Just bought a pair of these myself but have only skated on them once so far. At first was finding it extremely difficult to get used to the stiffness (I was previously skating on 20-year-old Mission Amp 7s lol). Reassuring to hear the initial hotspots fade as they break in. Thanks for the heads up that breaking in takes a longer time than usual. I've read that you shouldn't really bake skates more than twice as it can break down some of the softer materials more than intended. How many times would you say you needed to bake the FT4 Pros? Glad to hear you're coming around to the aesthetics of the skate. As someone who loved the look of them at first sight I was surprised to see how poorly the decals were received. I guess people are just used to black skates. I think you'll grow to love them even more of time, it's such a slick design. Thanks for the review.
I switched from a set of 20 year old high-end GRAF model (GRAFs stiffest model at the time) to CCM AS3 Pro (CCMs stiffest model) when the AS3 Pro model was released, and spent a great deal of time trying out all the models - for me the skate has to feel very snug; the GRAF skate (after years and years of use) basically had become a true 100% fit and I didn't expect any other modern skate to match the comfort or fit, but .. since I stepped up the game and started taking more blockers etc., a stiffer and much more protective boot was required. I'm a ~193 cm ~100 kg offensive-defensive player and am extremely happy with the decision of going for the AS3 Pro model. It's such a comfortable boot, and the responsiveness is immediate. I was a bit hesitating on the stiffness at first but after a good long session of heat molding the boot in the shop and a ~10 practice sessions, it felt just as good as the previous GRAF model I was so accustomed to. Based on own experience, I therefore don't see any problems with you going for the FT4 Pro model (if the initial fit "feels right"); just make sure to ge them heat molded 1, 2 or 3 times if required (over the course of a couple of days as the boot needs to settle/rest before additional bakings). I'm sure they'll be a great skate for years to come and I'm personally considering getting the FT4 Pro as a second set of skates.
I'm really intrigued by the new CCM sizes. I'm currently in 9370 tacks in 7EE. I was thinking maybe ASV non pro but based on your review, I wonder if I could even do a 6.5 wide intermediate skate (I've been buying intermediate sticks, I'm 200lbs but 5'8). My tacks I have to be really careful I don't lace too tight, but I'd like to get a boot that fits better so I could actually lace them a bit more snug (I'm like super loose and skipping an eyelet now).
Yes, I agree! If you’ve used Bauers it’ll be hard to adjust. I have hyperlites, wanted to try the ft4 pro and my feet were cramping like crazy because I occasionally have feet issues. It’s weird because my arches haven’t cramped for years. I tried all insoles except superfeet because I don’t put those insoles in forward pitched skates. I couldn’t get used to it so I sold it. Also they toe box is VERY wide compared to Bauer, too wide for me. I could probably use a fit 1 skate but I go fit 2 just to be safe. Really wanted to like the skate but it was a big no. I’m sticking to Bauer for skates. Great video!
Thanks for the comment and yes, skates are a very personal piece of equipment. Fortunately most skates are good quality. I think Bauer did a great job with the Hyperlite and I “think” they did a better job with the Mach than the Ultrasonic. Anyways thanks for checking out my video and skate hard, pass hard and shoot hard!
Hello great video! I’m curious why you moved on from the Hyperlite skates you discussed in your previous video? Is it the fit ft4pro is that much better than hyperlite for you in particular? I tried on the Jetspeed FT4 pro in my recommended size per CCM scan and I felt little hot spots all over. I’m a 10 fit 1 bauer scan - 10 regular CCM scan on iPad. Also the outside of the top of the boot was pinching the high ankle FT4. I was actually able to try them on the ice also and they are definitely pitched neutral compared to a stock Hyperlite in my perspective. Heel lock is amazing in FT4 pro but I also had discomfort below my ankle bones. This all goes to say without a bake. Maybe issues would go away with 2-3 bakes and punched out hot spots and or manipulating the outside of the boot at high ankle. The CCM rep told me that this skate would really form with baking and feel much better after bake. I’m intrigued because I like the Hyperlite but it’s a sloppy fit for me going directly off the recommendation of the bauer fit system. Sorry for the rant but sounds like the FT4 pro for you is much better and you had some of the same discomfort issues for a month as stated. The heel lock in FT4 pro seems amazing even without a bake and fit of the toe box. Maybe I need to try these and go through the grueling awful break in for a slipper type fit after a month give or take.
