Flexlite Durability

[Scarecrow 0]

I have been lurking for a while and enjoy the knowledge on equipment. It time to upgrade the Daoust 301's. I am in Kansas City, so the skate availability and skate knowledge is very limited. I think I have narrowed it down to Flexlite 12's or Vector Pro's that I found at one of the local sporting goods stores. The Flexlites feel awesome, while the Vector's have some mild pressure areas around ankles and midfoot. The reason I am considering the Vector's is that one: it seems there are breakdown issues with Flexlites at least from what i have read in previous post on this board and other boards and two: the pressure areas will go away after baking and breaking in the skates. I know fit and feel is everything when it comes to skates.

For people who wear Flexlites, are the eyelets and boot breakdown real issues for someone playing men's league 2 -3 times a week?

Thanks.

[Hockey DeVoTee 1]

I have worn my FL 12's for over a year (I play beer league twice a week & coach two teams) no issues with durability/eyelets, but the ankle area has loosened somewhat. I wish they fit more like the old Quest 1's/ One 90 in the ankle.

[jimmy 194]

I haven't seen any real breakdown or durability issues with that skate, in fact it holds up very well. The big thing one has to do with all skates is DRY them after every skate. Sweat is the leading cause of breakdown, rusting, etc.

[JR Boucicaut 3810]

Only problem I have seen is guys blowing out eyelets, but other than that, a good skate.

[Jim A 4]

how do you like the cut of the Flexlite's coming from a skate such as the 301..? I love my FL 12's..took a little getting used to and I don't use the top eyelet coming from a more traditional Supreme

[Scarecrow 0]

how do you like the cut of the Flexlite's coming from a skate such as the 301..? I love my FL 12's..took a little getting used to and I don't use the top eyelet coming from a more traditional Supreme

FL 12's really felt like a slipper out of the box, which suprised me. If I decide to go with them, I think the biggest issue will be a more forward lean compared to the 301's which I bought in high school 20 something years ago. I also think I will like a higher stiffer boot. My 301's are very soft. I usually tape the ankles for some added support. I really do love the 301's, but they have seen a ton of ice and they are ready to be retired.

The eyelet issue; Is this very common....I mean is it expected with every pair of FL skates? If there is an eyelet issue, can it be fixed without spending a ton of money? Hopefully they will have some kind of warranty to cover this if it happens.

[JR Boucicaut 3810]

Pinch the material between the eyelet and the edge of the boot. It isn't reinforced like other skates. Just pull outward, not up, on the laces and you'll be fine.

[jere26 5]

What jimmy and JR said: Pull outward on the laces and dry them out after skating and you will be a happy Flexlite owner. This works with any skate really.

Did you notice how many people liked the Flexlite 12 in the "Best looking skates!" thread? Between the looks and the fit they seem to have a bit of a cult following. Hope they stay in production for a little while longer.

[JR Boucicaut 3810]

They aren't going to be in the 2007 lineup

[JGraz15 55]

They are done this year...Nike is only making SMU skates for certain regions with high Nike sales going forward

[icefish 0]

the xxxx looks like it takes the shape of the flexlites doesnt it? i guess it doesnt make sense for them to release so many skates that are similar

[JR Boucicaut 3810]

NO!

IT IS A VAPOR.