Bauer goalie continues to push the envelope of what is possible between the pipes. New for 2021, we’re introduced to the Bauer Vapor HyperLite Goalie Pads. Not only are these some of the best performing goalie pads on the market, they’re built for goalies of every playing style.
In previous years, Bauer has tended to market it’s Vapor and Supreme lines to two distinctly different styles of play. With the release of the HyperLite, we can confirm what we’ve been hearing, that the HyperLite are closer than ever before to it’s sister pad, the Bauer UltraSonic.
The HyperLite line follows the Bauer Vapor 2X pad, and more recently, the Bauer UltraSonic pad lineup.
With Bauer up to date on it’s UltraSonic line, they’ve since released the Bauer Vapor HyperLite goalie gear lineup. It’s worth noting, that there will not be a Bauer Vapor 3X goalie skate. Instead, Bauer is combining Vapor and Supreme, coming out with the Bauer Pro Goalie Skate.
Editors note: as of April, 2022: the Bauer Mach goalie pads lineup has been released.
Evolution of the Bauer Vapor goalie pad lineup.
- Bauer Vapor Hyperlite (which we’re detailing here).
- Bauer Vapor 2X
- Bauer Vapor 1X
- Bauer Vapor
Some of the most technologically advanced goalie pads ever made by Bauer, and the closest pad to the Bauer Supreme UltraSonic line. These pads do not disappoint!
Bauer Hyperlite Goalie Pads Review
As we’ve seen in previous years, Bauer has been stepping up the quality and performance of the pads they produce. They’re lighter, more durable and overall more responsive. The Bauer Vapor Hyperlite pad lineup is currently being worn at the NHL level, most notably by Tampa Bay Lightning Goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy.
Here’s what’s new on the Bauer Vapor Hyperlite goalie pads.
- Upgraded C.O.R Tech technology
- C.O.R Tech Plus for the pad construction material
- Increased flex zone throughout the thigh, built using Bauer’s Curv technology
- Upgraded knee stack, using Stabiliflex Knee Block (same knee block system used on the Bauer UltraSonic pads)
Pros
- Lightweight
- Responsive
- Rebound control
- Improved knee block and stability
Cons
- Pricey
- Bauer pads aren’t known for their durability (though it’s been improving)
Honestly, if you’re considering Hyperlite or UltraSonic for your new goalie pads, you won’t be disappointed.
New for 2021, Bauer goalie is taking the goalie internet by storm. Welcome to the Bauer Vapor HyperLite Goalie Pads, one of the most responsive, lightweight goalie pads the world has ever seen.
Honestly, having worn these pads on the ice for a number of months, there are not many major differences between the UltraSonic line and the Hyperlite line. This is something we’ve felt that Bauer has trended towards in recent years, trying to get away from major differences between lineups. The advantage for a gear manufacturer is that with similarities between the two, the manufacturing process can be streamlined.
Additionally, a major manufacturing benefit and marketing angle is that Bauer can now release multiple lines of gear within the same year, constantly pushing new and groundbreaking technology between lines. For the consumer, there’s not huge ancillary benefit to purchasing one or the other.
These pads continue to push the boundaries of on ice performance, however. The sliding ability on any set of Bauer pads is unlike anything else currently on the market. Due to the way Bauer builds the leg channel and internal structure of the pads, sliding back and forth while on the ice is near the top of any pad manufacturer in terms of overall performance.
Bauer Hyperlite goalie pads vs Bauer UltraSonic goalie pads
The major difference between Hyperlite and Ultrasonic pads is the stiffness of the thigh area on the pads. Both of these pads are extremely comfortable, with the Hyperlite being just a bit more flexible than the UltraSonic.
The Hyperlite series features what’s called “Dynamic Flex” throughout the pad face, and a 100 degree boot. The 100 degree boot on the Hyperlite pads forces the pad just a bit forward, staying with the aggressive, mobile design of Vapor goalie pads.
Compared to the UltraSonic, where we have a stock 151 degree pad break, that’s square in shape. In addition, the boot angle is 125 degrees, more open and set back than the Vapor.
Both are subtle differences, but for the goalie who plays like Jonathan Quick, the Vapor Hyperlite goalie pads will not let you down.
Customizing Bauer Hyperlite Goalie Pads
Bauer is known for their endless array of goalie pad customization options, and the Hyperlite pads are no different. To start working on a custom order, take a look at the new customizer from Pure Goalie.
Color customization: There are 10 different colorways on the new Hyperlite goalie pads.
Glove customization: customize palm stiffness, pocket lacing, single or double t pocket, palm material, and practice palm options.
Breaking down other gear in the Bauer Vapor Hyperlite Series
The Hyperlite series of goalie pads from Bauer isn’t the only piece of equipment in this setup. As usual, Bauer is dropping other pieces of gear in the same line, including the new Bauer Hyperlite Goalie Stick.
- Bauer Hyperlite Goalie Stick Review
- Bauer Hyperlite Chest Protector Review
- Bauer Pro Goalie Pants
Some of the most technologically advanced goalie pads ever made by Bauer, and the closest pad to the Bauer Supreme UltraSonic line. These pads do not disappoint!
