Our hockey skate reviews are designed to help you weigh tradeoffs to find the best fit. 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.
The Tacks XF Pro skates that feature a new One-Piece Boot built with innovative FORS composite, it's lighter, more responsive, and more durable, while maintaining pro-level stiffness. Equipped with best-in-class STEP Blacksteel and our new Game Ready Fit, it delivers performance that never felt so good.
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 Bauer Vapor X5 Pro hockey skates are designed for elite players, featuring durable Curv Composite materials and a stable Injected Facing construction. The POWERFLY Holder enhances agility and responsiveness, while the available blades and 3D sizing options help elevate your performance on the ice.
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.
Austin MacDonald
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.
Austin MacDonald
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.
Austin MacDonald
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.
Austin MacDonald
The Bauer Supreme Ultrasonic ice hockey skates are designed for elite players, offering powerful strides and superior control. Their Performance Fit System ensures comfort and better energy transfer, while the 3D lasted Carbon Curv composite boot provides stiffness and support. The unibody sole enhances power with each stride, making these skates ideal for serious players.
I've used these. Really good states. They are kind of the predecessor to the Mach, which is a top comfort skate. The ultrasonics is just a classic, extremely durable skate. The power boot cut creates a super powerful stride so that you can attack the puck better and the boot is really supportive. These skates will go on forever. Really good power. Pretty good agility.
Austin MacDonald
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.
Austin MacDonald
The Bauer Supreme M4 hockey skates are designed for developing athletes, featuring a flexible composite material for a powerful stride and exceptional comfort. The Pro 48 ounce Felt Tongue adds support, while the 3D Lasted Flex Composite quarter ensures a responsive fit. With Traditional Facing and a Symmetrical Toe Cap, these skates aim to enhance on-ice performance.
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 Jetspeed FT485 hockey skates are a reliable and affordable option for dedicated players. Featuring a lightweight one-piece boot, interchangeable XS Tongue system, and durable construction, these skates offer exceptional value. The RFM composite material and TotalDri Pro Liner provide enhanced performance and comfort, while the Speedblade XS holder ensures efficient blade changes.
The RibCor 90k hockey skates are designed to maximize forward flexion and stability. Every element of this skate is engineered for pure performance, unequaled comfort, and a lightweight feel.
The CCM Jetspeed FT6 hockey skates feature a one-piece boot, ADPT comfort tongue, and enhanced holder. The lightweight RFM composite material and super skin material ensure elite-level protection and performance, while the TotalDri Pro Liner with polygiene keeps feet dry and comfortable. The molded CCM Ortholite Ultra footbed provides added comfort and support, and the SpeedBlade XS holder with enhanced dial technology ensures quick and easy blade changes.
The CCM Super Tacks 9380 is a high-performance hockey skate that features MetaFrame technology to ensure a superior fit for the player’s foot, while the thermo-formable core delivers exceptional skating performance. The Total-Dri liner, carried over from the AS3 Pro, provides optimal comfort, moisture management, and a secure fit.
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 Nike Air Zoom hockey skates are a high-performance option for serious players. Featuring Zoom Air cushioning for explosive acceleration and responsive energy return, these skates provide exceptional comfort and support. The lightweight carbon composite blade holder and stainless steel blades offer superior edge control and durability.
The CCM RibCor 88K Hockey Skates feature a composite quarter package with MetaFrame technology, providing a superior fit for your foot. This ergonomic design enhances forward flex and lateral stability, allowing players to maximize power and efficiency in their strides. The RFM composite material offers a variable stiffness profile of 150, ensuring a solid core for optimal skating performance.
The CCM Jetspeed FT4 hockey skates are designed for elite players, featuring One-Piece Boot Speed and RFM composite material for optimal acceleration and energy transfer. With an asymmetrical toe cap and interchangeable XS Tongue, they provide a customized fit. The lightweight design, comfortable liner, and durable construction enhance performance, while the Speedblade XS Holder and Step Steel runner allow for efficient blade changes.
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 Supreme Shadow hockey skate includes a Powerfly holder for energy transfer, a Carbon Connect outsole for acceleration, and an Ergo Connect toe cap for comfort and agility. The Carbon Curv composite provides lightweight support, and the PowerCoil tongue and liner offer comfort and performance.
The CCM Tacks AS-590 Skates are a high-performance option offering elite-level performance and fit at an exceptional value. Constructed with RocketFrame Composite and Carbon in a one-piece boot design, these skates deliver exceptional stiffness and minimal weight, empowering the player with explosive power and speed on the ice.
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 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 True HZRDUS 9X skates feature a carbon fiber one-piece shell that offers response, power, and stability. The patented NEUROFIT+ shell technology incorporates premium thermoformable materials for an unmatched fit and comfort.
The CCM Super Tacks 9350 hockey skate features a 3D-injected boot that offers a comfortable and durable fit, while the brushed microfiber liner adds an extra layer of comfort. The 7mm tongue provides protection and comfort, and the CCM Speedblade delivers solid performance.
The True Catalyst Pro skates feature a softer, more flexible shell and a dynamic flex tendon guard, these skates offer exceptional versatility and range of motion. The lightweight design and best-in-class fit ensure optimal comfort and support, allowing the player to dominate the ice with confidence.
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 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.
Austin MacDonald
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.
Austin MacDonald
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.
Austin MacDonald
The Bauer Vapor 2X Pro hockey skates are lightweight and designed for agility, making them perfect for players who prioritize quickness on the ice. They feature Bauer's DYNAFLEX system with an asymmetrical toe cap for a low-volume fit, along with a carbon composite quarter package for stiffness and energy transfer. The 2X Pro also feature the Tuuk Lightspeed Edge holder which stabilizes the skate and makes it feel extremely secure.
