2019 CCM Jetspeed FT2 Hockey Skates Review

So what’s next in skates... Rocketframes that propel you at Jetspeed? Well... uh, yes. I don’t know what skates will like in 10 or 20 years, but it really seems like the future is already here. The new CCM Jetspeed FT2 skate is packed with all sorts of cutting-edge tech and exciting upgrades so let’s dive in.

Liteframe 360 EVO One Piece Boot Construction

Liteframe 360 EVO brings the benefits of CCM’s proprietary one-piece composite boot construction to a new level. 360 EVO is the second-generation one-piece boot and although it doesn’t look a lot different than the FT1, CCM tells us to expect improved durability and an improved fit.

As soon as you slip your foot into the boot you can tell that the FT2 isn’t quite as narrow as the FT1 in the fit of heel. Although I’m a big on getting the narrowest heel fit possible, this probably won’t hurt the FT2 as the FT1 was a bit too tight for some of the customers we saw on the skate fit bench.

Like I mentioned in my intro, it’s not just a composite one-piece boot – it’s Rocketframe composite! But all kidding aside, this 2nd gen boot features NHL-caliber lightweight composite that allowed CCM to add an extra 2mm of steel to the blade as well as other durability features throughout the boot without adding weight when comparing it to last year’s Jetspeed FT1.

CCM’s one-piece construction probably didn’t get enough love when it first launched with Super Tacks and FT1. It’s a remarkable technology that skates great, allowing a closer connection the holder and big weight savings.

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that a size 8 skate weighs in at just 794 grams. By removing the skate’s outsole, it eliminates additional material, glue and stitching. This is outrageously light for a skate that doesn’t skimp on pro level features.

Speedblade Xchange System
(aka the XS Holder and steel)

I think this is one of the most exciting things about this year’s Jetspeed lineup. CCM has finally come to market with their quick-change blade system that makes steel changes super easy.

Their BladeLock system is pretty slick – it’s easy to use and the steel locks firmly in place, and most importantly, it seems really well engineered.

The technology uses a lock dial mechanism that tightly secures the blade to the holder. When playing around with the dial at first, I wondered if it might come loose during play but I’ve been really impressed with how it locks in and don’t have any concerns about untimely steel “pop-outs” on ice.

The steel on the FT2 is Speedblade XS1 Black (+2mm). This is a premium oxide-treated blade that provides longer edge life and is 12% taller than the original Speedblade Black blade for more aggressive turning and extra sharpening life.

All the little design details have been thought of - there’s a notch at back of holder to make it easier to change steel and the lock mechanism is replaceable for aftermarket repairs if necessary.

Add it all up and the connection between holder and steel is very firm and solid, which ultimately should translate into better energy transfer when skating.

Tongue

The newly designed tongue wraps nicely around your foot. It’s lightweight with a molded foam insert but gives you exactly what you need in a pro felt tongue – not too light to cause lace-bite and not too thick too feel disconnected from the boot.

Footbed

CCM’s Orthomove footbed comes shipped with a free pair of Jetspeed FT2’s. This insole allows you to customize the arch support to your foot’s fit profile.

These adjustable inserts allow maximum customization in an insole – remove the insert if you have a low arch, add the 4mm insert for a medium arch, and add the 7mm insert if you have a high arch.

I like that you can play around with the position of the inserts as well. Customization is always a good thing when it comes to skate fitting.

Comfort Pad and One-piece Injected Tendon

Finally, a truly comfortable comfort pad. CCM nailed it with this Injected Smooth Contour Pro comfort pad. This is a not so subtle upgrade – the one-piece injected tendon guard connects to the comfort pad at the top of ankle and will provide skaters with extra durability and more importantly, extra comfort.