Brand new for 2021 we introduce to you the Bauer Vapor 3X INT Hockey Skate. Optimized for performance skaters, the 3X features Bauer’s new fitting process. The 3X is a skate that opens up options to all foot profiles to find the right skate for you.
The weight of your 3rd price point skate has been reduced by approximately 6.5% from the previous model. They were able to do this with their 3D Lasted Flex Composite material and the new LS blade.
With the primary focus on quickness and agility, the 3X comes with other upgrades that you don’t want to miss out on!
Skate Fit Profile
Like the Hyperlite, the 3X features the Performance Skate Fit System as well. The classic D and EE widths have been replaced in this size range by Fit 1, Fit 2, and Fit 3. This may sound confusing, however, this allows you the freedom to wear different options in the Bauer family.
Previously you based your decision on the traditional “Vapor Fit”, “Supreme Fit”, or “Nexus Fit”. Now all 3 skate fits are available to wear with “Supreme Features”, or “Vapor Features”, whichever aligns with your preference. Below is how the new Bauer Skate Fit System compares to previous years’ of Bauer Skates.
- Fit 1 = Low Volume, Narrow width (closest aligned to the Vapor fit profile)
- Fit 2 = Medium Volume, Medium Width (closest aligned to the Supreme fit profile)
- Fit 3 = High Volume, Wide Width (closest aligned to the Nexus fit profile)
Boot Construction & Stiffness Profile
Bauer has constructed the Vapor 3X with the focus on Performance level hockey players. The 3X features Bauer’s 3D Lasted Flex Composite material. This material has allowed Bauer to reduce the overall weight of the boot by about 60 grams. In addition, because this boot is Flex Composite, it will be slightly softer than the 3X Pro Curv Carbon Composite that comes on the Hyperlite and 3X Pro. This Flex Composite material is used to provide good stability while still allowing great ankle flexion. The top of the boot is lined with Comfort Edge Padding to reduce bite when performing stops and aggressive tight turns.
Liner & Internal Padding
The 3X comes out of the box with a game day ready comfort before heat molding. With Bauer’s new Fit System, getting into the 3X is seamless. The 3X features the Hydrophobic Microfiber liner to provide a great grip of the foot and moisture management to keep you as dry as possible. Pairing this with Bauer’s upgraded Aerofoam Memory foam, this boot delivers exceptional comfort while still maintaining a snug ankle wrap.
Asymmetrical Toe Cap
The Vapor 3X features an asymmetrical toe cap. This new toe cap has been revolutionized to reduce the negative space which results in a better fit. It also generates more power with every push stride. Bauer designed this toe cap based on the data collected from over 400,000 scans from the Bauer 3D scanner.
Tongue
Bauer has styled its 3X tongue to keep the main focus on comfort and performance to ensure stability and flexibility while skating. The tongue includes a 40 oz felt tongue seamed with comfort lining to offer a balance of performance, support, and great feel.
Insoles
The 3X Intermediate skate comes with your standard Form Fit footbed. This insole allows your foot to stay secure to the bed of the boot. It also increases the control and blade contact you have while skating.
Lacing System
Since the 3X comes in at our 3rd price point for the performance level players the boot does not offer the Injected Eyelet System you will find in the Hyperlite and 3X Pro. This is not to say that the standard eyelet system is bad, it’s just different. In fact, many pro players in the NHL prefer standard eyelets. Unlike the Injected eyelet system where it is one cohesive strip of eyelets, the standard eyelets are individually woven into the stake. The main difference is the overall wrap you can get from the boot.
Steel Runner, Holder & Blade Profile
On the 3X Intermediate hockey skate, you will be geared with the LS steel. The LS blade is an improved quality of steel from its predecessor. It has also been heightened to allow you to get deeper into your edges while skating.
The holder used is the Tuuk Lightspeed Edge with a quick release trigger system. This holder is patented by Bauer and is the number one holder used by NHL and professional players everywhere.
Graphics
Following the graphics of the 3X Pro model, the 3X is slightly toned down without any neon yellow colour pop and a slightly darker grey. This is a great looking graphic with a more traditional look to it.
