For a hockey goalie, your skates are the foundation of everything you do. Every lateral push, every butterfly slide, every desperation post-to-post save starts with how your feet connect to the ice. Get your skates wrong, and nothing else matters – not your $3,000 pads, not your perfectly fitted glove, nothing.
Here at Goalie Coaches, we take our reputation seriously. We’ve built our company training elite goalies at camps across North America, working with guys who are currently playing in the NHL and AHL. We know what works because we’ve actually used it, not because some marketing department told us it’s revolutionary.
This guide covers the best goalie skates money can buy in 2025. These aren’t budget options – we’re talking about skates that serious competitive goalies are actually wearing. If you’re looking for the cheapest option at Play It Again Sports, this isn’t your guide. But if you want to know which skates the pros trust and which ones will actually help you play better, you’re in the right place.
We’ve put our money where our mouths are. We’ve bought these skates, baked them, broken them in, and tested them in real game situations. We’re not getting paid by Bauer, TRUE, or CCM to put their stuff at the top of this list.
Quick Picks: The Top Goalie Skates
- Bauer Konekt 2 – Most innovative skate on the market. The HINGEFLEX system gives you 22° more flex than anything else available.
- TRUE Catalyst 9X4 – Best pro-level stock skate. One-piece carbon shell delivers a custom-like fit straight out of the box.
- CCM EFLEX 6 – Best value in the premium category. One-piece boot with Step Steel at a price point that doesn’t require a second mortgage.
The Winner: Bauer Konekt 2
The Bauer Konekt 2 is the most advanced goalie skate ever made, and honestly, it’s not particularly close. The HINGEFLEX system fundamentally changes how a goalie skate works, giving you ankle mobility that was impossible in traditional stiff boots. This isn’t marketing speak – it’s a legitimate game-changer for goalies who live in deep stances and need every degree of flex they can get.
At $999.99, it’s expensive. But if you’re serious about playing at a high level and your current skates are holding you back, this is where the market is heading.
Now let’s break down all nine skates in detail.
1. Bauer Konekt 2 – Best Overall Goalie Skate
The Bauer Konekt 2 represents the biggest innovation in goalie skate technology in the last decade. While everyone else focused on making boots lighter or holders more aerodynamic, Bauer asked a different question: what if we let goalies’ ankles actually move the way they need to?
Why It’s the Best
The HINGEFLEX system is the real deal. It uses a GRILAMID thermoformable shell with an engineered flex point that gives you up to 22° of additional forward flex compared to traditional stiff boots. That might not sound like much until you drop into a deep butterfly and realize you’re not fighting your skates anymore.
The ski boot-style push-lock buckles are a massive upgrade from the original Konekt. The first generation had buckle durability issues that Bauer acknowledged and fixed. These new buckles are bomber – we’ve put serious miles on them with zero problems.
Performance Where It Matters
The Vertexx Edge holder allows for aggressive attack angles that used to be impossible with old-school cowlings. Combined with the boot’s flex, you can load up on posts and explode across the crease with power that feels different from anything else. It’s not subtle – you’ll notice it the first time you push.
The GRILAMID shell thermoforms to your foot better than most custom options. After a proper bake and break-in period (expect 4-6 ice times), these mold to your foot shape in a way that eliminates the hot spots and pressure points that plague traditional stiff boots.
The Trade-Offs
At a grand, these aren’t cheap. And not every goalie needs this much flexibility. If you’re playing beer league once a week or you prefer a super locked-in, stiff feel, you might actually prefer something else on this list. The flex is the feature, but it’s also a commitment – you’re buying into a completely different skating experience.
Some goalies find the learning curve challenging. If you’re coming from stiff boots, your pushes will feel different for the first few weeks. Your ankles have more freedom, which means you need to actively control that range of motion instead of letting a rigid boot do it for you.
Best For: Elite-level goalies who play in deep stances and need maximum ankle mobility. Also perfect for goalies transitioning to modern butterfly techniques who felt limited by traditional stiff boots.
