Soft Goalie Pad versus Stiff Pad - Goalie This v. That

What is the difference between a Soft Goalie Pad and a Stiff Goalie Pad? What about a Tight Leg Channel or a Wide Leg Channel? Which might be right for you? Let's find out together!
Are you using a Soft or Stiff pad? Let me know in the Comments Below!
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[@Major_Rizz]

Im a lacrosse goalie and I don’t even play hockey but these videos are entertaining

[@andrewfraser4812]

What team?

[@VOGoalie]

Ha, thanks so much! You are Totally Awesome (and way more brave to stand in your net than I am!)

[@GateKeeper36]

Its his voice too.....no homo

[@squirrel_trucker]

Hey Wayne, got a couple video comparison suggestions. 1) Paddle length short vs long (i.e, 24" vs 27") 2) Cats eye cage vs standard goalie cage 3) Suspenders or not (and if so, over or under chesty) 4) Standard laced glove or skate laced glove 5) Dogs or Cats

[@grimkeeper35]

I love the paddle length idea.

[@jankorec4642]

Blake Kubeska I like all of these suggestions and would really like to see these videos

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks so much for the suggestions! Some really interesting match ups! But I'll tell you right now Cats FTW. I've never had a cat chew up any of my gear!

[@thomasspeed3390]

Dogs, obviously!!😋

[@phbb]

I would really like to see #4!

[@GCHG2014]

I always suggest that younger goalies up until junior or high school wear a soft pad, This way they can learn to feel the puck better and control rebounds. As they get older some stay in a soft pad and some go hard. Once a goalie levels off and adapts to that level of play then they can place a rebound with a hard pad wherever they want. I find this to be a little more difficult for goalies playing two years at each level as they move up. Thoughts?

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks for your comment! That's really interesting! Back in my day, all pads were "soft" (unless you had a set of Aeroflexes but who had those?). It's intriguing to think about how pad choice affects a younger goalies development. I honestly hadn't even thought of it until you brought it up. I can see the though process behind what you're saying and softer rebounds would help younger goalies get into a certain freeze the play mentality. Interesting... Thanks for the insight!

[@RyanL0742]

I love the Brian’s Netzero pro’s

[@GMixer12000]

I feel like I have soft pads (Reebok) I've had them for a while now and I will gotten so used to them it's just what I'm comfortable with. I'm seeing a lot more goalies in my league switch to the velcrow stiff pads (because they're newer and more available) but I find they actually open up your 5 hole more so I'm going to stick with my pads lol.

[@testaccount8846]

Cassandra Main *Reebok

[@thejumbaking2424]

@@testaccount8846 no its rebook

[@testaccount8846]

+Jiggly_ Juices no it’s not look it up

[@testaccount8846]

It’s literally Reebok.com

[@thejumbaking2424]

@@testaccount8846 man just subscribe to PewDiePie

[@_stevenson_2928]

It's a treat to see a goalie that knows what they're talking about with good video and editing qualities... Too many decent goalies using a potato for a camera with no editing abilities. Well done VOGoalie.

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks so much! Just trying to make the best videos I can and hopefully help/entertain some other goalies along the way!

[@personM4N]

A problem I've noticed is I don't have a ton of hip flare in my butterfly. So with a softer pad, that S curve helps to close my butterfly. With a harder pad, they kind of converge out in front of me in a triangle in a butterfly. It's why I don't want to go from the Bauer Reactors up to the Vapors or the 2s line. I'd love a harder surface to get those faster rebounds, but still be able to have a little S curve, so I'm thinking of trying CCM, or any other pad that I can have a strap up higher on the pad, and a double break.

[@ignaciotrueba7108]

Hey man I love your channel! I started playing inline this year and I'm loving it! I play goalie and I was looking to buy some equipment and I really don't know what to chose. This far I like the Bauer S150 as it has a good quality/price relation (I'm in uni and I can't afford really expensive gear) Anyway, do you recommend me some kinda begginers gear? Than you very much!!

[@magictooth2]

I don't know any more Wanna see reviews on Vaughn SLR 2 come out, the little I've seen looks very promising, also, Vaughn kicks ass!

[@VOGoalie]

I grew up loving Vaughn, but oddly enough, I currently don't wear any Vaughn gear! The SLR2s do look promising! Thanks for your comment!

[@adrian-ph3il]

I am wearing custom Vaughn v6 pads with a v2 channel. But I am probably going to change to ccm e flex cause they aren't as tight

[@thirstfast1025]

:) Man! Just want to thank you for the idea of changing up the velcro strapping format! I tried it today, my pads never felt so good!

