CCM is one of the premier names in hockey equipment, known for its three main product families—Jetspeed, Tacks, and Ribcor. Each line caters to different styles of play, offering distinct fits, features, and benefits to match the needs of every type of player. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the key differences between the three CCM families in skates, sticks, and protective gear to help you make the best choice for your game.
Skates: Jetspeed vs. Tacks vs. Ribcor
CCM’s skate families each have their own unique fit profiles and performance focuses. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Jetspeed Skates
Jetspeed skates are built for speed and agility, designed for players who value quick acceleration and fluid movement on the ice. See last year's CCM Jetspeed XTRA SE Hockey Skates.
Key Features:
- Tapered Fit: Jetspeed skates offer a narrower, tapered fit with a snug heel and a tight forefoot. This design enhances responsiveness and provides a close connection to the ice.
- Forward Flex and Agility: Jetspeed skates prioritize forward flexion, enabling quicker foot movements and agility, making them ideal for players who focus on speed.
- One-Piece Boot: Many Jetspeed models use CCM’s One-Piece Boot technology, which eliminates the outsole to reduce weight and improve energy transfer, leading to more explosive strides.
Who It’s For:
- Players who rely on speed, quick starts, and rapid directional changes.
- Those who prefer a tight, secure fit around the heel and ankle.
- Skaters who want lightweight, highly responsive skates for fast play.
Tacks Skates
Tacks skates are known for their power and stability. They’re built for players who need a combination of support and energy transfer, particularly during strong strides and aggressive play. See the brand new CCM Tacks 652 Hockey Skates.
Key Features:
- Anatomical Fit: Tacks skates feature an anatomical fit with a slightly wider forefoot and a snug heel. This design offers a secure feel without feeling overly tight.
- Stiff and Supportive Boot: Tacks skates have a stiffer boot construction that enhances stability and supports powerful skating strides.
- Power and Energy Transfer: These skates focus on transferring energy efficiently through the boot, making them great for players who generate power through strong, forceful strides.
Who It’s For:
- Players who prioritize stability and powerful skating.
- Those who need a slightly roomier fit in the forefoot but still want a locked-in feel in the heel.
- Skaters who generate power through long, powerful strides.
Ribcor Skates
Ribcor skates are all about flexibility and quickness. They offer a unique feel, prioritizing comfort and mobility for players who rely on agility and quick, deceptive movements. See CCM's 2021 model, the RIBCOR Maxx Plus Skates.
Key Features:
- Flexible Fit: Ribcor skates have a flexible fit that conforms closely to the foot, offering a comfortable feel with a bit more give in the upper boot.
- Flexibility and Agility: The focus of Ribcor skates is on flexibility, with a softer boot construction that facilitates quick pivots, tight turns, and agile maneuvers.
- Enhanced Comfort: Ribcor skates often include comfort-focused features, such as soft linings and flexible quarters, making them a great choice for players who prioritize feel over stiffness.
Who It’s For:
- Players who prioritize comfort and flexibility.
- Those who rely on agility, quick pivots, and fast footwork.
- Skaters who prefer a softer boot that provides more flexibility for dynamic movements.
Sticks: Jetspeed vs. Tacks vs. Ribcor
CCM’s three stick families cater to different shooting styles and play preferences. Here’s a closer look at what sets them apart:
Jetspeed Sticks
Jetspeed sticks are designed for players who want a quick-release shot. They focus on lightweight performance and balance for fast shooting and stickhandling. One great example is the CCM Jetspeed FT7 Pro Hockey Stick.
Key Features:
- Hybrid Kick Point: Jetspeed sticks feature a Hybrid Kick Point that combines a quick release with the ability to load power, making them versatile for all shot types.
- Lightweight Feel: These sticks are often lighter than other models, enhancing stickhandling and reducing fatigue over long games.
- Blade Control: Jetspeed sticks emphasize puck feel and control, making them a favorite among playmakers and players who like to handle the puck.
Who It’s For:
- Players who need a versatile stick that can handle a variety of shot types.
- Those who value a quick release, especially in wrist and snap shots.
- Skaters who prioritize puck feel and quick handling.