Elite-level goalie skates designed for optimal ankle mobility and performance. The best skate available on the market right now.
2. TRUE Catalyst 9X4 – Best Pro-Level Stock Skate
The TRUE Catalyst 9X4 is what you get when a company that built its reputation on custom skates decides to make a stock option. This is as close as you can get to a custom fit without going full custom, and for a lot of goalies, it’s actually the better choice.
The One-Piece Advantage
The NEUROFIT+ carbon fiber one-piece shell is the centerpiece here. There’s no separate outsole to delaminate, no glued seams to worry about. It’s a single molded piece that thermoforms to your foot and stays that way. After baking, these feel like they were built specifically for your feet.
The MotionCuff collar system deserves more attention than it gets. It allows your ankle to move freely through its full range of motion while maintaining a locked-in connection with the boot. You get the freedom you need for deep stances without the slop that can come with softer boots.
Real-World Performance
At 920 grams for a size 9, these are light without being fragile. The carbon construction maintains stiffness where you need it (forefoot for power transfer) while allowing flex where you don’t (ankle for mobility). It’s a smart balance that works for most high-level playing styles.
The SHIFT ATTACK DLC holder with Postlock technology is specifically designed to sit flush against the post for explosive cross-crease pushes. It’s a small detail that makes a real difference when you’re trying to get from post to post in a hurry.
Why It’s Not #1
The Catalyst 9X4 is a more conservative design than the Konekt 2. It’s brilliant at what it does, but what it does is refine the traditional goalie skate rather than reimagine it. For some goalies, that’s exactly what they want. For others chasing every possible advantage in ankle mobility, the Konekt 2’s HINGEFLEX system offers something this doesn’t.
The moderate shell stiffness is perfect for most goalies but might feel too firm for players who love a softer boot or too flexible for old-school stand-up goalies who want maximum rigidity.
Best For: Competitive to pro-level goalies who want a premium stock skate with near-custom fit and elite performance.
Stop paying custom skate prices when this stock option molds to your foot like it was built in a lab specifically for you.
3. CCM EFLEX 6 – Best Value Premium Skate
The CCM EFLEX 6 is the skate we recommend most often to parents who are serious about their kid’s goaltending but don’t want to drop a grand on skates. At $749.99, you’re getting Step Steel (easily a $200 upgrade on other skates), a one-piece boot, and proven technology that’s been refined over years of pro-level use.
Why This Is the Value King
CCM includes Step Steel 10F27 runners as standard equipment. This alone is huge – most skates in this price range come with basic stainless steel that needs sharpening every 4-6 ice times. Step Steel holds an edge significantly longer and provides better bite on cuts and stops. Factor that upgrade cost into the overall value, and this skate punches way above its price point.
The one-piece boot with RFM Composite and Lite Core eliminates the outsole just like TRUE’s design. You get a direct connection to the ice, better energy transfer, and no glue seams to fail over time. The construction is legitimately pro-level, just wrapped in a slightly less expensive package than the top-tier options.
Fit and Performance
The asymmetrical Flex Stance Contour collar is cut specifically for modern butterfly technique. It allows you to get low and wide without the collar digging into your leg pads or restricting your movement. This seems like a small detail until you’re in a game and realize you can hold your stance comfortably for an entire shift.
The stiffness rating of 190 offers a nice middle ground. It’s stiff enough for powerful pushes and good energy return but not so rigid that it restricts natural ankle movement. For most competitive goalies, this balance works really well.
The TOTALDRI Pro liner with Polygiene actually does what it claims – keeps your feet dry and your skates from turning into biohazards. After a full season, these still won’t clear a room when you open your bag.
The Catch
The EFLEX 6 was released in June 2023, so it’s not the newest model on the market. CCM hasn’t announced an EFLEX 7, so this is still the current premium option from them, but you’re not getting 2024-2025 innovations. For most goalies, that doesn’t matter – the fundamentals here are solid and haven’t been made obsolete by newer tech.
