CCM EFlex 7.9 Leg Pad, Catcher, and Blocker Review
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Time to read 10 min
The CCM EFlex 7.9 has arrived — and it might be the most impressive senior-level release of the year. While most reviews focus on the pro model, the E7.9 deserves its own spotlight thanks to the performance it delivers at a more accessible price point. With this release, CCM clearly set out to elevate their senior price-point gear, and the result is a package that rivals pro-level offerings in both feel and function.
Built on the legacy of one of the most trusted pad lines in hockey, the EFlex 7.9 continues to cater to goalies who value mobility, control, and a soft-flex profile that moves with them. It incorporates several key upgrades seen in the EFlex 7 Pro line — including CCM’s new Cross Glide Technology, an upgraded comfort leg channel, and a redesigned catcher — all while maintaining that familiar EFlex feel. For goalies who want elite-level performance without breaking the bank, the EFlex 7.9 is a serious contender.
CCM Eflex 7 YouTube review
Want to learn more about the features found on the EFlex 7.9 gear? Check out our full on-ice YouTube review of the CCM EFlex 7 line. With shared tech like the flexible Litecore profile, Cross Glide slide skin, Comfort Mesh leg channel, and a redesigned catcher, our EFlex 7 review breaks down the performance and feel of the gear in action. In the review, you'll get a closer look at the specs of the new CCM goalie gear, I highlight what's new on the gear, test the gear on ice, and give my honest opinion on the innovations and updates on the Eflex 7 line up.
About the CCM Extreme Flex Series
CCM launched the Extreme Flex line in 2013 after over 2,600 hours of engineering and testing. The goal?
To create softer, lighter, and more flexible gear tailored for goalies who want maximum control over their movements and rebounds. Carey Price played a significant role in shaping the EFlex design, incorporating many of his personal preferences at the retail level. Now, 12 years later, the EFlex 7 continues to build on that original concept while evolving to meet the changing needs of modern goalies.
CCM Extreme Flex vs Axis
CCM has two distinct lines of goalie gear, providing options for any goalie depending on their playstyle:
Extreme Flex
The CCM Extreme Flex line is designed for goalies who value flexibility, responsiveness, and control. As CCM’s softer, more reactive pad, the EFlex gear offers dynamic mobility while keeping rebounds manageable. Built for the modern hybrid goaltender, this pad maintains its signature feel while introducing key upgrades to enhance performance in all game situations.
Axis
The CCM Axis line is built for goalies who prioritize structure, stability, and powerful rebounds. Designed as CCM’s stiffer-style pad, the Axis gear provides a solid seal in the butterfly while effortlessly directing pucks away from danger. With the increasing demand for firm, responsive pads in the modern game, the Axis XF continues to be a top choice among elite goaltenders.
What's New?
CCM Cross-Glide Technology
The CCM EFlex 7.9 has introduced Cross-Glide Technology, replacing SpeedSkin on the pad’s sliding surface. This new material delivers a smoother, faster slide in all ice conditions. The texture feels soft to the touch, similar to the slide technology featured on some other brands.
After testing the Cross Glide Technology on ice, it's safe to safe that it delivers a significant improvement to the leg pads performance. It felt like I was moving faster along the ice while saving energy, thanks to the reduced friction on my slide.
Redesigned Catcher
The EFlex 7.9 catcher has been redesigned to provide one of the best off-the-shelf closures ever. This year, the glove features a 580 break angle, instead of 581, and reintroduces finger stalls after listening to goalie feedback. CCM has a reputation when it comes to the challenge of breaking in their gloves, however, the EFlex 7.9 feels truly game ready.
EFlex 7.9 Graphic
The EFlex 7.9 sports a bold graphic with multiple color zones , allowing for a variety of unique designs. Immediately upon first glance, I recognized the influence of the EFlex 3 and EFlex 4 graphics , which were some of my favourites. I appreciate the spears that add a sharpness to the graphic, which is perfect to represent the goalies these pads are made for. Finally, I'm stoked that CCM ditched the slanted knee rolls featured on previous models for the classic, straight design which looks much better in my opinion.
If you're looking to personalize your gear, you're in luck. For the first time ever, CCM has introduced an EFlex 7.9 customizer for it's senior price point. Through CCM's E7.9 customizer, goalies can select and customize up to 26 colour options.
