RBK Premier 2 C/A

[brendon]

Hey, has anyone here ever tried a RBK Premier 2 C/A? I'm moving on from my old Itech 8.8 C/A and was wondering whether or not it was any good.

I'm a pretty short guy, only about 5'5 so I was wearing an Itech 8.8 in Size Junior Large. The RBK Premier 2 will be a Size Intermediate XL but I don't think it'll be too much of a problem. Though I don't really have anything to compare to, I think I was wearing my Itech C/A as big as it could go.

[Jase96]

Only if you like a CA that is big and bulky. If you want to be quick and nimble try something else.

[Goats34]

I've got this C/A. It's gigantic. But so am I! ;) I find it a tad on the big side, but I bought an XL, but I'm also 6'0" and 230 lbs.

Out of the box it is VERY stiff, but I've beat it into submission and after about 25 ice times in it, it's moving nicely.

Seeing as you're on the short side (no offense, I know you're probably still growing), you may not like its length (it's quite long!) and the rib wraps will probably end up in your armpits when you crouch for the first little while.

Personally, I like it, but I was looking for something robust. I often rely, probably too heavily, on my sheer size versus my mobility. THis chesty helps a great deal with that.

Here's some pics...
http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/5026/6er.jpg

Note here I switched from a light, mobile C/A (Brian's Alite I've had since the 90's) to the much larger "blocking" style C/A. Face has been stainglassicized to protect the innocent. ;)

http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/3604/twos.jpg

[Oil Machine]

jase is still growing , lol

[brendon]

Would the size and length of it still be that evident with an Intermediate model? Note, this would be an Intermediate XL, not a Senior XL.

The Itech 8.8 I have now is starting to get very beat up, which is why i've opted to sell it off for cheap while it is still in one piece and sellable. I've never found a problem with it and moved just as quickly as I did without a C/A on, but i've never really tried anything else. I suppose I could go to the local hockey store and try it on to see how I like it.

Oh and another question for C/A's in general. In the same model, does a Senior size provide more protection than say an Intermediate or Junior size? Like if I got this RBK Premier 2 C/A in intermediate, would I be selling myself short on protection by not getting a Senior size?

Also, chances are, I won't be growing significantly anytime soon hahaha. I'm turning 20 this summer. I'm just your typical token short whitewashed asian. :D

[Goats34]

Would the size and length of it still be that evident with an Intermediate model? Note, this would be an Intermediate XL, not a Senior XL.

It'll be scaled. The pro, even in Int. XL, will still have the same features as the one I bought, just scaled back.

The 6K version has scalloped shoulder floaters, rougher material, less clavicle protection and less adjustments on the back harness, but the same scaled back sizing.

And, it's always good to try things on. You might want to see if Mr. Battram can make you a custom one. I'm looking at selling off my two and ordering a Battram. They look solid and a good blend of mobility and protection.

[hckytnder1]

I would love to own one of these... I wonder if Scott would be willing to make a new c/a for Battram and design it off of this or maybe even the old heaton 90Z?

Scott??? Scott??? :D

[brendon]

:s I can't really afford Battram gear. I got all my current gear, Pads/Mask/Gloves/CA/Skates/Pants/Jock for less than 1000. The Intermediate XL i'm looking at is a pretty good deal and will only cost me $130. I think it retails in stores for around $175.

[Goats34]

Totally fair comment, bro.

[Jase96]

I asked the protection question of an INT XL to cuj, since his son has an INT XL and he said the protection is the same. No stingers for his son yet. Then again I don't think Terd plays against adults... yet, or has he???

[brendon]

Yeah 'cuz being on the short side of the scale for a goaltender, it's a lot cheaper to get INT equipment wherever it is available. I'm like... 5'5 so I don't think I even have to get Senior Sticks...

[goaliemedic]

I am using one of these, in the bumble bee colors. It has taken a lot of getting used too. I was in a Simmons 993 prior to this. I was not thrilled with the protection in that thing, but it fit well, and moved very well. This thing is bomb proof. It runs big, in fact I took and put a set of eyelets in the arms and shrunk it up a little bit. It is unbelievably stiff too. Being that I am 5'4" and am not going to grow anymore, I like a little bit of bulk to eat up some extra space in the net. I have had this on the ice 4-5 times now, and am liking it more and more with each use. Being that you can get them on sale for pretty cheap, I would say go for it.