The SpeedBlade XSG holder is good but not groundbreaking. It allows for quick steel changes and works fine, but it doesn’t offer the aggressive attack angles of Bauer’s Vertexx Edge or TRUE’s Postlock system.
Best For: Competitive goalies who want premium features and performance without paying for the absolute latest innovations. Perfect for goalies who prioritize proven reliability over cutting-edge flex systems.
The most recommended option for serious goalies that don’t want to drop a grand on goalie skates.
4. Bauer Pro – Best Traditional High-Performance Skate
The Bauer Pro is for goalies who want modern lightweight construction and responsive performance but prefer a traditional feel over the Konekt’s HINGEFLEX system. This is what most NHL goalies are wearing when they’re not testing new innovations.
Built for Performance
The 3D lasted Carbon CURV composite construction is where this skate earns its price tag. CURV offers an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio – you get a stiff, responsive boot that doesn’t feel like you’re wearing ankle weights. The 3D lasting process molds the entire boot around a foot-shaped form, creating a more natural, comfortable fit than traditional flat-lasted construction.
The StanceFlex Pro system is Bauer’s answer to ankle mobility without going full HINGEFLEX. It allows for superior forward flex where you need it while maintaining lateral stiffness for powerful side-to-side movements. It’s not as dramatic as the Konekt 2, but it’s a meaningful improvement over older Bauer models.
The Details Matter
The Pro Enhanced Stiffness outsole provides a rigid platform for maximum energy transfer. Every ounce of power you generate in your push goes directly into the ice, not into flexing your boot. For goalies who rely on explosive first movements, this responsiveness is crucial.
The cowlingless Vertexx Edge holder is a game-changer for attack angle. Older skates with big plastic cowlings limited how aggressively you could angle your blade into the ice. The Vertexx Edge lets you get lower and drive harder on pushes, especially when you’re loading up on posts.
The included LS5G+ carbon-coated runners hold their edge longer than standard steel. Not as long as Step Steel, but noticeably better than the basic stainless you find on entry-level skates. Plan on sharpening every 6-8 ice times instead of every 4-5.
Who Should Consider Something Else
If ankle flexibility is your priority, the Konekt 2 offers more. If you want a one-piece boot construction, TRUE and CCM have you covered. The Pro is the “classic” choice that does everything well without pushing any boundaries.
At $869.99, it’s more expensive than the CCM EFLEX 6 despite being released around the same time. The CURV composite construction and StanceFlex Pro justify some of that premium, but it’s worth comparing these two carefully based on your priorities.
Best For: Elite-level goalies who prefer proven traditional construction with modern weight savings and responsive performance. Perfect for goalies transitioning from older Bauer models who want familiarity with upgrades.
Bauer’s marriage of the Supreme and Vapor lines, when it comes to Goalie Skates. One of the most advanced goalie skate ever manufactured by Bauer.
5. TRUE Catalyst 7X4 – Best Mid-Tier Performance Value
The TRUE Catalyst 7X4 is the skate we point mid-level competitive goalies toward when they’re ready to upgrade from entry-level gear but aren’t quite ready to drop $900. At $699.99, you’re getting legitimate one-piece carbon construction and pro-level features in a package that won’t require a payment plan.
One-Piece at This Price?
The NEUROFIT+ carbon fiber one-piece shell is the same fundamental construction as the premium 9X4, just with slightly different materials and finishing. After baking, these mold to your feet and create a fit that most $500 skates can’t touch. The one-piece design means no outsole to delaminate, no glued seams to fail – it’s a more durable long-term design.
The MotionCuff collar system provides excellent ankle mobility without sacrificing connection to the boot. You can drop into deep butterflies and move freely through your range of motion while maintaining the power transfer you need for explosive pushes.
