Changing from Graf Skates

[Jrbears10 3]

Hey guys

I have been a long time wearer of graf 703's (7 years). I've had 3 pairs in that time period. I am ready for a new pair of skates and I am looking for something different as my 703's just aren't performing as I'd like them to.

How difficult would it be for me to adjust to the Vapor 40's or x:60's? I am in the middle of my college season and I don't want to spend a month getting used to skates.

Also would you guys have any other suggestions for higher end skates for someone who has worn graf's for so long?

Thanks guys

[raoul_duke2k 0]

did you consider going up to like a G3 Ultra? - at least you're getting the same fit and holder pitch, but with a more modern boot.

[WSWings 0]

I switched from G35's to X:60s and because they're lifted up in the back going with a flat boot was different for the first 3 ice times. The toughest part is stopping, but then you get used to it after that and I love my X:60s. :) Good luck.

[Jrbears10 3]

Thanks for the responses guys. I have looked at the G3's but I don't really like how they are constructed, plus the grafs are really hurting my feet lately. I am looking for a light, comfortable skate. I did notice that the RBK 9k's are on sale now along with closeout vapor XXXX's, does anyone know how those would compare to a graf boot?

[Chadd 916]

Easiest transition would probably be the Mission Fuel AG series skates being closed out right now.

[ReggieDunlop 3]

Thanks for the responses guys. I have looked at the G3's but I don't really like how they are constructed, plus the grafs are really hurting my feet lately. I am looking for a light, comfortable skate. I did notice that the RBK 9k's are on sale now along with closeout vapor XXXX's, does anyone know how those would compare to a graf boot?

I wasn't real happy with with the switch from the Graf 705 to the (2007 - RBK 9K LE (white leather) - the boot flex was different, pitch of the blade(which could be changed), width(9K are wider) heel lock wasn't the same(foot moved even with the air pump) also the radius of the blade(which also could be changed if needed--Graf is 11 ft radius, 9K's 10 ft radius) - Depends which model you have of the 9k's - they did make some changes - different tongue, the insoles are different and suppose to provide better heel lock, also the boot stiffness and design have changed. You might get lucky with your foot shape - I had to modify several things only to go back and buy a pair of newer 705 with the carbon fibre bottom for stiffness. I did like the steel on the 9K's performed well but I had to add shock doctor insoles for the additional space as well as for fit and comfort - changed the forward lean on the blade to mimic the graf cobra's pitch - so in short if you are looking to switch quickly - just wait or get a different pair of graf's will make the change easier - try the 705's with the black carbon bottoms - not the white bottoms they do perform much better - I'd say stick with what you are used to might make your timely transition easier or stick it out and wait for the off season to completely change make and model

[fawn111 0]

I have skated in both 703 and 705 and could not really tell all that much of a difference.... Went to ONE95s and love them.