[Vice_]

I bought a Premier 2 a couple of months ago, and I've used it about 8-10 times since then. It's very bulky, but also very protective. It also sits tight to my torso; very different from my Battram 5000, which seems to sit on my shoulders and drape down. At the outset mobility was a challenge, but I've noticed that it has been getting progressively easier to move in this unit. I think it helps that I am only using this c/a for inline and the rink in which we play is very, very hot.

When this unit is broken in I hope to use it for ice and use my Battram unit for inline.

[goaliejet128]

I just picked up a P2 INT L for my fiance'. She likes it, but theres just one problem...not roomy enough for the bustline. It's very stiff, needs a good deal of break in time, and will be ready for when she resumes training ( 5 weeks off for carpal tunnel surgery-both hands ).

I bought it because I needed my older Heaton 4700 back for a backup. She hates me for it, it fit her great and was very comfy.

...I gotta brainstorm a few ideas for chest and arm units for women of various endowments, there has to be a better solution.

[kohomcm]

Spend the money and look for a brown c/a for her. I had a similar issue with my wife. Great fit, protection and she fits into it.

[Cujo_64]

I asked the protection question of an INT XL to cuj, since his son has an INT XL and he said the protection is the same. No stingers for his son yet. Then again I don't think Terd plays against adults... yet, or has he???


Terd has practiced with Midget Minor AA level kids and they shoot as hard as most of the adults that we all play with... and skate better ! :p


Rob

[goaliemedic]

OK, I have had mine for 2 months now, and I am sending it BACK!!!!!! All of the elastic that connects the wings to the unit has dry rotted. I talked with Reebok, and with Goaliemonkey, and they are trying to work something out for me. The post that was put up a while back about the poor quality coming out of the big name companies (taking their production to China), seems to be on my mind a lot these days. As I think about the gear that I have gotten since Dec of last year, and how much of it has been in the shop for repairs, I have to say that from now on my money is going elsewhere.

[Masked]

OK, I have had mine for 2 months now, and I am sending it BACK!!!!!! All of the elastic that connects the wings to the unit has dry rotted. I talked with Reebok, and with Goaliemonkey, and they are trying to work something out for me. The post that was put up a while back about the poor quality coming out of the big name companies (taking their production to China), seems to be on my mind a lot these days. As I think about the gear that I have gotten since Dec of last year, and how much of it has been in the shop for repairs, I have to say that from now on my money is going elsewhere.

Quite honestly, I've seen this 100's of times and I end up fixing and double stitching the C/A's before I even put them on...It's a hassle but, it saves you the trouble in the long run.

I've had this happen continuously as I'm a reebok C/A advocate but, I got tired of it and ordered a made in canada version.

Don't have any of the problems I used to have and it's definitely appearing to be an overseas QC issue...Which, is unfortunate.

[Scott Battram]

OK, I have had mine for 2 months now, and I am sending it BACK!!!!!! All of the elastic that connects the wings to the unit has dry rotted. I talked with Reebok, and with Goaliemonkey, and they are trying to work something out for me. The post that was put up a while back about the poor quality coming out of the big name companies (taking their production to China), seems to be on my mind a lot these days. As I think about the gear that I have gotten since Dec of last year, and how much of it has been in the shop for repairs, I have to say that from now on my money is going elsewhere.

Its just a matter of time to people start seeing how poor this stuff really is! Another year and I bet you see many more threads like this one where the stuff is falling apart! The big companies only care about how cheap they can make it and how much they make from it!

[goaliemedic]

Well ....lol.... when you are right, you are right. and you are right ( I just really wanted to be able to say that). I do agree with you though, every bit of RBK gear that I have, has had to be repaired with only having been on the ice for 1/2 a season. I have an old set of Blockaid pads that I keep as a back up set, that are seeing use because my Xpulse pro's are having to be reworked.....dry rotten chest pad, had to rebuild the palms in the trapper, bottom seems in my pants let go....

