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Overview
If you’re in the market for a pair of skates that offer pro-level features with a focus on comfort and performance, the CCM 652 Super Tacks are worth a close look.
These skates have been designed for the performance-level player looking to push their game further, delivering a combination of high-quality features that are typically found in much more premium models.
The skates blend advanced materials, thoughtful design, and a heritage of quality craftsmanship to create a product that stands out on the ice.
Below, I’ll break down my experience with these skates after taking them for a spin in various conditions, covering everything from their feel during drills to their durability during longer game sessions.
History and Heritage
The name “Tacks” has a rich history that dates back to 1905, involving a legendary collaboration between Hall of Famer Joe Hall and shoemaker George Tackleberry.
Joe Hall wanted a better boot to enhance his game, and George Tackleberry provided it, leading to the creation of the “Tackleberry Tacks.”
CCM later adopted this design, and the “Tacks” skates became a staple of the brand. Over the years, these skates have become iconic, used by legendary players like Mario Lemieux.
The 652 model harks back to the original Tacks from the late ’80s and early ’90s, paying homage to an era when these skates dominated the ice.
This historical context makes the CCM 652 Super Tacks a nostalgic choice for players who appreciate a blend of retro style and modern performance.
Our Test Skates
In order to provide an honest and accurate review, I tested the CCM 652 Super Tacks in various game-like scenarios, from speed drills to endurance sessions.
I wanted to see how well they performed under the pressures of high-speed skating, abrupt stops, tight turns, and those long, demanding practices.
Here’s what I discovered about these skates’ comfort, performance, and overall quality.
The skates were put through a variety of exercises, including sprint drills, rapid direction changes, and endurance laps, providing insights into their responsiveness, support, and the overall experience.
First Impressions
Classic Feel with Modern Features
When I first slipped into the CCM 652 Super Tacks, I immediately noticed the comfort. The PROformance Boot Profile™ is designed to accommodate forward flex, making it easier to stay in an aggressive skating stance.
The snug fit around the foot gives the skates that classic Tacks feel—sturdy, snug, and supportive, yet lightweight enough to be agile on the ice.
Right out of the box, these skates provided an immediate sense of security and performance, a combination that made me eager to test them further.
They balance tradition with innovation, offering a familiar feel with enhancements that make a real difference in comfort and control.
The aesthetics also evoke a sense of nostalgia, featuring that iconic black and white color scheme that’s reminiscent of the original 652 skates from the ’80s and ’90s.
Technical Features
Ankle Support: INTEGRATED WEDGE™
The CCM 652 Super Tacks feature the INTEGRATED WEDGE™ system for ankle support. This design provides both medial and lateral support, which means your ankles stay locked in place without any unwanted movement during intense play.
The heel lock protection keeps your foot secure, reducing the risk of injury and breakdown over time, making these skates a durable and supportive choice for players who demand stability.
The additional support provided by this wedge helps maintain proper alignment, which is crucial for efficient energy transfer and overall comfort during play.
This system reduces the strain that can come with aggressive skating and adds an extra layer of stability during high-speed maneuvers.
Blade Holder: PROLITE 3™ Blade Holder with Offset Post Design
The PROLITE 3™ blade holder is designed with an offset post, which improves energy transfer from your foot to the ice. This means you get more power with each stride, and I really felt that extra boost during accelerations and quick starts.
This feature enhances responsiveness, making these skates ideal for players who rely on explosive movements. The design also improves the overall balance, providing a stable platform that allows for precise control when making sharp turns or sudden stops.
During testing, I found that the blade holder gave a noticeable advantage in maintaining speed and gaining that crucial extra push needed in competitive play.
Boot Construction: PROformance Boot Profile™
The boot construction features the PROformance Boot Profile™, which accommodates forward flex while providing the rigidity needed to maintain form.
This helps skaters maintain an aggressive stance without sacrificing comfort, allowing for better manoeuvrability and fewer breakdowns.
The boot’s design combines lightweight materials and robust support to help skaters stay quick and nimble on the ice.
This blend of flexibility and stiffness helps ensure that skaters get maximum propulsion from every stride while avoiding the fatigue often associated with stiffer boots.
It also aids in transitioning between different skating movements, giving you a smoother and more controlled experience.
Heat Moldable: Thermo-Formable CCM® F-I-T SYSTEM™
One of the standout features of the CCM 652 Super Tacks is the heat-moldable Thermo-Formable CCM® F-I-T SYSTEM™. This allows the skates to be molded specifically to your foot shape, providing a fully customized fit.
The heat-moldable capability means less break-in time and more comfort from the very first use, which is a huge benefit for players who don’t have time to endure the typical new skate discomfort.
Custom fitting also means better overall energy transfer, as there are fewer pressure points or areas of loose contact.
The ability to mold the skates for a personalized fit also helps in reducing blisters and hotspots, making these skates ideal for players who spend long hours on the ice.
