Dylan Larkin, the dynamic captain and star center of the Detroit Red Wings, is not only known for his on-ice prowess but also for the meticulous selection of his hockey gear.
From sticks to skates, gloves, helmets, pants, and visors, every piece of equipment reflects a deliberate choice aimed at optimizing performance.
This exploration delves into the specifics of Larkin’s gear choices, examining his stick preferences, the evolution of his skates, and the rationale behind shifts in gloves, helmets, pants, and visors.
Understanding the intricacies of his equipment sheds light on the intersection of player preference, technological innovation, and the impact of brand partnerships in professional hockey.
What Gear Does Dylan Larkin Use?
If you are a fan of the Detroit Red Wings, you probably know who Dylan Larkin is. He is the captain and the star center of the team, and one of the fastest skaters in the NHL. But do you know what gear he uses on the ice?
Here, we will take a look at his stick, skates, gloves, helmet, pants, and visor, and see how they help him perform at his best.
Stick Choice
Dylan Larkin currently opts for the CCM JetSpeed FT6 Pro stick, known for its quick release and accuracy. The stick features a hybrid kick point and nanolite carbon layering for adaptability and reduced weight.
Stick History
Larkin experimented with Bauer sticks during the 2023-24 season, including models like the Vapor HyperLite, Nexus Sync, and Vapor HyperLite 2. Despite trying different sticks, he consistently returned to using CCM.
Skates
Larkin wears the Bauer Vapor HyperLite 2 skates, renowned for speed and agility. The skates have a tapered fit, carbon composite outsole, asymmetrical toe cap, and a new lacing system for customization.
Gloves
Larkin uses the Warrior Covert QRE gloves, offering mobility and comfort. These gloves feature a tapered fit, a soft feel for enhanced touch and control, a new cuff design for increased wrist movement, and a durable palm material.
Helmet
Larkin chose the CCM Super Tacks X helmet for its protection and fit. The helmet has a two-piece shell, fluid inside pod matrix for impact absorption, a moisture-wicking liner, and a new chin strap design.
Pants
Larkin switched to Bauer pants, providing protection and flexibility. The classic fit allows freedom of movement, and the durable nylon shell includes padding in crucial areas. The adjustable belt system ensures a secure fit.
Visor
Larkin wears the Bauer 55P X Cut visor, introduced for enhanced vision and protection. The X-cut shape maximizes peripheral vision, and the visor has anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings. The easy clip system allows quick installation and removal.
Brand Loyalty
Larkin has shown brand loyalty throughout his career, notably with CCM sticks and helmets, and Bauer skates, gloves, pants, and visor.
His equipment choices reflect a combination of performance features and personal preferences.
Constant Search for Improvement
Larkin’s willingness to experiment with different gear indicates his commitment to finding the best equipment for his playing style. This adaptability reflects his dedication to constant improvement on the ice.
Notable Changes in Larkin’s Gear Preferences Over His Career
Throughout his successful career in the NHL, Dylan Larkin’s gear preferences have undergone notable changes, showcasing a player’s evolution and constant pursuit of the optimal equipment for peak performance on the ice.
Stick Evolution
Larkin’s stick choice has evolved significantly. While he currently relies on the CCM JetSpeed FT6 Pro stick, he experimented with various Bauer models during the 2023-24 season.
Despite the exploration, his consistent return to CCM suggests a meticulous selection process to find the stick that perfectly complements his playing style.
Skates for Speed
The switch to the Bauer Vapor HyperLite 2 skates in October 2023 highlights Larkin’s emphasis on speed and agility.
The design features, including the tapered fit, carbon composite outsole, and innovative lacing system, reflect his commitment to staying at the forefront of performance technology.
Glove Loyalty
Larkin’s transition to Warrior Covert QRE gloves in 2022 marked a departure from his previous use of CCM gloves.
The shift underscores the importance of comfort and mobility, with the new gloves boasting a tapered fit, soft feel, and enhanced wrist movement.
Helmet Protection
Larkin’s move to the CCM Super Tacks X helmet in 2022 indicates a focus on enhanced protection and fit.
The helmet’s advanced features, such as the two-piece shell, fluid inside pod matrix, and moisture-wicking liner, demonstrate his commitment to safety and comfort on the ice.
Pants Preference Change
Larkin’s switch to Bauer pants in 2022 signals a change in his preference for lower-body protection.
The classic fit and durable nylon shell with strategic padding showcases a balance between flexibility and safeguarding against impact.
Visor Vision
Larkin’s adoption of the Bauer 55P X Cut visor in 2022 reflects a commitment to improved vision and protection.
