Dick Button, Olympic and world men's champion figure skater, is favored to retain his North American title when he takes the ice at Ardmore, Pennsylvania, today for the North American championship.

Button, the only person ever to receive an honorary "H" while a member of the freshman class, returned from France last month after successfully defending his world title against the pick of European contenders.

Because he has been trying to catch up in his studies, Button is currently short on practice. As a result, the 19-year-old champion expects to have some difficulty in retaining his North American title. Roger Wickson, who holds the Canadian crown, and James D. Grogan, runner-up to Button last year, will force him to turn in a fine performance.

Five Minute Routine

Button's routine in competition lasts over five minutes. This is nearly twice as long as a hockey forward's turn on the ice and every bit as taxing, since it involves continuous leaps and twirls. These leaps and twirls are Button's specialty.

Originally headed for Yale, Button decided to come to Harvard after studying at the Summer School in 1948. He is an honorary member of the Skating Club of Boston, where he practices early in the morning to avoid an audience.