The 5 Types of People You'll Meet at an Outdoor Ice Skating Rink in Canada

Canada: the land of maple syrup, hockey, poutine, and outdoor ice skating rinks where frostbite is just part of the charm. Whether you're in the heart of downtown Toronto, the frosty edges of Winnipeg, or skating under the Northern Lights in Yellowknife, there’s one universal truth about outdoor rinks in Canada: they’re not just for skating. They’re microcosms of human behaviour, showcasing a delightful range of personalities. Here are the five types of people you’re guaranteed to encounter.

1. The Speed Demon

This person didn’t come to glide serenely across the ice—they came to conquer it. Usually decked out in sleek athletic gear, their goal is to lap the rink faster than anyone else. It’s unclear whether they’re training for the Olympics or just trying to outrun their problems, but either way, their determination is unmatched.

You’ll spot them weaving through the crowd with laser-like focus, carving deep grooves into the ice, and occasionally startling a family of four attempting their first steps. They’re also the ones who dramatically stop by spraying ice everywhere, including on your face. Just try not to make eye contact if they crash into the boards; their pride has already taken enough of a hit.

2. The Wobbler

This courageous soul is stepping onto the ice for the first time (or the first time since that traumatic Grade 3 field trip). Dressed in more layers than necessary, their movements resemble a baby giraffe taking its first steps—all limbs and zero balance.

You’ll usually find them clinging to the boards like their life depends on it, muttering, “I’m doing great!” as they inch forward at a snail’s pace. Bonus points if they’re being coached by an overly optimistic friend shouting, “Just let go! You’ll be fine!” (Spoiler alert: they won’t.)

Despite their struggles, you can’t help but root for The Wobbler. They’re living proof that bravery comes in many forms—even if it’s accompanied by a lot of flailing and the occasional tumble.

3. The Picture-Perfect Instagrammer

Every outdoor rink has at least one person (or couple) whose main goal isn’t skating—it’s curating the perfect photo op. In an era dominated by social media, their priority is creating envy-inducing content, not mastering their crossovers. Their carefully staged shots, complete with props like thermoses and scarves, feel more like ice-bound performance art than anything resembling casual fun.

This group can be found striking dramatic poses in front of fairy lights, laughing into the distance like they’re in a Hallmark movie, or faking a fall that’s somehow both graceful and tragic. Don’t be surprised if they politely ask you to move because you’re ruining the aesthetic.

Pro tip: Wait until they post their photos, then check the captions for gems like “Frozen hearts, but warm souls” or “Skating through life one glide at a time.”

4. The Rink Rat

Every Canadian rink has a Rink Rat: that one person who practically lives there. They’ve mastered every possible skating trick and have the swagger to prove it. Hockey stops? Easy. Backwards crossovers? Child’s play. They’ll even casually pull off a pirouette while you’re still struggling to lace up your skates.

You’ll recognize them by their well-worn skates, the oversized hoodie, and their uncanny ability to navigate the busiest rink without ever bumping into anyone. They’re also the unofficial rink DJ, playing tunes from their portable speaker—a mix of 80s classics like Bryan Adams’s “Summer of ‘69,” Canadian indie hits from Arcade Fire, and the occasional Bieber banger like “Sorry.”

While they can seem intimidating, Rink Rats are usually friendly and happy to give you skating tips. Just don’t ask them how to stop—they’ve been skating so long they’ve forgotten what it’s like to be human.

5. The Overzealous Parent

This type isn’t technically skating—they’re supervising. Dressed in a parka, mittens, and an air of determination, they’re the ones hollering encouragement (or instructions) to their kids from the sidelines. “Bend your knees! No, the other knees!” is a common refrain.

Some have bravely ventured onto the ice themselves, holding their child’s hand while simultaneously trying to keep their own balance. Others are stationed rink-side, clutching a Tim Hortons cup like it’s their lifeline. Either way, they’re on a mission to make skating a “fun family tradition,” even if it kills them.

By the end of the day, the Overzealous Parent can usually be found wrangling their exhausted, tear-streaked children off the ice while loudly declaring, “We’ll try again next weekend!”

Honorable Mentions:

• The Romantic Couple: Slowly skating hand-in-hand, oblivious to the chaos around them.

• The Ice King/Queen: This person believes they own the rink and will passive-aggressively glare at anyone who crosses their imaginary “territory.”

• The Dog Walker: Yes, some outdoor rinks allow dogs, and yes, they’re cuter (and sometimes better skaters) than the humans.

Why We Love Them All

Outdoor skating rinks in Canada are more than just frozen patches of water; they’re a winter wonderland where Speed Demons zoom by, Wobblers brave the ice, Instagrammers strike their perfect poses, Rink Rats show off their skills, and Overzealous Parents cheer from the sidelines. Whether you’re a Speed Demon or a Wobbler, there’s something magical about gliding (or stumbling) under the open sky, surrounded by laughter, music, and the crisp Canadian air.

So, the next time you hit the rink, take a moment to appreciate the cast of characters around you. Who knows? You might even spot yourself among them. Just don’t forget to bring extra mittens—and maybe some Band-Aids for The Wobblers.