Jackson Ultima vs Riedell Figure Skates (May 2026) Guide

Choosing between Jackson Ultima vs Riedell figure skates for intermediate skating is one of the most common decisions skaters face. After testing both brands extensively and talking with coaches, I’ve found that neither brand is universally better – the right choice depends entirely on your foot shape and skating goals. Both Jackson Ultima and Riedell produce quality intermediate skates, but they fit differently and excel in different areas. Let me break down what you need to know to make the right choice for your skating journey in 2026.

Intermediate skating typically means you’re working on single jumps (waltz jump, salchow, toe loop, loop), basic spins, and more complex footwork. You need more ankle support than beginner skates provide, but you don’t need the stiff boots required for double jumps yet. Both brands offer models in this support range, but understanding the differences will help you invest wisely. If you’re progressing from beginner to intermediate, check out our guide on how to progress from beginner to intermediate skating to assess your current level.

For skaters looking beyond these two brands, our guide to the best ice dancing figure skates for intermediate skaters covers additional options worth considering.

Quick Comparison: Jackson Ultima vs Riedell for Intermediate Skaters

Jackson Ultima Excel – Best for Wide Feet and Early Intermediate

After spending 30 days testing the Jackson Ultima Excel, I found these skates shine for skaters transitioning from beginner to intermediate skills. The light support rating (around 25) provides enough stability for learning single jumps while maintaining flexibility for proper edge work. What impressed me most was how the Excel balances support without feeling restrictive – crucial when you’re developing proper technique.

The reinforced vinyl upper surprised me with its durability. Unlike cheaper vinyl boots that crack or crease awkwardly, the Excel maintains its shape through multiple sessions per week. The foam-backed tongue provides noticeable comfort during longer practice sessions, and the flex notch genuinely allows for natural ankle movement – something many intermediate skaters struggle with in stiffer boots.

On the ice, the factory-sharpened Ultima Mark II blade performs adequately for learning edges and basic jumps. However, I noticed the factory sharpening isn’t optimal for more advanced work. Most intermediate skaters will want a professional sharpening within the first few weeks. The blade attachment to the PVC sole feels secure, though serious skaters eventually upgrade to higher-quality blades.

The true standout feature is Jackson’s signature fit – wider toe box with a narrower heel. This shape accommodates foot shapes that many other brands squeeze uncomfortably. Skaters who’ve struggled with cramped toes in other boots often find relief with Jackson’s last. For comfort during long sessions, consider adding protective gear from our guide to the best protective gear for intermediate figure skaters.

Best Foot Shape For Jackson Ultima

Jackson Ultima Excel works best for medium to wide feet, particularly those with wider forefoot and narrower heel. If you’ve experienced toe pinching or numbness in other brands, Jackson’s wider toe box will feel noticeably more comfortable. The heel lock remains secure even for narrower heels thanks to the anatomical last design.

Ideal Skating Level For Jackson Ultima

The Excel targets early intermediate skaters working on basic single jumps (waltz jump, salchow, toe loop) and scratch spins. The light support level is insufficient for landing double jumps consistently, but it’s perfect for developing proper jump technique without the boot doing all the work. Most skaters outgrow the Excel within 6-12 months of serious intermediate training.

Riedell Topaz – Best for Narrow Feet and Balanced Support

Testing the Riedell Topaz for four weeks revealed a distinctly different experience from Jackson. With a support rating of 40, these skates offer significantly more ankle stiffness – ideal for intermediate skaters attempting consistent single jumps and working toward doubles. The increased support comes with a trade-off in break-in time, but dedicated skaters will appreciate the stability on jump landings.

The performance microfiber upper impressed me with its quality feel and durability. Unlike vinyl boots that can feel plastic-like, the Topaz’s upper material has a premium feel while maintaining moisture resistance. The Dri-Lex moisture-wicking lining genuinely works – my feet stayed noticeably drier during 90-minute practice sessions compared to other boots in this price range.

On the ice, the Eclipse Capri blade provides smooth control and decent edge quality, though like the Jackson Excel, factory sharpening is inadequate for serious training. Plan for immediate professional sharpening. The Helios outsole contributes to stability on jump landings, though some skaters prefer the feel of traditional leather soles.

The padded Achilles collar deserves special mention – it eliminates heel lift issues that plague many intermediate skaters. Combined with the higher support rating, the Topaz instills confidence when attempting new jumps. However, the narrow toe box is unforgiving for wider feet. Several testers with medium-width feet reported discomfort across the ball of the foot after 45-60 minutes on ice.

Best Foot Shape For Riedell Topaz

Riedell Topaz excels for narrow to medium-narrow feet, particularly those with tapered toe shapes. If you’ve found most boots too roomy in the toe area, Riedell’s narrower last will provide the secure fit you need. However, wide-footed skaters should avoid this model – the narrow toe box creates significant discomfort and can lead to foot issues with extended use.

Ideal Skating Level For Riedell Topaz

The Topaz’s support rating 40 targets intermediate skaters working on consistent single jumps and beginning double jump attempts. This stiffness level provides the landing stability needed for axel and double salchow preparation. However, the boot may feel excessive for skaters still mastering basic singles, potentially hindering proper ankle bend and edge technique development.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Support and Stiffness

The most significant technical difference between these brands lies in support levels. Jackson Ultima Excel offers light support (rating approximately 25), while Riedell Topaz provides balanced support (rating 40). This difference dramatically affects which skaters each model serves best.

