Other skate models that fit like Graf 705's?

[dw91 0]

Hi fellow MSH'ers,

I'm currently on the hunt for a new set of wheels, as I have been burning through my Graf 705 skates at an alarming pace. They are getting way too soft, way too fast.

I was curious if anyone switched from 705's to a skate of more modern construction made by Easton, Bauer, or Reebok/CCM. I'm starting to play at a higher level now, so I need some stiffer skates that will last.

Excellent heat molding capabilities (there may be a spot on the side I need to punch out for my extra big 5th metatarsal) and a wider toe box than Graf are two big points for me. I should add that I'm wearing size 12 in Graf.

Thanks for your help guys

[nisselrm 22]

From your descroption I would speak with your LHS about ordering cutoms that will solve your issues. I am concerned that you will have a difficult time finding a similar, low cut boot.

[theflash0000 0]

I wear 705s too and the fit is pretty unique, however I thought the Ultra G5s were the same fit, but stiffer and a bit lighter, no?

[dw91 0]

Customs are out of my price range I think. Can anyone weigh in on the manufacturing quality of the G5's? My last pair of 705's didn't seem to be built that well (holders misaligned, liner separated from boot near the top, eyelets with sharp pieces of metal on the inside, etc.)

[nisselrm 22]

in my experience the build quality and cusotmer service of graf has taken a deep slide recently. I have a pair of 709s that havn'y been used much at all that show signs of wear.

I have been in custom skates for almost ten years and it is entirely worth the relatively small upcharge in the scheme of things. Not only have I gotten increased longevity and performance but I have also had the same internal boot construction in every skate regardless of model which is to me is highly desireable once you find a boot that you like., alternatively companys like bauer will remove eyelets and quarter material to get the deisred fit. For instance guys in college and junior who would leave to the top eyelet open for increased forward lean simply had it removed from the skate.

[dw91 0]

I guess my next question would be: What skates are as low cut as Grafs, and fit a little deeper through the forefoot? The ankle is fine, but the top of my foot almost goes above the eyelets in the middle of the skate when I have the tongue out of the way. I never realized how poorly my skates fit until I started looking at this site and considering new ones.

[nisselrm 22]

maybe an easton, though the toe boxes are quite shallow in some older models (s17,s15,se16). the new rs skate is also supposed to have a lower cut boot than previous models but I have not seen it in person so I cannot comment beyond that. I would simply try on as many models as your lhs has in your size. With that being said the best thing to consider is what you dont like about your current skates as you mentioned above. The more aptly you can describe your issues and desires the better the fitter should be able to help you. obviously you want to do your best to find the most knowledgable source you can and take your time. skates have the biggest impact on your ability to play and enjoy the game. Hope this helps.

[Chadd 916]

You might want to check out the RBK or CCM skates if you want to get away from Graf, I know a number of people that migrated to them when they stopped wearing 705s. I believe the CL gave me fewer depth issues than the 705s. It's too bad Mission S/AG series skates aren't around anymore as they were the most similar in concept to the 700 series Grafs.

I never realized how poorly my skates fit until I started looking at this site and considering new ones.

A lot of people live with a bad, or at least improper, fit

[nisselrm 22]

The s500 and ag120 were the first skates that cam to mind aswell. You can get a really nice price on 11ks right now if you find they fit you well

[A2rhino 63]

I skated in 705 for a few years. I found that the Easton S15 were similar and am now in Bauer One100's and couldnt be happier. Hope this helps.

[stick9 903]

I skated in a 703 for a few years. Skate was too narrow and not deep enough for me. The Graf toe box was like some sort of mid-evil torture device. I found Reeboks to be a much better fit all around, but lacked a good solid heel lock. I've since switched to an Easton S12 and couldn't be happier. It's a really high cut boot though. I skip the top eyelet all together.