Hello everyone! I am hoping that some of you may be able to help me with some questions I have regarding hockey equipment. I'm a new player, playing in some pick up games here and there but I'm going to join a league and play more... can't get enough hockey. I purchased some new / used equipment but I feel like I'm either not equipping it correctly or I've got the wrong stuff. I suck at skating, but I'm working on it. My issues:

I always was told to make sure your skates are tight but I feel like tying the top laces tight limits my flexibility. When they aren't tight I have more but feel a bit unsteady on crossovers, as an example. Is there a certain philosophy or way it should be done?

My elbow pads just constantly slide down. I had this problem in roller hockey too so I am not sure how to handle that one.

My shin guards also constantly slide down. I use tape, I've tried tucking them behind the tongue, over, etc and nothing seems to help. I'm again not sure if it's a sizing issue or if im just an idiot.

Lastly, how much of a difference would I see in $200 skates be $600 skates. It's a sport I've loved my entire life so if I can do anything to improve I would do it.

I don't know anyone else who plays so I don't really have anyone to go over the basics with. Any feedback would be appreciated.