The Bauer Supreme M50 hockey skates take performance to new heights with the innovative PowerFly Holder, designed to enhance every stride. The rigid front post boosts energy transfer for faster acceleration, while the hyperbolic stability bar improves balance for quicker transitions. The 3D lasted Carbon Curv Composite Quarter package provides superior support and thermoformability while keeping the skate lightweight, and the composite outsole ensures optimal load and power with lower stiffness.
Best Youth Hockey Skates
Little legends need great skates. We collaborate with players and gear experts to review each skate based on durability (ability to withstand wear and tear), power (the transfer of energy from the skater's legs to the ice), and speed (capacity to propel a player to maximum speed). Rankings are updated weekly based on SidelineSwap sales data.
Meet Our Experts
Like all Canadians, Austin has hockey in his blood and has been passionately playing the sport across the US, Canada, and Finland since childhood.
Kelly played for 22 years in a prominent hockey town before finishing her career at SUNY Canton where she played at the collegiate level.
The Bauer Supreme M5 Pro Ice Hockey Skates are designed for powerful skaters who play frequently and want to enhance their explosiveness. They feature a lightweight, supportive, and thermoformable 3D lasted Carbon Curv composite boot, which is stiff at the lower portion for better power transfer. The design allows for maximum ankle flexion and extension, and also includes a "Choose Your Steel" option for blade selection to match playing style.
The M5 Pro is focused on giving a lot of power. Normally, you'd hear a Supreme or Bauer Pro model going for $900+. The M5 Pro is different than that. It has all the Pro features, but for a cheaper price—more of a mid-range level price. So the M5 Pro has all the same comfort features, durability, the ability to change your steel, and the traditional supreme anatomic fit. With the new Fit System mechanisms, the M5 Pro allows you to customize whether you want it wide, narrow, etc.
@Dstars79, Player Review
The Bauer Vapor X4 hockey skates are the ultimate in lightweight performance. Crafted with innovative materials like Curv Composite, these skates offer pro-level support without sacrificing speed. The trusted Lightspeed (LS) Edge holder and LS Pluse SS Steel Blade provide exceptional stability and acceleration. The Pro Stock Comfort Tongue, Comfort Edge, and Asymmetrical Toe Cap ensure a comfortable and secure fit. Experience the next level of hockey skating with the Bauer Vapor X4.
The X4s are great for the recreational hockey player. The boot is comfortable right out of the box and should last you a long time. The skate feels lightweight and responsive, making it easy to maneuver on the ice. The blade holds an edge well and provides good stability. While it may not have all the top-tier features of the X5 Pro, the X4 offers a great balance of performance and affordability.
Kelly Leathem, Expert Review
The Bauer Vapor Hyperlite is a premium ice hockey skate aimed at professional and aspiring players prioritizing agility. It features the Powerfly holder for improved responsiveness, enabling quicker acceleration and smoother transitions. Its lightweight Aerolite foam offers mobility while maintaining support and comfort, emphasizing quickness and maneuverability, in contrast to the power-focused Supreme line.
I've had multiple pairs of the HyperLites, both retail and custom-made. It's like the HyperLite took the best elements from all the top Vapor skates and made them even lighter and more comfortable. The Hyperlite is the lightest skate I've ever used. It's almost so light that you need to get adjusted to putting pressure differently using your blades because heavier skates do give you a little extra weight. Also, it's a great travel skate. Everything is weight-based if you're flying somewhere, so the HyperLite is an excellent option.
@Dstars79, Player Review
The CCM Jetspeed FT6 Pro is a high-performance hockey skate designed for speed and agility. It features a one-piece boot for a comfortable fit and excellent range of motion, along with an ADPT comfort tongue for added flex and fit. Equipped with a Step Blacksteel blade, it offers better edge life and smooth gliding.
The FT6 Pro is basically the FT4 Pro on steroids. It offers really, really good speed and a bit better comfort than the FT4 Pro. It also has more flexibility and memory foam to prevent lace bite, and it addresses range-of-motion issues. This skate offers speed, power, and a good range of motion. You can really dig in and get that power and still go with the angles.
