shoot_the_goalie

Because True Skates are custom lasted , is it highly recommended to use their insoles? Or would switching out to superfeet, or something, be fine, or would it screw up the custom fit, even if very slightly?

Getting scanned for my first pair of True Skates this weekend. Could someone give me a refresher on the options available for customization? I'm looking to get the Step Holder w/ Step Blacksteel (unless they'll do a LS4 w/ Blacksteel - but I hear that needs to be aftermarket). Also looking at getting added shot-blocking protection built in if they still offer that? Thanks.

Interesting to see that the majority of the higher star rated helmets are pretty much doing away with high density foams, and going back to mid-density foams or using the specialty foams like Poron and D30. I wonder if that means the shells themselves are bigger to accommodate that. I agree... until there's an official standard established, the VT scores don't necessarily mean that much. But at least it is a start to maybe something better down the road in terms of official certification.

Absolutely love FBV (light years better to me than ROH) and currently sharpening with a Blackstone X01. While I love my Blackstone and am pretty experienced with it, I was intrigued by the apparent ease of use and conveience from the Sparx. However, since it doesn't sharpen FBV, that could be a no-go for me. Anyone have experience skating on the Fire radius and FBV? If so, how does the Fire compare to FBV?

AFAIK, Subban is still under an endorsement contract w/ CCM? And CCM did similar embroidery on his custom winter classic skates a while back.

I've heard that the Super Tacks is a very difficult skate to punch/stretch due to it's stiffness. Anyone have experience stretching or punching out a hot spot?

@MikeBoyarchuk I have the current version and it's great. I was more asking out of curiosity.

@MikeBoyarchuk Any idea if Powerfoot would make the inserts out of different materials in the future? I for one would be very interested in a memory foam version if it was ever in the works.

Directly from Blackstone concerning mini spinners: The spinners will last for around 5-6 grinding stones, so approximately 400-550 pairs of skates.

Sure does help. Really appreciate it.

Thanks for the response. You referenced how the Ultra Tacks in 6D felt. How did the Ultra Tacks in 6.5D feel for you? Would you say that they are same/similar fits between models (i.e. if I fit in a 6.5D Ultra Tacks (which I did) that the 6.5D Super Tacks would be the correct fit in that model boot?) I also tried on a 6.5D Supreme 1S and that fit too, but I preferred the heel lock on the Super Tacks (even in the crammed 6D)

Does anyone know how the Super Tacks fit in relation to the Ultra Tacks? I went to a LHS and they didn't have the Super Tacks in the size I wanted to try, so I tried the Ultra Tacks in a 6.5D and they fit well. However, considering that the Super Tacks are a significant difference in construction, wondering if the two models fit differently. FWIW, I tried a Super Tacks in 6D and it was too small in length as my big toe was pushing against the toe box. Also, wasn't interested in the Ultra Tacks.

How was it getting the LS3 holders onto the monocoque boot? Easy or any difficulties encountered?

I'm wearing a 6.5D in first generation Tacks which fit me great, since I have a narrow heel but wide forefoot. So would trying on a 7D make sense in Super Tacks?

How's the fit differ from the previous generation's Tacks skate?

Forgive me for my ignorance. I use the orange wheels for FBV on CCM Hyperglide runners. What's the advantage of using ruby wheels over the orange or pink wheels?

Amazin. This is fantastic! So much improvement. Try to get your center of gravity a little lower, bend those knees but keep the upper torso centered and balanced (your upper is leaning a touch too forward), and try to elongate your crossovers into smoother strides. A great drill that will help all this is to skate backwards using the red face-off circles, but on only one foot using your inside edge (right foot if you're gliding left, and left foot if you're gliding right). See how much of a full circle you can complete. Will really help with your balance when using edges. Great stuff!

My ski boots fit extremely snug, but after a little packing out of the liners (totally normal and expected), I do get a little wiggle room on the top of my toes. Since there's so much static force with the foot pushing forward and up when on skis, when the liners pack out, it causes a little toe discomfort (toe bang) because of the new movement created. I would think something like Powerfoot would "restore" the liners somewhat in that area and also add additional cushioning, and at $20, they would be a whole heck of a lot cheaper than replacing the liner.

Mike. Wondering if you guys have ever tested Powerfoot in other types of footwear applications, particularly ski boots?

How did the heel feel? If you felt you had really good heel lock, but it was just a hair tight on the width, then go with the D and bake. If it still feels a touch tight, that may loosen up with more break-in of the skate, and if all else, you can have the boot stretched to a EE forefoot width, essentially. Not sure about Makos, but most EE skates are wider all around, not just forefoot, so it may affect the heel lock.

Just started using my pair, and I find that I like them with the shim, giving me a very snug, tight fit. (I like my skates to be very snug in general - I wear skates 2.5 sizes smaller than my shoes). I started using them with Stable 26 socks, and now I have very little negative space in my boot, which is great. Not sure if there's a significant performance difference from using the Powerfoot inserts (and the Stable 26 as well), but I'll tell you this... from a comfort standpoint...it's fantastic. It's also prevented me from curling my toes when in stationary positions, which has caused aches in the past. And for less than $20, it's a great value. I'm sold and am already recommending to fellow players who have complained in the past about roomy toe boxes.

and like MThockeydad said, don't forget to bring beer to share! cheers!

I agree. In addition to making a great machine, Blackstone's customer service is top notch. I've dealt primarily with Liam for all my questions, and he's been fantastic and knowledgeable in his support.

I think this is going to be your major decision maker. If you like FBV, it makes sense to use the machine that is built by the people who invented the tech. I personally love FBV. First time I tried it, it took getting used to (almost felt slippery), but once you get used to it, it's fantastic and it's the real deal. I once had to go back to ROH for an emergency sharpening at the rink, and my skates felt so "sluggish" compared to FBV. I'll never go back to ROH if I can help it. Both machines are great and both have phenomenal customer service. IMHO, the Wissota has a much steeper learning curve than the X01/X02. However, If you're out playing, and you need an emergency sharpening somewhere else (like I did), chances are you're more likely going to have to get ROH, as it's more common. And in regards to sharpening your own skates... I am very picky. I once had FBV done on my skates, and I kept losing my edge cause they were poorly done. So a lot of the quality is on the operator, more so than on the machine. When I sharpen my own skates, I know #1) that it was done with meticulous care, #2) that the edges are to spec and that they are level, #3) they can be done anytime I'm around my machine (so no waiting, no trying to get to the LHS before they close, etc) When I first got my X01, it took me about a hour to sharpen a pair of skates to the desired level of quality, cause I had to figure this thing out, reposition this thing there, etc, etc... but now I can sharpen my skates with very good precision in about 5 minutes. Plus now I sharpen for my kids, and in no time, the machine should pay for itself pretty quickly. Best of luck in whatever machine you get!

Currently skating on FBV 100/50, but heard good things about 95/75. How much of a difference is the feel and the attributes of 95/75 vs 100/50? Is there really a noticeable difference, or is it very subtle? I currently like 100/50, but wouldn't mind a little more grip on my edges. Just for reference, I'm 5'9", 170lbs, and skate on relatively hard ice indoors. Thanks