It was called a safety track, because the point of most frequent falls was as far as possible from the boards. Around 1980 the 111m oval became the standard short track. At the same time, molded fiberglass boots and adjustable blades became available. These two changes permitted short track skaters to use the same fundamental skating technique as long track skaters. Short track blades are about the same length as long track blades, but set up for the short radius of a 111m short track turn.
Molded boots give adequate support for skater s ankles in the tight turns.
Modern speed skates for short track and long track change, as new technologies emerge, to become as light, strong and as fast as possible. Ice makers improve their methods, searching for the fastest ice surface. Athletes and coaches, of course, also change preparation methods, as they adjust to technical advances. Gains in speed on ice may be more difficult, but skaters will always find a way to go faster. The ASU, created in 1927, is the original U.S. speedskating organization, with roots back to 1868.