@Dstars79, Player Review
The Vapor Hyperlite 2 is a high-performance hockey skate designed for quickness and agility. It features a stiff upper and flexible lower boot for optimal balance, along with the PowerFly Holder for explosive acceleration, Aerolite 2.0 Tongue for comfort, and Hyperflex Tech for durability. With its lightweight Carbon Curv Composite construction and LockFit Pro liner, the Hyperlite 2 ensures a secure and powerful skating experience.
There is not as much difference between the HyperLite and the HyperLite 2 as there was between the Hyperlite and the 2x Pro, but the 2 is really just a lighter skate. More comfort features have been added also, and there is a new locking mechanism. The HyperLite 2 still offers the quick release, but it's a different upgraded style, which makes it easier to switch the steel in and out. The holder itself is different and extremely lightweight.
@Dstars79, Player Review
The Bauer Vapor 3X hockey skates are ideal for performance-driven players who skate frequently and need a balance of comfort and value. They feature a lightweight composite boot for support and custom fit, a comfortable 40-ounce felt tongue, and a durable Lightspeed Edge holder with LS+ stainless steel blades. Known for quickness and agility, the Vapor line offers the 3X as an affordable option that retains many features of higher-end models.
The 3X was released close to the HyperLite, which was a revolutionary skate at the time, so it kinda got lost in the mix. It's still a good skate and very similar to the 3X Pro model but without as much comfort. It's a mid- to upper-level fully composite skate with a felt tongue and a hydrophobic liner with a great grip.
@Dstars79, Player Review
Bauer Supreme Mach hockey skates are crafted for elite players focused on speed and power. They feature a lightweight, 3D lasted 12K Carbon Curv composite boot for support and stiffness, along with AMP Flex facing for powerful strides. With various runner options, these skates are designed for different playing styles, showcasing Bauer's commitment to innovation and performance.
The Mach is the premiere equivalent of the HyperLite skate. In my opinion, the Mach is really popular because it's all black and can look new even after two years of pretty intensive play. I know that color doesn't impact feel or performance... but the all black is one reason the Mach has been really popular. Also, the power of this skate is a lot like the Ultrasonic, which came out right before it. The Mach is super lightweight, which means you can go a lot faster, and of course, Supreme is always featuring new kinds of foam and other tech in their skates.
@Dstars79, Player Review
The Bauer Vapor 3X Pro hockey skates are designed for agility and speed. They feature a lightweight, heat-moldable Curv composite boot that provides great stability within the skate. The 3x pro skates also feature AeroFoam+ which is interior padding for comfort and support.
The 3x Pro is made of light materials and is super durable. It's a pro model, so it has top-level comfort with high-quality foam and an asymmetrical toe cap. The lower part of the skate is softer, while the upper part is stiffer, allowing for more support. The 2X Pro was such a hit, and it's kind of hard to follow up... but they made a decent skate with the 3X Pro.
@Dstars79, Player Review
The Bauer Supreme 3S hockey skates are designed for skilled players seeking a comfortable, powerful stride. They feature an injected foam for pro level protection and lace bite protection. The 3S also feature a LockFit Liner, which helps wick away moisture and aerofoam agile pads for increased comfort.
The 3S will give you a lot of power, more power than you would get with some of the older models. It features the Pro TPU outsole, which has additional stiffness in the lower portion of the skate, delivering more speed. It's lightweight, and the upgraded foam also adds comfort. The 3S has the stainless steal runner and the trigger release system, allowing you to quickly swap out the blade. It's a skate you could play multiple seasons with.
@Dstars79, Player Review
The Bauer Supreme 3S Pro hockey skates are ideal for skilled players seeking a balance of comfort and performance. They feature a lightweight, thermoformable 3D Curv composite boot with a power-cut design for better ankle stability and power transfer. The LS Pulse Runner is engineered with a high mirror finish to provide superior glide for increased speed. Overall, these skates are a great choice for players wanting comfort and high performance.
Similar to the 3S, the Pro version has even more bells and whistles. It features the classic pro tongue with molded inserts for a customized fit. It still has the classic Supreme composite boot and higher-level comfort foam. The higher the level of skate, the more comfort in the foam, and usually, the less time it takes to break in. You still see the 3S Pro in the NHL, and they hold up well. You can also quickly change out the blades and keep going. Players use them for years without any kind of loss in performance in terms of power.