[@VOGoalie]

Sweet! Since going to velcro strapping, I can't imagine ever doing up a leather buckle again! Glad it worked out for you!

[@SeanMackYo]

I’m getting back into goaltending, and just found your channel a couple weeks ago because that. It’s been about 8 years or so and I’m still debating to go to back to roller or go to ice for the first time regularly. I did Brian Hayward’s goalie camp in Anaheim yearssss ago I think at 11 yes old (that’s the last time I was goalie on ice lol). I’m 22 now and am trying to get all the padding for my frame, so these videos are great! I bought some Simmons ultra light 1 (yes the first generation lol) for $80 and they’re practically brand new, I’d say they’re on softer side haha. I’m probably a soft pad guy

[@VOGoalie]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing your experience! Ha, those original UL's would def be a soft pad! Thanks for sharing and welcome back to the crease no matter which way you go!

[@jasontryon8621]

I’m 5’10” and weigh 185lbs. I wear CCM E-Flex III (Pro model). I have modified the pads a bit. I replaced the two laces with CCM Elastic & Velcro Toes (much more responsive give me more freedom but bringing the pad back into position more precisely). I removed the boot strap entirely (With elastic velcro cradles who needs a boot strap?) I do the elastics medium snug, and run the knee elastic down to my calf. The two calf straps are done loose, and I removed the outer wing of the knee cradle as well. I wear Bauer Supreme Knee pads underneath socks to give a little extra protection at the knee and to lift my knee a bit as well relieving torsion on my knees when i go down. This also allows for a wider butterfly. The E-Flex pads are a softer pad and keep rebounds closer allowing me to play the puck and have more control. This is a matter of taste. As you pointed out a stiffer pad is going to punch the puck farther out on a rebound. Which you like is a matter of preference. I like to be able to grab it and play it, but at the same time that means that if I can’t play it I may end up a little more vulnerable. The inverse of that is that with a stiffer pad that punches the puck out further. One can actually put the puck into play in a dangerous place. Both are viable and both have their drawbacks, the important thing is to know what to expect and play to your own strengths as a goalie. Cheers,

[@MrChippinator]

I used to wear the softest pads I could get. With that being said, the only pads left on the market by the time I stopped playing (early-mid 2010s) were the Don Simmons Hybrid pads which were designed as a modernized version of the old Heaton pads. Was probably the only guy in their 20s who preferred that style, plus I wore them with toe buckles instead of a lace -- such a throwback. Tried the harder pads once, someone else's, and found I couldn't move.

[@VOGoalie]

Awesome! Those hybrid Simmons pads were awesome! The last gear line of an era past. Sad to hear the DS is closing, but I'll always fondly remember their sweet 90's catalogs! Thanks for your comment and sharing!

[@MrChippinator]

@@VOGoalie First time I heard of them closing, have been out of the game for so long (last set of pads I bought would have been around 2012 or so). That's too bad, the guys over there were great, used to deal exclusively with one of the owners, he'd always give me a better price. Yeah he told me once that he was getting the pro Hybrid pads made by the old Heaton factory workers if I remember correctly. Funniest part was, I wasn't even the target market for the pads, I actually had previously bought a set of the Ultra lights and told them everything I didn't like and they referred me to the pro hybrids which, when I do play, almost never now due to injury, I still love.

[@jerryphillips6809]

Hi Wayne, Thanks for all the hard work you have been putting in. I'm in the Vaughn Ventus LT98's and came from the Vaughn 2200 Pro Carbon pad, I fell in love with the lightness and superior ice seal. But the softer pad was a lot more comfortable to play and practise in. This year I'm experience minor knee and hip problems and I'm thinking of going back to a softer pad, probably the CCM platform. Because I've heard that CCM does a lot of anatomical testing on there products. My hip issue could be the result of old age or over use as I put in a lot of time practising and playing. Also, I found I had to put a lot of effort in widening my B-fly, in order, to close up the 5 hole on the LT98's. An interesting research, topic that you may be interested in, is whether the gear companies design their products with consideration of reducing stress in the knee and hip joints. It seems these days, it's all about stopping the puck. And I also cant help but wonder, how messed up the pros get from decades of repetitive work. Thanks again, keep up the good work.

