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:
