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

Why Convert Bauer Supreme Elite Boots?

The Bauer Supreme Elite was originally designed as a recreational ice hockey skate, offering a comfortable fit and supportive design for players and casual skaters alike. Unlike many modern ultra-rigid hockey boots, the Supreme Elite provides a balance of support and flexibility that translates exceptionally well to quad skating.

Benefits of the Bauer Supreme Elite include:

• Excellent ankle support

• Comfortable padded liner

• Responsive feel without being overly rigid

• Durable construction

• Distinctive white accents that make them stand out from the crowd

• Classic Bauer styling

• Increasing rarity and collectability

One feature that particularly sets the Supreme Elite apart is its striking white detailing. While many hockey skates of the era were predominantly black, the white accents on the Supreme Elite give the boots a unique appearance that remains highly sought after by collectors and quad skaters alike.

Many skaters seek out vintage Bauer Supreme models because they provide the support of a hockey skate while still allowing the ankle movement needed for rhythm, recreational and rink skating. Combined with their increasingly hard-to-find status, the Supreme Elite has become one of the more desirable vintage Bauer boots for custom quad conversions.

Why Use Sure-Grip Rock Plates?

The Sure-Grip Rock plate has earned a reputation as one of the most trusted and reliable quad skate plates available.

Compared to many budget alternatives, the Rock plate offers:

• Lightweight nylon construction

• Durable and proven design

• Adjustable toe stops

• Reliable 10-degree geometry

• Smooth and predictable handling

• Compatibility with a wide range of cushions and components

• Excellent value for money

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

The Conversion Process

Every Bauer Supreme Elite 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 supportive skating experience suitable for a wide range of skating styles.

The Bauer Supreme Elite boot provides:

• Secure heel lock

• Excellent ankle support

• Good forward flex

• Comfortable fit for longer sessions

The Sure-Grip Rock plate adds:

• Predictable steering response

• Stable handling characteristics

• Lightweight performance

• Durable everyday reliability

Together they create a setup that feels agile, comfortable and confidence-inspiring whether you're cruising outdoors or skating laps at the rink.

Who Is This Setup Best For?

A Bauer Supreme Elite 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 Supreme Elite Availability

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

Their growing popularity among quad skaters means quality pairs often sell quickly whenever 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.