[@VOGoalie]

Hi, thanks so much for your Comment! You make some really great points! While I don't know for sure, I think most manufacturers take body mechanics into consideration. In today's age of the internet, if a pad design was truly biomechanically detrimental, I would think the last thing a pad maker would want would be "social proof" of injuries. That being said, things like increased knee stack height as well as elastic toe attachments are really an effort to gain performance but also minimize potential injury. If you're really interested in biomechanics, check out Maria Mountains' KZbin Channel GoalieProTrainingTV. She goes into depth about how our bodies work and certain things you might be able to do to mitigate strain and injury. That being said, one avenue you could explore are new kneepads. Depending on what you are currently using, certain knee pad styles and or build/construction materials may help to alleviate knee discomfort. I've also found that as I get up there in age, I've had to slightly adapt my play (i.e. narrower butterfly) in an effort to continue to just play the game. Hope some of this helps and thanks for your Comment!

[@jerryphillips6809]

Thanks for the prompt follow up, I'm familiar with Maria's work. I've heard of knee stacks and just found an article that mentions RBK produced a knee pad that helped lift the knees up and reduces joint stress. Much to my surprise, there the very same knee pads I used with my Vaughn PC 2200's. And after some thought, the ones I have been using are a lower profile and getting on with age, hopefully a change will help, cause I still like the LT98's.

[@JAvellino669]

That's exactly how I wear my Warrior G3s! The elastic toe and heel straps make the pad feel responsive, even when I strap the calf and knee very loosely. One day, I'll work up the courage to try the Lundy Loop, too! I'm in love with stiff pads now. Having a stiffer pad lets me kick out rebounds further, which in turn gives me more time to recover and react to the next shot. It seems like rebounds from within 3 feet in front of me are the hardest to stop, because there is no time to respond.

[@VOGoalie]

Awesome! Now that I've gone Lundy Loop style, I haven't gone back! The Warrior elastic boot set up IMO makes the biggest difference. And I'm right there with ya on those greasy rebounds! Thanks for your comment!

[@stevenjam7119]

@@VOGoalie hey have u ever jad issues with the g4 boot flaps? I keep getting my right leg inside one caught up on my skates when i get back up after extending my leg and cant seem to fix it

[@VOGoalie]

Hey, thanks for your question! I haven't had any issues with skates getting caught on the calf wraps. How are you running the boot elastic!

[@michaelbodea]

your quality and personality is awesome

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks so much much! You are Totally Awesome!

[@JakeT420]

I like a stiffer lighter pad, I have the Bauer Supreme 1S OD1N pads. The leg channel is also basically the width of my hand and I have a pretty decently sized hand.

[@kd-pt1zy]

I love both. I have a stiff vaughn v7 rx iceberg set. Most underrated set for a blocking style. They are unreal. I love them so much. I love my rx10 set. Best soft pads that I have ever worn. I love both because it gives you different perspectives.

[@theblade4]

I can relate to this video. My Reebok Revoke pads that I used in the past are a lot more flexible and softer due to the double outer break, and I would have the Velcro straps pretty snug and the buckle straps fairly loose...but ever since I switched to Bauer’s Supreme line, they are a lot stiffer with no breaks and with only the use of Velcro straps, I find they feel a lot better where they’re loose instead of being snug to my leg like the Reebok’s!!

[@alanmontgomery3519]

Really enjoy your down to earth and informative videos Wayne. Keep up the great work. :)

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks so much for the kind words!

[@BlueBellStrings]

I’m a forward but I still love watching these videos. Honestly surprised you don’t have even more subscribers

[@justinricard4976]

Hey Wayne, I ve been watching your vids for a while now. I am not gonna say your the reason I bought the warrior G4 set up, but after watching your video I felt pretty good about my purchase.

[@christophergadulka3460]

I play a warrior Ritual 1. With 2 breaks. I like the stiffness for the rebound control . But i need 2 breaks for the style i play. I also removed all straps except for the top 2. And have velcro for the knee and calf. I use flex toe on the sliding bridge and removed the other skate strap (i like my heel to be free). I also added 3/4 " stiff foam to the knee landing. So i sit higher up when I land. GREAT VIDEO as always!!!

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks for your kind words about my video and thanks so much for sharing your set up! I had a set of Smith 6000s so I can clearly envision what you've done to your Rituals! I really loved those pads, but they were a +2 (back when thigh rises were all the rage) and they just weren't as mobile as I liked! But it sounds like you made some great mods to your set! Thanks for sharing!

[@cartermacewen3086]

Vaughn V6 2200 Pros. Soft-ish pads, but they are still “stiff” and since they have no knee rolls, they play like a stiff butterfly pad. Another great video by the way!

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks! I've always loved Vaughn pads (way back with their Legacy line). Sounds like they're really trying to cater both sides with their new offerings. Thanks for your comment!

