Differences Between GRAF Skates

Graf hockey skates (grafcanada.com) are known for their precise fit and variety of features. The Graf skate design takes into account foot measurements and skating needs so that customers achieve the maximum comfort and features for their foot type. It is important to understand the fit and features of Graf skates to ensure that you purchase the right series and model for your foot.

  1. The Facts

    • Due to the specialized nature of Graf skate fit, the company recommends visiting a licensed Graf skate retailer and being measured specifically for Graf skates to ensure that skaters are properly sized and fit for the right skate. Skates are sorted first by series and then by models within each series. At each series level, there are multiple models to choose from based on the measurements from the Graf skate fit components. There are also a variety of skate models available at several price points.

    Fit

    • There are three major components to consider when fitted for Graf skates: heel width, heel/backstay shape and heel instep depth. The measurement of each of these components determines the Graf skate that will best fit your foot. Heel width refers to the width of the back of your heel. Heel instep depth is the diagonal distance between the lower edge of the heel and where the ankle meets the foot. Heel/backstay shape refers to the area around the Achilles tendon. Graf has three categories for each of these fit components. Heel width can be narrow, medium or wide. Heel/backstay shape is defined as pronounced, moderately pronounced or straight heels and heel instep depth is classified as shallow, medium or deep. Graf has a skate design for most combinations of these measurements. An authorized Graf retailer will be able to measure the foot to determine the qualities of each fit component.

    Features

    • Each Graf skate series (2, 3, 5, 6, 7 and G) has technical features specific to the series. All Graf skates have boots that are heat moldable; the skates can be heated and molded to the skater's feet for a precise fit.

      Series 2 and 3 skates have microfiber reinforcements for heel support and stability, foam ankle padding and synthetic lining for moisture management.

      Series 5 skates have a synthetic lining as well, but unlike Series 2 and 3, Series 5 skates have anatomical ankle padding and a hard plastic toe cap that is wider and stronger than the toe on the Series 2 and 3 skates.

      Series 6 skates have the same ankle padding and toe caps as Series 5. Unlike the lower series skates, they have an integrated frame and boot design resulting in a lighter boot with more responsive flexing and also feature a moisture wicking lining.

      Series 7 skates are the lowest series model to feature the Graf system foot bed that can be custom molded to the skater's feet. Also added to the Series 7 skates is a lightweight and rigid plastic out-sole. The other features are the same as Series 5 and 6.

      Graf's top-of-the-line skates are in the G series. They are the only Graf skates to have upgraded chassis and be made from carbon fiber resulting in a lighter boot. Aside from the insole and the chassis, they have similar features as the Series 6 and 7.

      Goalie skates have similar features to the other Series. The Ultra G50 has the same features as the G Series. The Supra 750 has the same features as the Series 7 skates. The Supra 550 features the hard plastic toe cap and a full out-sole for stability.

    Cost

    • Graf hockey skates have prices comparable to most popular hockey skate brands. Depending on where you decide to purchase your skates prices may vary, however Graf skates generally range in price from $200 to $700. The Series 2 skates are the lowest in price and the G Series are the highest in price. Most skaters should be able to find skates that fit their foot based on the Graf measurements in a range of prices.