Bauer Vapor X:50

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Skate: Bauer Vapor X:50 - 10D

Foot Type: Narrow heel and midfoot, low arch, low-medium volume, average to slightly wide forefoot

Ht./Wt.: 6'1", 180 lb.

Play Level: D level rec league, 2-3 times a week (since mid-April)

Previous skates worn: Mission AGX (10D), NBH One90 (9.5D), Bauer Vapor 10 (10D)

I was having ankle soreness after skating for 2+ years in my AGXs, so I went looking out for skates. I wasn't intending to buy, just figure out what fit. However, this was in April before the new Vapor launch, so the previous Vapor line was on clearance in the shop. After trying several skates, I was happiest with the Vapor fit, and with the clearance price and only one pair in my size in stock, I pulled the trigger on the X:50s (X:60 and X:40 both tried on and available).

Fit (9/10)

(Note: I use Superfeet Yellow insoles rather than the stock insoles). The Vapor fit is very good for my foot. I don't have a high volume foot, so I can pass the pencil test. I get good heel lock. There are minor fit issues. The skates are a hair short, but going up to a 10.5 is too much for my foot. I could probably get them stretched and fix that, but it is really minor. My forefoot is a bit cramped, but there's no pain. It's nothing I'm not used to, and baking mostly alleviated the problem. The toecap is a little smaller than ideal for me.

Blade/Holder (7/10)

I really prefer the Mission Pitch holder to the LS2. I haven't decided if I want to swap holders. My runner is actually beginning to rust a bit, which is disconcerting. If I decide to stick with the LS2, I intend to swap the steel with Step Steel carried in my LHS.

Weight (10/10)

These are probably the lightest skates I've worn, or at least on par with the One90s. It was a noticeable decrease coming from the AGX. I don't know if it's really had any impact on my game, but I noticed the difference immediately. If I remember right, the X:50s were ~85% of the weight of the AGX when I weighed both of them (~100-125 grams lighter).

Protection (10/10)

I've had no issues with the protection. I've played every skater position since getting them. I've taken shots without even noticing them, even off the forefoot where it would sting me the most.

Durability (9/10)

I have no issues with the main skate parts. There's hardly a mark on them, though both skates have a noticable raised structure at the same point on the outside panel of each skate. It probably is part of the manufacturing process since they were there when I got them. The fake leather portions already have a couple noticable skate cuts. I realize these are mostly superficial, but the location of one of them right next to the tendon guard is something I will keep an eye on. The liner is holding up better than I expected thus far.

Performance (9/10)

It was a bit of an adjustment going back to a more traditional skate from the AGX. It's hard to say for sure, but I think my straight-line speed has improved at expense of some agility and acceleration. I haven't tried skipping the top outlet to improve forward flex yet. The X:50 is a much stiffer skate, especially around the ankle. I have no major complaints about the performance. I've getting good responsiveness and power out of my stride, but I'm just missing a little bit of the mobility the Mission skate offered.

Overall Assessment (9/10)

For the price I paid, I am very pleased with the skates. Admittedly, they remind me quite a bit of my old One90s, which isn't all that surpising. I didn't grade on aestheics, but I'm not a fan of the graphics they sublimated on there or the shiny fake leather on the skate, but I admittedly like a plain looking skate design (mostly black like the AGX). I like the textile liner. I wish the outsole had drainage/vent holes. Now that the skate boot warranty period has passed, I will probably drill some holes in the sole myself.

I believe this is essentially the same skate spec-wise as the X6.0. This skate is a step or two down from top of the line now, but it's a good value for someone who can't drop over $600 (US) on skates. On the closeout deal I got, this is an amazing skate. I think I might still have taken another pair of AGX over them if forced to choose, but the investment was well worth it.