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2017 Bauer Supreme 1S Hockey Stick-Bringing The BOOM!
Bauer recently launched the latest iteration of it’s popular Supreme 1S hockey stick. While remaining faithful to what loyal Supreme users love, they have made some improvements. Foremost among these is the new Renewcore technology in the blade. Renewcore is a gel placed inside the blade that stays in a liquid state forever. The benefits of this are:
- Improved energy transfer
- Improved puck feel
- Increased durability
The Extended Transfer Zone connects the taper to the high kickpoint, allowing energy to transfer faster and more effectively.
Check out the new 2017 Bauer Supreme 1S Stick, formulated to maximize energy transfer to give you your hardest shot and Bring The BOOM!
Introducing the Bauer 3D Skate Lab
New to Sports Etc, the Bauer 3D Skate Lab introduces a whole new process for custom skate fitting. The custom foot scanner uses state-of-the-art, foot-to-skate data and algorithms to create a 3D image of your foot. Based on the length, width and depth characteristics of your foot profile, this foot scanner recommends a Bauer hockey skate that is most appropriate for your foot. The 3D skate imager personalizes skate specs and tracks your skate history to improve fit and performance throughout your career. The 3-step process is simple:
Scan: The process begins with a 3D scan of your foot using numerous digital cameras that capture images from every possible angle of your foot. These images take into account length, width, depth, hot spots, etc.
Analyze: This foot data is then collected and uploaded instantaneously to an iPad station that is connected to the lab. The data is used to recommend one of the 3 Bauer skate families: Vapor, Supreme & Nexus.
Fit: Last, but not least and without a doubt the most important part of the whole custom skate fitting process- the professional fit that you get from a skate expert at Sports Etc. The 3D skate machine is excellent for identifying problem areas, and providing general recommendations for a Bauer skate, but still lacks the personal experience of physically trying on the skate, and finding what is comfortable for you.
Be sure to stop by Sports Etc to experience the custom Bauer 3D Skate Lab!
Hockey Helmets-It’s Time For An Upgrade!
As we learn more about head injuries and contact sports, the process of choosing the proper hockey helmet becomes more and more important. While the technical engineering of hockey helmets continues to advance, the bottom line is it’s not a “one size fits all” concept. There is more to purchasing the proper helmet than the “nuts and bolts”. At Sports Etc. we like to highlight a few important pieces to focus on when fitting a hockey helmet. Most notably- proper fit, protection level and life span.
Proper Fit: A proper fitting helmet should fit snugly on the player’s head. Any sign of a helmet rattling around, or fitting too loosely can be a major issue. Hockey players can take a variety of impacts, and a helmet that does not sit tightly on the head can lead to a variety of dangerous scenarios. Mainly, the helmet being dislodged from the player completely.
One of the commonly overlooked aspects of fitting a helmet, is how the cage fits onto the helmet itself. Many helmets are sold in “combo” form, with a cage already attached, but it is important to know that sometimes cage size and helmet size are not always consistent with each other. That is why we recommend buying the cage and helmet separately, to ensure the absolute best fit. The cage should sit right on the player’s chin, and should be firmly locked into the “J-Clips” on the side of the helmet. This ensures that the cage will not be driven into the players chin upon impact- which is a common factor in concussions.
Protection Level: Hockey hits come in all types, sizes and intensities. Often times, it is not necessarily the biggest hit on the ice that causes injury, but the most “awkward” hits. Different types of protection levels are essential in preventing concussions. Most helmets on the market help to protect against linear or direct impacts to the head. The difference between the cheaper and more expensive helmets though, is the quality of the foam used within the helmet. The best type of foam to look for is layered EPP or Poron. Most helmets in the $120+ range contain these materials. Low-end helmets often contain one layer of standard VN foam, which loses protective capability over time as it hardens.
The one aspect that differentiates the BEST helmets, from the lower-end helmets, is a helmets protection level against rotational impacts. Most helmets can withstand a linear or direct impact, and can sufficiently protect the player, but the rotational impacts typically have a more devastating impact on a players head. There are helmets on the market that take this into account- most notably the Bauer Re-Akt helmet. These technologies help the head move independent of the helmet, so the awkward angle impacts, which cause the head to snap around with the helmet are mitigated.
