CCM RBZ Skate

July 2013 will not only consist of fire works in the sky but also rockets strapped to your feet, because CCM will be revealing one of their most cutting-edge skates yet, the RBZ ice hockey skate! Now, if you’re the type of player that seeks advantageous technology, CCM definitely designed this skate to have a distinct look that sets it apart from others on the market by utilizing preferred high-end materials that make it very lightweight and rigid.

Composite Quarter Package

CCM is featuring their premier New Action Form Speed core composite quarter package, which provides pro level stiffness and impressive foot support. This technological feature maximizes foot reaction speed and allows players to explode through their turns.

Speedblade + 4.0 Holder

CCM assembled the Speedblade + 4.0 Holder for the RBZ skate, which adds a total of four millimeters of height off the ice (front and back of skate). This feature encompasses the concept that added height equals a more aggressive angle of attack; therefore, preventing players from bottoming out through turns. Additionally, players will notice supplementary strength and stability built within this holder through its Speed Ribs, which boosts performance in your transitioning game.

Hyperglide Runner

The Hyperglide runner has a gleaming aesthetic look that pops out on the ice. This runner is deemed stronger than traditional steel; therefore, players can attack their stride with full expansion. Furthermore, the runner allows better edging for players to glide with less friction for a more efficient energy transfer.

Hockey Specific Insoles

CCM has amplified customization with their new hockey specific arch support insoles, which offer three different foot elevation heights  (low, medium, and high arch). CCM insoles are precisely fabricated to provide enhanced reaction in the foot muscles for accelerated speed. In layman’s terms, these insoles are constructed with three separate layers that make-up its ideal composition: breathable fabric, memory foam, and shock absorption cushioning. When all three layers are combined, pressure is evenly redistributed for optimal responsiveness.

Pro-Injected Foam Tongue

Lastly, CCM’s pro-injected foam tongue prevents severe lace bite because of its high-density foams. This thick felt tongue is constructed into two pieces; therefore, players are able to tuck the tongue under their shin guard or after some break in time they can “flop out” with style.

July 2013 will launch skate engineering to a whole new level with CCM’s RBZ ice hockey skates at Ice Warehouse!

The Assistant Captain of the Boston Bruins, Patrice Bergeron, was the obvious hero from last night’s pair of game sevens. Boston was down 4-1 mid-way through the third period and miraculously emerged victorious. During Boston’s unbelievable comeback, Bergeron scored the tying goal with 50 seconds remaining and then finished off the Toronto Maple Leafs five minutes into overtime. He finished first star of the game with 2 goals and 1 assist, amassing all his points on the last three Bruins goals. Clutch.

So what gear helps you achieve first star in a Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs?

Helmet: Reebok 11K

The top of the line helmet from Reebok combines performance with style in the Reebok 11K helmet. The EPP floating liner both cushions and protects your head at the same time. It features a 360 degree fit that keeps the helmet snugly even through the hard hits. To protect his face, Bergeron wears the Oakley Pro Straight Visor.

Gloves: Reebok 11K KFS

Patrice Bergeron rocks the Reebok 11K Gloves and it’s pretty clear why. The 11K KFS gloves have a contoured fit, meaning that it fits tight all throughout the glove. The seamless flex cuff, found in many of the

Reebok KFS Glove line, allows for maximum wrist mobility without sacrificing any of the high level protection. This glove is perfect forplayers like Bergeron: that prefer the contoured, snug fit with the mobility of a traditional fitting glove.

Stick: Reebok Ribcor

This stick launches in July, 2013. Stay tuned to the blog to find out more about the Ribcor within the next two weeks.

Patrice Bergeron & the Reebok Ribcor

Skates: CCM RBZ

We’ll have a blog posted tomorrow about the CCM RBZ Skates: so check back tomorrow for more information!

All of the equipment Bergeron uses is (or will be available) at Inline & Ice Warehouse. Remember to check back soon for more sneak previews!