Where You Save Money
The materials are a step down from the 9X4 – you’re getting one-piece composite construction but not the absolute premium carbon fiber. In practical terms, the skate is marginally heavier (though still light) and slightly less responsive. For most goalies, that difference isn’t detectable.
The Clarino liner is excellent – durable, moisture-wicking, and comfortable. The HydroFoam ankle padding uses different densities to provide both comfort and support where you need it. These are details that separate TRUE from competitors even in their mid-tier offerings.
Real-World Use
The SHIFT ATTACK holder with Postlock technology is the same system you get on the 9X4. That means you’re getting the aggressive attack angle advantage and quick steel change system of the premium model. The included steel is fine for most use, though serious players will want to upgrade to Step eventually.
After a full season of use, these hold up better than most skates in this price range. The one-piece construction means fewer failure points, and the materials are durable enough for year-round competitive play.
The Limitations
These don’t have the premium carbon shell of the 9X4, so they’re not quite as responsive or as light. If you’re playing at an elite level where marginal gains matter, you’ll feel the difference. For AA/AAA level competitive play, you probably won’t notice.
The included steel is decent but not exceptional. Budget for a Step Steel upgrade if you’re playing more than twice a week.
Best For: AA/AAA competitive goalies who want pro-level construction and features without premium pricing. Perfect for goalies making the jump from recreational to serious competitive play.
One of the best mid-range goalie skates for all-around comfort and performance.
6. Bauer Konekt HF3
The Bauer Konekt HF3 brings the revolutionary HINGEFLEX system to a more accessible price point. At $669.99, you’re getting the core innovation that makes the Konekt 2 special without paying for the absolute premium materials and finishing.
HINGEFLEX at a Discount
The HF3 features the same basic HINGEFLEX concept as the Konekt 2 – an engineered flex point in the boot that allows for significantly more ankle mobility than traditional stiff construction. You’re not getting the full 22° of additional flex the Konekt 2 offers, but you’re getting enough that you’ll immediately notice the difference from traditional skates.
The ski boot-style push-lock buckle system is the upgraded version that fixed the durability issues from the original Konekt. These are solid and provide a consistent, secure fit that stays locked throughout a game.
Where the Savings Show
The boot is thermoformable but uses different materials than the GRILAMID shell on the Konekt 2. It’s still excellent – it bakes well and molds to your foot – but it’s not quite as responsive or as durable as the premium version.
The included steel is standard stainless rather than carbon-coated. It works fine, but you’ll be sharpening more frequently than with higher-end steel. Plan on every 4-5 ice times instead of 6-8.
Who This Makes Sense For
If you’re intrigued by the HINGEFLEX concept but can’t justify a thousand dollars on skates, this is your entry point. You get the core benefit – enhanced ankle mobility – at a price that’s competitive with traditional performance skates.
This is also a smart choice for goalies who want to try the HINGEFLEX system before committing fully. If you love it, you can always upgrade to the Konekt 2 down the road. If you find you prefer more traditional stiffness, you’re not out as much money.
The Reality Check
These were released in mid-2025, so they’re very current. But they’re positioned as the “HF3” for a reason – this is the third tier in Bauer’s HINGEFLEX lineup. You’re getting the innovation, but you’re also getting entry-level execution of that innovation.
For serious competitive goalies playing at elite levels, the Konekt 2’s additional flex and premium materials make a difference. For most goalies, this is plenty.
Best For: Competitive goalies interested in HINGEFLEX technology who want to try the system without premium pricing. Great for younger players who might outgrow skates before they wear them out.
Access the same HINGEFLEX technology that revolutionized goalie skating without dropping a grand – this is your entry point to the future.
7. Bauer Elite – Best Performance Under $550
The Bauer Elite delivers many of the features from the Pro model at a price point that’s $350 less. At $519.99, this is where the performance category starts to make sense for competitive goalies on realistic budgets.