@Dstars79, Player Review
The CCM Jetspeed FT680 hockey skates offer a blend of features and value, making them a popular choice among hockey players of all levels. The FT680 features an HD Microfiber Liner that is highly resistant to wear and tear, with an added EVA layer delivering better fit and comfort. They also have a SpeedBlade XS Holder, a quick-release holder with a blade lock system so you can swap your blades quickly.
The CCM Tacks AS-V hockey skates are engineered for powerful strides and explosiveness on the ice. They feature a one-piece boot for superior energy transfer, a lightweight composite for better mobility, and a new Powerflex tendon for increased range of motion. As part of the Tacks line, known for power skating, the AS-V skates offer elite performance at a more accessible price.
The AS-V offers a close, professional fit, and a lot of power. I really love the quick acceleration. The number one thing with this skate is comfort. The padding really secures the ankle and foot while keeping the flexibility to turn and move. The tongue has a funky design, but it allows you to get a full range of motion without feeling insecure in the skate or like it's going to fall off or wobble.
@Dstars79, Player Review
he Bauer X-LP hockey skate is a great option for young hockey players who want to improve their game. The traditional lacing system and fleece liner offer a comfortable and familiar fit, while the 13-foot radius runner provides a balance of stability and maneuverability.
The CCM JetSpeed FT2 skates feature a revamped one-piece boot, a new tongue design, and an innovative holder and runner combination. These new advancements offer a perfect blend of speed, comfort, and performance, making them ideal for both recreational and competitive skaters.
The Bauer Vapor X2.9 hockey skates offer a balanced blend of performance, comfort, and value. Designed for dedicated skaters, these skates feature a low-profile design and a comfortable fit. The 3D Lasted Tech Mesh quarter, Comfort Edge, and Aero Foam padding provide support and customization. The Form-Fit+ footbed ensures a step-in experience, while the Tuuk Lightspeed EDGE holder delivers easy blade changes.
The Bauer Vapor X2.7 hockey skate is designed for competitive players who value comfort and performance. It features a one-piece 3D Polycarb quarter for a snug fit, enhanced by the Comfort Flex system. Memory foam ankle padding and a microfiber liner offer added comfort, while the Tuuk Lightspeed Edge holder enables easy blade swapping. This low-volume skate is responsive, making it ideal for agile players, and provides a good balance of features and affordability.
I've had these many times; it's a mid-tier, performance-level skate where you can undoubtedly play a few seasons (probably not in the NHL), but in University, high-level competitive play. The X2.7 has a quick-release holder, and the Vapor fit will be a bit lower, snug, and flexible. The top-level pro-Vapors might last you three years, whereas these might last one and a half two years, but it's the same kind of comfort. It just comes down to your abilities.
@Dstars79, Player Review
The CCM Tacks 9040 Hockey Skates features a comfortable injected mesh boot and a supportive microfiber liner. The pre-sharpened, non-replaceable stainless steel blades let you hit the ice immediately, but they cannot be replaced when dull, making this skate less suitable for everyday use. The 9040 also features an injected plastic outsole for flexible stability, and an injected mesh bot for comfortable control.
The Tacks 9040 is a great skate for people wanting to try out the Tacks line but don't want to spend $1,000 on the top model. This skate will have all the comfort features you'd expect, like the moisture-wicking capability and high-quality foam. These skates don't have the quick-release mechanism, which is usually right under the heel. The blades are durable, but after lots of sharpening, you will need to replace the blade over time. The 9040 is a great option for kids and youth skaters who will outgrow the skate before replacing the blade. It's a good stepping stone.
@Dstars79, Player Review
The Bauer Vapor 1X hockey skate features Bauer's Speed Plate Technology for enhanced power transfer, and LS4 Steel for exceptional durability. The updated aluminized X-Rib Curv Composite Boot, inspired by the OD1N Project, offers superior stiffness and responsiveness.
The Bauer Ns ice hockey skates have a stainless steel runner, secured in a Tuuk Lightspeed Pro II holder, providing smooth gliding and reliable performance. The EVA footbed offers a comfortable base, while the injected composite weave quarter package provides a balance of stability and flexibility.
The Bauer Vapor 2X hockey skate is a high-end choice for competitive players seeking a low-profile fit. It features the Tuuk Lightspeed Edge Holder, which includes a trigger mechanism to easily switch out a damaged or broken blade. The 2X also includes Aero Foam+ which wraps around the player's foot for comfort and is very flexible for a personalized fit.