[@itsjoiner3392]

CCM P2.9 pads and Warrior Ritual CR2 Goalie Stick

[@DashingTalks]

right now i wear soft pads i was looking in to buying stiff pads a while ago this video really gave me a good idea thank you much and keep up the great work

[@VOGoalie]

Awesome! Glad it helped!

[@KB9813]

Reebok Primers 4 Pro Custom. Love em.

[@GMixer12000]

Same here!!!

[@VOGoalie]

Nice, def a nice pad!

[@GateKeeper36]

@@VOGoalie i wonder if ..you would be honest to someone...and say....those are ugly pads!!..if you really thought they were.

[@bjplayz5797]

I like the stiff pad because in my first game wearing them I got a shutout 8-0

[@adrian-ph3il]

Wow nice

[@leightonkeilen6318]

I used stiff pads last season at the start and did really good but this year I got soft pads and have 6 shutouts in a row

[@Raylep1]

New to the goalie racket this year. Got over 20 games punched, enough to buy new pads. Got the new pads, went from a 31+1 to a 34+1 (to close up my 5 hole) played a game with them and was very difficult. I was fighting them on the top. After that game I found out about breaking them in. The video said break them in for 30min. I wasnt sure how I would find it so I only did it for 15min. Found it better but I really had to find out alot of things about the pads. Tightness, and toe attachment. Since loosening the pads and changing the toe laces the pad is at a spot now where I am not fighting them and they are actually cormfortable. I went with ccm 2.5 Extreame pads.

[@VOGoalie]

Awesome! Welcome to the Club! Glad to hear that you've found a strapping method that works for you! Most modern day pads have a number of strapping options to help dial in the fit of a pad. You made a huge jump and were probably wearing pads that were too small when you started. Thanks so much for your comment!

[@matteobrizzi6890]

Vaughn VE8s here, definitely soft for me. I like to compare my playstyle to that of Lehner or Fleury, very agile so I need the most comfortable pads possible.

[@KB9813]

I personally got around the fact that you need to wear a pad loose if they're stiff by adding a professor strap and also using shock cord toe ties. Keep to my leg but also highly responsive and don't flop around. But every time I land their flat as hell.

[@thomasspeed3390]

How about cowling skates vs non-cowling skates?

[@grimkeeper35]

Excellent idea!

[@crewzta]

I wanna see this too. In the market for new skates :)

[@kevinkiraly7113]

Me too!

[@VOGoalie]

This one is definitely on my list this year! Thanks for the suggestion!

[@jamescrown79]

Wayne does show this on the butterfly pushes video. It shows how the blade stays in contact with the ice longer. I'm definitely going cowling less next year!

[@zacharyjones8946]

I just started goalie at at age 22 and play with a stiff pad but this is to be able to keep the play going and I love taking as many shots as possible

[@GuardianKardigan]

Thank you!! So happy I found your channel.

[@conorreidy25]

My personal favorite flavor of pads is vanilla also an idea for a video is for pads Velcro or straps

[@guywilde2783]

I have Bauer Supreme 2S Pro pads. I wear them as loose as I can get them for the leg channel. I find them a lot easier to close off the 5 hole either when going down and when in full butterfly on the ice.than my old Reebok 7K's that these replaced. Have you compared foam core vs composite goal sticks yet?

[@goaliemojo4310]

cool details! just bought some new Bauers...will check out your other videos, thanks for making them!

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks for your comment and kind words! You rock!

[@thomasspeed3390]

I used to use CCM premier 1, now I use warrior R/GT pro. I have found that a harder pad is better for me because I'm tall enough (6' 200#) that I can afford to sit deeper in my crease; therefore, I prefer the rebound to go as far as possible so that I am not fighting for uncontrolled pucks in a danger zone. As far as the fit, I have to vary that with the team that I'm playing with. If I'm playing with a team that has a strong forecheck but is going to give up a lot of break aways, i play with a stiffer fit (knee strap behind the knee) to allow for fast response particular for 5 hole shots. If I'm playing with a team that has a strong backcheck, I tend to play with a looser fit (knee strap behind the calf) which will allow the pad to be more on the ice as im further sprawled out during one-shots.

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks so much for your insight! Interesting to hear your different preferences based on other team factors! Now that I think of it, I like harder rebounds because I can't stand when a beer leaguer pops in a greasy goal off a soft rebound and celebrates like its OT in Game 7! lol! Thanks for your comment!

[@thomasspeed3390]

Lol, that is really annoying. That happens so much especially with the lower level players for a couple of reasons. 1. They don't understand the physics of the goalie position so they get super excited when they score on a goalie that typically plays at a much higher level, 2. The game has apparently not taught them humility yet. Hockey is a game of mistakes. Even the pros make the same mistakes that we all make they are just much faster at it. For me, I get reminded of the value of humility pretty frequently like when an in-house 16u player scores during a "stick and puck" because I cheated to the left or right and didn't give his skill the respect he deserves.

