jgold47

Did you say 709?

growing up, Graf's were the grail skates. It didnt matter what Tacks or Supremes you had (or Microns or...), if you had Graf's you were hot shit. So, when I started playing again (and had money), thats what I wanted to buy. So up to a certain point, they still have cache. However, now that I've heard all the issues their modern skates have, and how the older skates are so seemingly archaic (my local PIAS has a couple of pairs of NIB 727 and 703's in my size I've been tempted to buy, but they are so heavy and clunky feeling compared to a modern skate). Even with new ownership, I'm not sure that I would trust them any time soon unless there was a clear compelling reason to buy them. Now, the story changes if they bring back some of the specialty fits they used to have like the 709's, 727's, 704's and so on and so forth, then they might find a home as a solid 3/4th choice brand. Do European Graf's have a better reputation?

skated with these on Sunday. I didnt use shims and I didnt secure them. I cant say they made me skate any better, but darn if they didnt feel good in there. Really increased the comfort level. I give it two years before every skate has a soft foam toe cap. I'll try the shims to see if that makes any more of a difference. Based on the price I rate this a 50/50 purchase. Will update as I continue to skate

have mine on the way as well.