Tacks Sticks
Tacks sticks are designed for power. They focus on generating maximum shot velocity, making them ideal for players who take heavy slap shots and one-timers. See the CCM Tacks XF Pro Hockey Stick from earlier this year.
Key Features:
- Mid-Kick Point: Tacks sticks have a Mid-Kick Point, designed to load energy through the shaft for powerful shots. This kick point allows players to lean into their shots for maximum power.
- Stiff Blade: Tacks sticks are equipped with a stiffer blade to maintain stability during heavy shots, contributing to increased accuracy.
- Durability: Built to withstand intense play, Tacks sticks are known for their durable construction, making them a solid choice for physical players.
Who It’s For:
- Players who rely on heavy shots, such as slap shots and one-timers.
- Those who prefer a durable stick that can handle physical play.
- Shooters who want maximum shot power and stability.
Ribcor Sticks
Ribcor sticks are built for quick-release shooting. They cater to players who prioritize speed and deception, focusing on quick snapshots and puck movement. One of CCM's most advanced Ribcor sticks is the CCM Ribcor Trigger 9 Hockey Stick.
Key Features:
- Low-Kick Point: Ribcor sticks have a Low-Kick Point designed for a lightning-fast release. This kick point enables quick shots from any position, especially in tight spaces.
- Flexibility: Ribcor sticks are known for their flexible construction, allowing the shaft to load and release energy quickly for rapid shot execution.
- Puck Handling: The Ribcor line emphasizes a lightweight feel and superior puck control, making it a great choice for skilled players who excel in stickhandling.
Who It’s For:
- Players who need a quick, deceptive release for wrist and snap shots.
- Those who favor lightweight sticks with excellent puck control.
- Shooters who prefer a more flexible stick that allows for fast, agile plays.
Protective Gear: Jetspeed vs. Tacks vs. Ribcor
Protective gear from CCM’s three families varies in fit and focus, offering unique options for different playing styles. Here’s a breakdown:
Jetspeed Protective Gear
Jetspeed gear is designed for lightweight protection and mobility, catering to fast, agile players who need freedom of movement. The CCM Jetspeed FT6 Pro Shoulder Pads showcase these traits very well.
Key Features:
- Tapered Fit: Jetspeed protective equipment features a tapered fit, providing a snug feel in key areas while allowing flexibility in others. This design keeps gear close to the body without restricting movement.
- Lightweight Design: Jetspeed gear is lighter and more mobile, focusing on a streamlined profile that minimizes bulk.
- Breathability: Many Jetspeed products include advanced ventilation systems, improving airflow to keep players cool during intense play.
Who It’s For:
- Players who prioritize mobility and agility on the ice.
- Those who need lightweight gear that doesn’t weigh them down.
- Skaters who prefer a closer fit that moves with the body.
Tacks Protective Gear
Tacks gear offers maximum protection and coverage, focusing on stability and safety for players who engage in physical play. Check out the custom CCM Tacks Classic SE Hockey Gloves for protective equipment that lasts.
Key Features:
- Anatomical Fit: Tacks protective equipment is built with an anatomical fit that provides full coverage and a locked-in feel. It’s designed to stay securely in place during contact.
- High Protection: Tacks gear includes thicker padding and reinforced areas to absorb impacts, making it ideal for players who frequently block shots or engage in heavy checking.
- Sturdy Construction: This line is built to be more robust and durable, ensuring gear holds up to the rigors of physical play.
Who It’s For:
- Players who want the highest level of protection available.
- Those who play a physical, defensive style with lots of body contact.
- Skaters who value safety and coverage, even if it means slightly heavier gear.
Ribcor Protective Gear
Ribcor gear typically focuses on comfort and flexibility, but as of now there has never been a line of Ribcor protective gear.
Shop CCM For The This Year’s Top Hockey Equipment
Choosing the right CCM family is all about matching the gear to your playing style. The Jetspeed line is perfect for those who value speed, lightweight performance, and quick release; the Tacks line is for power players who need durability, protection, and strength; and the Ribcor line is for agile, quick players who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and a fast shot release. With a deep understanding of the differences in skates, sticks, and protective gear, you can make a confident decision to elevate your game.