Lining Material: DURATEX™ Professional Lining
The interior of the skate features DURATEX™ professional lining, which is both comfortable and durable. This material is designed to wick away moisture, keeping your feet dry during long sessions on the ice.
Not only does it provide comfort, but it also increases the lifespan of the skates by reducing wear and tear caused by moisture, making them ideal for frequent use.
The moisture-wicking properties are especially beneficial for players who train hard and play often, as they help maintain a drier environment, reducing the risk of odour and bacteria build-up.
The lining also helps in maintaining consistent comfort levels, even during intense practice sessions or tournaments.
Outsole: Fiberglass Composite Outsole
The fiberglass composite outsole provides increased medial and lateral support, which is crucial for maintaining stability during tight turns and quick changes in direction.
This feature gives you a solid foundation for sharp manoeuvres, helping to transfer your energy effectively into the ice while ensuring your skates remain durable and resistant to breakdown.
The rigidity of the outsole also contributes to reducing fatigue in the arch of the foot, providing an ergonomic advantage that helps skaters maintain high performance throughout extended games.
Additionally, the fiberglass construction is lightweight, which complements the overall agility of the skates.
Runner: Proformance Profile Stainless™ Steel Runner
The Proformance Profile Stainless™ steel runner is designed for optimal speed, agility, and stability. The high-quality stainless steel holds its edge well, providing consistency in performance across multiple games.
Whether accelerating down the rink or executing precision cuts, the runner gives you the stability needed to control your game effectively. The blade’s profile is optimized for balance, providing excellent agility while maintaining control at top speeds.
During testing, I found the stainless steel runner easy to sharpen and that it retained its edge for a considerable amount of time, which is a big plus for players who want consistent performance without constant maintenance.
Tongue: Asymmetrical Tongue with Felt, Foam, and Tacks® Binding
The asymmetrical tongue on these skates features a combination of felt, foam, and Tacks® binding, which ensures a closer, more comfortable fit. The integrated lace bite insert prevents lace pressure from becoming uncomfortable, even during long games.
This means you can tighten your laces as much as you need without experiencing pain or discomfort, which is crucial for maintaining an optimal fit. The tongue also helps in protecting the top of the foot from pucks and slashes, providing an extra layer of safety without sacrificing comfort.
The multi-layered construction ensures that the tongue adapts well to the shape of your foot over time, enhancing the fit as you break in the skates.
Limited Edition and Collector Appeal
The CCM 652 Super Tacks are not only functional but also a collector’s dream. This limited release makes them particularly appealing for hockey enthusiasts who appreciate the iconic Tacks design and want a piece of hockey history.
The retro design is evident in every element, from the exposed carbon fiber to the clean, minimalist branding. Unlike many modern skates, which often have loud, flashy graphics, the 652 Super Tacks keep it simple with just the “Tacks” logo, making them stand out with understated elegance.
This skate pays tribute to CCM’s over 125 years of craftsmanship, and for some players, these skates are just as much a collector’s item as they are an elite piece of equipment. The question is, do you use them on the ice or frame them as a tribute to one of the most iconic skate lines ever made?
Who is This Skate For?
The CCM 652 Super Tacks are perfect for players looking for that sweet spot between performance and comfort. If you’re an intermediate to advanced skater who plays frequently, these skates offer plenty of pro-level features without the hefty price tag of top-of-the-line models.
They’re designed for players who value a supportive boot that moulds to their foot while delivering exceptional control and power.
Whether you are playing in competitive leagues or taking part in intense training sessions, these skates are equipped to handle the rigours of demanding play while still offering comfort for those long hours on the ice.
Price
The CCM 652 Super Tacks provide a great balance of performance and features at a reasonable price point compared to many of the high-end skates available today.
While they aren’t the cheapest skates on the market, their durability and feature set make them a worthwhile investment for players who are serious about their performance.
Given the range of high-quality materials used, including the DURATEX™ lining and Proformance Profile Stainless™ steel runner, you’re getting value that translates directly into improved on-ice performance.
Considering their durability, these skates are built to last, which can make them a more cost-effective choice in the long run for those who play frequently.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the CCM 652 Super Tacks Hockey Skates are a great option for those who want a combination of old-school fit with some modern enhancements.
They provide the comfort, support, and energy transfer needed to compete at a high level, making them a reliable choice for serious players.
From the heat-moldable boot to the durable stainless steel runner, every feature has been carefully designed to enhance your performance on the ice.
If you’re after a skate that balances comfort, performance, and durability, the 652 Super Tacks should be on your shortlist.
Whether you’re participating in high-level games or simply looking to improve your overall skating experience, these skates are well-equipped to meet your needs and exceed expectations.
With their nostalgic design, modern features, and collector appeal, the CCM 652 Super Tacks are much more than just a piece of gear—they are a tribute to the rich history of hockey and the evolution of the game.
