The highly anticipated update to CCM’s Tacks line is finally here. Engineered for the player who favours taking more powerful strides, the AS-580 is a mid-level power skate that offers more competitive performance for higher-level recreational or semi-competitive strong skaters. Materials and tech to make note of include the one-piece boot, RFM composite material, Powerflex tendon guard, and molded Ortholite footbed.
Skate Fit & Stiffness Profile
The Tacks line has been designed to fit closer and stiffer relative to other CCM lines. To provide the most support for powerful, lengthy strides, the skates bolster a 170 stiffness rating, which is about mid-level stiffness for this type of skate. This means the skate can both support strong strides while also being a bit easier to break in and flex, if you’re not quite at the level to use stiffer skates or if you prefer a slightly softer boot. Like the higher-end models, the AS-580 includes CCM’s Powerflex tendon guard, new to the Tacks line. This guard provides a wider range of motion, and its toughness and light weight can also help keep that area more protected.
The AS580 comes in the following fits:
- Regular (Mid forefoot, mid heel, mid volume)
- Wide (Wide forefoot, wide heel, high volume)
This skate is completely thermoformable, meaning it is moldable and responsive to heat. Baking and fitting the skates while heated will allow them to fully adapt to your foot shape.
Boot Construction
The one-piece boot is constructed with a premium-grade RFM composite blend. This is an NHL-grade boot construction that is both tough and lightweight to greatly enhance energy transfer and overall durability.
Liner & Internal Padding
CCM included memory foam ankle padding, a Seamless Comfort finish, and an HD microfibre liner into the AS-580 to keep the skates feeling close while eliminating as much potential discomfort as possible. The microfibre liner helps wick away moisture and odour and is highly resistant to wear and tear. It works well with the memory foam and finish to enhance both comfort and durability.
Tongue
The AS-580 uses a replaceable asymmetrical 7mm tongue for solid coverage and comfort. The reinforced layers and toughened padding right at the center increase protection against both impact and lace bite, and the asymmetrical aspect adds more range of movement. The tongue is fully replaceable as well, meaning you would only need to change the tongue and not the entire boot if the tongue wears out.
Insoles
The skate has been outfitted with an ultra-lightweight molded CCM Ortholite footbed. CCM integrated recycled EVA foam in the footbed to enhance cushioning while supporting efforts in sustainability through reusing material. The footbed has been additionally engineered for toughness and comfort to better support powerful strides.
Steel Runner, Holder & Blade Profile
CCM constructed the AS-590 with their Speedblade XS holder and blade lock system. This holder is ideal for keeping your blade locked in place while making it easier and more efficient to change the steel in a pinch. The skate comes with an XS Stainless steel runner, which is designed to retain its edge and performance for a long time between sharpenings.
Graphics
One of the most noticeable updates made to the Tacks series was the amended outer design and graphics. CCM rolls out new colours and text logos to represent a fresh start to the line in 2022. In addition to the modern, techy styles on the side of the boot, you’ll also notice the new gold graphics to replace the old yellow, as well as the clean “Tacks” and “AS-580” redesigned logos all throughout.
