Hockey Goalie Skates - Page 44

Hockey goalies need extra protection from the puck. As with players' skates, goalie skates were originally just leather boots bolted to metal blades. However, goalie skate boots have also been fitted with a hardened toe cap. The blade on a goalie's skate is also longer, wider, and flatter to increase stability. Goalie skate blades are made from carbon steel, rather than stainless steel. Goalie skates often remove the cowling, both to make the skates wider and also to protect other players out on the ice.

Hockey goalie skate sizing works on a slightly different basis than regular shoe sizing. Your goalie skate size should be roughly 1.5 sizes smaller than your street shoe size. For example, if you wear a men's 8 sneaker, your hockey goalie skate size will likely be 6.5. Always consult a manufacturer's sizing chart to double-check.

While the basic concept of sharpening is the same, the angles and measurements tend to be customized for a goalie’s needs, focusing more on stability and movement rather than pure speed or turning agility.

Radius of Hollow (ROH):

• For regular players, the radius of hollow is typically deeper (e.g., 1/2" or 5/8"), giving them a better grip on the ice for quick turns and acceleration.
• Goalies usually prefer a shallow radius of hollow, such as 3/4" to 1" or even flat (no hollow). This provides less grip, which helps goalies move more fluidly laterally across the crease without getting “caught” on sharp edges when sliding.

Blade Profile:

• Goalie skates often have a flat or more neutral blade profile (compared to the curved or "rockered" profile on player skates). This helps them with more balanced and stable movements, especially when pushing off in multiple directions.
• Some goalies also like a more aggressive profile to feel more edge grip for quick movements, but it's a personal preference.

Blade Length:

• Goalie blades tend to be slightly longer than player blades to provide better stability and control in the crease.

Popular goalie skates in the NHL tend to be the Bauer Vapor and Bauer Supreme lines, with a few other brands like CCM also having strong followings. Here are some popular models to check out: 

1. Bauer Vapor 2X Pro: These are known for their light weight and flexibility, which many goalies prefer for quick lateral movements. They have a more aggressive stance and fit, making them great for goalies who want quick transitions and a more "responsive" feel on the ice.

2. Bauer Supreme Ultrasonic & Bauer Supreme 2S Pro: These are slightly stiffer than the Vapor line and are known for offering more power and stability, which can be crucial for goalies who want more push-off strength when getting across the crease or when battling in tight situations.

3. CCM EFlex: CCM also has a strong presence in the NHL. The EFlex line is lighter and more flexible, which some goalies prefer for quicker movements.