Life Span: Another critical and overlooked area in preventing concussions, is paying attention to the “life span” of a helmet. Routinely, a player can wear the same size helmet for years and years. A lot of times, a youth hockey player can stay in that same size helmet until adulthood. Just like anything that gets worn down over time, a completely. The important piece to look at, is the foam within the helmet. The foam is designed to take repeated impacts, but over time as the impacts increase, and sweat is absorbed and dried out into the material- the foam hardens. As the player takes an impact, this hardened foam is driving into the head, which can cause major head trauma. At Sports Etc. we suggest changing out your helmet every 3 years. hockey helmet needs to be re-examined and at times replaced
Check out more information on 2 of the newest, next generation helmets available now!
https://www.sportsetc.net/news/hockey-equipment/introducing-the-ccm-tacks-710-hockey-helmet
The Bauer Vapor 1X Goalie Skate has Arrived!
The Bauer Vapor 1x goalie skate has arrived. The new skate from Bauer is lightweight, mobile and protective—the VAPOR 1X goal skate is perfect for goalies who are quick on their feet. Designed to bring a new level of agility to the game’s most dynamic goalies. Here are some of the highlights:
- The 3mm extended facing allows the goalie to stay in attack position while adding more wrap for better overall fit.
- The Dynamic Tongue Flex molded insert gives goalies an edge by acting like a spring to move them forward into their stance.
- The Curv™Composite Quarter and Composite Outsole on the VAPOR 1X goal skate reduces weight, increasing stiffness for better weight transfer and increased quickness.
- The Vertexx Edge holder is a goalie-specific holder that eliminates the cowling and adds extra height, giving it a superior attack angle. The added advantage of a removable steel that’s ready in an instant means quick goalies just got quicker.
Bauer Vapor Traditional Fit– The Vapor fit on the goalie skate is similar to that of the original Bauer Reactor skate. Relaxed/traditional fit- good for normal to slightly full feet.
Sports Etc Performance To Value Rating– 10 out of 10– One of the best skates available for elite level goalies looking for a performance skate. The most innovative goalie skate on the market.
Check out the complete line of Bauer Vapor Goalie Skates Available NOW!
The New Bauer Re-Akt 200 Helmet- Overview and Highlights
The major highlights of the Bauer Re-Akt 200 helmet include:
- Suspend-Tech NG: liner system with textured XRD Foam. This allows the liner to move independently from the inner foam of the helmet to manage all types of hockey impacts.
- FIT PLATE: This is a customizable occipital lock with recovery alloy technology that allows for a truly custom fit with added comfort around the back of the head. Heat formable.
- VTX Technology: The exceptionally lightweight foam absorbs high and low energy impacts. The integrated XRD and VTX foams create some of the most innovative and comfortable helmet padding to date.
Sports Etc Performance To Value Rating- 9 out of 10. One of the most protective helmets on the market. Innovative technology, which combines protection against rotational and direct impacts with high density foams, and the suspend-tech liner. Extremely comfortable fit, with a very secure fit around the back of the head.
Available now!
Staff Stick Recommendations For Tourney Time!
There is no more important time of year for a hockey player then tournament time! Tournament time is the culmination of the season. It also tends to be the time of the year when your stick has seen better days after numerous slappers, blocks and slashes. Fear not, this is a great time to consider a new stick and we have a few recommendations to narrow down the choices.
Bauer Supreme 1S– This premium, pro level stick is the latest version of the Bauer Supreme line. Like all Supreme sticks it features a higher kick point and shorter taper which Bauer calls the MPK (Maximum Power Kick). This, along with the new Renew Core Technology in the blade (for a longer lasting blade) make this an ideal stick choice
Warrior QX Pro– A staff favorite for overall performance-to-value in a pro stick. This is the same stick used by junior hockey and college hockey teams. They are exceptionally lightweight and durable, and are offered in an extra tall. The QX line offers a “natural flex” coupled with the Dagger Taper and Minimus Carbon for a versatile, high performance experience. Compare this stick to sticks that cost $80-$100 more and you’ll have a new favorite too!
