Update (7/19/11): Details are finally starting to flow about the new Bauer Vapor APXR roller hockey skate. The boot will be the same as the Vapor APX ice hockey skate, featuring the 3D lasted ALIVE composite upper with new molded X-rib pattern. On the inside we’ll have a hydra max 2 liner with integrated total edge comfort: 1 part moisture wicking/1 part abrasion resistance. But rather than the form-fit 3 tongue which is found on the APX, the APXR inline skate will have the form-fit 2 molded white felt tongue. The outsole of the skate will be an aluminized glass composite, which will be great for energy transfer.

As far as roller hockey components, you’re going to see a lot more top end stuff on this skate. The chassis will be the magnesium hi-lo vanguard that we’re used to seeing on Bauer/Mission skates, and it will come stock with some great Labeda Addiction XXX grip wheels. You’re also going to be rolling on the Swiss LE 608 bearings if you pick up a pair of the APXR skates.

The Bauer Vapor APXR will only come in senior sizes 6-12, full and half, and will also come in D and EE widths. I know many of you have been wondering about price, and we have confirmed, the APXR will retail for $850, making it Bauer’s most expensive skate to date. This may seem overwhelming, but as we heard in part one of our interview with Bauer’s Director of R&D, people are willing to pay top dollar to get the absolute best performance out of a piece of equipment.

I have to say, this is definitely one of the best looking roller hockey skates I have ever seen. The only thing I’m not digging about the Bauer Vapor APXR are the orange accents on the wheels, chassis and especially the laces. Playing roller hockey most of my life, I’m definitely aware that there are standards for being flashy on the rink, but I would definitely switch my laces out for some traditional ones (if the orange comes stock). Besides that, we can see they’re sticking with the Labeda Addiction wheels, which is definitely a good choice. Along with the great wheels, you will also be getting the magnesium hi-lo chassis featured on all Bauer/Mission top end skates.

As for the boot itself, the Bauer Vapor APXR will definitely live up to the hype generated by its ice counterpart, and will incorporate many of the same features. It looks like they added a more defined area of protection on the front part of the APXR boot. This will take all the scratches when the boot rubs against the floor while turning or taking a stride. I’m still sort of perplexed on why they wouldn’t just add the plastic cap like you see on Mission and Tour skates, but at the same time, this choice offers a much cleaner look.

Those of you looking at getting a pair of Bauer Vapor APXR skates won’t have to wait long. The skates will hit stores September 15th, or, you can pre-order a pair from Inline Warehouse right now!

What are your thoughts on the new Bauer Vapor APXR roller hockey skate?

Bauer Vapor APXR Roller Hockey Skates

Bauer Vapor APXR Roller Hockey Skates

 

Bauer Vapor APXR Inline Skate

Bauer Vapor APXR Inline Skate