CCM E-Flex 5.9 and 5.5 Leg Pads Review
With the release of the new E-Flex 5 leg pad comes the newly refreshed E5.9 and E5.5 pads. With a new knee roll design, refined core and the same familiar E-Flex feel goalies have come to know and love, the E5.9 and E5.5 models are sure to be a favorite among performance and recreation level goalies alike.
Control Knee Rolls
The new Control Knee Rolls are made of a softer foam giving goalies more predictable and controllable rebounds when the puck hits their knee. In addition to the new materials, the E5.9 and E5.5 leg pads now come with a flattened knee roll design which aids with the predictability of rebounds making shots easier to direct into the corner no matter where the puck hits.
Dual1Tecore
With the success of the E-Flex 4 line, CCM elected to stick with the same precurved, single external break core which gives the E5.9 and E5.5 a comfortable, familiar feel to those goalies who like a softer pad. The pre-curved shape of the pad helps to better close the 5-hole providing a better seal in a more compact butterfly than straighter pads like the Axis. Dual1Tecore technology creates a dual flex profile within the pad providing an ultra soft boot, soft flex point below the knee with a stiffened thigh to make transitions into the butterfly quick and effortless.
Strapping
Both the E5.9 and E5.5 leg pads continue with CCM’s tried and true QuickMotion strapping system that was first seen on the E-flex 4. It features 3 main straps beginning with a velcro calf strap that secures the leg deep into the pad, a larger strap wraps around closing the calf wrap up and a knee strap that has the option to be worn across or below the knee. CCM uses their bungee toe ties that are not only quick and easy to put on but that also relieve stress off the knees, ankles and hips as they allow the foot to sit in a more natural position.
Graphics
As seen on the Axis pads earlier in the year, the E-Flex 5 line features UV printed graphic zones throughout the face of the pad. These accents give the pad more dimension and pop making them look more premium. With a sharp new graphic and 18 colour zones to play with, the E-Flex 5 is sure to turn heads.
Differences between the E5.9 and E5.5 pads
While they may share a number of features and look nearly identical, there are a few key differentiations worth noting when deciding which of the E5.9 and E5.5 leg pads best suit your game.
Core
While they both use Dual1Tecore technology, the E5.9 leg pad has added molded HD foam reinforcement meaning the core can be lighter while offering superior impact protection over that of the E5.5. It also means that the pad will last longer, retaining its shape and resisting wear better over time.
Knee Cradle
The E5.9 uses a 3D Grip foam knee landing similar to that seen on the E-Flex5 Pro pads. This is a much more durable landing block that is not only more tear and abrasion resistant but is also made to last longer by resisting compression while absorbing impacts and remaining stable through the life of the pad.
SpeedSkin
While they share the same name, the material used on the E5.9 and E5.5 pads is different. The SpeedSkin on the E5.9 is notably thicker making it more resistant to skate cuts and prolonged use than that of the 5.5.
Source Exclusive Upgrades
For our Source for Sports Exclusive E5.9 leg pad, we made a couple of changes to make a midline leg pad that outperforms others in its price range. In the high wear areas there is a layer of PU leather which helps reduce wear and premature breakdown of the pad. The knee stack features the same 3D molded construction as the pro pad which adds durability to one of the highest wearing areas of the pad.
Final Thoughts
While both the E5.9 and E5.5 are good pads, they’re designed with different goalies in mind. The E5.9 is perfect for the goalie who plays competitive hockey and is on the ice consistently about 4 times a week. While not designed to take the same abuse as a pro pad, the E5.9 is a good option for performance level goalies of all ages and sizes. The E5.5 on the other hand is meant to be more of an entry level pad. Designed for goalies who are on the ice 1-3 times a week or who are just starting out and wanting to get into a flexible, forgiving pad that makes learning the game quick and easy.
Reviewed By: Cedric Hastings
Read the CCM E-Flex 5.9 & 5.5 blocker/catcher review
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