Goalie Crease Network - Video Review Episode 6: Passau Hockey - Chest Protector

Passau Hockey is becoming a new player in the Canadian made goalie equipment market. Even though they've been around for many years, they're finally venturing out as their own brand and there's plenty of talk online about it. The epicenter of most of the discussion falls around their new Chest Protector. This discussion is warranted, whenever something new comes out people are skeptical and want questions answered.

We took a look at this chest protector and I created this video review on it. Hopefully it helps answer a few questions you may have.







Protection - 10/10
The protection level on this C/A is definitely a 10/10, and I don't usually give 10/10 for anything. I've been playing in it for 2 months now, and
have yet to receive one stinger anywhere. Passau uses high quality HD Foams, injected molded plating, and soft comfortable foams on the inside to keep it easy to wear day after day.

Arm protection is made up of HD Foams, Plastic plates, and a plastic injection molded elbow cup covered in a soft foam for comfort.



Quality of Materials 9/10
As soon as you pick up the C/A you can feel the level of quality in the materials, nylon used for straps, etc. is quite thick, the elastic is also very robust and doubled up in the chest area. Stitching is accurate and clean. The Jenpro used in certain spots to add durability is quite thick (like their pads).

Design - 9/10
The design of this C/A is ultimate for me. It's mobility is second to none in comparison to all of the different brands and styles of C/A's I have tried. It fits like a glove around the torso, but does not feel constricting in the slightest. The strapping setup around the ribs is great; as stated in the video review there has been some questions about Velcro, but the idea is great. The repair of the worn out Velcro after a couple of years is quick, easy, and very affordable. The comfort of the fit outweighs any issues with repairing the Velcro.

The shoulder/back strapping is very interesting; basically completely adjustable. Even can adjust the floaters to a desired position using quick Velcro attachments (see pics below). You just undo all of the straps, place the chest protector on your shoulders, let it fall in to place naturally and re-affix the Velcro and everything will be in proper position on your chest. I've never had this ease of use on any chest protector I've worn in the past.




Mobility

I've said it above, but again, the mobility with this thing is second to none. As soon as I opened the box I put it on and I could touch each earlobe. Because of it's perfect fit around the torso there's no drag or catching on the arms. The shoulder cap is loose, and tied in; With the floaters there's 3 levels of protection for your shoulder. A good positional goalie will have no issues with the open part under the arms, if arms are kept forward and in front of you as they should be there's no chance of getting caught under the arm.



Cost

This Chest protector from Passau goes for $450, and worth every penny. If you couple it with a full set of gear, they give you a discount and it comes to $350.

Conclusion

With the right exposure, and feedback from purchasers, this chest protector is going to really put Passau on the map. Don't just take my word for it, check around for other people's reviews as well; You won't be hearing anything negative.

Overal Rating 9.5/10