Love these skates
Got the CCM JetSpeed FT8 Pro White Outs when they dropped, so you know I had to grab the Bauer Vapor Flylite Whites when they finally released them to us measly non-NHL players. After spending some time in both, I have to say I’m really liking the Flylites. Obviously, the white-on-white look is the first thing that stands out. They look insanely clean on the ice and are definitely a head-turner. From a cosmetics standpoint, I’d give the edge to the Bauers. But for me, the bigger difference is comfort. The Vapor Flylites just feel better on my feet. The fit is more comfortable right out of the box, and overall they feel like a skate I can just put on and not have to think about. Compared to the FT8 Pros, I definitely prefer the feel of the Bauers. One thing I didn’t expect to appreciate as much as I do is the eyelet setup. The Bauer eyelets make lacing these things up ridiculously easy. The CCM eyelets were extremely stiff, especially as you get toward the top of the boot. There wasn’t much play in them, so getting the lace through could turn into a little wrestling match—especially when you’re trying to get a good, tight lace job. The Bauers are basically the complete opposite. The eyelets have enough flexibility that you can get the lace through without having to shove your finger in between the eyelet and boot or cram the lace through. It’s a small design detail, but when you’re putting your skates on multiple times a week, those little things actually make a difference. So far, between the two White Out setups, I’m giving the edge to the Vapor Flylites. The CCMs are still a great-looking skate, but the Bauers win for me when it comes to overall comfort, ease of lacing, and just how good they feel on my feet. And let’s be honest—the all-white look doesn’t hurt either. 😮💨