[@peakstrengthclub]

Wow great video. I have been in the market and plan to upgrade from my old Vaughn V3s. I really like what warrior has done with the G4s along with Vaughn with the V8s. It's overwhelming how different the new pads are and how much they have changed. Thanks for the very detailed breakdown!!

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks for your comment! I used to rock a set of V3 7500s so I know where you're coming from! While I had a few pads in between those and my current G4s, I think regardless of what you go with, the weight savings will be insane!

[@liamolsen4178]

I recently bought a set of v7s. And coming from the s29 it was like learning a new, old, skill. After trying them both I like the v7's better.

[@shaunnh2a585]

I havent played in 8 years. This is the biggest dilemma Im having as a goalie coming from KOHO 580 pads 😫 trying out the CCM Premiers as I do play a blocking style 🤷🏻‍♂️ wish me luck 🍻

[@noahjay2002]

I have a soft pads. Always wore them. I really can't say a stiff is better because I have never tried them. Given the narrow fly I play not sure stiff pad would work for me.

[@younger4042]

Right now I’m using ccm Eflex pads but I’m thing of using true l20.2 or ccm axis 2.9

[@cnd-snipez2718]

I wear 34+1 Brian G-Netiks 5.0 Series, I’d say they are between stiff and loose at the same time, and I enjoy them a lot!

[@VOGoalie]

Nice! I think Brian's have done an overall great job with their Gnetik line! My buddy just picked up a pair of Gnetik IV mitts and loves them!

[@cnd-snipez2718]

VOGoalie ya! You should try Brian’s Gear!

[@katsenhiio]

tight leg channel 1 calf strap no knee strap. 2 inches of play in the toe tie.. 3mm blades, no cowling with a 5/8 sharpenning... good shufle great bite in the butterfly. knee pads are a must

[@grimkeeper35]

I went from a stiff Warrior pro pad to a softer Vaughn Ventus SLR pro pad. Both only had 1 break below the knee but the Vaughn was still softer. I find I like the extra flex. I know a lot of people say the SLR is stiff but compared to the Warrior it was softer. The Vaughn pad isn't a huge difference in softness but it's enough that I feel like I can get into my proper stance easier and I can make sudden movements much easier. I was also having pucks skips under me in the Warrior pad but never in the Vaughn. Not sure why this is but I assume it's the strapping and the way the pads respond to my movements. Both are great pads but I much prefer the Vaughn.

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks for sharing your experience! Pad responsiveness is such an overlooked feature these days. Good on your part recognizing what works best for your style of play! Sometimes it's those subtle differences that can result in a save or a goal. Thanks for sharing your insight!

[@michaeljohansen1040]

I just started playing again after almost 19 years. The set of pads before i stopped playing were the Louisville tps cujos, they were both alot softer and not nearly as tall as the set of ccm premier 2`s i bought back in november when i got back in net. The new pads felt really akward and weird the first 2-3 practices. But now i absolutely love them! They seal the ice alot better, and the rebounds go flying away every time. I still havent found the perfect way to strap them yet, still trying to figure out what works best for my style of play 😊 but holy sh*it do they slide!!! I am still trying to adapt my style so i utilise the potential of the butterfly crawl, that wasn´t a thing yet when i stopped playing in the year 2000 even tough i was kinda ahead of my time back then the way i played using the hybrid butterfly style before it really took off 😊

[@VOGoalie]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing! I hear what you're saying! Playing HS back in the 90's, I felt the same way when I finally upgraded to a "modern" pad! It's pretty amazing how far pad design has come over the last decade! One things for sure, I won't ever miss how heavy those old school pads were! Thanks for your comment!

[@goalieninja610]

Really good video.

[@robanthes1308]

I had Bauer 1s senior small. Mobility good, semi loose channel, 5 hole BAD. Went to CCM Eflex 2 pro 34+2. Had to wear them Super loose to be comfortable, mobility average, 5 hole Good, butterfly wide. CCM E3.9 33+2. Medium tight. Excellent mobility, 5 hole good, wide butterfly but slightly smaller then 34+2. Now i have my Godly Bauer 1x Mediums. Superior Mobility, excellent 5 hole, little narrower on Bfly then ccm but better then 1s. The soft boot and stiff upper is a huge win for me! 1x pads I wear then leg channel with large straps about half way on velcro. Id say its on the looser side. I am also 5"9 with longer legs build.