Buy Canadian!!!!


Its just a matter of time to people start seeing how poor this stuff really is! Another year and I bet you see many more threads like this one where the stuff is falling apart! The big companies only care about how cheap they can make it and how much they make from it!

[Cujo_64]

sorry to hear this, my son has gone thru 4 rbk chest units in the last 3 years.... but that is only because he grows so fast, he uses the **** out of them and hasnt had any issues. he is in a xpulse pro now.... he had the p2 pro before that and the int p2 pro before that..... sorry you had those issues. :(

[goaliemedic]

I am just a bit aggrivated that RBK came in and bought up all of the favorite old companies. I gave them a try, and with moving the producation out of Canada, every piece of gear I have bought has had issues.....pants that in less than a year the seams split open, chest pad that the straps dry rotted on, catch glove that I had to rebuild the palm padding in, jock that after 3 uses had to be restitched and my blocker that had to be glued back together because the seams let go.....not sure if it is the thread they are using or what.

Now in their defense: Having called and spoken to them they do back up their products. I spoke with a woman in customer service who said that they would be more than happy to take care of my chest pad. In fact, they said I could continue to use it until the end of the season and send it back then. Right now I am working with goalie monkey about a credit, but it is nice to know this is an option.

[Masked]

I am just a bit aggrivated that RBK came in and bought up all of the favorite old companies. I gave them a try, and with moving the producation out of Canada, every piece of gear I have bought has had issues.....pants that in less than a year the seams split open, chest pad that the straps dry rotted on, catch glove that I had to rebuild the palm padding in, jock that after 3 uses had to be restitched and my blocker that had to be glued back together because the seams let go.....not sure if it is the thread they are using or what.

Now in their defense: Having called and spoken to them they do back up their products. I spoke with a woman in customer service who said that they would be more than happy to take care of my chest pad. In fact, they said I could continue to use it until the end of the season and send it back then. Right now I am working with goalie monkey about a credit, but it is nice to know this is an option.
I've been there as well.

In fact, I originally came here because my Pro Custom RBK 6k, shifted a block during a game and I took about a 90 in the gap...Some more bruised body parts later, I gave up.

Ordered my Battram and...It's a tank. Great C/A.

That being said, I'm still an advocate of RBK chests...If you can find someone willing to get you a made in Canada version...The unit is bar-none.

I was recently able to get my hands on a Reebok Pro Spec Pro C/A canada edition and I'm once again in love...but, I paid a hefty price...

It's all about preference...Makers like Scott offer a very well built product, it's durable...Mobility is great...Protection is bar none but, it's still not a Reebok.

My Battram is now my backup...I've got a few skate cuts on the neck from very close calls...It's taken beyond a beating being used 15-20hrs/week ~ and it's still trucking...Stood my test of durability? ~ Definitely.

Whether or not my RBK will out-last 1/2 a season or not...I'm not too sure...But, the made in Canada version feels a lot sturdier than the China versions.

My suggestion to you is simple...Knowing that they offer a product much better made...Why not see if you can work with them to snag a stock PS1? ~ I've heard of it happening. ~ Or even a made in Canada PS2...You'll get stock but, IMO it's worth it. ~

Ben

[AL-E-Gator]

IMHO, all other attempts at getting a great / adequate / protective CA are a series of compromises. I can't THINK of not using my Battram. I've read about bruises from chest protection movement . . . but honestly - How about a Fractured (100%) clavicle on the left? and then 100% plus on the life - the bone was in 4 pieces . . .
While in Juniors, I wore a crucifix under my Chest Protector (they were seperate pieces in the 70s). I got hit in the CENTER of the Crucifix, over the polished stone- and cracked it . . . and the arms of the cross nearly folded around the front . . . and my CHEST - a fractured breastbone with a cardiac contusion (1979).

If I were you guys, I'd do anything to increase the flexibility of my Battram - instead of going to an inferior product. I hae made NO MODIFICATIONS in mine, and it's broken in nicely (I wouldn't recommend breaking it in at the same time as a new set of Gloves and a new set of Pads however!) Once broken in, it's like LIFE INSURANCE and HEALTH INSURANCE all woven into one.

