Pablo's Skate Build Diary: Bauer 22 Conversion on Sure-Grip Rock Plates

Why Convert Bauer 22 Boots?

The Bauer 22 was originally designed as a recreational ice hockey skate. Unlike many modern high-end hockey boots, the Bauer 22 offers a comfortable balance of support and flexibility that makes it particularly well suited to quad skating.

Benefits of the Bauer 22 include:

• Comfortable padded fit

• Excellent ankle support

• Good forward flex for manoeuvrability

• Lightweight construction

• Classic vintage Bauer styling

• Increasing rarity and collectability

Many skaters seek out older Bauer boots because they deliver the support of a hockey skate while still allowing the ankle movement needed for rhythm, recreational and rink skating.

Why Use Sure-Grip Rock Plates?

The Sure-Grip Rock plate has been a trusted choice among roller skaters for decades and remains one of the most popular entry-to-mid level quad skate plates available.

Compared to many budget alternatives, the Rock plate offers:

• Durable nylon construction

• Lightweight design

• Adjustable toe stops

• Reliable 10-degree geometry

• Smooth and predictable handling

• Compatibility with a wide range of cushions and components

• Proven performance and durability

The result is a skate that feels stable, comfortable and confidence-inspiring whether you're skating outdoors, at the rink or simply cruising around town.

The Conversion Process

Every Bauer 22 conversion begins by removing the original ice blade holder and preparing the boot for quad skate mounting.

At Pabloskates we then:

• Inspect the boot for structural integrity

• Remove any remaining rivets and hardware

• Clean and prepare the sole for mounting

• Position the Sure-Grip Rock plate for optimal balance

• Install mounting hardware

• Align the plate to ensure straight tracking

• Fit wheels, bearings and toe stops if required

• Perform final setup and inspection

The goal is to create a skate that not only looks fantastic but performs exactly as it should.

How Do They Skate?

This combination delivers a smooth and forgiving skating experience that suits a wide range of skaters.

The Bauer 22 boot provides:

• Comfortable ankle support

• Good forward flex

• Lightweight feel

• Classic hockey skate responsiveness

The Sure-Grip Rock plate adds:

• Stable handling characteristics

• Predictable steering response

• Lightweight performance

• Durable everyday reliability

Together they create a setup that feels comfortable, agile and easy to skate whether you're new to quad skating or an experienced skater looking for a classic build.

Who Is This Setup Best For?

A Bauer 22 and Sure-Grip Rock build is ideal for:

• Recreational skaters

• Rink skaters

• Outdoor cruisers

• Beginner to intermediate quad skaters

• Anyone wanting a classic hockey-style quad skate

If you're looking for a comfortable and reliable custom quad setup with timeless styling, this combination is hard to beat.

Bauer 22 Availability

One challenge with Bauer 22 conversions is sourcing suitable boots. As these skates have long since been discontinued, good-condition examples are becoming increasingly difficult to find.

Many vintage Bauer models are now sought after by collectors and quad skaters alike, meaning quality pairs often sell quickly when they become available.

Because of this, every pair that comes through the workshop is carefully selected before conversion.

Looking for a Bauer Quad Skate Conversion?

At Pabloskates we specialise in converting vintage hockey skates into unique custom quad skates.

Whether you're looking for a complete ready-to-skate setup or want your own Bauer boots converted with premium skate plates, we can help create a build tailored to your skating style.

Browse our latest converted skates or get in touch to discuss your dream setup only at Pabloskates.com.