What You’re Getting
The CURV composite construction is the same material used in the Pro model. You’re getting that exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and responsive feel without paying for all the premium finishing details. The boot is stiff enough for powerful pushes but light enough that you’re not fighting extra weight.
The Anatomical Comfort Collar is designed to eliminate the hot spots and pressure points that plague cheaper skates. After a proper bake, these fit comfortably without a brutal break-in period. For younger goalies or anyone who’s had issues with lace bite, this is a real benefit.
The Vertexx Edge holder provides the same aggressive attack angle advantage you get on premium Bauer skates. This is where budget skates usually cut corners, so keeping the cowlingless holder at this price point is significant.
Where Bauer Cut Costs
The liner isn’t as premium as what you find in the Pro or Konekt models. It’s still decent – it’ll wick moisture and stay comfortable – but it won’t hold up quite as long and doesn’t have the odor-fighting treatments of higher-end options.
The included steel is basic stainless. It works, but you’ll be sharpening frequently. If you’re playing more than once a week, budget for a steel upgrade after your first season.
The outsole stiffness is noticeably less than the Pro. You’ll still get good energy transfer, but elite-level goalies who rely on explosive movements will feel the difference.
The Sweet Spot
This is the best option for competitive high school goalies or adult league players who take their game seriously but aren’t playing at junior or college levels. You’re getting legitimate performance features without the premium price tag of skates designed for pros.
These also make sense for goalies who are still growing. If you might need new skates in two years anyway, paying $520 instead of $870 means you can afford better gear when you hit your adult size.
Best For: Competitive AA/AAA youth and high school goalies who need performance features but are working with realistic budgets. Perfect for adult league goalies who play seriously but not professionally.
The Bauer Elite goalie skates are built for competitive goalies who want a lightweight, responsive boot without sacrificing comfort.
8. TRUE Catalyst 5X4 – Best Entry-Level Performance Option
The TRUE Catalyst 5X4 sits at the entry point of TRUE’s performance lineup at $499.99. This is where you start to see real performance features instead of just basic recreational construction.
One-Piece Construction Matters
Even at this price point, TRUE uses a one-piece composite shell. It’s not the premium carbon fiber of the 9X4 or even the enhanced composite of the 7X4, but it’s still a single molded piece with no outsole to fail. For durability and long-term reliability, this construction method is superior to traditional two-piece designs.
The boot still thermoforms to your foot after baking. You won’t get quite the custom-like fit of premium models, but you’ll get something significantly better than off-the-shelf fit from most skates in this price range.
Performance on a Budget
The moderate shell stiffness works well for most developing goalies. It’s stiff enough that you get good power transfer on pushes but flexible enough that you’re not fighting the boot when you need ankle mobility. For goalies learning modern butterfly technique, this balance helps rather than hinders.
The SHIFT ATTACK holder is the same system used on premium TRUE skates. That’s meaningful – you’re getting the quick steel change capability and better attack angles even though you’re not paying premium prices.
What You Don’t Get
The liner is basic. It’s functional and won’t fall apart, but don’t expect the moisture-wicking performance or odor control of premium skates. Plan on pulling insoles out after every use and maybe using dryer products.
The included steel is entry-level stainless. It’s fine for learning and developing, but if you’re playing competitively more than twice a week, you’ll want to upgrade to better steel after your first season.
Who This Makes Sense For
This is perfect for young goalies making the jump from house league to competitive travel hockey. You’re getting legitimate performance construction that will support skill development without the sticker shock of premium skates.
These also work well for adult beginners who are serious about learning but aren’t ready to invest in top-tier gear until they know they’re committed.
Best For: Developing competitive goalies making the transition from recreational to serious play. Great first “real” performance skate for goalies committed to improving.
The True 5×4 Skate offers high-level comfort, protection and performance for a good value price point. Not the most elite skate on the market, but a great entry point.
9. Bauer GSX – Best Entry-Level Option
The Bauer GSX at $229.99 is the baseline for what we’d consider acceptable goalie skates. Below this price point, you’re looking at recreational gear that won’t hold up to competitive use. This is where actual performance begins.
