Don't accept the assumption that some players are intrinsically better skaters and you will never skate as well as they do. If two players have the same quality skates that could he true. However, there is a huge difference in a player s ability to skate and to improve their skating if they purchase the best quality skates that they can afford. The ankle and arch support in the highest quality skates provide an incredible advantage in assisting your ability to skate. This is an old hockey tale.
Modern skates provide adequate protection from shots on both the toe, side of the foot and ankle.
Evaluate your foot s arch through a physician or chiropractor. A boot supply store has several choices available for someone who needs minimal support. Many ski stores make them for ski boots and will make a pair for your skates. A Toronto company makes orthotics for professional figure skaters. Their system requires you to walk with your normal gait over a sensor that creates a computer form which is transmitted to the company which makes an orthotic insert for your skates or shoes.