Bauer NME VTX Senior Goalie Mask
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The Bauer NME VTX Senior Goalie Mask is an elite level mask for elite level goaltenders facing elite level shots. The NME VTX Pro takes the VTX liner material from Bauer's popular Re-akt player helmets (which are considered some of the best in the business) giving the mask its name sake. The VTX liner, in conjunction with PoronXRD and thermoformed IX helps immensely with both high and low energy linear impacts. A shell can only protect so much if it doesn't have the proper foams and liner to soften the impact and dissipate the energy.
The improvements in the Bauer NME VTX Pro over the NME 10 dont stop at the liner however. The shell materials have been updated almost completely to help with weight and stiffness. The NME VTX senior goalie mask uses Bauer's TeXtreme material to create an extremely stiff, but also light shell. A full 13% lighter than the NME 10 it replaces in fact. The VTX also features 3M vibration reduction tape to help with the vibration that a stiffer shell comes with.
Durability with a shell that is as light and stiff as the NME VTX is always a question. Bauer, answers this question with a proper outer edge wrap through the whole mask as well as a metal reinforced chin to make sure that chipping of the carbon material is limited in high impact areas.
| Bauer NME VTX Goal Mask Sizing Chart | ||
|---|---|---|
| Mask Model/Size | Hat Size | Head Circumference |
| Fit 1 - Small | 6¾ - 7⅛ | 20.8” – 22.4” |
| Fit 2 - Medium | 6⅞ - 7¼ | 21.6” - 22.8” |
| Fit 3 - Large | 7⅛ - 7⅝ | 22.4” – 24” |
Goalie Mask Sizing
When purchasing a new mask it is crucial to ensure that it fits properly. Even entry-level masks with a proper fit will do a better job at protecting the head compared to a superior model that is ill fitted. Unlike other pieces of gear, we usually wouldn’t size for growth as a) it sacrifices protection and b) the mask will expand over time creating more room for a growing head.
The first step is to approximate the size using the sizing charts listed on any individual mask’s product page on our website; usually this is accomplished by matching a head circumference and/or hat size to a given mask size. When measuring your head’s circumference, it is important to measure at approximately 1” above the eyebrows while keeping the tape measure parallel (at the “hat line”) around the entire head. In addition, when using hat sizes should be those of fitted hats that aren’t overly tight or loose.
Once a size has been established there are four parameters the goaltender should be looking for:
- 1) The top edge of the window (opening inside the cage) is about 1” above the eyebrows and the sweatband inside the mask sits directly on the skin (ie. there is no gap between the mask and forehead).
- 2) The backplate hugs the back of the goaltender’s head and its edges don’t extend past the edges of the mask’s shell. Here, we want to reduce the possibility for gaps at the back of the goaltender’s head as well as ensuring the head is secure inside the mask. It should be noted, that if all other parameters are met as far as fitting is concerned, the backplate extending a little too far isn’t of major concern.
- 3) The chin cup is tightened such that it is worn securely against the chin and prevents the mask from shifting up and down while on the head.
- 4) The temples and/or cheeks are snug against the foam of the mask such that there are little to no visible gaps on each side of the head and prevents the mask from shifting laterally while on the head.
Once these have been accounted for an indicator of good fit is if the mask shifts on the head. Try grabbing the cage and shaking the mask back and forth – if the mask forces your head to move (rather than the mask moving on your head) you’ve got a great fit!
Lastly, be sure to check your fit every few months or so as compressed foams, dented cages and stretched harnesses will make the mask loose over time.