What You Get for $230
The STANCEFLEX quarter provides some forward flex for modern butterfly technique. It’s not remotely comparable to the HINGEFLEX system or even traditional stiff boots, but it’s better than completely rigid construction that fights against your ankle movement.
The soft liner prioritizes comfort over performance. These won’t require a brutal break-in period, which matters for younger goalies or adult beginners who might give up if their skates hurt for weeks.
The Vertexx Edge holder is the same cowlingless system used on premium Bauer skates. At this price point, that’s notable – most entry-level skates still use traditional holders with big plastic cowlings that limit your attack angle.
The Reality at This Price
These are entry-level skates. The boot construction is basic, the materials won’t last as long as premium options, and the performance features are minimal. If you’re playing competitive hockey at AA level or higher, you’ve probably already outgrown what these can do.
The included steel is the most basic stainless available. It’ll need sharpening frequently and won’t hold an edge like better options. But for once-a-week play or house league, it’s adequate.
Who These Are For
New goalies trying the position for the first time. Kids who might decide they hate playing goal after one season. Adult beginners playing recreational hockey who want legitimate skates without a major financial commitment.
If your kid is playing house league and you’re not sure if they’ll stick with goaltending, these make sense. If they’re playing AA travel hockey and serious about the position, save up for something better.
Best For: Entry-level recreational goalies and beginners who need legitimate skates at minimal cost. Perfect for trying out the position before committing to serious gear investments.
The Bauer GSX goalie skates are built for comfort and flexibility at a good value price point— perfect for beginner/ intermediate goalies.
How to Choose the Right Goalie Skates
Start With Fit
Goalie skates should fit tighter than player skates but not painfully tight. Your toes should barely brush the toe cap when you’re standing normally. When you bend your knees into a stance, your foot should slide back slightly and your toes shouldn’t touch at all. If your toes are jammed into the cap in your stance, size up half a size.
Most brands offer multiple fit profiles (Bauer has Fit 1, 2, and 3; TRUE has their heat-moldable system). If possible, try on skates before buying. If you’re ordering online, understand the return policy and be prepared to try multiple sizes.
Understand Stiffness Trade-Offs
Stiffer boots provide better energy transfer and more powerful pushes. Softer boots allow more ankle mobility and are generally more comfortable. Modern innovations like Bauer’s HINGEFLEX system try to give you both, but there’s still a fundamental trade-off.
If you’re playing a high-level butterfly style with lots of lateral movement and post integration, you probably want more flexibility. If you’re more of a traditional stand-up goalie or you rely heavily on explosive first movements, stiffer might be better.
Blade Profile Matters
Most goalies use a flatter profile than player skates – something like a 30-foot radius or even flatter. This gives you better balance in your stance and more blade contact with the ice for pushes. Don’t just accept whatever profile your skates come with; get them profiled properly by someone who knows goalie skates.
The standard goalie hollow is typically 1/2″ to 5/8″, which is shallower than player skates. Shallower hollows give you better glide and easier lateral movement. Deeper hollows give you more bite for quick stops and aggressive cuts. Most goalies find 9/16″ to be a good middle ground.
Budget for Steel Upgrades
If you’re buying skates under $750, the included steel is probably mediocre. Plan on upgrading to Step Steel or another premium option after you’ve confirmed your size and you know you like the skates. Good steel will run $150-$200 but will hold edges significantly longer and give you better performance.
Don’t upgrade the steel until after your first few skates. Make sure the boot fits properly first – you don’t want to invest in premium steel for skates you’re going to return.
Break-In Period Is Real
Modern skates with thermoformable materials require proper baking. Most retailers will bake skates for you when you buy them. If you’re ordering online, find a shop with a professional skate oven – don’t try to DIY this at home with your kitchen oven.