I'm not sure about the 'canadian made RBK', but shot for shot, and overall protection, I'd challenge anything to beat the Battram CA. There is NOTHING better.

BEFORE BATTRAM CA: Fractured Clavicle x2, Fractured Sternum and numerous cracked/bruised ribs . . . NONE of this happens to me anymore, and I can get Boldly in front of ANY shooter without an injury. I"ve had a few 'pros' try to shoot -through- me, only to realize that I wouldn't flinch with their later attempts . . . and they've come to look at what I'm wearing and shake their head.

You can't improve on perfection, and why would you try at the prices that area available?

Premium Equipment needs to be: Mask, C/A, Cup and Pants. Explore inferior equipment for speed and flexibility and you'll be on the disabled list . . .

Battram C/A forever for me. Scott have any changes, let me know, as I think you have a perfect piece here without any peers.

AL-E-Gator

[bc-30]

I am just a bit aggrivated that RBK came in and bought up all of the favorite old companies.

In actual fact, Reebok only bought one company, The Hockey Company (THC).

THC was the holding company that already owned the names Koho, Jofa, CCM, Heaton, Titan, Canadien, and a few others. The same factories with the same workers were producing the same items under multiple brand names. It was redundant and inefficient, and it really didn't help THC to be selling four different "brands" of the same shin pad. Reebok simply pared the brand identities from several to two (RBK/CCM)

Moving production to China is a separate issue unrelated to the change in branding of product.

[goaliecrease]

Moving production to China is a separate issue unrelated to the change in branding of product.

Not really, if Reebok didn't buy THC, we probably wouldn't have seen the production moved to China.

[goaliemedic]

It is all symantics at this point, the end result is one mega company, off shore production, and poor quality- with people like me making a move back to trying to support the "little guys" in the business world

[rbk39]

Hey, has anyone here ever tried a RBK Premier 2 C/A? I'm moving on from my old Itech 8.8 C/A and was wondering whether or not it was any good.

I'm a pretty short guy, only about 5'5 so I was wearing an Itech 8.8 in Size Junior Large. The RBK Premier 2 will be a Size Intermediate XL but I don't think it'll be too much of a problem. Though I don't really have anything to compare to, I think I was wearing my Itech C/A as big as it could go.

there real nice pads. I also came from itechs and p2 pads feel so comfortable. ill send u a pic. if i wer u i would definitely get them.

[lencoo12]

jase is still growing , lol
The Itech 8.8 I have now is starting to get very beat up, which is why i've opted to sell it off for cheap while it is still in one piece and sellable. I've never found a problem with it and moved just as quickly as I did without a C/A on, but i've never really tried anything else. I suppose I could go to the local hockey store and try it on to see how I like it.

Oh and another question for C/A's in general. In the same model, does a Senior size provide more protection than say an Intermediate or Junior size? Like if I got this RBK Premier 2 C/A in intermediate, would I be selling myself short on protection by not getting a Senior size?

[brendon]

Oh and another question for C/A's in general. In the same model, does a Senior size provide more protection than say an Intermediate or Junior size? Like if I got this RBK Premier 2 C/A in intermediate, would I be selling myself short on protection by not getting a Senior size?

Definitely. Intermediate products I find are generally of both lesser quality and protection in comparison to its senior counterpart. This is coming from someone small enough that I started out using Junior/Intermediate gear while playing against men.

I've now moved on to properly fitting and protective gear to be safe!

[nikole95.7]

Terd has practiced with Midget Minor AA level kids and they shoot as hard as most of the adults that we all play with... and skate better ! :p


Rob
OK, I have had mine for 2 months now, and I am sending it BACK!!!!!! All of the elastic that connects the wings to the unit has dry rotted. I talked with Reebok, and with Goaliemonkey, and they are trying to work something out for me. The post that was put up a while back about the poor quality coming out of the big name companies (taking their production to China), seems to be on my mind a lot these days. As I think about the gear that I have gotten since Dec of last year, and how much of it has been in the shop for repairs, I have to say that from now on my money is going elsewhere.