[@VOGoalie]

Awesome! Sounds like you really dialed in what you like in a pad! Great point about stiff uppers and softer boots! I totally overlooked that! Thanks for sharing!

[@potatoconsumer8193]

I'm a skater but I genuinely love your vids!

[@andrewowens5745]

Soft, currently in CCM E-Flex3.9 with a double break. Great video, really like your content.

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks so much! I've always liked a double break but I'm so old I remember when they were referred to as "Turco" breaks! Thanks for your comment!

[@theokayestgoalie2549]

Me personally I like more of a softer pad. I’m currently using CCM extreme flex 3s. I like my pads to be tight to my leg.

[@ArtursJ]

i like them soft, but i want harder rebounds. switched from premier to Eflex4. from feeling the pad out it seems like this might be the perfect combo (kinda)

[@lostnumbr]

i did pretty much the same change. from an RBK xpulse i strapped pretty snug, to a Warrior G2 that's pretty loose. The interesting thing is I don't feel any less "responsiveness" or control, in fact I feel more connected to these pads than any other pad I've used.

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks for your comment and insight! It's interesting, I think weight has a lot to do with how a looser worn pad functions. With all of Warrior's Ritual pads (G1-G4) they've all been pretty light. A heavier pad worn loose can have more of a sloppy feel as it's falling away from your leg due to it's weight. Thanks for your comment!

[@lostnumbr]

@@VOGoalie that's a good point, I agree. thanx for the response!

[@silentsnake1800]

Great to see u back on the ice. Hope U can give me an advice. Iam looking for some new pads. Iam looking between Warrior G4 and Bauer 2x (both Senior not pro) and maybe 2s. Most time of the year playing Inline-Skaterhockey with few ice sessions. Which pad would u recommend? Greets from 🇩🇪

[@onion_bubs]

Wood vs foam core vs composite sticks. Also, if you do a sick video, it'd be cool to touch on the different blade curves as well.

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks so much for the suggestion! I am the worst at stickhandling! lol Maybe all the more reason to do a video on sticks!

[@toritease6132]

Great video

[@nolanmahaffey3708]

I wear Brian’s optik fly (which is the stiff one) because I have a very wide stance, and normally crouched down a bit because of my height

[@VOGoalie]

Awesome! Sounds like you got your pads dialed in to fit your style! Thanks for sharing!

[@1.21JJWatts]

I wear Eflex2 860s. I prefer a softer pad, because it helps me keep the rebounds closer, and makes them easier to cover. My beer-league defensemen appreciate whistles as opposed to scrambles.

[@mcboing0675]

I love this now series

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks! I hope to do a lot more of these!

[@husenaswat4279]

As a hybrid goalie, I always lean toward softer pads. They feel much more fluid for movement and leg control. I don't butterfly, even if my life depends on it lol, so I can't get comfortable in those stiffer butterfly style pads. I've always been an itech fan but now since they were bought out by Bauer, I use the rx line. They're as close to that itech feel that I love. #90sGoalieTraining #AntiButterfly lol

[@lindamegenbir4787]

For a beginner goalie, what is the best stick for a grandma?

[@VOGoalie]

I always recommend foam core sticks if you're just starting out. They are affordable and will help you dial in what stick length best suits your needs. Depending on your height, I always go with a shorter paddle length for better blocker position when in the butterfly as well as overall ease of use. Hope this helps!

[@larceny3092]

I have a pair of CCM Reto Flex

[@bobjeff5058]

I love my pads being stiff. My pads are 2 by 4s. The pads I wear right now are CCM premier 2s.

[@nicks.collectibles]

Hey Wayne you think you can make a video talking about toe straps or toe ties..For months ive had several break on me while playing and i would really like to know what may help

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks so much for your suggestion! I'll put that on the list!

[@DenisLStOnge]

Do you have a video on measuring a pad

[@karsbuurman4862]

I loveeeee the x900s

[@MannyCruzal3]

I’m wearing Brian’s Gnetik 5.0 with a vintage stitch graphic👌🏼 Double break

[@VOGoalie]

Nice! I'm a sucker for anything that looks old school (clearly by my pad choices!) Thanks for sharing!

[@MannyCruzal3]

Dude! Same👌🏼 anything vintage or just all around clean and simple look, is how I go. I’m a sucker for the all white, or all one color pads, like when Brian elliot played for the blues that one season in 2016 and he had those classic all blue Bauer reactor pads❤️❤️❤️❤️ 👌🏼

[@Tursumbayev]

Currently in G3's, came frome Vaughn Velocity 2's. I love the G3's, but am curious to try a softer pad again to see which I really prefer. Do a vid on trapper break angles if you could. Thanks.