CCM EFlex 7.9 Leg Pads
Dualitecore
The EFlex 7.9 features CCM’s Dualitecore technology, delivering the agility and responsiveness the Extreme Flex series is known for. The core is designed for a flexible feel below the knee and added stiffness in the thigh rise.
Single Break
The core of the CCM EFlex 7.9 includes a single internal and external break, creating a soft, flexible pad designed for unrestricted mobility.
Knee Rolls
The CCM EFlex 7.9 leg pads feature flattened knee rolls on the pad face, retaining a traditional look while reducing unpredictability of rebounds off the knee. CCM also eliminated the slanted knee roll design for a more traditional, straight knee roll look.
DRS+ Knee Stack
The Dynamic Response System+ knee stack features an HD one-piece landing zone built for ultimate seal and stability, while enhancing impact protection when dropping into the butterfly.
Calf Plate
The new slide surface on the EFlex 7.9 incorporates high-density foams, creating a stiff, flat platform for effortless sliding and optimal ice seal. The leg channel also features a new integrated calf insert —similar to a calf pillow—adding support and reinforcing the butterfly seal.
Boot Angle
The CCM EFlex 7.9 keeps its stock 90-degree, soft-flex boot to keep the pad reactive to every movement. Its shallow channel enhances mobility around the skate while allowing the pad to sit taller on the leg.
Open Knee Craddle
The EFlex 7.9's open knee cradle optimizes pad rotation and reduces knee pad interference. For a more customized feel, goalies can adjust, move, or remove the knee cradle wrap based on their preference.
Quick Motion Strap System 3 (QMSS3)
CCM has refined its upper calf strap for a more form-fitting, breathable wrap that aligns better with the leg. The strap material remains unchanged but benefits from a tackier texture for added security.
New Offset Hybrid Skate Lace System
CCM’s new toe ties offer a unique combination: traditional skate lace for a secure post seal, Velcro closure for easy adjustments, and an elastic band for added flexibility. It’s a great middle-ground for goalies hesitant to fully commit to bungee cords.
Fit
The EFlex 7.9’s deep, tight leg channel offers a connected feel for enhanced responsiveness and pad stability.
Materials
CCM has replaced the textured “bubbly” material from previous EFlex generations with new materials to improve overall comfort and stability. The knee stack also now features a flatter piece with a grippy texture to help lock in the knee and offer more responsiveness. Throughout the rest of the leg channel, CCM has introduced a mesh liner to provide more comfort and breathability throughout the leg.
CCM EFlex 7.9 Catcher
580 Break Angle
The EFlex 7.9 break angle returns to the 580 after CCM experimented with the 581 on the EFlex 6. We noticed most goalies preferred the original 580 break, making this a welcomed decision.
Pocket and T
The EFlex 7.9 glove features a Single +1 Tee, designed for quicker closures and a deeper pocket for improved puck retention. The pocket is available with either skate lace or nylon cord.
Litecore Construction
The Litecore construction keeps the EFlex 7.9 catcher light and protective, helping goalies react faster.
Palm
The EFlex 7.9 glove features an updated palm break to close easier than ever, straight off the shelf. The glove comes stock with a game ready palm and I’m extremely impressed with it’s easy closure. When it comes to protection, CCM uses layered foam in the palm for impact absorption and an easy break in.
Backhand
CCM also redesigned the flexmotion backhand system to enhance the range of motion of the glove, contributing to an easier closure. To accomplish a better range of motion, CCM divided the backhand into 2 pieces rather than a single piece, enabling each piece to move more independently for greater mobility.
Cuff
The EFlex 7.9 cuff has been redesigned, removing the bungee multi-piece cuff on the EFlex 6 and implementing one piece cuff. Overall, the design seems to be for improving the fit between your chest protector and the glove, eliminating interference without affecting mobility.
Palm Liner
The palm features the Hexa+ Palm which offers a soft, textured feel that dries quickly between ice times. I find this liner to be extremely comfortable.
Strapping
CCM’s new cross form strapping system is more effective by eliminating the wrist strap and securing the glove directly to the backhand. The dual velcro straps allow goalies to dial in the fit better than ever while the nylon cross strap centers and secures the glove to the wearer's backhand.
Finger Stalls
CCM has switched to elastic-style loops for the thumb and pinky, replacing traditional leather loops for greater flexibility and comfort. The finger stalls feature a mesh liner increases breathability and comfort, while Velcro straps allow for precise fit adjustments .
