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Posts Tagged roller hockey

Tour Thor BX Pro Roller Hockey Skate

May 20

Posted by Matt in Gear | 2 Comments

Tour Hockey recently unveiled one of their latest products, the new Tour Thor BX Pro roller hockey skate. After a successful launch of high-end skates last year, Tour looks to launch another line in 2011 focusing more on the lower end to mid-range skates. Coming in at the popular $199 price point, the Tour Thor BX Pro roller hockey skate is going to compete directly with the Mission Axiom T6 ($199), as well as skates from both Bauer and Reebok which are priced similarly.

From my perspective, Tour has definitely nailed the design on the Thor BX Pro. The grey and black boot with orange accents and wheels really looks tremendous. It’s certainly not an overly flashy skate, as you might be used to from Tour, but it will definitely get the job done.

As far as components are concerned, the Thor BX Pro will feature the Labeda Hum’er Extreme chassis, which of course offers a straight wheel set-up of 80mm. The skate will come stock with Labeda wheels as well, the Millenium Gripper, which will sit on Bevo ABEC 9 bearings. Inside the boot you’ll find a custom quilted lining, as well as the memory foam comfort fit that you might be used to with Tour skates. Over all, you’re really seeing some great properties on an ideal price point skate in the Thor BX Pro. This skate should definitely be able to hold its own in the current market and should be a popular pick-up for anyone on the hunt for a new summer skate.

Tour Thor BX Pro Roller Hockey Skate

Tour Thor BX Pro Roller Hockey Skate

 

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Mission Axiom T10 Revolt Roller Hockey Skate

Mar 30

Posted by Matt in Gear | 15 Comments

Mission is gearing up for October with a “clean and mean” new skate. The latest to join the Axiom line will be the Mission Axiom T10 Revolt roller hockey skate. We’ve got a great picture below of the brand new Mission Axiom T10 Revolt, so let us know what you think. In my opinion, it’s definitely a great looking roller hockey boot, sticking with the real flashy nature of Mission over the past few years. They seem to be taking it a step further this year, going with the white boot, real shiny graphics, and some yellow laces and wheels to really make the skate pop. The Mission Axiom T10 Revolt will be a great skate for anyone looking to be stick out in a crowd with their high end gear and performance. As time goes on, the looks continue to grow on me and I’m really digging the new skate.

When you dive into the specs on this skate, you can see why it will sit atop the Mission line of skates. The quarter package is going to be an ultra-light reinforced nylon tech mesh which will be durable and stiff enough to hold up to the demands of competitive roller hockey. The T10 Revolt will have a nice perforated two-piece white felt, true vented tongue, with a new VEX foam lace bite insert. The ventilation will be great for helping to keep your feet dry during game play. Another new feature on the new skate will be metal tipped yellow laces. This is a good move and hopefully they new lace tips prove to be more durable.

Moving to the bottom of the skate,  you’ll find an aluminized glass composite outsole which will really help with energy transfer through your foot into the skate. The Axiom T10 Revolt will come with the standard high-end magnesium hi-lo vanguard chassis, along with Rink Rat Hornet Split LE XXX grip wheels. I don’t know how many of you have seen the Split wheels in action, but along with performing well, they look pretty sick when they spin. The T10′s will also feature Mission Swiss LE 608 bearings.

If you’re looking to get into a new pair of skates this fall, and Mission is your brand and fit, definitely check out the Mission Axiom T10 Revolt skate. You can pre-order the Axiom T10 at Inline Warehouse right now, and they will begin shipping skates on September 15th. The T10′s will retail slightly higher than the Axiom T9, coming in at $649.99.

 

Mission Axiom T10 Revolt Inline Skate

Mission Axiom T10 Revolt Inline Skate

Mission Axiom T10 Revolt Roller Hockey Skate

Mission Axiom T10 Revolt Roller Hockey Skate

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Bauer Vapor APXR Roller Hockey Skates

Mar 29

Posted by Matt in Gear | 20 Comments

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

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Reebok 9k Roller Hockey Skate

Jan 23

Posted by Matt in Gear | 12 Comments

Update: The Reebok 9k roller hockey skate is now available at Inline Warehouse for only $349.99. Head over to IW now to check them out!