CCM RBZ Stage 2

8 months ago, CCM & Taylormade took the hockey world by storm with the introduction of the CCM RBZ and pretty soon we started seeing a lot of NHL players Strap a Rocket to the Puck (RBZ Tagline). For more information on that stick, check out the RBZ blog. It’s no surprise that the stick quickly grew in popularity and it didn’t take very long to see RBZs in nearly every locker room. Looking to build off the success of the RBZ, CCM & Taylormade will release the CCM RBZ Stage 2 in July . The Stage 2 has already seen NHL action with top players like Gabriel Landeskog of the Avalanche & Toronto’s Nazem Kadri. So let’s take a look at what CCM and Taylormade improved on with their second shot at the RBZ.

Graphics

Let’s start with the obvious: the graphics. While sporting a look similar to the original, the Stage 2 features more of a innovative look similar to the Bauer Supreme line. Though the general look remains the same, a dark upper half contrasted with the white bottom half, the Stage 2 features black on the top blade and lower portion of the shaft.

The design team did a great job with the color scheme of the Stage 2. A white lower half makes the stick difficult for a goalie to distinguish from the white ice and boards. The black on the top of the the lower shaft and blade allows the player to clearly see the stick with his or her peripherals while stick-handling with their head up.

New Technology

The original RBZ introduced Taylormade’s Speedblade technology, which is the main reason that the RBZ has that explosive pop. The Stage 2 perfects the original Speedblade by removing one of the speed channels, which does a couple of things. One, it decreases the weight, and second it increases the Coefficient of Restitution by 20%. I figure you all know what we mean by coe-something of retaliation, so we don’t have to go into the specifics. Essentially, that translates to more pop and a quicker release.

A second upgrade to the Stage 2 moved the balance point up higher in the shaft, called PowerSwing Technology. Thinking in golf terms: the less energy you expel lifting up your club, the more power you will have for the swing. Taylormade & CCM raised the balance point to make the bottom of the stick lighter, thus a faster swing for your clapper. 

Wrap-Up

As a big fan of the RBZ, I’m really looking forward to the Stage 2. The great pop, variable kick point and incredible feel will carry over and probably improve. One of the more exciting features of the Stage 2 is the fact that it will come in the non-grip option (the original RBZ only has the grip option)!

Now this stick will be available in August as well as the RBZ 100, the RBZ 80, and the RBZ 40. Be on the lookout for a second review after we get a chance to use the RBZ out on the ice. Check back over the next couple weeks because we’ll have sneak previews of the CCM RBZ Skate and the Reebok Ribcor!

These will be available at Ice Warehouse & Inline Warehouse in July.

IW hit 10,000 Likes on Facebook! To thank all of our loyal supporters, we’re giving away a free hockey stick of your choice. Wait, what? Yep, the winner can choose from any stick that IW has in stock. You could choose the Bauer APX, or the Easton Mako II, or the Reebok 20K, or the CCM RBZ, or the Warrior Covert DT1 or… Any stick.

Enter the contest here: http://on.fb.me/14NrqhO

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If you watch hockey, no not youth and intermediate, but NHL hockey and more specifically the goalies and their goalie equipment then you’ve probably noticed quite a few goaltenders sporting the new CCM Extreme Flex gear. The new Extreme Flex goalie pads are designed to offer more flexibility then the Reebok Premier line as well as softer overall design. The CCM Extreme Flex gear is built for athletic goaltenders that make a majority of saves from quick reactive movements. The legendary Lefevre family developed the new CCM line of goalie equipment with the help from goaltender Carey Price, ensuring top-notch quality, materials and protection. CCM’s new line includes goalie masks, goalie gloves and blockers, leg pads and goalie sticks.

With over 2,600 hours of design, testing and engineering the Extreme Flex Pro pads are sure to be a hit. Lets take a closer look.

The Extreme Flex Pro Pads are designed to be softer than the P4 serieswith more internal support then Vaughn’s Velocity line. These pads come with stock internal breaks above and below the knee with outer roll flex options available on the pro model. The boot break is much softer and flatter than the Reebok P4 offering addition flex and rebound control down low. The Lefevres built the new Extreme Flex Pro pads practically from scratch using only the knee stack, straps and buckles from the P4 line. The tighter fit and softer face construction provide goaltenders with a more responsive pad with additional control over rebounds.

The Extreme Flex Pro Glove is the first time the Lefevres built a “baseball style” closure, using the tip of the index finger and thumb to close the glove instead of the full palm closure seen on more traditional style catchers. The internal construction, large open cuff design and adjustments ensure the catcher can be squared up to the shooter offering maximum net coverage. This glove comes with an extremely large pocket that helps with controlling rebounds.

