Here's something I have wondered and I don't know if it's too dumb or nerdy: Do differences in blade design really make a difference in being about to do elite level jumps/spins/footwork? Is one design better or does it really depend on the skater?
For example, I noticed that Max Aaron and Joshua Farris have changed their blades from a couple of seasons ago and the design change was the same for both men. I don't know if they have use or are using the same exact blades, but I believe they wear different boots (in case that matters). I think Max wears Edea and Joshua wears Riedell.
Photos:
Max Aaron
2013 Nationals
2015 Nationals - Blade Design Change
2016 Nationals
Joshua Farris
2013 Nationals
2014 Nationals
2014 Stars on Ice - Blade Design Change
2014-2015 Season
For reference - it looks like Jason Brown has kept the same blade design:
2014 Olympics
2015 Worlds
2016 Team Challenge Cup
Or is it just a case of them trying some blades and liking skating with them better? I don't think there was a huge change one way or another in Max's or Joshua's jump quality. Spins and footwork - sure - could that been behind the change in blades?