Bauer Vapor 3X Intermediate Goalie Catcher

New for 2021, the Bauer Vapor 3X Intermediate Goalie Catcher is the mid-level goalie glove in the Vapor lineup. While the 2X catcher was extremely popular, it was met with a few criticisms. Mainly the thin, flat “pancake style” palm that left goalies feeling shots. Bauer made a number of changes addressing this issue while keeping the same game-ready snappy closure of the 2X that goalies loved.

External Material

Bauer uses their synthetic leather with C.O.R.Tech skin on the new Vapor 3X catcher, this promotes better durability while helping contribute to the lightweight feel.

Break Angle

While the closure on the 2X was more driven by the fingers, due to how much deeper the 3X sits on the hand, it features more of a full hand closure getting the thumb involved allowing the glove to snap closed with ease. The break itself is still the same 60 degree angle seen in previous generation Vapor gloves giving the 3X a full hand “fingers to base of the thumb” style closure that feels natural and comfortable on the hand.

Pocket Design

Rather than sticking with the same offset single T pocket seen on the 2X, the 3X features a double T which helps keep the glove stay more open and presented to the shooter.

Strapping

Bauer continues to use their Connekt material throughout the internals of the glove. The 3X also has a few tweaks when it comes to strapping and adjustments on the backhand of the glove. A velcro adjustable neoprene-like flap extends from the finger stalls back over the knuckle allowing goalies to get a tighter fit in this region that doesn’t sacrifice the closure due to the elasticity of the material.

Cuff Design

The 3X catcher uses a true one-piece cuff designed to maximize the catching area while the Curv reinforced construction makes for a more impact resistant, lightweight construction.

Colors & Customization

The 3X line comes stock in all White, all Black, White/Nlack, White/Nlue, White/Navy and White/Red.