True T-Pro– True has been making composite hockey sticks for other hockey companies for years. As one of the leading manufacturers of graphite/composite golf clubs in the world, they pack decades of experience into their hockey sticks. The T-Pro is the exact same stick that True makes for college and junior teams so they pack a ton of performance into a very reasonably priced package.
Bauer Vapor X-Shift– This exclusive model offers a ton of performance for under $200. Featuring a carbon constructed shaft- no fiberglas as in similarly priced models- and an upgraded 12K carbon blade, this stick is a nasty piece of work for sure!
A Guide to the Safest and Best Fitting Hockey Helmets
As a parent, there are many things to think about when outfitting your hockey player. With all that we know about concussions, the most important piece of equipment is the hockey helmet. At Sports Etc. we like to highlight a few important pieces to focus on when fitting a hockey helmet. Most notably- proper fit, protection level and life span.
Proper fit: A proper fitting helmet should fit snugly on the player’s head. Any sign of a helmet rattling around, or fitting too loosely can be a major issue. Hockey players can take a variety of impacts, and a helmet that does not sit tightly on the head can lead to a variety of dangerous scenarios. Mainly, the helmet being dislodged from the player completely.
One of the commonly overlooked aspects of fitting a helmet, is how the cage fits onto the helmet itself. Many helmets are sold in “combo” form, with a cage already attached, but it is important to know that sometimes cage size and helmet size are not always consistent with each other. That is why we recommend buying the cage and helmet separately, to ensure the absolute best fit. The cage should sit right on the player’s chin, and should be firmly locked into the “J-Clips” on the side of the helmet. This ensures that the cage will not be driven into the players chin upon impact- which is a common factor in concussions.
Protection Level: Hockey hits come in all types, sizes and intensities. Often times, it is not necessarily the biggest hit on the ice that causes injury, but the most “awkward” hits. Different types of protection levels are essential in preventing concussions. Most helmets on the market help to protect against linear or direct impacts to the head. The difference between the cheaper and more expensive helmets though, is the quality of the foam used within the helmet. The best type of foam to look for is layered EPP or Poron. Most helmets in the $120+ range contain these materials. Low-end helmets often contain one layer of standard VN foam, which loses protective capability over time as it hardens.
The one aspect that differentiates the BEST helmets, from the lower-end helmets, is a helmets protection level against rotational impacts. Most helmets can withstand a linear or direct impact, and can sufficiently protect the player, but the rotational impacts typically have a more devastating impact on a players head. There are numerous helmets on the market that take this into account- most notably the Bauer Re-Akt series and the CCM 3DS series. These technologies help the head move independent of the helmet, so the awkward angle impacts, which cause the head to snap around with the helmet are mitigated.
Life Span: Another critical and overlooked area in preventing concussions, is paying attention to the “life span” of a helmet. Routinely, a player can wear the same size helmet for years and years. A lot of times, a youth hockey player can stay in that same size helmet until adulthood. Just like anything that gets worn down over time, a completely. The important piece to look at, is the foam within the helmet. The foam is designed to take repeated impacts, but over time as the impacts increase, and sweat is absorbed and dried out into the material- the foam hardens. As the player takes an impact, this hardened foam is driving into the head, which can cause major head trauma. At Sports Etc. we suggest changing out your helmet every 3 years. hockey helmet needs to be re-examined and at times replaced
The Top 3 Hockey Helmets that Sports Etc. Recommends:
CCM 3DS (Read More) $259.99
Bauer Re-Akt (Read More) $199.99
CCM FitLite (Read More) $199.99
Finding the Proper Fit: Hockey Skates
Finding the right pair of hockey skates can be confusing with so many makes, models and changes to the hockey industry over the years. To simplify things, it is easier to break down skate fit into 3 categories: Tapered/Narrow, Contoured/Mid, and Traditional/Wide. Let’s take a closer look at what we mean and how it relates to the two major skate manufacturers; CCM and Bauer:
1.) Tapered/Narrow Fitting Skates
The tapered style skates generally have a narrower and shallower profile than other models, which allows for a nice, snug fit around the foot for optimum performance. This is the most popular fit within the hockey community and generally caters to an individual with an average foot, but is definitely not right for everyone, especially those with fuller feet. The tapered fit are products of the Bauer Vapor line, and the CCM Jetspeed line- our two best selling models.
