Jackson Classiques vs. Jackson Freestyles

Okay, for awhile, there have been two different skates I've had my eye on, Jackson Classique and Jackson Freestyle. As you can see, these skates are from the same company. And I've noticed that they have tried to make the JF look more professional than the JC by pricing them higher, and making slight modifications to them, but in reality, they are pretty much the same. Or are they..

Let's check out the descriptions, shall we?

Jackson Freestyles
  Leather Upper polyurethane coated for easy care.

Contour Backstrap for improved ankle fit.

Softer Topline for added comfort.

Microfiber Lining treated with antibacterial properties and doesn’t absorb moisture.

Flex Notch for added flexibility.

Memory Foam Padding is shaped asymmetrically to fit ankles better.

Leather Tongue backed with felt and foam.

LCL Sole layered cork and leather lightweight outsole

Ultima Aspire Blade attached with screws.

Heat Moldable

Stiffness Rating 40 - Moderate

Available in White Only with B and C Widths.

Jackson Classiques
Leather Upper polyurethane coated for easy care.

Contour Backstrap for improved ankle fit.

Softer Topline for added comfort.

Microfiber Lining comfortable and durable.

Flex Notch for added flexibility.

Memory Foam Padding is shaped to fit ankles.

Leather/Mesh Comfort Tongue with foam padding.

Stylish PVC Outsole

Ultima Mirage All-Purpose Blade attached with screws.

Stiffness Rating - 40 Moderate

Available in White Only with B and C Widths.

The only differences are the sole, tongue, and blade. The Mirage blade is more of recreational blade, while the Aspire is probably for more serious things. And the tongue on the Classique would probably make it easier to break them in, while the sole on the Freestyle are lighter than the Classique.

Now, let's see the level requirements for the skates.

Jackson Freestyles
USFSA Basic 8, Freestyle 1-4
ISI Freestyle Test 3,4
Skate Canada Canskate Stages 6,7, Pre-Preliminary

Jackson Classique
USFSA Basic 8, Freestyle 1-4
ISI Freestyle Test 3,4
Skate Canada Canskate Stages 6,7, Pre-Preliminary

See the difference? No? That's because there is none! They have the same level requirements, so if you were in either of these levels, It really would not matter.

And then there's pricing

Jackson Freestyles
$265.95

Jackson Classiques
$174.95

Overall, I think I would go with the Classiques. Despite the fact they have a recreational blade, they have foam padding, which would most likely make it easier to break them in. Plus, the price won't break the bank as much, and I bet they could last until double jumps.