A few days ago we brought you a sneak peak of the upcoming 2011 Reebok 11k roller hockey skate with Hum’er chassis. At that time I was curious if they would go with a white version for the 9k. Well, it only took a couple days, and now we have a sneak peak at the 2011 Reebok 9k roller hockey skate. Sure enough, they went with white. I am definitely a fan of the boot on this skate, but the chassis doesn’t look nearly as nice as it does on the 11k.

The boot itself on the Reebok 9k roller hockey skate looks really solid, and very similar to the ice boot. You’re gonna get a nice felt tongue with the 9k, as well as the lace lock and pump technology that we’re all familiar with. The Labeda frame is, of course, a welcome addition to the new Reebok line. The tri-di chassis was far from our favorite roller hockey frame. The Labeda Millenium wheels will be nice as well.

Anyone looking to pick up the Reebok 9k inline skates can head over to Inline Warehouse now. They new skates will set you back only $349.99.

What are your thoughts on the new 2011 Reebok 9k roller hockey skate?

2011 Reebok 9k Roller Hockey Skate

2011 Reebok 9k Roller Hockey Skate

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Reebok 11k Roller Hockey Skate

Jan 20

Posted by Matt in Gear | 14 Comments

Update: The Reebok 11k roller hockey skates are now available at Inline Warehouse for $599.99! Head over to IW now to check them out!

In 2009, Reebok released an amazing line of roller hockey skates. Their traditional black and white boots made for a classic, but fresh look. The biggest problem, and what surely kept a lot of people from buying them (myself included), was the tri-diameter chassis. The 72-76-80-80 wheel setup is not as fast as other setups, had durability issues, and can be a hassle to replace wheels for. Companies like Tour provide top end speed with an all 80mm wheel setup on the Hum’er Chassis. Mission and Bauer on the other hand, roll with a 76-76-80-80 chassis to provide enhanced agility in addition to speed.

Now, in 2011, we will be seeing the new Reebok 11k roller hockey skate, complete with brand new Labeda Hum’er chassis and Labeda Addiction wheels! This is huge news for Reebok and their roller hockey brand. People who love the Hum’er chassis, but want a different style boot, will no longer have to convert their skates to get what they want.

Beyond having a great new chassis, the boot looks absolutely amazing. Reebok is sticking with the same black and white color scheme, and added in some green wheels to go along with the green pump. I don’t know that I’ve ever been so pumped for a pair of skates, and can’t wait to see what the 9k skates will look like.

If you’re looking at getting the new Reebok 11k inline skates, you won’t have to wait long. The skates are now available at Inline Warehouse for only $599.99.

Take a look at the new Reebok 11k roller hockey skate below and let us know what you think!

2011 Reebok 11k Roller Hockey Skate

The all new Reebok 11k roller hockey skate with Labeda Hum'er chassis

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Tour Spartan Pro Roller Hockey Pants

Jan 20

Posted by Matt in Gear | 4 Comments

Tour Spartan Pro Roller Hockey Pants

Tour players celebrate while wearing their new Tour Spartan Pro roller hockey pants

Anyone looking to get a new pair of roller hockey pants might want to take a second look at Tour. They recently released their Tour Spartan Pro roller hockey pants, and they look awesome. The Tour Spartan Pro is being marketed as a replacement for the Tour 10W30, which was a top seller for Tour for many years.

The first thing you will probably notice about the Spartan Pro is the price. At $38.99, they’re coming in at a lower price than all but one pair of pants in the Mission line. Even better, these pants are only $4 more than the lowest end offering by Mission.

While Mission pants tend to be light weight and feel great, durability has been an issue. My previous two pairs have fallen victim to numerous holes in less than a season wearing them. This won’t be a problem with the Spartan Pro as Tour has added two layers of 1680 Denier Nylon to the knees. That’s the strongest stuff you will find in roller hockey pants, which will ensure your pants stay in great shape for several seasons.