The visor’s X-cut shape, anti-fog, and anti-scratch coatings align with his desire for optimal visibility during play.
Brand Loyalty
Throughout his career, Larkin has displayed brand loyalty, particularly to CCM and Bauer. The consistency in his choice of certain brands underlines the importance of trust and familiarity in a player’s equipment selection.
Constant Quest for Improvement
Larkin’s gear changes emphasize his commitment to continual improvement.
The willingness to experiment with different brands and models underscores his dedication to finding the gear that maximizes his performance and addresses specific playing needs.
How Endorsements May Influence His Gear Choices?
Dylan Larkin, like many professional athletes, may have his gear choices influenced by endorsement deals.
Endorsements play a significant role in the world of sports, with athletes often aligning themselves with specific brands for various reasons, including financial incentives, personal preferences, and the desire for cutting-edge technology.
Here’s how endorsements may influence Larkin’s gear choices:
Financial Incentives
Endorsement deals with equipment manufacturers often come with lucrative financial packages. These deals can provide players with substantial income, making it financially beneficial for them to use and promote specific brands.
Larkin may be inclined to choose gear from brands that offer him substantial financial incentives or a comprehensive sponsorship package, contributing to his overall earnings.
Access to Latest Technology
Endorsement agreements typically grant athletes access to the latest and most advanced equipment from the sponsoring brands.
This ensures that players like Larkin have access to cutting-edge technology and innovations that can give them a competitive edge on the ice.
The desire to use the most advanced gear may influence Larkin to align himself with brands that consistently push the boundaries of technology in their products.
Personal Preferences and Comfort
Endorsement deals often involve collaborative efforts between athletes and manufacturers in designing custom gear that aligns with the player’s preferences and playing style.
Larkin might choose gear from endorsed brands not only for financial reasons but also because the equipment is tailored to his specific needs, ensuring maximum comfort and performance on the ice.
Brand Loyalty
Athletes tend to develop loyalty to brands they endorse, creating a sense of partnership and mutual benefit. This loyalty may influence Larkin’s gear choices, as he may feel a sense of commitment to the brands that support him.
Consistent use of a particular brand’s gear reinforces the athlete’s association with that brand and can contribute to a lasting and impactful endorsement relationship.
Marketing and Image
Endorsements can elevate an athlete’s public profile and marketability. By associating with reputable brands, Larkin enhances his image and market value, which can lead to additional opportunities and sponsorships.
Larkin’s gear choices may be influenced by the marketing and promotional efforts of the brands he endorses, contributing to his overall brand image in the eyes of fans and sponsors.
FAQs
What stick does Dylan Larkin currently use, and has he experimented with other brands?
Dylan Larkin currently uses the CCM JetSpeed FT6 Pro stick. Although he has been loyal to CCM for most of his career, he experimented with various Bauer stick models during the 2023-24 season.
Can you provide details about Dylan Larkin’s choice of skates and when he made the switch?
Larkin wears the Bauer Vapor HyperLite 2 skates, emphasizing speed and agility. He made the switch to these skates in October 2023, showcasing his commitment to staying at the forefront of performance technology.
What gloves does Dylan Larkin use, and has he always been with the same brand?
Larkin currently uses the Warrior Covert QRE gloves. However, he switched to Warrior from CCM gloves on April 29, 2022, seeking improved mobility, comfort, and innovative features.
Could you elaborate on Dylan Larkin’s choice of helmet and when he made the transition?
Larkin wears the CCM Super Tacks X helmet, which he switched to on April 29, 2022. The helmet is designed for enhanced protection and fit, featuring a two-piece shell, fluid inside pod matrix, and moisture-wicking liner.
Why did Dylan Larkin change his preference for pants, and which brand does he currently use?
Larkin switched to Bauer pants on April 29, 2022. The change reflects a shift in his preference for lower-body protection. The Bauer pants offer a classic fit, durability, and strategic padding for flexibility and safeguarding against impact.
To Recap
Dylan Larkin’s gear choices epitomize a strategic blend of performance, personal preference, and brand loyalty.
From his CCM JetSpeed FT6 Pro stick, emphasizing accuracy, to the Bauer Vapor HyperLite 2 skates, prioritizing speed, Larkin showcases a commitment to cutting-edge technology.
His switch to Warrior Covert QRE gloves highlights a quest for improved mobility.
The adoption of the CCM Super Tacks X helmet underscores his dedication to enhanced protection. Notable transitions, like the move to Bauer pants, showcase Larkin’s adaptability.
Through brand partnerships, financial incentives, and access to innovation, Larkin’s gear choices encapsulate a player’s pursuit of excellence on the NHL stage.
James Felix