Best Bauer Goalie Full Sets

The Mach took what was on the Ultrasonic ( an integrated knee, a very flat face, predictable rebounds, and a simplified strapping system) and then also added an internal calf bracket to give a lot more support underneath the leg. Basically, the internal Stabilislide knee block was added into the calf providing the same support. So the Mach is known for having a great seal and awesome rebounds. It also has an excellent slide and a very square butterfly. The only potential downside to the Mach is because of the extra internal calf bracket, the pads are too square and supportive and the feedback I’ve heard is, "My body hurts; I can't use these."

Bauer’s Vapor Hyperlite 2 pad is designed to provide the goalie with ultimate flexibility, controlled rebound patterns, and great seal and coverage on the ice. The gloves are the lightest Bauer offers, with a comfortable full-hand closure, and are game-ready right out of the box.

Just like with the Ultrasonic, how it has an integrated knee block to the core (which looks like a book and is attached to the inside of the pad), they made the same thing for the Hyperlite, but a little bit softer and a little bit more forgiving, this design is known as the Vapor Stabiliflex. The glove and blocker are also incredibly light, well broken in, and durable. Many professional players jumped into the Ultrasonic, but if they felt it was too stiff, they switched to a Hyperlite.

The Ultrasonic is super popular amongst pro goalies. It's probably the most popular line to date and holds its value over time. It's known for having an integrated knee block. Basically, Bauer took a bookend and put it inside a goalie pad, across the face and the inside of the knee, which is known as the Supreme Stabilislide. It was revolutionary for goalies to drop down in the butterfly and get a good seal and great rebounds. This knee block design leads to consistent sliding throughout the life of the gear. The Ultrasonic is known for having excellent durability, a great steal, and great rebounds. Bauer introduced digitally printed graphics with this pad, so you'll see some crazy custom graphics.

The Supreme Shadow is a game-changer for high-level competitive goalies. It's lightweight, and the pad’s mobility enables goalies to make difficult saves and recover quickly. I really like the customization options that come with this pad. You get lots of cool colors and designs. If you're a goalie seeking top-tier equipment that can elevate your game, the Shadow set is a must-have.

Bauer’s Vapor X5 Pro line is designed to provide the goalie with ultimate comfort and stability without breaking the bank. This price point line aims to offer high-end features in a budget-friendly design. Like all Bauers, they give off hard rebounds, and the pads are on the stiffer side. Also, just to note, they don't come with a bootstrap.

Bauer’s Supreme M5 Pro line offers goalies a stiffer core and more butterfly coverage. They give long rebounds and are super light, which really helps increase stamina throughout a game. The velcro straps make them super easy to put on and take off. This price point line aims to give the high-end features of the Supreme Mach in a budget-friendly design.

The 2X Pro offers a specific core that doesn't lose shape over time. It has excellent durability and stiff rebounds and is known for its great seal and sliding. The 2X Pro has an incredibly simple strapping system across the back of the leg where you look at it, and it's almost like there's nothing there. The glove and blocker were extremely popular when they came out; when I was working at the retail level, I couldn't keep them on the shelves because they were known for having that broken-in feel you could play with right away.

The Stabiliflex knee is the biggest selling point for me on the Vapor 3X. It’s the same knee that’s on the pro model. If you're looking for reliable and high-performing goalie pads without breaking the bank, the Vapor 3X is a great option. The 3X is missing the CORTECH skin, so it won’t slide the best, but it’s not a deal breaker. While not as advanced as the top-tier models, the 3X still delivers a great overall experience.