Skate choices coming from Bauer (Yes, another one of those!)

[stuie7 6]

Hi Everyone,

I apologise for posting another one of these threads, but I really need some guidance as my LHS doesn't stock much in my size and don't carry many models..!

To give a brief insight into my skate history; I've worn Easton Synergy 800's in 10W (good fit), Bauer Vapor XXXX's in 9.5EE (too narrow in the forefoot) and Bauer Flexlite 4.0's in 9.5EE (a little too narrow in the forefoot).

I don't want to go back into Easton's because of my concerns with their durability, I don't think Bauer makes a skate that is wide enough for me (unless the Supreme is wider than the Flexlite, but I'm sure it's not..). As a result I'm thinking of going into CCM (U+ CL), Reebok (11K or 20K) or Graf next time I buy skates.

Bearing in mind I need a skate that has a very wide forefoot (think Easton Synergy fit or wider than Bauer Flexlite) could anyone suggest which out of the CCM U+ CL, Reebok 11K or 20K (when it's out) or a wide-fitting Graf model (709 or similar?) would be appropriate, and importantly at which size. I've read many posts about CCM/Reebok/Graf sizing but there's conflicting information as to the difference in sizing between those companies and Bauer!

Any help would be appreciated.

Thank you in advance,

Stu.

[eric42434224 1]

Just an idea.....

Find pro stock Eastons on ebay. I believe they use the retail boot/last and just add on features like extra composite, extra stitching, felt tounges, etc for protection/durability.

My retail s15's lasted 3 months.

My Pro Stock s15's are at 3.25 years and still in very good shape.

[stuie7 6]

Yeah thanks for that, I'll have a look. That's really good going for a pair of S15's!

[JoeyJ0506 192]

If you're going to buy top end skates anyway why not find a shop that does quality custom work within reasonable driving distance and go get properly fitted? Just a thought, they will make a skate specifically for your foot in whatever top-end model you want. I'm thinking specifically with Bauer, and their up-charge is not astronomical.

[stuie7 6]

It's not possible where I live, you can get custom Swiss Graf's and that's; I don't want to go down that road because of past experiences with the local Graf rep. In an ideal world, going custom would be my choice too.

Just to clarify, ultimately what I'm asking for is;

1. Does CCM/Reebok fit as wide as Easton and wider than Bauer Flexlites in the forefoot.

2. How does the sizing of CCM/Reebok relate to Bauer, half a size up? Half a size down..?!

Thanks.

[ironslave 2]

One of the more knowledgeable members can chime in, but I noticed that some sites offer CCM U+ CL skates custom in a EE width... I assume this is wider than their retail E width. Might be a good option for you.

http://www.greatskate.com/product/id/10010/s/79/m/78/CCM-CCM-Vector-U-CL-Sr-Custom-Hockey-Skate.aspx

[AIREAYE 248]

Regarding the sizing issue, it should be the same between Bauer and CCM/Reebok. Only in Easton would you maybe need to go 1/2 a size up (and even a full size in some cases I've seen). CCM/Reebok generally are a wider skate naturally, although I can't say that they are as wide as say, a Stealth skate, which I believe to be a great option for you, as eric mentioned.

The S17s are much improved in terms of durability over the S15s (check out the review section) and with a narrow ankle and wider forefoot (compared to your Synergy skates), you should definitely check those guys out. Stealth has perhaps the widest forefoot in a stock (non-custom) 'W' or wide width. Also, if you were willing to wait for the 20Ks to come out, then you might as well wait to try on the newest Stealth skate that will be released in the near future.

[vrsixin 1]

I can't comment on the Easton skates but have used the reebok 11k and currently using the CCM CL and the CCM's are a better fitting and stiffer skate. I have a wider forefoot and the regular D width fit me good

[Haggerty 144]

easton EQ5 model, I wear the same size as bauers (x60's) but they are wider at the forefoot and toe box than the vapors and have better heel lock imo.

[echockey 0]

Just got a pair of custom APX skates from TSR in Salem, NH. Best decision I have made, each skate was made to size, extra foam, felt tongues, bumped out at factory. Highly recomended the owners were great!!

[mxpowder 1]

Just got a pair of custom APX skates from TSR in Salem, NH. Best decision I have made, each skate was made to size, extra foam, felt tongues, bumped out at factory. Highly recomended the owners were great!!

I just ordered some custom APX's, I'd love to see some pics! Especially tongue!