BAUER HOCKEY NAMED EXCLUSIVE PROVIDER OF NECK PROTECTION TO HOCKEY CANADA

New Line of Patented Neck Protection Unveiled at 2010 Molson Canadian World Hockey Summit

TORONTO, Aug. 25 /CNW/ - Bauer Hockey, Inc., the world's leading manufacturer of ice hockey equipment, today unveiled a new line of patented integrated neck protection apparel for hockey during the 2010 Molson Canadian World Hockey Summit. In conjunction with the debut of the revolutionary protective base layer, Hockey Canada named Bauer Hockey its exclusive provider of neck protection.

Engineered to react to the exacting needs of the elite hockey player, Bauer's integrated neck protection apparel features a BNQ- and CE-certified neck guard built directly into Bauer's leading performance base layer for a patented, unmatched 2-in-1 solution. The neck guard features DuPont(TM) Kevlar(R) brand fiber - which Bauer has the exclusive right to use in hockey - for the utmost in protection, performance and comfort.

In addition to being named the exclusive provider of neck protection to Hockey Canada, Bauer Hockey signed a five-year agreement with the organization to also become the official skate, glove, helmet and facial protection (including goal masks) of Hockey Canada.

"We are pleased to name Bauer Hockey as the exclusive provider of neck protection for Hockey Canada and we are excited to extend our relationship in the key areas of skates, gloves, helmets and facial protection," said Brad Pascall, vice-president of hockey operations/national teams, Hockey Canada. "Bauer is a leader in developing innovative hockey equipment and its introduction of integrated neck protection apparel showcases Bauer's commitment to advancing the game of hockey and those who play it."

Bauer's integrated neck protection apparel is unique from traditional neck guards in its ability to provide superior cut-resistant protection while maintaining a soft, flexible feel. An adjustable collar allows for a customized fit and provides maximum comfort, while Bauer's "hockey fit" design and premium four-way stretch fabrics optimize overall mobility.

"Across Canada and much of the world, players are required to wear neck protection, however, players had limited options in traditional neck guards and many did not meet the needs of performance athletes," said Kathy McGown, category general manager of apparel, Bauer Hockey. "With the introduction of our integrated neck protection, we have created a 2-in-1 piece that not only fulfils the protection required from a neck guard, but integrates it into the highly sought after performance base layer product that players can wear under their equipment."

Other features of Bauer's integrated neck protection apparel include:

    
    -   Strategically placed flat-locked seams that avoid hockey pad pressure
        points for chafe-free fit
    -   Mesh panels for added breathability in heat zones
    -   High-density grip print to stabilize elbow pads
    -   THERMO-MAX+ anti-bacterial and moisture management system
    

The integrated neck protection apparel and Bauer's full line of protective base layer products are now available at hockey specialty stores across North America. For more information, visit Bauer.com.

About Bauer Hockey

Bauer Hockey is the world's most recognized designer, marketer and manufacturer of hockey equipment. Founded in Kitchener, Ontario in 1927, Bauer developed the first skate with a blade attached to a boot, forever changing the game of hockey. Since then, Bauer has continued to develop the most sought after products in the industry, including the widely successful Supreme(R) and Vapor(R) lines of products.

About Hockey Canada

Hockey Canada is the governing body for hockey in Canada and a member of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), with a membership through its 13 provincial branch associations of over 700,000 players, coaches and officials. Hockey Canada is a not-for-profit organization that creates leading-edge hockey development programs for its members to deliver in communities across Canada, provides consistent rules and regulations and various other membership services from coast to coast, manages numerous regional, national and international hockey championships and events, and leads the operation of all teams that represent Canada in international hockey competition. Hockey Canada's mission is to "lead, develop and promote positive hockey experiences."

Kevlar(R) is a registered trademark of DuPont or its affiliates.

For further information: Media Contact, Steve Jones, Bauer Hockey, [email protected], 603-303-0629; Allison Fitton, High Road Communications, [email protected], 416-644-2296