2.) Contoured/Mid-Cut Skates
The contoured/mid-cut skates are perfect for someone with average to slightly full cut feet. It runs wider than the tapered line of skates, but still has a firm heel lock to provide a secure fit. This style of fit tends to be our second most popular seller, and offers a perfect blend between a narrow and wide cut skate. Examples of this skate would be the Bauer Supreme series and the CCM Tacks line.
3.) Traditional/Wide Fitting Skates
The traditional or wide cut skates are the fullest cut of any skate models on the market today. The more flexible boot and deeper heel allows for a relaxed and comfortable fit for those with wider feet. If you tend to have a narrow foot, this may not be the best option because the extra space within the skate may cause discomfort or hurt your overall performance. This style of fit is similar to that of a EE width, and has really replaced the need to seek out a different skate in a EE wide. The Bauer Nexus series, and the CCM Ribcor line offer this fit.
If you are able to narrow your search down to these three fit styles, selecting the perfect skate becomes much more manageable. With that said, the BEST way to ensure a proper fit is to come see the experts at Sports Etc!
Want a Pro-Level Goalie Leg Pad for Under $1,000 Dollars?
- As most hockey goalie parents know, goalie equipment can be incredibly expensive. If you are playing competitively, quality pro-level leg pads can range anywhere from $1,600-$1,900 dollars. The benefit of a pro-level goalie pad is that they can withstand the repeated abuse of pucks for someone who is playing 4-7 times a week.
- In the hockey industry, it is almost unheard of to find pro goalie leg pads for under $1,000 dollars, but at Sports Etc. we have a wide selection of pro-level pads, that may fit into your budget. Some of these pads may only be a year or two old, but are the same quality of current models. Below are a few examples:
- Bauer Reactor 6000 Pro Leg Pads– (Previously: $1,699.99, NOW $849.99) A softer faced pad with a traditional full knee roll design for any goalie looking for great versatility and flexibility, while still providing a firm blocking surface and strong seal on the ice. The softer face enhances rebound control, while the pro core inserts help customize a goalies desired pad stiffness.
- Brian’s GNetik Pro Leg Pads– (Previously: $1,699.99, NOW $999.99) The G-Netik has an E foam construction, which reduces weight and increases durability. Smart strap system and traditional strapping options allow for enhanced adjustability. A wide knee cradle creates an extremely comfortable landing platform for the knee. A straight thigh profile and squared roll is perfect for any butterfly goaltender looking for a nice seal on the ice.
- Reebok Premier XLT Pro Leg Pads- (Previously: $1,699.99, NOW $999.99) The Premier XLT features cross-link foam technology adding life to the rebound to direct pucks to the corner and allow goalies to recover. The elimination of bindings on the inside landing area provides a solid seal to the ice. No break on the outer flex allows goalie to maximize ice coverage.
- These are just a few examples of some of last years pro leg pads that are an incredible value. Don’t miss out because once these pads are sold, they’re gone! Visit us at www.sportsetc.net or call at 781-646-1600).
Bauer OD1N Supreme 1S Goalie Pad Sizing
- The new Bauer OD1N Supreme 1S, S190 and S170 goalie pads have a new sizing system, that has been throwing people off a little bit. Instead of a traditional numerical sizing like, 33+1, 34+1, etc. the sizes run Small, Medium, Large, XL, XXL. Below is the sizing system that Bauer is now using for their leg pads:
- BAUER SUPREME OD1N 1S SUPREME GOALIE LEG PAD SIZING
- SENIOR SIZING
SMALL 33+1
MEDIUM 34+1
LARGE 35+1
X-LARGE 36+1
XX-LARGE 37+1
- INTERMEDIATE SIZING
SMALL 30+1
MEDIUM 31+1
LARGE 32+1
- JUNIOR SIZING
SMALL 26+1
MEDIUM 28+1
LARGE 30+1