CCM EFlex 7.9 Blocker
Litecore Blocker Board
The EFlex 7.9 blocker receives an upgrade with Litecore technology, providing a lightweight feel while creating powerful rebounds.
Sidewall
The blocker features a stiff sidewall and received a redesign in terms of shape, using straighter edges for enhanced mobility, coverage, and protection.
Palm Position
The EFlex 7.9 blocker maintains the same centered position as its predecessor, the EFlex 6, to provide a balanced feel.
Palm
The EFlex 7.9 blocker comes with CCM’s Hexa palm, a soft textured feel for optimal comfort. The palm also features the added durability of a Pro Nash base to enhance. Similar to the Axis XF Pro, the blocker also features added vent channels along the side of the palm for increased breathability.
Finger Protection
The same finger protection carries over from the EFlex 6, featuring an HD foam wrap with added index finger protection. I’m a big fan of how the fingers are attached to the foam wrap, providing a balanced, responsive feel while eliminating the index finger twist that other gloves suffer from.
Thumb Protection
The thumb protection on the EFlex 7.9 blocker is somewhat stiffer without hindering movement.
Blocker Pillow
The pillow on the backhand of the blocker is larger on the EFlex 7.9 and features an angled design to adjust the blocker face more inward and square to the shooter. I find it to be very comfortable, however I’m not sure how big of a difference this angled design truly creates.
Flexmotion Cuff
The EFlex 7.9 blocker is equipped with a Flexmotion Cuff for optimal mobility and protection. The main change on the blocker is the addition of an elastic tether instead of Velcro on one side, offering more flexibility. The blocker also introduces a new neoprene finish at the wrist opening to provide additional comfort.
CCM EFlex 7 Pro Vs EFlex 7.9
The CCM EFlex 7 Pro is built for elite goaltenders competing at the highest level. As CCM’s premier line, this gear integrates the latest innovations and materials to deliver top-tier performance, protection, and rebound control. Designed for goalies who demand every ounce of performance from their gear, the EFlex 7 Pro is all about maximizing impact on the ice.
EFlex 7 Pro Key Features
Infinite Power Rebound (IPR)
An internal foam insert engineered to produce explosive rebounds, helping clear pucks out of high-danger areas and giving goalies more time to reset.
D3O® Impact Protection
This high-performance impact-absorbing material is strategically placed in key areas to enhance protection without adding bulk — a staple in CCM’s pro-level gear.
LITEXCORE™ Technology
A lightweight, performance-driven core used in the blocker to generate powerful rebounds while keeping weight to a minimum.
Read our full EFlex 7 Pro Leg Pad, Catcher, and Blocker Review.
CCM EFlex 7.9 Customizer
If you’ve been looking to personalize your goalie gear without spending top dollar — you’re in luck.
For the first time ever, CCM is offering full graphic customization on their senior price-point gear. Through the CCM Total Custom program, you can now design your own set of EFlex 7.9 pads, choosing from 26 colour options to match your team or stand out with a completely unique look.
It’s worth noting that the EFlex 7.9 customizer is graphic-only — meaning you won’t be able to adjust spec options like flex profile or glove break. If you're looking for full performance customization (like switching to a 600 break), you’ll need to upgrade to the pro-level EFlex 7 series.
Final Thoughts on the CCM EFlex 7.9
All things considered, the CCM EFlex 7.9 might just be the most exciting goalie gear release of 2025.
Building off the EFlex 6, this line introduces a number of standout upgrades — most notably the all-new Cross Glide Technology, which is a serious leap forward from SpeedSkin and puts CCM firmly in the mix with top-tier sliding tech. The revamped leg channel also adds breathable mesh materials and targeted grip zones for better comfort and control. And let’s not forget the 7.9 catcher, which feels game-ready right out of the box thanks to its ultra-responsive closure design.
What’s most impressive is how closely the EFlex 7.9 mirrors its pro-level counterpart. Aside from the missing IPR and D3O foam, the E7.9 carries nearly all the same tech, including CGT skin, the new glove design, and the improved comfort channel — making it a top-tier performer at a much more accessible price.
Whether you're a longtime CCM user or thinking about switching, the EFlex 7.9 offers unbeatable value and performance. From first-time buyers to seasoned goaltenders, this gear absolutely deserves a spot on your radar.