For skaters recently graduated from beginner programs, the Excel’s lighter support encourages proper ankle strength development. The boot allows some ankle movement, forcing skaters to engage their muscles for stability rather than relying entirely on boot stiffness. This flexibility is crucial for developing correct technique in the early intermediate phase.

Conversely, the Topaz’s stiffer construction provides the landing stability needed for skaters attempting consistent single jumps and beginning doubles. The reduced ankle flex prevents boot collapse on harder landings, which can improve jump consistency. However, this stiffness requires stronger ankle muscles – skaters transitioning too quickly into the Topaz may struggle with proper knee bend and edge depth.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Foot Shape and Fit

Foot shape compatibility is where most skaters make their final decision between these brands. Jackson Ultima builds on a wider last with more room in the toe box and a narrower heel. Riedell uses a tapered last with a narrower toe box and more uniform width through the midfoot.

For wide-footed skaters, Jackson’s design prevents the toe pinching and numbness that occur in narrower boots. The extra forefoot space accommodates foot spreading during jump landings without compromising heel lock. Many skaters who’ve struggled with foot pain in other brands find relief in Jackson’s roomier toe box.

Riedell’s narrower fit benefits skaters with tapered foot shapes who experience excessive foot movement in roomy boots. The secure midfoot wrap eliminates sloppiness during edge work and jump takeoffs. However, wide-footed skaters in Riedell boots often develop pain across the ball of the foot and may experience numbness during longer sessions.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Performance on Ice

Both models perform adequately for intermediate skills, but each shines in different areas. The Jackson Excel’s flexibility encourages proper knee bend and deep edges, making it ideal for skaters focusing on edge quality, footwork, and spin position. The lighter support allows skaters to feel the ice better, developing proprioception that serves them well as they advance.

The Riedell Topaz excels in jump stability and consistency. The stiffer boot provides a solid platform for landing single jumps and attempting doubles. Skaters working on axel and double salchow often appreciate the confidence that comes with reduced boot collapse on harder landings. However, the same stiffness can make edge work feel less responsive, particularly for skaters who haven’t developed sufficient ankle strength.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Durability and Longevity

Durability expectations vary between these models based on their design and intended use. Jackson Ultima Excel’s reinforced vinyl upper shows impressive durability for its support level, typically lasting 8-12 months with 3-4 sessions per week at intermediate level. The lighter construction means faster breakdown than stiffer boots, but this aligns with most skaters’ progression timeline.

Riedell Topaz’s higher support rating and performance microfiber upper suggest longer potential lifespan – typically 12-18 months for intermediate skaters. The stiffer construction maintains support longer, and the moisture-wicking lining reduces breakdown from sweat exposure. However, this extended durability comes at a higher initial price point.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Price and Value

Pricing reflects the different support levels and target markets. Jackson Ultima Excel typically retails around $180, making it an accessible option for skaters recently moved beyond beginner models. The price-to-performance ratio is excellent for early intermediate skaters who will likely outgrow the boot’s support level within a year.

Riedell Topaz generally costs around $220, representing a mid-range investment in intermediate skating. The higher price buys increased support and better moisture management, potentially extending the boot’s useful lifespan. For skaters committing to serious intermediate training, the Topaz offers better long-term value despite the higher upfront cost.

Choose Jackson Ultima Excel If

You have medium to wide feet, particularly with wider forefoot and narrower heel. You’re recently graduated from beginner programs and working on basic single jumps. You prioritize proper ankle strength development over maximum support. You prefer boots that encourage deep edges and proper knee bend. You want a more affordable option as you transition to intermediate skating. You’ve experienced foot discomfort in narrower boots from other brands.

Choose Riedell Topaz If

You have narrow to medium-narrow feet with tapered toe shape. You’re consistently landing single jumps and working toward doubles. You need increased landing stability for harder jumps. You train multiple times per week and need boots that will last. You appreciate moisture-wicking technology for longer sessions. You’re willing to invest more for extended durability and higher support.

FAQ

Final Verdict: Jackson Ultima vs Riedell for Intermediate Skaters

After extensive testing, the verdict comes down to foot shape rather than brand superiority. Jackson Ultima Excel is the clear choice for wide-footed intermediate skaters who need a comfortable transition from beginner equipment. The roomier toe box prevents pain and allows proper technique development without the distraction of foot discomfort.

Riedell Topaz earns the recommendation for narrow-footed skaters ready for serious intermediate training. The increased support and moisture management provide the stability needed for consistent jump landings, while the tapered last offers the secure fit that narrow-footed skaters struggle to find elsewhere.

Ultimately, foot shape matters more than brand preference. Both Jackson Ultima and Riedell produce excellent intermediate skates – the key is matching their design philosophy to your anatomy and skating goals. If you’re unsure about your foot shape, visiting a professional fitter is worth the investment before making your final decision. For more guidance on progressing your skating skills, check out our comprehensive guide on how to progress from beginner to intermediate skating.