The Extreme Flex Pro Blocker differs from the Reebok Premier 4 blocker in a few ways including the flared-open cuff design for improved mobility. The wide-open design provides added flex at the wrist improving rebound control and allows the goaltender to steer shots with improved precision. The hand position is located about an inch lower then the P4 blocker for excellent balance and feel. The new CCM Extreme blocker also has a sleek binding-less design along the outer edge that improves the overall durability.

CCM’s all new Extreme Flex line of goalie sticks provide an exceptional feel as well as improved durability. The CCM 500 features a fiberglass laminate wrapped aspen wood core handle and full graphite blade for added strength while providing long term durability and stability. The lightweight foam core reduces stick vibrations improving the overall feel. The CCM 500 delivers top of the line quality and performance and is constructed to Pro Specs allowing you to play like the pros.

The CCM Pro goalie mask is an authentic Lefevre design featuring a molded profile that allows the face to sit further to the front for improved peripheral vision. The new dual-density VN foam comfort liner and adjustable pro fit chin cup deliver a mask that feels weightless. The shell on the Pro goalie mask is constructed from a carbon and Kevlar composite shell with an extended back design for increased coverage and safety. The cage is constructed from titanium, ensuring top of the line quality that resists rust as and is super lightweight.

CCM’s new goalie equipment line is extremely impressive and offers tons of performance features that are sure to maximize your goaltending potential. Check out the full line of CCM goalie gear at Inline and Ice Warehouse.

2013 Bauer Gear

Ladies and Gentlemen, the new 2013 Bauer is available to be purchased and shipped as of today! There is a ton of new and exciting gear for both players and goalies.

For players, we have a whole new line of Supreme protective gear; including shin guards, elbow pads, shoulder pads, ice pants (adaptable core) and gloves. For Nexus, we see new gloves that took over the 2012 4-Roll line as well as new line of ice pants that took over last year’s Supreme Pants. The first helmet of the new IMS helmets (Impact Management System) is released as well, called the IMS 9.0. Last and not least for players, the much anticipated new Vapor Skate Line including the APX2 has arrived as well.

For goalies, we have a re-introduction of the well-known Reactor line that includes catchers, blockers, sticks, ice skates, and leg pads. For facial protection, goalies get a new line of masks known as the Concept Line.

All of these great products will be available at Inline and Ice Warehouse, be sure to stop by and be one of the first ones with this new gear!

Nazem Kadri is among the NHL’s top ten point leaders in this 2013 season. Nazem Kadri is only 22 years of age and has totaled 34 points in 32 regular season games, which places him ninth overall among the NHL’s elite. This past week, the Toronto Maple Leafs utilized their star player as he collected a career-high three assists game (+3 rating), third three-point game performance, and fourteenth goal of the season. This exciting rookie has proven capable of hot streak performances and is tied for first on the Maple Leafs in goals and assists.

Lets take a look at Nazem Kadri’s gear, as he embodies the CCM brand.

Helmet: CCM Vector 10 Hockey Helmet

Nazem Kadri rocks the distinct Vector 10 Helmet, which has an aerodynamic shell design; therefore, maximizing on ice vision. The construction of the shell utilizes (19) properly placed vents designed to increase airflow ventilation. The Vector 10 Helmet consists of lightweight EPP liner and heat-molded memory foams that boost comfort and protection. Moreover, the Vector 10 helmet comes equipped with a lift and lock tool-free adjustment system that is designed for custom fitting, making any future NHL star look and feel like Nazem Kadri.

Visor: Oakley Pro Straight Small Hockey Visor

Since its introduction, the “pro straight” visor is notably popular as more NHL players wear the Oakley Pro Straight Visor, because of its classic and traditional appearance. This Pro Straight Small visor is currently the slimmest visor Oakley makes.  Also, it’s considered to be one of the few visor shields that meets and exceeds the demanding standard for optical clarity providing optimal visibility, which is apparent in Kadri’s goal scoring snipeability.