After baking, expect 4-6 ice sessions before skates feel truly broken in. The first few times out, they’ll feel stiff and maybe uncomfortable in spots. This is normal. By the sixth ice time, they should feel significantly better. If they’re still painful after six sessions, something is wrong with the fit.
When to Replace Your Skates
Competitive goalies typically replace skates every 2-3 years of heavy use. Signs it’s time: visible boot degradation, holders feel loose or cracked, skates no longer hold their shape after baking, or you notice performance decline you can’t attribute to other factors.
If you’re still growing, you’ll obviously need new skates when you outgrow your current pair. Don’t try to size up dramatically to “grow into” skates – the fit is too important.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a good goalie skate different from a player skate?
There are major differences in goalie skates vs player skates. Goalie skates have a flatter blade profile for better balance in stance, thicker boot construction for shot protection, and different stiffness patterns to support butterfly movements. The holders sit lower and longer to accommodate more blade contact with the ice. This helps you get more grip on the ice and get a better attack angle.
How much should I spend on goalie skates?
For serious competitive play (AA/AAA), budget $500-750 minimum. Elite-level goalies should expect to spend $750-1000. For recreational play or beginners, $230-400 is reasonable. Don’t cheap out on skates – they’re your foundation for everything you do in net.
How do I know what size goalie skates I need?
Goalie skates run smaller than shoes but larger than player skates. Most goalies end up 1-1.5 sizes smaller than their shoe size. The best approach: try them on if possible. Online, order your normal skate size and be prepared to exchange. Your toes should barely touch when standing, and shouldn’t touch at all when you’re in your goalie stance.
How long do goalie skates typically last?
With proper care, premium skates last 2-3 years of competitive use (100-150 ice times per year). Budget skates might only last one full season of heavy use. Factors that affect lifespan: how often you play, how hard you play, and whether you dry them properly after each use.
What’s the difference between the expensive and cheap options?
Premium skates use better materials (carbon fiber, advanced composites) that are lighter and more responsive. They include better steel that holds edges longer. The liners are more durable and comfortable. Boot construction is more sophisticated with better energy transfer. You’re also paying for innovations like one-piece construction or HINGEFLEX systems.
Do NHL goalies use these same skates?
Many NHL goalies use stock models from this list, though often with custom modifications. The Bauer Pro, TRUE Catalyst 9X4, and CCM EFLEX 6 are all worn by current NHL goalies. Some pro goalies use fully custom skates, but modern stock options are good enough that many pros don’t bother.
When should I replace my current skates?
Replace skates when: the boot loses its stiffness and can be flexed by hand easily, the holders are cracked or loose, you’ve outgrown them, or you notice a significant performance decline. If your skates are painful after a proper break-in, they might not fit correctly – consider replacement rather than suffering through.
Final Thoughts
The Bauer Konekt 2 represents where goalie skate technology is heading – more flexibility, better fit, enhanced performance. If you’re playing at an elite level and your budget allows, it’s the obvious choice.
For most competitive goalies, the TRUE Catalyst 9X4 or CCM EFLEX 6 provide exceptional performance without the learning curve or premium price of the Konekt 2. Both are proven at professional levels and offer features that will support your game for years.
If you’re shopping mid-tier, the TRUE Catalyst 7X4 or Bauer Konekt HF3 give you legitimate performance construction without breaking the bank. Don’t overlook these – they’re significantly better than skates from even five years ago.
Your skates are your foundation. Everything else in your game builds from how your feet connect to the ice. Buy the best skates you can reasonably afford, get them properly fitted and profiled, and take care of them. They’ll take care of you.
Questions about fit or which skates make sense for your situation? Drop a comment below or hit us up on Instagram @goaliecoaches. We’re here to help.
Affiliate Disclosure: This guide contains affiliate links to Pure Hockey, Goalie Monkey, and other retailers. We may earn a commission if you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you. Our recommendations are based on real testing and experience, not on affiliate relationships. We only recommend gear we’d buy ourselves.
