Bauer Vapor 40 Shin Pad

[danno25nh 3]

Reviewer

6'0 190 lb Adult B league Forward

Fit

These are 15" pads. I prefer a fairly slim pad that can be worn over the skate tongue though I often wear them under the tongue but not completely flopped.

The length on these is nearly perfect for my needs. The asymmetrical shape gives a fit that hugs the knee and shin pretty well. The upper strap is quite wide and has enough elasticity to hold them in place pretty well. The lower strap is a standard strap that sits a bit low for my taste but is fairly functional.

The knee pocket isn't as deep as it could be but I don't notice any slippage. with RBK Edge socks I'd recommend tape if you like a really tight fit. I sometimes skip the tape with regular socks though habit finds me taping even if not needed.

8/10

Protection

Over all protection is about what can be expected for a slim pad. I block a fair number of shots covering the point. Straight on the protection is good. Maybe not the best choice for a defenseman that blocks shots at angles as opposed to charging the point straight on. Plenty good for my normal use.

The weakest protective area is the calf wrap. It's not horrible and it does contain a perforated plastic similar to a honeycomb. Unfortunately it doesn't come to the back of the calf. There is some extra padding at the outside of the knee at the joint.

8/10

Weight

These are quite light, I'm not sure I'd trust pads that were a lot lighter.

10/10

Durability

I've put a season and a half in two concurrent leagues on these and only notice a little scuffing. The padding hasn't compressed noticeably and stitching remains intact.

I've washed the removable inner pad in the washing machine on delicate a couple of times. No noticeable problems there. 10/10

Intangibles

The size and asymmetric shape make these a great mid price pad that is seemingly designed for a forward that seeks quickness and agility.

9/10

Conclusion

This is a solid pad for the price. Once I bump to A league I'll probably upgrade but for B and C leagues this is good bang for the buck.

9/10