Bauer Supreme Matrix Skate Review
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The 2016 Supreme Matrix skate is available exclusively at Source for Sports stores and is packed full of pro level features. The Matrix is built and priced from Bauer’s Supreme S180 catalogue model skate but adds a whack of features from the S190 to provide true upgrades in performance, comfort, and durability.
But before I jump into the review for the 2016 Supreme Matrix skate I’m going to explain what Source Exclusive products are all about.
Source for Sports is buying group, comprised of 150 plus independently owned and operated stores, located across Canada (and now the U.S.). It’s our group’s combined buying power that allows us to build hockey gear to the exact specifications we negotiate.
A committee consisting of five retail experts from Source for Sports stores in Ontario, Quebec, BC and Pennsylvania meets with suppliers three times a year to build Source Exclusive products. I consider myself privileged to be one of the members chosen for this committee.
We negotiate hard with each supplier to add upgrades that the catalogue version of the product doesn’t have…for the same price.
In the case of the 2016 Supreme Matrix skate that I’m reviewing here’s a summary of the upgrades we negotiated:
- LS3 steel from the S190
- tongue from the S190
- composite outsole from the S190
- liner abrasion pads from the S190
- 3 widths – this is the only Bauer skate you can get a narrow width at this price point
All the added features on the Matrix gives you the option of skipping buying a $949 skate without feeling like you’re missing out on performance. Here’s more detail on the Matrix:
Upper
3-D Curv Composite
The quarter package features 3-D lasted Curv Composite so you’re getting a stiff boot that is able to efficiently transfer the power from your foot to the ice. Bauer’s proprietary 3-D lasted construction creates a fit closer to the foot that provides great heel lock and ankle fit. This unique fit does a good job limiting negative space within the boot to provide a closer fit that translates into a more efficient stride.
Our skate fitters are the most excited that this year’s Matrix skate is available in a narrow C width. This is something that has been missing from Bauer’s skate line up (and every other skate brand with the exception of Graf) unless you were willing to spend $949. We can now truly optimize a fit for every player. This is a big deal for players with pencil thin feet!
Interior
The upgrade brought over from the S190 is the inclusion of abrasion pads to the liner to increase durability. The skate also features lightweight memory foam ankle pads to provide that signature Supreme customized and comfortable fit. Wicking away excess moisture is Bauer’s Hydra Max mesh liner system. The footbed of the skate is Bauer’s Form-Fit+ with stabilizer grip and moisture management for added grip and comfort.
Tongue/Tendon Guard
As for the tongue of the skate, the upgrade also comes from the Supreme S190 skate. This means you can expect Bauer’s Form-Fit+ 52oz/40oz 3-piece pro felt tongue with an injected metatarsal guard. Comparing it to the standard S180 tongue, the Bauer S190 is a thicker design that provides better protection in the metatarsal area. The tendon guard on the skate is flexible to allow for that extra bit of movement during your stride for maximum energy transfer.
Lower
Outsole Upgrade
An immediate upgrade the Bauer Matrix has acquired from the S190 is the full composite outsole. The S180 uses a Pro TPU design so moving to a full composite outsole provide better energy transfer during your stride and represents a significant weight reduction.
Steel/Holder
TUUK LightSpeed 3 Stainless Steel is a huge upgrade. The Bauer Supreme S180 uses LightSpeed 2 Stainless Steel and the advantage that LS3 has over LS2 is the taller design for better bite angle, offering excellent turning radius and supreme control to help you get the most out of your strides.
Another benefit to the taller LS3 steel profile is additional sharpening life. This comes in especially handy if you’re looking to customize your profile radius. Looking for additional info on custom radius? Click here.
The Matrix features the TUUK LightSpeed Edge holder with their patented quick release trigger feature to make make steel swaps a snap.
Conclusion
If you’re a performance player on a budget and are looking for new skates, the Bauer Supreme Matrix combines value and on ice performance together in a seamless package.
Think the Matrix is the skate for you? Swing by the shop and have one of our expert skate fitters assess you with our Pro-Formance Advantage System. We’ll assess your foot shape and get you into the skate that’s optimized for your game.
Any chance you guys could do a breakdown/review of the 2024 Matrix? This summary is fantastic, just a bit out of date. There’s not a lot of info on the difference between the new Matrix and the M50. Thanks.
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