The Vapor 2X is just one notch down in durability and comfort from the 2X Pro. You might not notice as much comfort right off the bat, but overall, the fit and feel are pretty much the same. The 2X will still have the asymmetrical toe cap, ankle padding, and three-piece felt tongue. If you gave someone a new pair of 2X Pros and the 2Xs, blindfolded them, and asked them to figure out which was which, they would have difficulty distinguishing between the two.
@Dstars79, Player Review
The CCM JetSpeed FT340 is an entry-level ice hockey skate designed for new and recreational players. It focuses on comfort and affordability, featuring a durable outer shell, a supportive fit, a comfortable microfiber liner, and a pro-style tongue for protection. The CCM SpeedBlade Pro holder enhances power transfer and stability. As the most budget-friendly option in the JetSpeed line, it's ideal for beginners.
This skate is intended for people who skate about once a week and are not super competitive. It'll hold up. If you skate ten times a week with these skates, they will only last you a little while, maybe a month or two. However, there is no quick or easy release for the metal runners or the blades. Many players look for skates with a metal release, which will let them swap out their blades. The more you sharpen them, the thinner they get. And in this case, you'd have to replace the whole bottom, the holder. It's more intensive than just clicking a button and adding new blades. But really, this is a solid skate for those who don’t skate every day.
@Dstars79, Player Review
The CCM AS-550 hockey skates offer a comfortable and durable option for recreational players. The 3D injected boot provides a great fit and feel, while the pre-sharpened runners allow you to hit the ice right out of the box. With their stylish design and reliable performance, the AS-550 skates are a great choice for players looking to enjoy the game without sacrificing quality.
The CCM JetSpeed Hockey Skates are designed to cater to skaters who prefer a natural, close-to-the-foot fit, the JetSpeed offers a completely connected feel for the ice. With the JetSpeed, CCM is expanding its arsenal to accommodate skaters of all foot shapes.
The Bauer Supreme skate utilizes a stiffer composite material to maximize energy transfer with every stride, while the upper section offers increased flexibility for enhanced mobility. The Digi Composite quarter package and outsole provide exceptional support and thermoformability, allowing the skate to mold to your foot for a customized fit.
The Bauer Supreme One20 is a classic entry-level hockey skate designed for beginners and recreational players. With a durable nylon upper, a comfortable felt tongue, and stainless steel runners, the One20 offers a reliable and affordable option for those looking to enjoy the game of hockey.
The CCM JetSpeed 250 hockey skate caters to recreational and entry-level players seeking a balance of affordability and quality. Part of CCM's Jetspeed line, it inherits the brand's commitment to performance. This skate boasts a comfortable, supportive shell and a durable liner for extended use. The non-replaceable stainless steel blade offers a long-lasting edge, reducing the frequency of sharpening. While lacking the high-end features of its JetSpeed brethren, the 250 remains a solid choice for beginners looking for a comfortable and reliable skate to perfect their game, upholding the brand's legacy of providing equipment for players of all levels.
The JetSpeed 250 is at the lower end of the JetSpeed line and focuses on speed and explosiveness. It's built for people just starting out or who only skate once a week. It'll give you a good feel of the JetSpeed line. The 250 doesn't have the quick-release holder, so you'd have to replace the bottom, but in most cases, for a recreational skater or someone just learning, it’s a great skate.
@Dstars79, Player Review
The Bauer Supreme 1S hockey skates are engineered to make players stride more explosive with a blend of cutting-edge technology and proven features from the MX3. The Curv Composite boot offers excellent stiffness and responsiveness, while the LS4 Steel runners provide a longer-lasting edge and better angle of attack. Internally, the Supreme 1S features Bauer’s 37.5 Fabric technology for superior moisture management and faster drying, and C-Flex technology allows for a customizable fit with the Form-Fit Lite tongue and tendon guard.
The Bauer Supreme 160 is a high-performance skate built with a durable Pro-8 dual-density TPU boot and TUUK Lightspeed 2 holders, the 160 offers excellent power and control. The anatomical 48 oz. 2-piece felt tongue provides added comfort, making it a great choice for players looking to elevate their game.