Abstract: Increased forward and rearward flex of a skate boot about the ankle joint is provided while maintaining sufficient lateral support. This flex is provided by preferably removing a portion of the skate in the achilles tendon region above the heel. The flex characteristics can further be improved by providing notched areas at the front of the skate to avoid buldging when the skate is flexed forwardly. A reinforcing member is applied over the cut-out region to provide supplementary lateral support but is of a shape to accommodate forward and rearward flexing. A skate of this design significantly reduces damage to the soft tissues adjacent the achilles tendon caused by restricted pivoting movement of the leg about the ankle.