In Moscow, a new trend is taking over apartments: mini ice rinks made of artificial ice. These rinks, available on online marketplaces, can be assembled like puzzles and customized to fit any space, from a small corner to an entire room. Social media is buzzing with posts about this unique hobby, as residents share their experiences and creative uses for these rinks.
Some Muscovites use these rinks to practice hockey skills, such as shooting and stickhandling. Others take it a step further, strapping on skates and gliding across their living rooms. The rinks are made from a plastic material designed to mimic the properties of ice, though many users note that skating on it requires some skill—it’s not quite the same as real ice. However, it’s perfect for practicing puck handling and other hockey drills.
While the idea is exciting, it’s not cheap. A 2-meter by 1-meter rink costs around 5,000 rubles, with larger sizes commanding higher prices. There’s a wide variety of options available, from modular puzzle-like pieces to rollable mats that can be easily transported. This flexibility makes it appealing to both casual users and serious enthusiasts.
Not everyone is thrilled about this trend, though. Some residents have expressed concerns about noise and disturbances. "I wouldn’t be too happy if my upstairs neighbor started practicing hockey tricks or figure skating moves. After all, an apartment building isn’t a sports arena," one social media user commented. The debate continues as more people join the trend, balancing their passion for skating with consideration for those around them.
