CCM EFlex 5 Leg Pad Review: Take control of the game.

March 26, 2021

Reviewed by Cedric Hastings

First Look at the EFlex 5 Pads For 2021, CCM looked to build on the success of the incredibly popular EFlex 4 leg pad while updating them to compete with the modern market. With innovations such as an improved core and sliding surface as well as a molded knee roll and new printed graphics, the EFlex 5 leg pads take the responsive, flexible pad EFlex users know and love up to the next level.

DUAL1TECORE

For the EFlex 5, CCM improved upon the already thinned out, lightweight core seen in the EFlex 4’s. This new DUAL1TECORE technology gives the pad a thinner profile and a slight weight saving. The real advantage is in the flex; added stiffness above the knee is intended to prevent the pad from lifting up off the ice providing a better seal than previous generation EFlex gear.

Butterfly Seal

The super soft boot on the EFlex 5 pad allows goalies to get into a deep stance while remaining reactive and powerful. The core may have been redesigned, but the EFlex 5 still remains true to how previous generation EFlex pads feel and play. Overall it will be a familiar feeling pad for those that have been using the EFlex lineup over the last few years.

FLEX PROFILE

In addition to the new core, CCM has added a raised flat inside edge made of a dual density molded foam to the inner gusset which greatly helps in evenly spreading your weight along the inner edge of the pad improving the seal when in the butterfly. While the new core aids the seal of the pad, the stiffer portion above the knee adds stability when moving across the crease allowing goalies to feel confident in their on-ice recoveries.

Control Rebound Technology

One major difference seen in the EFlex 5’s over their predecessor is the rebound control. While the EFlex 4’s used a dual density core where the upper portion of the face was softer than the shin, the EFlex 5’s are more consistent. Thanks to the new Control Rebound Technology, the EFlex 5 pads dampen rebounds allowing goalies to effortlessly direct pucks out of harm's way through the use of softer foams on the face of the pad.

MAXrebound Technology

For the first time ever, the EFlex line of pads can now also be ordered with the MAXrebound technology seen in the axis line of pads. This means that goalies can have an EFlex pad that feels soft and reactive but that also has an active face that kicks rebounds out as if it were a much stiffer pad.

QuickMotion Strapping

The EFlex 5 brings CCM’s tried and true QuickMotion strapping system that was first seen on the EFlex 4. It features 3 main straps beginning with a Velcro calf strap that secures the leg deep into the pad, a larger strap wraps around closing the calf wrap up and a knee strap that has the option to be worn across or below the knee. CCM uses their bungee toe ties that is not only quick and easy to put on but also relieves stress off the knees, ankles and hips as they allow the foot to sit in a more natural position.

CONTROL Molded Knee Rolls

CCM made a change to the pad face to help keep puck controlled in tight. The minimized and flattened knee rolls increases the predictability with rebounds. Overall, the goal is to have more control and these help enhance that. In our testing we did find the flatter face helped direct pucks as needed and we were super happy with this update.

Graphics

As seen on the Axis pads earlier in the year, the EFlex 5 features UV printed graphic zones throughout the face of the pad. These accents give the pad more dimension and pop making them look more premium. With a sharp new graphic and 18 colour zones to play with, the EFlex 5 is sure to turn heads.

Final Thoughts

With their recent separation from Lefevbre, the goalie community was left to wonder what new iterations of CCM gear would look like. The EFlex 5 proves that even without their design partner, CCM is beyond capable of making quality gear that will perform at its best for years to come. The EFlex 5 leg pads are a good step in the right direction in bringing the EFlex name into a more modern light. With new features and technologies that will draw goalies towards their brand while still remaining true to the feel those who use CCM have come to know and love.

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