Skates: CCM RBZ Hockey Skates

You can see Kadri explode into action in the all-new CCM RBZ skate, as Kadri lifts off towards the crowd after another hockey highlight. The CCM RBZ skate is geared to improve foot speed and provide greater strength and mobility on the ice. The CCM RBZ skate is definitely tailored to make you skate like a rocket, which is why Kadri has been able to fly to the net finding loose pucks that have allowed his continual point streak to surge.

Stick: CCM RBZ Hockey Stick

Kadri’s ability to danglesnipecelly can be attributed to the CCM RBZ stick. The RBZ stick features pivotal innovations that have advanced the definition of balanced weight and flex. With better weight distribution, the RBZ stick truly develops a lively shot, as other players notice faster whip behind the puck. The flex profile is consistently stiff, which allocates various kick point releases for maximum shot loading. Lastly, the customary SpeedBlade Technology creates a very agile blade profile that allows for faster shots.

You can check out all of this great gear at Inline and Ice Warehouse

A couple months ago I wrote a short term review for the Easton Mako II stick right after its release (I would recommend reading that since this is simply an add-0n to the previous blog. Click here to read).  After I broke my CCM RBZ, I turned to the Easton Mako II Grip 85 Flex with the E28 curve for full time use.

Before I go on, let me say a few words about the new E28 curve that Easton released this year. “This is the fastest growing pattern for elite players around the world. It not only keeps the puck on the toe for deadly accurate snap shots, but the open face also forces your hands out in front of the puck to maximize the load and release of the stick.” Essentially, they tampered with the lie and dimensions of the stick to provide the optimal shooting and passing curve for elite players. I come from the Bauer P88 & the CCM Hossa curve so I wasn’t so sure about the switch; but after I stopped sailing pucks 10 ft over the net, I really like the curve.

I’ve been using the stick full time for a few weeks now (3 practices & 8 games) and I’m loving this twig. The stick performance during that time was incredible (19 points, but who’s counting) and the shaft of the stick held up great. Still really enjoying the whip and feel of the stick. My only complaint is a minor chip in the toe of the blade which hopefully won’t cause any problems. I like to think that I can just credit that to some toe drag I pulled, but realistically I doubt it.

Keep checking back soon as a ton of NEW GEAR is about to launch so we’ll have sneak previews and more reviews coming your way!

This stick is available at Ice & Inline Warehouse.

The long anticipated Bauer Reactor Goalie equipment is finally here! Starting April 15th, Bauer’s all new Reactor goalie gear will become available. The original Bauer Reactor line was launched in 1994, setting a new standard for goaltending equipment by providing innovative, functional and protective gear. The Reactor line created the foundation for many of the goalie gear products seen on the market today.

The newly designed Bauer Reactor line is stylish, lightweight and protective, perfect for today’s goaltending playing styles. The new Bauer Reactor goalie equipment is geared toward goaltenders that tend to play more aggressive and are quick to challenge the shooter in an attempt to make the save. A handful of NHL goalies can be seen wearing the new gear including  goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov.

The Reactor pads will be offered in three different models for the US including the Reactor 2000, Reactor 4000 and the Reactor 6000. The Reactor line includes goalie leg pads, goalie catcher and blocker, goalie ice skates, goalie sticks and accessories like the Reactor clavicle protector, knee guard and goalie jock/jill. Along with the Reactor goalie gear, Bauer will be releasing their brand new line of Concept goalie masks.

Let’s take a closer look:

The Bauer Reactor pads are designed for the hybrid / battlefly style goaltender because of the flexible-lightweight design. The Bauer Reactor goalie pads feature a lightweight Pro core insert, triangle outside roll, quick release thigh & knee straps and NHL legal under-pant thigh protector. The Bauer Reactor knee cradle setup is slightly different on the Reactor 6000 because the knee cradle is sew in, instead of using their (AKL) Adjustable Knee Lock system like the Reactor 2000 & 4000 models.

The Bauer Reactor goalie catcher features lightweight construction, awesome new Reactor design, skate laced single T pocket design on the 4000/6000 models, full hand closure and free flex cuff for excellent mobility.

The Reactor goalie blocker features Bauer’s maximum coverage side hand protection and soft Nash palm with extra layer of reinforcement on the 4000/6000 models.