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks for your comment and suggestion! Wow, G3s from V2s is about as different as you can get! That's brave! Thanks for sharing!

[@jamescrown79]

Great job Wayne! Love your channel! Back into the pipes after a 20 year layoff. Knees and hips aren't what they used to be, and when i played years ago butterfly was not common. I've been working on the butterfly challenge 3.0 from Maria Mountain (top pro goalie) exercise psychologist London, Ontario Canada) to improve my flexibility in both my hips and knees to become more hybrid I guess. Do you have any vids or can you do one on toe strapping or lack of toe strapping for decrease in knee and hip strain. Just an idea. I found leaving a 1" to 1½" space from toe bridge has helped me. Thanks for your time! Always look forward to your content.

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks so much for your comment! Maria has some great stuff and an awesome channel! With regards to reducing strain, I've really found that using elastic strapping all around has helped me tremendously. It still gives that snug feeling but allows a range of movement that doesn't make the pad fight your leg or your own personal physiology. Hope this helps some!

[@jamescrown79]

@@VOGoalie thanks for the reply Wayne. Do you use elastic strapping throughout entire pad, just lower straps or just on the toe bridge?

[@VOGoalie]

I use elastic throughout. The G4's sling wrap attach with elastic and I modded my RX10s to be just elastic. I personally believe that it also lowers the likelihood of injury as in situations where players crash the net, there is a reduction in torque with regards to your leg and pad strapping.

[@ArtursJ]

congrats on 2k!

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks man! You are Totally Awesome!

[@ArtursJ]

@@VOGoalie youre more awesome for making awesome content!

[@maebeth88]

Thanks

[@Hasek99]

Could you please compare wooden and composite sticks?

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks for the suggestion! Sounds like I'll have to do a stick video sometime in the near future!

[@maddmedic2454]

Are all Brand the same? What is more important? The Hype or Personal Preference?

[@_Bl_4_life]

Stiff pad. I rock the Bauer gsx pads

[@green698979]

What kind of pads do you recommend for a young starting out goalie eight years old in his first year being a full-time goalie.

[@slick_shotz5394]

Soft pads

[@joefriday950]

Another great video. Thanks

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed!

[@GateKeeper36]

do deep in the net or out and at the top of the crease

[@steelo136]

So I have a pair of old Reebox revoke pros and I cant figure out what they are. They have 2 breaks, but they have leather straps. And from the feel, they kick put rebounds pretty hard. I’m a bit on the newer side of being a goalie but my 5 hole is terrible. Im about 5’9 and they’re 33+1 and they honestly feel too long. Any thoughts?

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks for your comment! The RBK Revokes were a stiffer pad in their day, but the double vertical break was intended to help close the 5-hole. So they had lively rebounds, but allowed the pads to take on an S-curve. With regards to sizing, it really depends on your leg length, rather than your overall height, but at first glance, 33+1 doesn't sound too tall. But it really comes down to personal preference. If your knee is landing in the cradle and the thigh rises aren't interfering with your movement, that's a sign of a good fit. Hope this helps some!

[@zo3149]

I’ve been thinking about getting a stiff pad this vid helped. I’m convinced

[@VOGoalie]

Awesome! Glad my video helped and thanks for your comment!

[@fabianartmann8499]

I use Bauer vapor x900 pads and i love them

[@buhboni7324]

CCM vs Bauer skates??

[@josephwhalen1754]

CCM P2.9 All white set, love it. Stiff but not straight

[@Hasek99]

In my childhood in the 90's we used soft pads. After a short (15 years :) ) brake in my carreer, i tried a stiff one. The difference is awsome. It is much better for me. I like it very much. More accurate and faster rebounds, easier movement, and it seems lighter to me.

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks for your comment! Modern day landing gear and lighter foams can feel like night and day compared to those soft 90's pads! Great point about predictable rebounds! That's definitely not something we used to expect with hand stuffed pads!

[@Hasek99]

@@VOGoalie And i know, it can be strange to you, but here in the middle of europe, that time we mostle played on open-air rinks (every training was winterclassic.....not so classic for us), so whe it was raining, or shining, those pads consumed a lot of water. Can you imagine, how heavy that could be? :D

[@stevesavage4296]

Im 36 just started playing hockey a cpl years ago...ive tended net a few times using CCM Flexpro500 Currently using sherwood gear from former Islanders goalie

[@VOGoalie]

Awesome! I had a set of Sher-wood Sher-lites and totally loved them! Thanks for sharing and welcome to the Club!