Hey there, no worries about the lengthy comment! So, yes, the FT4 Pro is better for my foot than the Hyperlite. At the time of my Hyperlite video, that skate was the best non-custom boot for me. But since trying on and breaking in the FT4 Pro, there's no comparison for me. You should definitely know that the FT4 Pro takes a LONG time to break in and more than one bake. They were really tough to deal with for about a month and them settled in over the course of one game one day. It doesn't surprise me at all that you didn't like it and had hotspots. Even a properly fit boot will take about a month to feel good. You do also need to address the pitch issue on any CCM boot. I find 1 degree forward works for me, but I'd bet others would want even more. The bottom line is that the fit of the FT4 Pros is better if you're willing to stick with them for awhile, but the Hyperlite are better if you need something to fit "now."
Similar to you I don’t like the flashiness of the skates. Main improvement I’d like to see is having a flexible tendon guard. Also, I had troubles with pitch but adapted after 6-8 skates, I plan to stay with CCM so figured I’d just get used to the stock pitch. I’m within my return period so I’m debating on trying the ASV Pros instead of these but I do find these very comfortable and preferred them much more than the 100K pros.
Hey there, thanks for the comment! I’d really recommend you consider adjusting the pitch via a profile. It’s a problem with all of the ccm skates, but the boots are so nice that it’s worth the $45 profile fee. I’d recommend going with a 1 degree forward pitch to get you close to a Bauer boot. This investment will help your stride rather than you adjusting to a subpar pitch.
I am having to try going to 100K since the custom FT4 pro that I have are too wide and they wouldn’t take them back lol. Haglund’s makes skating almost not worth it, neither the ASV pro or FT4 pro have a heel shape that does not cause pain, but for some reason the 100K do.
@@andrewm1793 As a former Ribcor user, I believe it’s the Ribcor foam that’s probably the difference for you. They do a great job making those skates fit a wide variety of feet.
I've always been a 9D in Vapor and actually found some new Hyperlites in 9 Fit 1 on eBay for good price. Tried them out and did not like the new forward flex, upper seemed less stiff than previous and toe seemed bigger more space. Was able to sell them on Sidelineswap. I want to try on FT4 Pro 9 tapered but of course low stock every where local (Chicago) especially with their 90 day guarantee. Thoughts on size/fit difference between Hyperlites and these? You said they had more volume than the Hyperlites (I really don't want to go down 1/2 size to 8.5 because holder length will switch to 272).
Hey man, if you want a more detailed comparison between the Hyperlite and Jetspeed fit, I did a video on that. The cliffs notes is that length vs length, the ccm is a shorter boot. For example, I’m an 8 in Bauer, but could do 7.75 in custom. I could not do a shorter boot than an 8 in ccm. Also, the FT4 has a tighter heel out of the box but is easier to mold to a wider heel than the Hyperlite. Basically, if you’ve been wearing Vapor skates that pre-dated the 2X Pro, you’d probably be more comfortable in the Jetspeed or even the Ribcor 100K Pro. Hope that helps.
@@mongillohockey so are you saying these are most similar to the bauer 1x 2017? They are the only skate i Liked and i have almost tried every skate since then.
@@mathiaswikudd4494 Yep, that’s what I’m saying. The FT4 Pros fit like a significantly more comfortable 1X Vapor. The main skating difference is that the Jetspeed has a pretty neutral pitch that needs to be rectified with a 1 degree forward pitch.
All great info, thank you! I tried on a pair of these about a month ago and was super disappointed with how they felt in the store. I was really hoping they would fit like a glove, but I felt like it was too big a risk to try at that price. After hearing your review, I might watch for them to go on sale during the next season. Also, I love the look of these. I just wish I could get them with a blue stripe instead of the red. Thanks again!
Thanks for your videos. They help a lot. Guess with my average skating abilities and at 6 feet 185 lbs I think I can go for the Jetspeed FT485 or Tacks AS580 depending on fit. Maybe the FT4 or the AS590 if I can get a nice discounted pair. That way I get the additional comfort of higher tier skate that won't be too stiff, I guess? 😅 But why do CMM and Bauer not do what they claim, and that is make 3 fits regardless of skate family...
You’re welcome and I’m glad you like the videos! I’m not sure what’s up with the various fit systems but I suspect the differing design between the models of ccm and Bauer skates is what’s creating the feel difference. Even custom skates can’t guarantee perfection. It’s pretty frustrating but seems to be the reality of where we’re at regarding of technology.
High instep and forward lateral ankle bone takes me out of the outside pocket and below the lacing upper holes. So tough to get a skate to fit this damn foot sadly!
Having been in a similar situation, you’re likely a custom CCM person. Bauer can’t fix that at the custom level. TRUE can, but I’m no longer a fan of that company. CCM can move the eyelets forward 1/2” and with it the foam padding. The bottom line is CCM can fix that at the custom level. One thing you might do is try the retail ASV Pro Supertacks. They have the most volume per size of any retail skate.