Bauer’s new top of the line Reactor 6000 ice hockey goalie skates feature an ultra thick pro felt tongue with extended length and padded high density metatarsal guard, a 3D anaformable boot, redesigned ankle collar and extra padding under the foot bed. The Bauer Reactor goalie skates will also feature an improved reinforced VERTEXX cowling, super-strong 4mm removable stainless steel runner and hydrophobic Clarino synthetic liner.

Bauer’s new composite Reactor goalie sticks offer similar technology and materials as the Reflex and Totalone lines with the main visual difference being the slick updated Reactor graphics. The Bauer Reactor Goalie Stick will of course be replacing the Reflex family of goalie sticks.

Last but not least I wanted to highlight Bauer’s all new Concept goalie masks. Two models are available, the top of the line Concept C1 and Concept C2. The Concept C1 goalie mask provides pro level protection thanks to some really impressive technologies. NHL goaltender JamesReimer of the Toronto Maples Leaves recently started using Bauer’s impressive new C1 mask. The C1 mask features an ultra lightweight carbon fiber shell with a reinforced outer TeXtreme® layer. TeXtreme® technology is exclusive to Bauer, weighing 20% less than conventional carbon without sacrificing strength. The liner on the C1 is a mechanically attached SUSPEND-TECH liner with PORON® XRD™ foam closest to the face for enhanced protection and max comfort. The cage on the C1 is constructed from ultra light titanium oval wire, available in certified straight bar and non-certified cat eye cages. The cage on the C1 and C2 masks come with new (SAW) shock absorbing wire clip system. SAW technology improves impact absorption and reduces cage denting.

Additional information on the new Bauer Reactor goalie equipment line will be available online April 15, 2013 at Inline and Ice Warehouse.

The Boston Bruins are off to their best start in 36 years and on Sunday, February 24th they can thank Zdeno Chara for his beautiful goal to put them up 2-0 in the first period against the Florida Panthers. The defenseman stands tall at 6’9″, so amazing dangles aren’t typically expected from him, well that’s not the case any more. Chara took a backhand pass that was behind him from Brad Marchand, performed a counter-clockwise spin-o-rama to create space and roofed a beautiful backhand shot beating Jacob Markstrom glove side. Whether the spin or the backhand shot was more impressive is irrelevant, but the fact Zdeno did it so smoothly is the icing on the cake.

Now let’s take a look at what gear Zdeno Chara used:

Warrior AX1 Stick & Franchise Gloves

Stick: Warrior Dynasty AX1 Hockey Stick

Zdeno was using the new Warrior Dynasty AX1 Stick when he pulled off the sick dangle against the Panthers. This comes as no surprise because the new AX1 stick is the mid-kick counter-part to Warrior’s other line of sticks, the low-kick Covert series. While kick-points in sticks should not be decided on a player’s position but rather the mechanics of their shooting, the mid-kick point is the obvious choice for a 6’9″ 255 lb. defenseman. This has enabled him to win 5 consecutive NHL Hardest Shot Competitions and the NHL hardest shot record at 108.8 mph.

Gloves: Warrior Franchise Hockey Gloves

Another excellent choice by Mr. Chara, the Franchise gloves are some of the premier 4-roll gloves money can buy. Warrior constructed the glove using only the finest materials such as TuffTex that does do not hold water. NHL’ers who wore the previous Franchise gloves expressed concern that they wished they could achieve better mobility in the wrist. Warrior listened and delivered with a much more flared-out cuff than the previous years.

Krown Helmet & NXG Skates

Helmet: Warrior Krown Helmet

Since Chara’s such a big guy, he’s a big target also. This could explain his choice of the Warrior Krown 360 Helmet. It offers top notch protection utilizing three different types of foams as well as an adjustable occipital locking system located on the back of the helmet. The three foams found in the Krown 360 is EPP Foam, Impax Molded Foam as well as comfort foam

Skates: Bauer Supreme TotalONE NXG Hockey Skates

Looking to get the most power out of each and every stride, like many others Zdeno chose the Bauer Supreme TotalONE NXG skates. The NXG’s are a common choice for a wide variety of players in the NHL. They offer a contour and anatomical fit to the foot while using a longer runner than the Vapor APX skates to achieve the most powerful stride possible.

All of these items are available at Inline and Ice Warehouse with even more information on each product page!