Hockey skates vs. Figure skates for kids

[Dentoman]

I have enrolled my six year old daughter in the learn to skate program at the Oval. Considering I am a born and bred small town Alberta boy, I am ashamed to say I can barely skate so I want her to learn from somebody who knows how to skate with proper technique.

My question is what type of skate should I get her to learn with ... hockey skates or figure skates? I am willing to spend the money to get her something that fits since ill-fitting skates are basically the reason why I hated skating as a kid.

Thanks in advance.

[WilsonFourTwo]

I'm not a skating instructor or anything, but my honest opinion would be to buy a pair of used hockey skates first. Reasons?

1. They'll be broken in, allowing for an improved fit.
2. Initial skating lessons are likely to focus on balance and basic coordination. A toe-pick will be more hassle than necessary at this stage. We all know how easily a six year old gets frustrated.....