Difference Between Bauer X60 & X40

Finding the right hockey skate among the limitless options can seem daunting. Important factors to take into consideration when making your selection are the brand quality and reputation, as well as differing features between boots of the same manufacturer. Bauer Performance Sports Ltd., founded in 1927, developed the very first skate that had the blade attached directly to the boot. Since its beginnings, Bauer has developed numerous other technologies to improve hockey gear. Two of the Bauer skates on the market as of early 2011 include the Vapor X:60 and the Vapor X:40, both intended for use by players seeking optimum acceleration.

  1. Boot Specifications

    • While the X:40 and X:60 both offer myriad features, the X:60 seems to bring even more innovation into the boot. The X:60's quarter package is composed of an ultra-light tech mesh, whereas the X:40 is made from basket-weave nylon. The lining material on the X:60 is the Hydra-Max liner, which is both moisture-wicking and abrasion-resistant to keep the feet dry and anchor the heel in place, while the X:40 has a quick-dry hydrophobic grip liner. Other differences include a more complex tongue construction in the X:60 that includes a form-fit molded tongue made from abrasion resistant material with a lace bit channel and high-density metatarsal guard. The X:40's tongue has two anatomical pieces made from 48-oz. felt and has a basic metatarsal guard. Finally, the foot beds of the X:40 and X:60 both have Superfit+, a technology that features a heel stabilizer and grip, arch support system and heel pad for greater foot stability and comfort. The X:60 also features a moisture management heel stabilizer and comfort pad.

    Outsole & Blade Specifications

    • The specifications on the lower part of the skate are similar on the X:40 and X:60. Both skates have a Tuuk Lightspeed 2 blade holder with an LS2 stainless steel runner. The main difference between the boots is seen in the outsole composition. The X:40 has a fiber composite outsole, while the X:60 is made from a full carbon composite.

    Available Sizes

    • The X:40 and X:60 both come in senior sizes 6 to 12, including full and half sizes. Available widths include D and EE. The X:40 also comes in 13, 14 and 15 in a full E width. Both skates are available in junior sizes 1 to 5.5 in full and half sizes and in widths D and EE. The X:60 also features youth sizing in sizes 8 and 9 and 10 to 13.5 in full and half sizes, both D and EE widths.

    Price

    • As of April 2011, the senior size of the X:40 has a retail price of about $430, while the X:60's suggested retail price is $700. The junior sized X:40 has a suggested price of $260 while the X:60 is priced at about $425. Youth sizes of the X:60 have a $185 price tag.