When shopping for the latest Bauer modular skates, one of the most important choices you’ll face is which Bauer skate runners to go with. Bauer’s new customizable skate system lets players select their hockey skate blades at checkout, giving you options like the Bauer Fly-X runner or the premium Bauer Fly-TI runner.
On paper, both blades look very similar. They share the same 10 ft profile, center balance point, and titanium finish for durability and edge retention. But the Fly-TI steel upgrade costs more — so the question is, is it worth paying extra for the Fly-TI, or should you stick with the Fly-X?
This guide breaks down both runners, compares performance, and helps you decide which Bauer skate blade option is the best fit for your game.
What Are Modular Skates?
Traditionally, hockey skates came with one set of steel. If you wanted to upgrade, you had to buy new runners separately. With Bauer’s modular skate system, that’s changed. Now, skates like the Bauer Vapor, Supreme, and Elite lines let you choose your skate steel runners when you buy your skates.
Why does this matter? Because the blade material, finish, and edge retention all directly affect:
-
Speed and acceleration
-
Turning and stability
-
Durability and sharpening frequency
-
Overall performance on the ice
In short, your hockey skate blades can be just as important as your boot or holder.
: The Standard Bauer Skate Blade
The Bauer Fly-X runner is the standard premium steel option for Bauer’s new skates. It’s designed to provide excellent performance and value, giving players high-grade steel at a reasonable cost.
Key Features of the Bauer Fly-X Runner:
-
Steel Grade: High-grade core steel
-
Finish: Titanium coating with enhanced edge retention
-
Profile: 10 ft standard radius
-
Balance Point: Centered, ruler gauge for profiling
-
Honing: Compatible with leather and rubber hones
-
Compatibility: Works with Bauer Powerfly and Edge holders
-
Sizes: 1–12, 14 full only
Fly-X Performance Breakdown
-
Durability: Strong and reliable, though not as premium as the Fly-TI steel.
-
Edge Retention: Titanium finish helps edges last longer between sharpenings.
-
Versatility: 10 ft profile offers a balance of agility and stability, suitable for most players.
-
Value: Included with many Bauer modular skates, the Fly-X is a cost-effective choice.
The Bauer Fly-X steel is ideal for players who want quality hockey skate runners without spending extra.
Bauer Fly-TI Runner: The Premium Titanium Upgrade
The Bauer Fly-TI runner is the high-end option for players who want the best possible performance. Built with premium-grade steel and the same titanium coating, it’s engineered for maximum durability, consistency, and longevity.
Key Features of the Bauer Fly-TI Runner:
-
Steel Grade: Premium-grade steel (higher quality than Fly-X)
-
Finish: Titanium coating with enhanced edge retention
-
Profile: 10 ft standard radius
-
Balance Point: Centered, ruler gauge for profiling
-
Honing: Compatible with leather and rubber hones
-
Compatibility: Works with Bauer Powerfly and Edge holders
-
Sizes: 3–12 full only
Fly-TI Performance Breakdown
-
Durability: More resistant to chips and wear thanks to upgraded steel.
-
Consistency: Holds a sharp edge longer, meaning more reliable performance game after game.
-
Elite Feel: Designed for competitive or pro-level players who skate multiple times per week.
-
Maintenance: Requires less frequent sharpening compared to Fly-X runners.
The Bauer Fly-TI steel review shows it’s one of the best Bauer skate blades available, offering pro-level performance for serious athletes.
Bauer Fly-X vs Fly-TI: Runner Comparison
Both the Fly-X and Fly-TI runners are excellent choices, but here’s how they stack up:
| Feature | Bauer Fly-X Runner | Bauer Fly-TI Runner |
|---|---|---|
| Steel Grade | High-grade core steel | Premium steel (higher quality) |
| Finish | Titanium coating | Titanium coating |
| Edge Retention | Long-lasting, reliable | Elite-level, holds edges longer |
| Durability | Excellent | Best-in-class durability |
| Profile | 10 ft | 10 ft |
| Balance Point | Centered | Centered |
| Maintenance | Needs sharpening more often | Less frequent sharpening |
| Price | Lower, great value | Higher, premium upgrade |
In short:
-
The Bauer Fly-X runner is the best value option for most hockey players.
-
The Bauer Fly-TI runner is the premium upgrade for players who want elite edge retention and durability.
Are Bauer Fly-TI Runners Worth the Price?
This comes down to your play level, budget, and frequency on the ice:
-
Choose Bauer Fly-X if…
-
You’re a casual or competitive player.
-
You want high performance at the best value.
-
You don’t mind sharpening a little more often.
-
-
Choose Bauer Fly-TI if…
-
You’re an elite or high-level player skating multiple times a week.
-
You want Bauer’s best skate runners with maximum consistency.
-
You value fewer sharpenings and longer blade life.
-
For most players, the Bauer Fly-X steel runners are more than enough. But if you’re serious about hockey and want every advantage, the Fly-TI steel upgrade is absolutely worth it.
Which Hockey Skate Blade Should You Get?
Bauer’s new modular skate system has made choosing the right steel more important than ever. The Bauer Fly-X runner delivers premium performance at an excellent value, while the Bauer Fly-TI runner provides pro-level durability and edge retention for players who demand the best.
So, which Bauer runner is best? For everyday players, go with the Fly-X. For elite athletes or anyone chasing maximum performance, the Fly-TI is worth the investment.