[@vincnezoboccardi273]

I’m 5’8 with 34’ +2 pads what size should I get cuz these are way to big I got them my first year not knowing it was very odd for someone my size to have these huge ass pads

[@dosm4805]

Dude, I'm so confused haha. I've had a set of old Reeboks. I think fleury/Luongo used them in 2007 or so. Anyways, they look like a "stiff" pad by your definition. So last year I got a set of Bauer RX pads which seem like soft pads since I'm a little old school and probably more hybrid, but they felt like bricks. I couldn't move well, and they rubbed my shins pretty bad. I adjusted em to same same tightness of the old ones. So not sure if its just because my old ones are broken in really well haha or what I should do. I had to go back to my old ones because I was getting killed with em.

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks for your comment! Your old Reebok pads were considered stiff when they were new, but you're right, they've prob broken down some over the years. If you're RXs were brand new, they'll need some breaking in to soften up. While this happens, you may need to strap the differently than you're used to. But as they soften up, you can always adjust your strapping later. The RX also have adjustable leg channel width, so experimenting is probably you're best bet. Hope this helps!

[@peytonhiebert2116]

I own a pair of s190 bauer supreme and they are some of the best pads ive ever had got them to weeks ago stell getting used to them but thoughs babys slide

[@VOGoalie]

Awesome! There's nothing better than new gear smell... er slide!

[@johnnyrc9304]

Here's a theory question for a possible episode. I've been pondering lately whether or not I should play Shinny (pickup) games during the league season. They are SO different in that there is almost zero defense at pickup games, and would I develop bad habits that translate to league games. I found myself having to really think about it mentally switching back and forth. Cheers.

[@VOGoalie]

Oooh, that's a great suggestion! I am all about the mental aspect of goaltending, so I'll definitely consider this one! This is actually one of the reasons that I almost never skate at a lower level then a normally play. The game is so different it can be hard to adjust. Thanks for your comment!

[@johnnyrc9304]

@@VOGoalie YES! There is a shortage of goalies in my area, plus a shortage of ice time, so I regularly play from Top Level down to Begginer. It usually takes me almost a whole period to adjust to the current game level.

[@theokayestgoalie2549]

Could you do a video on wide butterfly VS a narrow butterfly? I like a wide butterfly but I feel a lot less mobile down in the butterfly. In a narrow butterfly I feel very exposed.

[@VOGoalie]

Thanks, this is a great suggestion! I'll definitely add it to the list! And thanks for sharing your pad set up! Love the look of the eflex 3s!

[@CamBist29]

I can’t really tell if a warrior gt2 is soft or stiff It’s pretty flexible but it still is like a stiff pad

[@louve2058]

Hi, i'm watching your all video, but I can't understand every word, can u do a Polish subtitles? Pleaseee

[@beyondaercsx9457]

I’m a goalie that rarely has to slide since I’m pretty fast so I can get back up and move side to side stiff pads restrict my movement and makes me Slower

[@simondissimondis6086]

What is the diffrent bwetween 35+1 or 35+2?

[@VOGoalie]

If they are the same make and model of pads, the 35" will fit the same at the knee, but the +2 will be approx 1 inch taller in the tighrise (portion of the pad above the knee stacks)

[@hoss1258]

Yay im totally awesome

[@jasondowling9296]

Can you still curve a really stiff pad? I want to get the L20.1 stiff no break option. Will I be able to curve it

[@VOGoalie]

While I don't have any first hand experience with the L20.1 (or now True) some manufacturers have stiff pre-curved options (iirc Passau offered that)

[@rjbarker34]

you should do a cage comparison. cross bar to cat eye

[@adamogilvie8337]

Ok I've got a question for you. My pads are from the 90's. Heaton z90. I've got a pair of TPS summit but I just cant seem to get them to feel and move right while I play. I always had my old pads tight and one of the things with the new pads I'm having a hard time with is that it has no top strap. Do you have any suggestions on a new pad that would feel closest to my old ones. I play a hybrid style.

[@VOGoalie]

Wow, those old Heatons sound awesome! I think one of the issues you'll encounter with any modern pad will be their construction. Most are made with sheet foam as opposed to the 90zs which IIRC were stuffed. The Summits are already about 10 years old, so today's pads will seem that much further removed from what you're used to. Try checking out Kenesky or John Brown. Both have old school style pads that may be closer to what you're used to!

[@adamogilvie8337]

@@VOGoalie awesome thanks for the advice. I'll check them out. Great videos by the way!

[@colinalbert2131]

I have soft reboks, hate em. I want some stuff ccm pads