If you want to become a better hockey player, it often starts with your skates. They are what connect you with the ice and dictate how fast you can go, how well you can turn, and how comfortable you remain on the ice. A bad pair of skates can certainly hurt your abilities.
But with there being hundreds of different kinds of skates out there, choosing the right one can be difficult. However, if you are familiar with the leading brands, it can become a lot easier. These brands make quality skates that are built well, and trusted by players young and old.
In an effort to help you choose the right skates for your needs, read on to learn a little more about some of the best hockey skate brands on the market today, and what makes them so popular and reputable.
1. Bauer
Bauer is a leader in the hockey skate category, and for good reason. It is very recognizable for the several different kinds of skates that they have brought into the market. They offer a variety of options for different age groups, and even at different price points.
No matter your skill, age or size, Bauer likely creates a skate that will fit you well and be comfortable to wear.
Their repertoire includes options like the affordable Bauer Supreme S25, and the ultra high-performance Bauer Vapor 2X Pro. All of their skates are durable, look great on the ice and offer great protection, while still remaining lightweight to ensure they don’t inhibit your speed.
Bauer also makes some of the best skates for those with wide feet, which is much needed as skates that are too narrow can be very uncomfortable and painful to wear for long periods of time.
2. CCM
Another Canadian company, CCM, is solely focused on making incredible hockey products like skates, sticks, helmets and gear. They have been doing it for over 100 years, and make some of the best skates on the market.
They offer durability, and a lot of support to ensure your ankle feels great and you maintain full control on the ice at all times. Whether you are a casual player outfitted in the CCM Ribcor 74K, or an elite player in the CCM Super Tacks 9380 skates, you are sure to be comfortable.
CCM uses all the cutting edge technology in their skates from moisture wicking liners, to abrasion protectors, to stainless steel runners. They also offer a variety of sizes and different fit styles, to make sure they can help as many hockey players and skaters as possible.
3. Botas
Botas are among the most trusted and high-quality skate producers in Europe. This Czech-founded company creates high-quality skates for the worldwide market. Their skates offer great protection, and they have several different options for different players.
They have some aimed at the professional or elite player such as the Largo 571 Pro, and others aimed more at the recreational player like the Attack 181 skates. Everything from the outer shell, to the tongue, to the fabric used was chosen to offer great protection and performance.
The skates are often affordable for nearly every budget, as well. If you’re looking for something a little different than the Canadian company mentioned previously, this is a great and often-underrated option.
4. True
True is a brand all about creating customized skates for the perfect fit. They allow you to customize things like the liner and the tongue to ensure the skate you get is very comfortable. They are built from the inside out to ensure optimal performance.
While the skates are generally quite expensive, the quality and customized craftsmanship that goes into each pair is truly something to behold. If you are struggling to find a comfortable pair, a True skate is sure to be the answer to your prayers.
They are quite close fitting, which can take some getting used to, but they will allow you to play all day without foot pain, which is more than can be said about many other skates.
5. Graf
Graf is another European brand, this time hailing from Switzerland. They are one of the preferred global options for hockey skates on a budget. However, not only are their skates affordable, but they are also very well-made.
They might not be as well-known as some of the other options, but have been making high-quality skates for 100 years. Their skates are incredibly supportive to the feet, and ensure that every part of your foot is kept at the correct angle and position.
This doesn’t impact your performance, but ensures your feet can stay comfortable during long games, and the comfort provided by these skates will rival that of skates that are much more expensive.
Final Words
Choosing skates from the right brand can ensure that you are able to stay safe and perform your best on the ice. A poor pair of skates can not only increase your risk of injury, but hurt your ability to play well for the rest of your team.
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