The hockey rink is a battlefield, and every warrior needs their armor. For goalies, the helmet is the crown jewel of their defense. It shields the head, arguably the most important part of the body, from the onslaught of the puck.
Today, we’ll venture into an exciting showdown between two titans in the goalie helmet industry – Bauer’s 950 and 960 models.
A Brief Comparison Table
Absolutely, here’s a comparison table to highlight the differences between the Bauer 950 and 960:
| Feature | Bauer 950 | Bauer 960 |
| Comfort | High (VN foam liner) | Higher (PORON XRD foam liner) |
| Protection | High (Carbon edge wrap) | Higher (PowerCore shell) |
| Ventilation | Good | Better |
| Weight | Slightly heavier | Lighter |
| Price | More affordable | More expensive |
| Availability | Often available | Often sold out |
Please note that while this table summarizes the key differences, it doesn’t encapsulate all the nuances of these two models. Each helmet has its unique strengths and is designed to cater to different needs and preferences.
The Bauer 950: A Blend of Comfort and Protection
The Bauer 950 goalie helmet is a remarkable piece of equipment that has been praised for its exceptional comfort and protection. Its VN foam liner provides a plush feeling while absorbing high-velocity impacts, and the carbon edge wrap enhances the helmet’s durability.
Pros of the Bauer 950
- Comfort
The 950’s soft foam liner offers a snug fit, making it perfect for long games.
- Protection
The helmet’s carbon edge wrap enhances its impact resistance.
- Price
Compared to the 960, the 950 is more budget-friendly, offering great value for money.
Cons of the Bauer 950
- Heat retention
Some users have mentioned that the Bauer 950 can get quite warm during games.
- Weight
The Bauer 950 is slightly heavier than its counterpart, which can affect mobility and comfort during longer games.
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The Bauer 960: An Upgraded Powerhouse
The Bauer 960 is a step up from the 950 model, boasting a revolutionary PowerCore shell that absorbs and distributes impact, along with a PORON XRD foam liner for superior comfort.
Pros of the Bauer 960
- Superior Protection
The 960’s PowerCore shell offers enhanced impact resistance.
- Comfort
Its PORON XRD foam liner provides an extremely comfortable fit.
- Ventilation
The 960 offers improved ventilation, keeping goalies cool during intense games.
Cons of the Bauer 960
- Price
The 960 is priced higher than the 950, which may not be within everyone’s budget.
- Availability
Due to its popularity, the Bauer 960 is often sold out, making it hard to acquire.
The Showdown: Bauer 950 vs 960
When comparing the Bauer 950 and 960, the key difference lies in the balance between comfort and protection. The 950 offers a snug, comfortable fit, while the 960 provides superior protection with its PowerCore shell. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to individual needs, preferences, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Bauer NME VTX is a previous generation of Bauer’s goalie helmets. The major difference between the NME VTX and the 960 lies in the materials used. The NME VTX utilizes VTX Technology foam, whereas the 960 uses PORON XRD foam for superior comfort and impact protection.
NHL goalies wear a variety of helmets, depending on their personal preferences and sponsorship agreements. However, Bauer’s goalie helmets, including the 960, are among the most popular due to their high level of protection and comfort.
Goalie helmets don’t have a specific expiration date, but it’s recommended to replace them every 5 to 7 years or after a significant impact to ensure optimal protection.
The number 31 doesn’t have a specific significance to goalies. It’s just a number that has been worn by many great goalies in the past, and so has become popular. Ultimately, the choice of number is often a personal preference and can be based on various factors like family significance, past successes, or simply the goalie’s favorite number.
The most expensive NHL goalie mask ever sold was worn by Ken Dryden of the Montreal Canadiens. It was auctioned off for $24,000 in 2010. However, the price of a goalie mask can vary greatly depending on factors such as the player who wore it, the artist who painted it, and its historical significance.
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The Final Verdict: Bauer 950 or 960?
The Bauer 950 and 960 are both exceptional goalie helmets, each bringing its unique advantages to the rink. The 950 offers a great balance of comfort and protection at a more affordable price, making it an excellent choice for goalies on a budget or those who prioritize comfort above all else. On the other hand, the 960, with its advanced PowerCore shell and PORON XRD foam liner, provides superior protection and comfort, albeit at a higher price.
In the grand scheme of things, there’s no definitive winner in the Bauer 950 vs 960 debate. It’s all about understanding your needs, preferences, and budget, then choosing the helmet that best suits you. After all, the best goalie helmet is the one that makes you feel invincible on the ice.
So, whether you’re a weekend warrior or an aspiring NHL goalie, remember this: the helmet is more than just a piece of equipment. It’s your crown, your armor, and your identity. Choose it wisely, and let it empower you on your journey to becoming the king or queen of the rink.