@@Optimization_Coach No worries! You’re definitely gonna pay a premium but if you can swing $1500 after tax and are willing to wait to get them back, CCM can do anything. Just keep in mind, there are no manufacturers who can give you a perfect fit, so make sure you manage your expectations on fit. The difference between pro and rec/youth players regarding custom skates is that the big manufacturers actually go to the players and build an actual mold of their feet and build several skates for them to try. We only have a “middle man or woman” to scan our feet. It’s less precise.
Just picked up a pair off Sidelineswap someone was selling new ones for $600 in my size (8.5 Tapered). I had to swap out to a 280 holder (had 271 on it) and steel since I was coming from a 9D Vapor 1X. First time using XS holder with silver Stepsteel--didn't notice too much of a a difference from Lightspeeds. Also, have always skated on 9' radius so local pro shop did that as well. I use the Superfeet Yellow Carbon Pro insoles as well so has a little bit forward lean (I honestly didn't notice a pitch difference from Vapors). I might try the slight forward pitch as you mentioned though. No issues with hotpots or blisters, etc. I only skate once a week so break-in will take awhile.
Hey man nice score on SidelineSwap! Yeah give the forward pitch a try and if you feel like it and report back. The superfeet will definitely help pitch though. You could always try the stock insoles to get a feel for any pitch differences.
@@mongillohockey Ok, so I decided not to profile the CCM holder/steel and bought some Lightspeed Edge holders and LS2 Edge steel--I don't like the higher steel height on the newer ones (and LS2 comes with stock 9' radius which is what I like) and the guy at my local pro shop said I wouldn't notice the difference--stated the holders/steel are exactly the same. They mounted the Lightspeeds and first thing I noticed just picking them up is they felt lighter (probably Step Steel weight vs LS2). Skating on them definitely didn't feel like quicksand like before (skates are still stiff so def need more time breaking them in).
I have a slightly wide foot with a lowish arch (based on IW's skate fitting video/length: width ratio); do you think the FT4Ps are wide enough that someone like me on the margin of regular width/wide could get away with a D or would it make more sense to go E for these skates? I know this is a highly personalized topic, but as another person with a weird ass foot shape I appreciate all your insight and videos! I'm currently in 7.5 EE Ribcors and they feel long but also still a bit cramped in the toebox...
Hey there, from one weird ass foot shape to another, I’d go with the wide. Lol. Here’s why. I noticed that the wide Ribcor 100k pro is actually not quite as high volume as the FT4 pro in wide. What I’ll also add is that a Ribcor 100k pro in a wide is actually wider and has more volume in the new CCM fit system than the days when you could only get a D or EE. That’s my two cents.
@@mongillohockey so I ended up finding a very lightly used pair of FT4(non pro) for a steal so I went with those. They’re the best feeling skates I’ve worn so far. I previously had FT490, Nexus 1N, Ribcor 90k…of all those this has the best toebox and the connection with the ice is unreal. I felt confident the second I stepped on the ice with the FT4s. There could be a liiittle more ankle padding but it’s not bad. The Ribcor is just absurd in that regard. Anyway, super happy with these. Thanks for the awesome video!
Hey man, i get my skates my ccm jetspeed next week and i need to profile them, i use a zuperior s in a bauer 1x, should i pitch them 0,5 degree to make them feel the same?
Hey there, my personal opinion is that a 1 degree forward pitch on your CCMs will make the pitch feel similar to your Bauer’s. That said, don’t be surprised if you need to change your profile too. The Jetspeeds aren’t as agile right out of the box and require significantly more time to break in.
Used these skates for a month now, can not get a good heel lock and feel like there is to much volume even with the thicker tounge. I am thinking about going custom and should i consider the ribcors instead of the jetspeeds.
@@jijihjihuu3217 Sorry about the heel lock issue. They have a similar design to the Bauer Vapor (narrow heel and wide forefoot). You might consider the Ribcor 100K Pro if you’re going custom. CCM seems to be able to do the most with those over their other models. I had custom 80Ks. One recommendation is to use a different foam than the memory foam that comes with the Ribcor. It’s comfy but difficult to get tight enough and doesn’t hold its shape after a bake. I’d recommend the foam of the ASV Pro or the donut foam of the FT4 Pro.
@@mathiaswikudd4494 Fortunately that’s a pretty easy fix. I’ve been using this product for years. It’ll give you better performance and more comfort. I use the Bauer size 6-9.5 for my CCMs and I wear 8 Wide. They might require a little trimming and another heat mold with them in the skates but you should like them. You can also buy them at pure hockey but Here’s an Amazon link… www.amazon.com/dp/B01N7Z4QBI/?coliid=I2X6S2ISY04JHV&colid=IE3MH72UT055&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it
You mention having foot issues in the past. I'm currently getting over a bad case of plantar fasciitis in my left foot after wearing 2022 Bauer Supreme Matrix skates for six months. I realize that the cause is most likely due to numerous factors, including stiff calf muscles etc., but I'm thinking of getting a pair of Jetspeed FT6 Pro skates when they come out in the spring/summer. Any advice/tips for plantar fasciitis? I did put Superfeet Carbon Pro Hockey insoles into my skates a couple months ago, but probably should have done that from the start. I'm currently taking a break from being on the ice until my foot is better.
