CCM Jetspeed FT4 Pro Protective Review
For CCM's Jetspeed protective line, the name of the game has been developing new technology and advancements to increase mobility and reduce weight, without sacrificing protection. This year's FT4 Pro protective equipment is remarkably lightweight and might be the most impressive update to CCM's Jetspeed line in a few years. Here's a look at the brand's newest equipment and everything it has to offer.
Jetspeed FT4 Pro Gloves
One of the most notable updates of the Jetspeed FT4 Pro Gloves is the updated back roll design. The angled back rolls create a more anatomical shape, which translates to increased mobility and a more natural feeling when a player moves their hands.
The exterior of the glove is made up of a pro-approved polyester, as well as synthetic leather placed in high-wear areas. That means that not only will the glove be lightweight, it offers added durability to last all season long. The inside of the glove features CCM's Zotefoam -- a closed-cell foam that's lightweight and absorbs less sweat and water. This is combined with high-density foams and inserts, which allow for optimal impact protection.
The palm of the glove features a pro-inspired Clarino material, which offers great feel and a broken-in fit. There's also an additional layer that reinforces the palm of the glove, adding extra durability against wear and tear.
Jetspeed FT4 Pro Shoulder Pads
The Jetspeed FT4 Pro Shoulder Pads might be the most impressive piece of equipment in this year's lineup -- it's noticeably lighter than the previous Jetspeed model, as well as shoulder pads from CCM's competitors.
Much of the chest-area is constructed with molded Zotefoam, which ensures that players will stay light during the hottest of games. The torso also consists of several different pieces, offering increased mobility without needing to sacrifice protection. Another unique feature of the shoulder pad is that it doesn't include an inner liner, meaning that the Zotefoam really has a chance to shine.
The shoulder area is comprised of CCM's popular U-Foam shoulder caps. It's incredibly lightweight while still being both durable and protective. Like previous iterations of the Jetspeed shoulder pad, there's also a floating clavicle guard -- a trusted way to add collarbone and shoulder protection without restricting mobility or adding weight. The spine takes advantage a hard plastic and high-density foams, which will add much-needed protection to a player's back.
Overall, the FT4 Shoulder Pad is incredibly impressive -- we highly recommend checking this piece out.
Jetspeed FT4 Pro Elbow Pads
Similar to the FT1, the Jetspeed FT4 Pro Elbow Pad features a three-piece design. Using multiple pieces allows for the pad to follow a player's natural arm movements and offers a seamless feel when stickhandling, passing, and shooting. Similar to other pieces of the Jetspeed line, the elbow pad will also absorb minimal sweat.
The elbow pads also feature a molded JDP elbow cap -- this has been one of CCM's most trusted features and has been used in protective products for many years at this point. The elbow cap does a great job of dispersing impact and CCM adds an extra high-density foam cover for even more protection.
Jetspeed FT4 Pro Shin Pads
The FT4 Pro Shin Pad is another noteworthy inclusion in this year's Jetspeed line. New this year is an updated, anatomical design. The pad feels more streamlined, while still offering optimal protection.
The strapping system of the shin pad includes a smaller strap that wraps around the front of the shin, combined with a larger calf strap that's adjustable in length. The upper strap does a great job of locking in the knee, while the customization of the calf strap allows for a snug and comfortable fit for any leg shape.
Jetspeed FT4 Pro Pants
The Jetspeed FT4 Pro Pant is another piece of this year's lineup that received a total makeover. The new pant was redesigned to give increased movement and comfort, while still maintaining full protection.
The pant itself is constructed with a textured polyester that's reinforced on the side panels. This equates to a pant that's lightweight but can still withstand the bumps and battles of hockey. The inner liner of the pant is not only comfortable but it also absorbs less weight, keeping up the overarching theme of the Jetspeed line.
As far as protection goes, the pant offers features like molded PE caps with a vented foam base -- this allows for pro-level impact protection with the benefits of added breathability. There's also a floating spine protecter and a hybrid spine shield with a high-density foam, which offers protection to the lower back without sacrificing comfort or mobility.
Jetspeed Girdle
While the Jetspeed Girdle isn't technically a new release, it's a fantastic part of CCM's Jetspeed line and easily worth a look. For those who aren't familiar, girdles are an alternative to traditional hockey pants. They often provide a closer fit with less gaps while moving. They can also be mixed and matched with different pant and girdle shells, which is a bonus for players who are on multiple teams.
The girdle features thigh guards that are adjustable in length, which offers a customizable fit for players of any height. By using both D30 smart material, as well as JDP hip caps, the best standout features of its light weight and customizable fit, while still keeping optimal protection.
While the transition between girdles and hockey pants may take some time, players will definitely enjoy the customizable fit, as well as the close-to-body protection.