One of the things that makes the 2X Pro great is how light it feels. It's an extremely lightweight boot that is also really durable. It's a predecessor to what you see in the HyperLite these days. Very durable but also very light. So the 2X Pro is perfect for agility, cutting back and forth across the ice. And, it still has good power. At the professional level, some NHL players use the 2X Pro and have no issues. It’s a skate that will last you. Mine are still fine to play in even after years. It's a skate built to last.
Austin MacDonald
The CCM Tacks AS-V Pro is a high-performance ice hockey skate designed for elite players. It features a one-piece boot Power technology for a close fit and efficient energy transfer, along with a lightweight carbon composite construction for power and agility. Key attributes include the Powerflex tendon for enhanced range of motion and the XS Metatomic tongue for added protection and comfort.
The AS-V Pro 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 flexibilityity 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.
Austin MacDonald
The CCM JetSpeed FT4 Pro hockey skate is tailored for elite players seeking a close fit and explosive acceleration. Its one-piece boot is made from lightweight, NHL-caliber composite materials for optimal energy transfer during strides. The STEP BlackSteel blades offer effortless gliding and sharp turns. These skates continue CCM's tradition of innovation in high-performance hockey gear, building on the responsiveness and speed of earlier Jetspeed models.
Many people compare the FT4 Pro to the HyperLite, but the FT4 has much more power. It's an incredibly powerful skate, and the fit is perfect. I would do my stride in the FT4 Pro and realized pretty quickly that I needed to watch out! I'm not used to the power. You see a lot of NHL players still using the FT4 Pro. I'll see a player going really fast and think wow, look at that. Oh yeah, they are wearing the JetSpeed FT4 Pro.
Austin MacDonald
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.
Austin MacDonald
The CCM Tacks 9040 is a great option for beginner and recreational hockey players. It’s the most affordable in the Tacks line, featuring 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. Overall, the CCM Tacks 9040 offers good value for casual skaters and newcomers.
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.
Austin MacDonald
True Custom Hockey Skates are designed for individual foot anatomy, utilizing a 3D scanning process for personalized shells that ensure optimal fit and performance. This approach marks a shift from traditional skates and showcases True's dedication to innovation. Founded by Scott Van Horne, who has over 30 years in the custom skate industry, True emphasizes individualized performance reflecting its heritage.
The True Pro Custom are the skates I currently use. They're fantastic. The durability on these is just otherworldly. I've used my Pro Customs for over two years, and they still hold up great. In being custom, a lot of the holders (what keeps the steel in) can be swapped out. They will feature the quick-release Bauer version, or you'll see these skates with the quick-release CCM version. When you're looking for these skates, you can pretty much find whatever you desire.
Austin MacDonald
The CCM Ribcor 100K Pro ice skate is ideal for players seeking maximum agility. It features one-piece boot technology for enhanced range of motion and performance. The FlexMotion tongue and flexible tendon guard allow for deep strides and sharp turns, making it perfect for quick cuts and direction changes.
The Ribcor 100K is a top-of-the-line pro model skate. You'll get the most comfort and super lightweight durability with this skate. The 100K is really known for its agility. This skate is exceptionally good at quickly cutting tight areas and getting a precise feel on the ice instead of just going fast. It has exceptional agility, comfort, and a flexible feel.
Austin MacDonald
The Bauer Vapor X3.7 hockey skates are ideal for recreational and intermediate players seeking comfort and performance. They feature a lightweight 3D injected composite boot, a microfiber liner, and memory foam ankle padding. Designed for narrower feet, the X3.7 is a mid-tier option in the Vapor line, providing solid performance at an affordable price.
The X3.7 is a middle-tier skate. It's the skate a player would use after a introductory level skate or a lower level like x 2.7. This skate is flexible and agile and has a good amount of comfort, enough that it will last you quite a while as long as you're not skating seven times a week. The X3.7 has a quick release for exchanging blades, so it's meant to be worn for quite a while, longer than the lifespan of a single blade.
Austin MacDonald
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.
Austin MacDonald
The Bauer Supreme 2S Pro Hockey Skates provide elite performance for players focused on power and acceleration. With a stiff, 3D-lasted carbon Curv composite boot, they ensure excellent support and energy transfer for powerful strides. The Reflex Pro tongue and lacing system enhance the locked-in feel, embodying Bauer's commitment to advanced technology for game elevation.
The 2S Pro is a higher-end skate built for professional or competitive play. It has a lot of extra comfort and will be lighter with all the space-age technology materials. The 2S Pro has excellent power and control, so you can repeatedly explode your speed. This skate does have a quick-release mechanism to switch out your blades easily. The Supreme line has a more anatomical kind of snug fit. If you want a skate with all the bells and whistles, the 2S Pro is for you.
Austin MacDonald
The CCM Tacks AS-570 hockey skates are designed for competitive players, offering powerful strides and a close fit at an affordable price. They feature a one-piece boot for better energy transfer and a 150 stiffness flex rating for enhanced performance. With a replaceable asymmetrical tongue and customizable XS steel runners, the AS-570 skates deliver power and performance for today’s hockey players.
The AS-570 is in a good state. You have the ankle-locking memory foam and it offers a lot of power and comfort. This skate might not be as durable as other comparable models. It doesn't have the same high-end materials as the 5 Pro, but the AS-570 has a really good anatomical fit. It's a great skate if you don't really need the pro-level durability because you might only be skating on the weekends, but you still want something decent.
Austin MacDonald
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.
Austin MacDonald
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.
Austin MacDonald
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 S140 skates have an anatomical design that provides excellent heel lock and overall support, ensuring a solid foundation on the ice. The microfiber liner and plush ankle padding offer exceptional comfort, making it suitable for both frequent and occasional skaters.
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.
Austin MacDonald