless ice rinks have revolutionized the way we approach ice skating. By eliminating the need for actual ice, our synthetic ice rinks provide a year-round opportunity to experience the joy of gliding on a smooth, ice-like surface. Whether for professional skaters, recreational enthusiasts, or someone looking to try ice skating for the first time, an iceless ice rink offers a convenient, accessible, and exciting option.

So, if you’ve ever dreamed of having a skating rink without ice, synthetic ice is the answer. Embrace the versatility, low maintenance, and accessibility of iceless ice rinks, and get ready to glide, spin, and experience the magic of ice skating, no matter the season or location. Get in touch with us today and let the Eco Ice adventure begin!