Need some great skates? Are you new to the sport of ice hockey and wondering what types of skates are available? Have you signed up for a local recreation league and want to get some great equipment? Skates are an essential piece of equipment in this sport. In fact, without them, you cannot even play! The selection of skates can be overwhelming at first, but taking a little time to choose the right type will ensure you will not regret it.
About the Brand
The name of Bauer will always be associated with the highest quality of hockey. It was founded nearly a hundred years ago and became the first company to manufacture hockey skates with the blade attached directly to the skate boot. Since those days, they have continued to work on improving the quality of their skates by utilising advanced construction methods and innovative materials.
At the same time, they devote significant efforts to studying the needs of players at various levels because the company provides the best equipment for all of them. Bauer is distinct from its competitors, but the primary quality that sets it apart from other brands is its innovative approach to skate design.
In particular, Bauer has collected a huge database after having conducted more than one million foot scans to design a special fit system. The result is such that skates produced by this company can fit any foot. Moreover, due to a scientific approach, all skates offered for sale are designed with great attention to comfort regardless of their price category.
Models
The Bauer family of skates comprises different groups that are tailored to suit certain skating styles. The key to selecting the best Bauer skates for sale lies in understanding these models.
Vapor
The Vapor line was developed for the skater who favours speed and agility on the ice. This is probably the right choice for you if you prefer to play off the mark, turning quickly and making lots of lateral movements while skating. Generally, this stick will feature a boot made of a stiff upper section and a softer bottom section that enables you to have a better forward bend on the ice. This gives you excellent control and response as it keeps your heel locked in place.
Supreme
The Supreme model is engineered for power and efficiency. This product line is geared towards the “north-to-south” style of skating, where a skater uses powerful strides to attain higher speeds. While the boot design of the Vapor skate differs, with its varying levels of stiffness in certain sections, the Supreme skates have an even distribution of stiffness across the boot. It provides optimal energy transfer from the leg muscles to the blade when skating. The soft tendon guard on the back side of the skate makes sure that there is complete flexibility in every stroke.
Bauer X
The Bauer X line represents the best possible choice for newbies to the game of hockey and recreational players. The company has combined several technological solutions to offer one “supermodel” that is definitely better than the regular rental skate line.
The X line of Bauer skates for sale uses Digi Comp technology, which provides an attractive appearance and flex easy to master, great for beginners trying to get used to the proper skating stance. Moreover, the soft foams inside, along with the thick felt tongue, will ensure comfort from the very beginning.
How to Choose
The choice of a skate is the combination of choosing according to your style and determining its size. The beginner usually makes a mistake in purchasing the skate equal in size to the usual sneakers. It is important to remember that hockey skates should be smaller by one or one and a half sizes compared to street shoes.
In a standing position, your toes should touch the tip of the skate. With the transition to the skating position (bent knees), your toes will retreat somewhat back. Bauer uses a Performance Fit System that includes three types of skate profiles, available for the Vapor and Supreme models.
Profile 1 is the perfect option for feet with a low volume, narrow width, and shallow heel. Profile 2 is the most popular, recommended for medium volume feet. Profile 3 is the ideal solution for high-volume feet, a wide forefoot, and a deep heel pocket.
Apart from the fit, the number of times you will be skating per week should also factor in. For instance, if you have plans of playing only once a week, skates such as the Bauer X or Supreme M3 would offer you all the necessary durability and comfort. If, on the other hand, you have intentions of skating for multiple occasions each week, then a slight upgrade would go a long way. You should bear in mind, however, that a good pair of skates does not always translate to the most expensive pair in the market.
A Final Word
Picking the perfect hockey Bauer skates is an important achievement for anyone who plays this game. With the selection of the Bauer brand, you are going for a company that has built a name for itself when it comes to quality.
