DALV1

YIKES! That’s some strange behavior. I’m with Richman, on we go…

It’s either this or chickens…

Maybe, even the nylon on the 996 feels like it’s different. Again, not getting hurt, it’s as if I’m “in” something with the CCM and with the 996 I’m “part” of it. That’s why I keep thinking it needs to get soft. Maybe with the new or different foams it’ll never feel that way and I’ll need time to get used it.

Just a quick(not really) update on the new CCM Axis 2 after 4 skates. It’s light, it just goes on like I’ve had it for a lot longer, no fiddling or adjustments each time. Protection is good,no stingers, arms have been fine. I’m liking it,hoping it softens up over time. Although I’ve had zero issues I find myself thinking “thank god I didn’t pay full price” for this. Pro?? Not really, it’s good for what I do and I like it ALOT. If the shooters were higher level with this group I’d pull the Simmons 996 back into action. It feels different when I get hit with the CCM on. No pain ,no problem,just different. The Simmons feels more on the PRO level to me. Kudos to them, a few mods and they’d be hard to beat. I’m sticking with the Axis, it’s a very nice unit and the color…. I wish I didn’t need a jersey!! Overall I’m extremely happy. Not sure it’s a D1 or higher level unit but I’m not doing anything even close. I got a very good price on this and I’m happy with it. *im old,we think everything is expensive and should last forever. I’m hearing that’s not true anymore Again,I’m pleased with my purchase. It’s so damn nice looking

@RichMan I go untucked, older Bauer Elite pants. I thought the “flap” might get caught up but it never happened. It seemed to ride up and down as advertised. *GoaliesPlus advertised prices on these are also a smoking deal for the money.

Arrived last night, a few adjustments made, played at 6am this morning with it. Felt like I’d had it for years! I’ve been wearing a Simmons 996 since 2012 and LOVE that thing. Never been hurt, super mobile and comfy. Could not find anything I liked that was lighter and updated till I tried this on. Was going to buy another Simmons but got an absolutely amazing deal on this. There are a few deals out there that make this a GREAT choice. So far, one skate this was fantastic, felt smaller, a lot lighter and no mobility issues, nothing got caught or in the way. Took a few to the shoulders and chest and felt nothing other than contact. It’s got a ways to go before it’s 996 soft but extremely happy with first skate. Love the blue too, matched my Warrior G6 pads, although no one can see it…

Intermediate socks over warrior knee pads, after playing so a little looser.

I had a similar issue and bought intermediate socks and have been very happy using those. Tight enough on the knee pad and long enough to cover most of my leg. i should mention I bought the cheapest pair I could find first to see if they would work. I’ve since color matched to my equipment.

It’s good to read about the other older goalies trying to stay in this. I’ve gone through the “I’m done” and miss a week tantrums cuz I had a bad game. Been through the “what am I doing? If get hurt I can’t work”. Yet I can’t seem to leave, so although I’ve never really set an age to stop I’m inspired to think it’s possible in my 70,s! Wonder35… In the past year alone I’ve replaced my skates, never would’ve imagined playing net without cowlings, but now I’m all in. My gloves and pads and knee pads to Warrior, I like the looks, the weight and the belief that it’ll help. I’ve convinced my wife it’s all necessary for me to keep playing. My adult son thinks I’m an ass! Although, when he was around he played with me and those are great memories, hopefully for both of us. i still love the reaction to a two pad stack save, the old guys remember”when” and young guys think it’s nuts. I get the “the what was that sh*t” when I stand there and it hits me. There’s an expectation all goalies drop and when we don’t…. Well, you guys know, it messes with their heads. I'm still foolish enough to think “I would’ve had that” when I watch the NHL, so I believe it’s the competitive mindset, the social gathering in a smelly small room and the desire to still keep moving that won’t let me stop. And as I always tell the guys after, “ well, if I was any good I wouldn’t be playing with you guys”

This is an interesting take on the idea of change as we age. As an almost 60 yr old goalie playing two to three times a week, I’ve struggled to stay relevant. I’ve adapted to a hybrid style which involves a starting stand up to butterfly, two pad stack or anything else I can muster, style. I started playing net full time in 1981 and it was all stand up for a long time. I’ve purchased the newest and greatest types of equipment as I’ve gone along to stay in the game. I've recently been getting newer gear to reduce weight(equipment,not me) warrior gloves and new G6 pads. I was hoping this would be the next evolution of my game, lighter, faster, quicker reactions. Although I appreciate the weight reduction,age, flexibility, mental focus all factor into my level of success. I’ve noticed the other “old guys” have adopted a “sit in a modified butterfly” position and STAY there. They don’t get up!! Yet they’re fairly successful with this. I'm still enjoying the game and have the desire to play well and actually get better, even at 59 1/2 so I’ll keep trying whatever I can to stay healthy and have fun. The G6 no break pads are tough to get used to, not sure how you kids do it but wow are they light!

Now I know why those Bauer’s looked so familiar… I realize they bought Itech so they have every right to use the graphic,they didn’t change much though. XWings were nice pads.

I do have a hard time hanging on to stuff I couldn’t possibly use or want to once I find what I like. Two years ago gave away a very nice TPS Summit glove,this year an as new Itech RX9 to a buddy,better than sitting unused. Every old piece of gear gets passed along to some other goalie who wants or needs it,gratis or a handshake. At that point if I replaced it then I don’t want it anymore anyway. I do like to see other people’s collections though,sometimes a glimpse into the past.

@GP33apparently your spouse or significant other doesn’t venture into the basement! Theres is a part of me that’s really jealous of your “small” collection,nice stuff,loooooove those Smiths!

Very nice,clean and uncluttered.

Simmons 996 Bauer Elite pants Pants cinched tight, suspenders over TPS padded shirt,chest untucked and not tight to body. I don't know of any issues but I've never done it any other way.