If you’ve ever wondered what skates the pros trust most, the answer isn’t exactly a surprise, but there are a few trends hiding behind the logos. While a handful of brands make it onto NHL benches, one clearly dominates the league: Bauer.
Across the NHL, Bauer skates — and particularly the Bauer Hyperlite 2 — are the most commonly spotted pair on players’ feet.
Bauer Leads the Way
Bauer has long been the most recognizable brand in pro hockey, and their latest flagship model, the "Hype 2", continues that tradition. What makes the Hype 2 stand out is how easily it can be identified on the ice. Bauer’s custom color program enables players to match their skates to their team colors — a trend that has gained popularity in recent years.
Beyond aesthetics, the Hype 2 combines ultra-lightweight carbon construction, PowerFly holders, and a Lock-Fit Pro liner for pro-level performance. NHL players value that blend of comfort, responsiveness, and stiffness, the exact mix needed to handle the speed and edge control of today’s game.
Because these skates are so popular at every level, you can find plenty of used Bauer Hype 2s and other pro-level models listed for a fraction of retail on SidelineSwap.
CCM Still Holds Ground
While Bauer may dominate, CCM maintains a strong foothold. The JetSpeed FT6 Pro is their most popular model in the NHL, with a few players still holding onto the Tacks AS-V Pro series. CCM’s JetSpeed line caters to players who prefer a more tapered fit and direct energy transfer, while the Tacks series offers a stiffer boot for maximum power. Both lines appear regularly in locker rooms around the league, indicating that CCM continues to appeal to players seeking a distinct feel underfoot.
The Rise of TRUE
Another name you’ll see more and more is TRUE. Their custom one-piece boots, molded to each player’s exact foot shape, have gained traction for comfort and anatomical precision. TRUE’s growth in the NHL has been impressive, given their relatively short time in the skate market — proof that customization and fit innovation can challenge even the biggest brands.
What It All Means
So what does this tell us about skate trends in the NHL? In short, performance and personalization rule. Bauer remains the go-to choice for the majority of pros, but CCM and TRUE continue to carve out loyal followings through feel, innovation, and fit.
For fans and players shopping for their next pair, this breakdown offers a peek inside the NHL’s gear room — and a bit of insight into why certain skates dominate at the game’s highest level.
[Shop Bauer Hype 2 →]
[Shop CCM JetSpeed FT6 Pro →]
[Shop TRUE Hockey Skates →]