Hey there, I assume you’re still skating in the Bauer skates? So, I need to first state the obligatory fact that I’m not a medical professional. Anyways, I think now that I’ve had foot issues, I’m finding superfeet aren’t the best option. If your feet are fine, they offer the best performance, but not if you have an injury. I’ve actually found that the cheap crappy insoles made by Elite Hockey worked best. You can get them on Amazon and they’re either blue or yellow. They work for most arch types in my opinion. Also, every time you swap your insoles out you really do need to re-bake your skates. Insoles, skates and even compression socks are all part of a system and need to work together. I do think all CCM skates bake better than anything that Bauer makes. That said, it’s highly likely it could take you a month of skating 2-3 times per week to break them in. If you can get past that first month, they’ll perform better than Bauer and be much more comfortable. This is subjective but I think it’s accurate. Normally I don’t suggest True, but they could work for someone with your issues. Let me know if you have follow up questions.
@@mongillohockey Yes, I'm still using the Bauer Matrix. I've taken a few weeks off to let my foot rest/heal, and I'm almost back to 100%. The thing that worked the best was soaking my feet in warm water with epsom salts believe it or not. I'm going to get back into my regular routine next week. As for the insoles, Superfeet says you need to remove the insoles when baking the skates, and then replace them just before putting them on your feet. I think the Bauers fit my feet fine (I've been wearing them for quite a few months) but do notice that the heel lock isn't great in my right foot anymore (which is a tiny bit smaller than my left). Once CCM releases the FT6 Pro model, I plan to try them on back-to-back with the ASV Pro skates to see how they fit. I know you seem to really like the FT4, so I'm leaning more toward the FT6. I briefly skated in the Ribcor 100K and those felt amazing. I only returned them because the tongue kept detaching while lacing up one foot and CCM wouldn't send me a different tongue.
@@PaulMarangoni Haha I have a love hate relationship with the CCM tongue. They’re a combination of cool but a pain in the ace. Anyways, give the FT6s a try and report back. Just remember about the required break in time and need to put a forward pitch on the steel at the time of profiling so you don’t feel like you’re on your heels. I did a video recently where were unofficially and non-scientifically “proved” that the Bauer holders have more forward pitch built in than the CCM XS holders.
@@mongillohockey This is the first time I've skated in Bauer skates, so I'm not sure if I'll need to have CCM's blades adjusted for a more forward lean. The Ribcors felt great on the ice. I wonder if tongues detaching is a common issue. I did find it interesting that you found the sizing between the ASV and FT4 to be different. That doesn't say much about CCM's consistency.
@@PaulMarangoni Okay good. Regarding the tongues, I’ve never had an issue with them coming out, so I’m willing to guess it was a fluke. I skate with a lot of guys who use that setup and they haven’t had that issue. Also, the sizing difference between the Jetspeed and the new supertacks isn’t necessarily a fluke, but just a fit difference. One of the most common misconceptions about the new sizing system for both CCM and Bauer is that all skates will fit the same once you choose your size. This isn’t really the case. For example, I’m an 8 Wide/high volume in CCM skates. The supertacks have more volume everywhere than the Jetspeeds, especially the heels. So if you’re missing heel lock, look first at the Jetspeed.
Interesting I got true custom and couldn't stand them bc of the forward pitch so went back to CCM Maybe I could have just profiled them no? Also I think I like the non forward aggressive pitch but now I'm gonna pay attention to see if I want a bit more forward (I never tried Bauer) What do you think?
Hi there, sorry for such a late response to you! You're probably sorted with skates by now, but if not, I'm probably not going to be the best one to ask to give a glowing review of anything from True. I did have two pairs of custom True skates and they weren't my preference. That's not to say they're not a good skates, as many players love them, but I had a bad experience that left me permanently injured as a direct result of how they made the skates. True actually admitted to me that I wasn't the only one this happened to (Big toe tendon was torn). To their credit, they did the right thing as best they could. I do think True skates are great for those players who are REALLY learning how to skate properly. For example, youth players playing competitive hockey. For adult rec players...not so much. The pitch of the boot is unnatural for a lot of players who have skated in Bauer and CCM. This boot feel tends to drive a LONG break in period unlike what other brands have. My advice to those who want True skates is to put Bauer TUUK holders on them, skate on unprofiled steel and THEN profile as necessary. Or...just buy Bauer or CCM skates. LOL
