Abstract: A unitary one-piece molded plastic skate, for use with ice or roller skate runners, has a lower shell portion and an upper portion shell portion with the upper shell portion comprising a tendon guard and side ankle flaps, the tendon guard portion of the upper being integrally molded to form a hinge with the rear heel portion of the lower portion. The side ankle flaps overlap upward extensions of side walls of the lower shell portion. A mold apparatus for forming the one-piece skate boot and said mold apparatus including a core formed to the inner shape of the skate boot and having an upstanding leg portion with the thin walled sleeve fixed to the upstanding portion and having a downwardly extending skirt which, in the molding operation, is in contact at the edge thereof with the mold cavities so as to form the flaps of the upper portion but to leave a hinge portion at the heel rear.

Abstract: A closure system is provided for a front entry ice skate sports boot having a top, an ankle portion with a back, a front opening, and sides extending above the ankle bone of a wearer, and an upper with a front opening. A plurality of guide means are disposed on the upper on opposite sides of the front opening for receiving and guiding a substantially flat flexible strap. The guide means are constructed such that the strap can be laced through the guide means in such a direction that the ends of said strap are generally near the top of the boot, and substantially encircle the ankle portion above the ankle bone. A hinge movably attaches the ankle portion to the upper for limited rotation therebetween. A plurality of guide means are also disposed on the ankle portion on opposite sides of the front opening. Fastening means are positioned on the strap and include a strap adjusting part through which the strap passes.