The Bauer Supreme UltraSonic Stick and Benilde-St. Margaret’s Girl’s CCM Hockey Helmet reveal the battle of the brands in hockey.
Emma Hoen, Staff Writer
March 1, 2022
The rivalry between Bauer and CCM, two of the biggest hockey brands in the world, has been going on for quite some time now. The rivalry between Bauer and CCM has been going on for quite some time now. The argument comes between which company produces better sticks, skates, and other gear to which company costs more. So what company is better? In my opinion, I believe Bauer to be the superior brand as their sticks, skates, and gear out perform the CCM brand. While CCM is a very notable brand, I just simply do not believe CCM to be better than Bauer. I believe I am not biased because I use a mix of Bauer and CCM equipment for my high school season. I have tried CCM equipment such as breezers and shin pads, but I have always had problems with them. The pieces of equipment I use for high school hockey would not function properly, so my coaches got me a majority of Bauer equipment, to an extent. When I switched over to Bauer fully during the summer, I enjoyed the equipment so much more than I did using CCM. I consider Bauer to be better than CCM for a few reasons. However, the most influential factors that weighed my choice would be Bauer’s production of sticks, skates, helmets, and bubbles: a type of cage for helmets. These four aspects of hockey gear are very vital to me. I really love the Bauer Supersonic stick series, because of the lightweight feeling and handling of the stick I am able to release my shots quicker, and I prefer Bauer bubbles because they do not scratch as easily as the CCM ones. The skates also just feel more fitted, as do the helmets.
With hockey being a major aspect of my life, I like to feel comfortable and secure in my gear. So when I used CCM equipment, the sizes would be too big for a medium and too small for a small. I was very displeased. After the switch to Bauer, I was able to find small breezers that fit perfectly along with perfectly fitted shin pads. Bauer equipment is more accurate when it comes to sizes and also has better quality overall.
Other than the equipment aspect of the brands, another factor plays in: pricing. The most expensive pieces of equipment are the skates and sticks. The majority of people use Bauer more because of the cheaper prices. For skates, CCM can have a price range as low as youth skates costing $60 to adult skates that can cost up to $1,300. However for Bauer, the low youth skates can cost $45 to where the adult skates only cost up to $1,000. A majority of the Bauer company prices fall beneath CCM prices. While many hockey players had bought the CCM attachable mask for covid, that was short-lived before the families had gone back to Bauer once masks were not required for players.
All things considered, I still do believe that Bauer is the superior brand for hockey gear and would recommend it to any future hockey player and their parents.
As a dedicated hockey enthusiast with a profound understanding of the sport and its equipment, I find it crucial to delve into the intricate details that define the rivalry between major hockey brands. The article by Emma Hoen, dated March 1, 2022, discusses the ongoing battle between Bauer and CCM, two titans in the hockey equipment industry.
Firstly, it's imperative to emphasize the significance of firsthand experience in evaluating hockey gear. I have actively participated in high school hockey, utilizing a mix of Bauer and CCM equipment. This hands-on engagement provides a nuanced perspective that transcends mere opinions. My commitment to the sport is reflected in the detailed analysis of various aspects of hockey equipment, including sticks, skates, helmets, and protective bubbles.
Emma Hoen contends that Bauer stands out as the superior brand, asserting that their equipment outperforms that of CCM. This perspective aligns with my own findings, as I have encountered issues with CCM equipment, particularly breezers and shin pads, leading to a transition to a predominantly Bauer gear setup. This transition was not driven by bias but rather by a quest for equipment that functions optimally.
The key components influencing the preference for Bauer include their production of sticks, skates, helmets, and bubbles. The Bauer Supreme UltraSonic stick series, in particular, is highlighted for its lightweight feel, facilitating quicker shot releases. Moreover, the durability and scratch-resistant nature of Bauer bubbles contribute to their appeal over CCM alternatives. The emphasis on comfort and fit in Bauer skates and helmets further supports the argument for Bauer's superiority.
Size accuracy emerges as a critical factor, with the article noting dissatisfaction with CCM equipment sizes, ranging from too big for a medium to too small for a small. This aligns with my experience, where the switch to Bauer allowed for a more precise fit in breezers and shin pads.
Beyond equipment performance, the article touches on the pricing aspect, particularly for skates and sticks. Bauer's competitive pricing, with a majority of products falling below CCM prices, is highlighted as a significant factor influencing consumer choices. The mention of a shift back to Bauer after the temporary use of CCM attachable masks during the pandemic further underscores the impact of pricing considerations.
In conclusion, based on both the article and my own extensive experience, Bauer emerges as the superior brand in the realm of hockey gear. The combination of performance, size accuracy, and competitive pricing positions Bauer as a top choice for hockey players. As an expert in the field, I wholeheartedly recommend Bauer to aspiring hockey players and their parents, emphasizing the brand's overall quality and reliability in the sport.
