FAQs: Bauer Supreme M40 Hockey Skates
Q: Who are the Bauer Supreme M40 skates best for?
A: Developing to competitive players who want Supreme’s anatomical wrap and power transfer without the stiff feel or price. If you like a locked‑in heel, supportive quarter, and a slightly forward, powerful stride—but still want reasonable comfort and flex—M40 fits the bill.
Q: How does the M40 fit compared to Vapor or older Supremes?
A: Supreme = anatomical (snug, wrapped). With Bauer’s Performance Fit system, you can choose Fit 1 (narrow), Fit 2 (medium), or Fit 3 (wide) in the same model. Versus Vapor, M40 feels more planted/supportive; versus previous mid‑tier Supremes, it’s a bit lighter with a cleaner heel lock.
Q: What holder and steel come on the M40?
A: Retail M40s commonly ship with an EDGE‑style Bauer holder compatible with quick‑release steel, paired with stainless runners (often LS/+ or Fly‑X depending on package/region). You can upgrade to premium steel later; just keep profiled pairs matched and note your factory profile.
Q: How stiff is the M40 compared to M50 Pro and M30?
A: M40 sits in the middle: noticeably stiffer and more supportive than entry‑level (M30), but more forgiving and easier to break in than M50 Pro. It’s a good “daily driver” stiffness—stable under load without feeling like a full pro boot.
Q: Do M40 skates bake well? One bake or two?
A: Yes—thermoformable quarters respond well to a proper bake. One bake usually gets most of the wrap; a second (shop‑guided) is fine if you still have hot spots. Bake with your game socks/insoles, and hold a skating stance while cooling for best heel lock.
Q: What’s the tongue like—will it help with lace bite?
A: Mid‑thick felt/composite tongue designed to spread pressure and add impact protection. It’s friendlier on the instep than thin “race” tongues. If you’re lace‑bite prone, combine a proper bake with moderate top‑eyelet tension or a small lace‑bite pad during break‑in.
Q: What’s the on‑ice feel—pitch, agility, and power?
A: Slightly forward Supreme pitch with a planted, stable base. You’ll feel secure under hard strides and stops, with enough forward flex to get over your toes. Agility is solid once broken in; it turns quicker than older, bulkier Supremes but remains more “power” than “twitch.”
Q: Are they true to size?
A: Most skaters end up ~½ size down from street shoes (typical Bauer). Don’t size by comfort alone—use a Brannock/scan, pencil test for volume, and check you’ve got ~5–8 mm toe space with firm heel lock. The anatomical wrap can make a too‑long boot feel deceptively okay.
Q: Any common pressure points or fit notes from users?
A: Occasional high‑instep or 5th‑met head pressure until the bake settles. Solutions: proper bake, light top‑eyelet tension for the first 2–3 skates, or a small punch at the hotspot. Don’t crank laces to fix heel movement—address fit first (footbeds, lace pattern, punch).
Q: Can I use aftermarket insoles or orthotics?
A: Yes. Supportive footbeds (Superfeet/CCM Orthomove or custom orthotics) can improve heel hold and arch comfort. Bake with them installed. Ensure added stack height doesn’t pinch volume at the eyelets; adjust lacing if needed.
Q: How’s durability—eyelets, tendon guard, and holder?
A: Solid for the tier. Keep an eye on top eyelets (overtightening can stress them), dry thoroughly to protect rivets, and check steel seating in the holder. Wipe the tendon guard and quarter after skates to prevent grime from stiffening flex zones.
Q: M40 vs M50 Pro: which should I choose?
A: Choose M40 if you want supportive power with easier break‑in and a friendlier price. Choose M50 Pro if you’re a strong, aggressive skater who wants maximum stiffness/response and plans to profile/upgrade steel. Foot shape and budget decide most of the time.
Q: What should I check when buying used M40 skates?
A: Inspect:
- Quarters/outsole: cracks, eyelet tearing, outsole separation
- Holder/rivets: looseness, missing/bent rivets, steel life remaining
- Liner: heel wear/pilling, odor/moisture damage
Break‑in and care quick tips
- Bake once; skate 2–3 times before judging fit
- Don’t overtighten top eyelets—let the tongue flex
- Dry fully (no heat), tongues pulled open; check rivets monthly
- Record your profile/hollow once dialed so re‑sharps stay consistent