Abstract: An ice rink for speed competition skating has a rink floor which is divided into longitudinal spans or sections by recesses extending transversely of the freezing zone of the rink. On each span or section, there are disposed side-by-side a large number of freezing pipes extending lengthwise of the freezing zone. Refrigerant supply and return headers are provided in each recess for extending across the recess. The freezing pipes associated with two neighboring spans or sections are introduced into the associated recesses so as to cross one another for connection to the supply and return headers and then to the common freezing unit disposed outside of the recesses. The freezing pipes are retracted into the recesses in the crossing or overlapping portions so that the ice does not become too hard or thick in these portions. The relative height level of the crossing point is also adjustable so as to render the ice layer uniform and smooth in quality.

Abstract: Described is a sports boot such as ice skate boot or ski boot which is both water-proof and air permeable and which is comprised of a boot-shaped substrate formed of natural or synthetic leather or other similar pliant material, an outer sheath formed of synthetic material and applied integrally to the outer side of the substrate, air permeable members or units provided in suitable portions in the sole part of the sheath and having ventilation holes providing for communication between the inside and outside of the sheath, and porous films or sheets made water-proof air permeable layers or sheets of porous synthetic resin material provided between side substrate and the sheath in portions where at least the ventilation holes are provided.