If you’re interested in picking up a pair of these, head over to Inline Warehouse. You can get a great deal and rock out the new Tour Spartan Pro roller hockey pants for $38.99.

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Tour Thor G1 Goalie Skates

Jun 29

Posted by Matt in Gear | No Comments

Update: The Tour Thor G1 goalie skates are now available for pre-order. Visit Inline Warehouse to order your pair!

For all you goalie fanatics out there, Tour is also giving it another shot with the goalie skate for 2011. They’ve made some great improvements over their last goalie skate, changing up the skate structure a bit and adding the new Labeda Predator frame. As with any Tour skate, you know you’re going to get a great deal of comfort in their boot. Goalies should definitely be happy with this new release.

Tour Thor G1 Goalie Skate

Tour Thor G1 Goalie Skate

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Tour Thor GX 7 Roller Hockey Skate

Jun 28

Posted by Matt in Gear | 2 Comments

Update: The Tour Thor GX 7 skate is now available for pre-order at Inline Warehouse. Click here to order now.

We’ve already covered some of the new skates in the 2011 Tour line, such as the Tour Thor EX-1 and the Thor ZX-9. Coming in at a price point just behind the ZX-9 will be the brand new Tour Thor GX-7. Much like the higher end skates in the line-up, the GX-7 has been upgraded a bit with newer materials and structure.  But overall, it will be an improvement over mid price point Tour skate from years past. I’m not really digging the color scheme on this set up as much as the other skates in the line, but Tour skates are definitely known for their performance. If you go with this skate, you’ll surely be pleased.

Tour Thor GX 7 Roller Hockey Skate

Tour Thor GX 7 Roller Hockey Skate

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Tour Thor EX 1 Roller Hockey Skate

Jun 27

Posted by Matt in Gear | 1 Comment

Update: The Tour Thor EX 1 Roller Hockey skate is now available for pre-order at Inline Warehouse. Click here to check it out.

Tour has refined their top of the line skate for 2011, and the official shots of the skate have now become available. The new top of the line skate, the Tour Thor EX 1, will be available in early July for roughly $550. It features the Labeda Addiction micro-hub wheels, on a new Labeda Hum’er Eviction chassis. The Thor EX 1 will definitely be one of the best skates on the market, and hard to pass on if you’re a Tour fan.

Tour Thor EX 1 Roller Hockey Skate

Tour Thor EX 1 Roller Hockey Skate

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2010 Reebok 8k and 10k Roller Hockey Skate

Aug 18

Posted by Matt in Gear | 8 Comments

2010 Reebok 8k Roller Hockey Skate

2010 Reebok 8k Roller Hockey Skate

This fall, Reebok will release their 2010 line of roller hockey gear. While many people are getting tired of the primarily white high end skates, I think Reebok has nailed the design of the Reebok 8k with an outstanding combination of white and black. They have left the bold, colorful designs of previous years in the past, and gone for a more traditional style for 2010. Out of every upcoming skate for the 2009-10 season, this one is my favorite based on looks.

reebok_10_skate

2010 Reebok 10k Roller Hockey Skate

When it comes to performance, however, I’m not so sure what to expect. Reebok skates feature the Tri-Diameter Lite chassis, which allows for a 72-76-76-80mm wheel setup (from front to back). It’s sort of a hybrid between the old Mission Hi-Lo, and the current Labeda Hum’er setup. Generally, this kind of setup will give you both speed and agility when skating, which is great for any player. Unfortunately, in past years, the Tri-Di aluminum chassis has been known to be a little suspect in the durability department.
If you like a real traditional looking black skate, and want top end performance, the Reebok 10k might be for you. But with top of the line features, comes a top of the line price. These skates are sure to retail for anywhere between $400 and $500.

Fortunately, for me at least, the Reebok 8k will retail for a bit less. I am really eager to see the skate in person, as well as the rest of the 2010 Reebok roller hockey line. It would appear as though Reebok is taking giant steps in the right direction with their upcoming roller hockey gear.

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