True Catalyst 7X6 Goalie Pads & Gloves Review — Pro Features at the Second Price Point

The True Catalyst 7X6 is True’s second price point, sitting directly below the flagship Catalyst Pro. It keeps a number of the Pro’s features while coming in softer — a different flex and feel that, for a lot of goalies, is the reason to look at this line rather than a compromise they have to accept to hit the price.

Where the 7X6 sits in the Catalyst line

True runs the Catalyst family across several price points, and the 7X6 is the step beneath the Pro. Kevin and Cam walk through that tiering and where the money goes as you move up, which is the useful context for deciding how far up the line you actually need to go.

Softer flex and feel

The headline difference is the flex. The 7X6 is a softer pad than the Catalyst Pro, and that changes how it feels on the ice rather than simply making it a lesser version of the flagship. Goalies who find top-end pads too stiff — and younger or lighter goalies in particular — often prefer this feel, so the second price point is worth a look on its merits, not just on its price tag.

The 590 break catcher

The standout piece of the set is the catcher, which comes in the 590 break at this price point. Getting that break outside the flagship line is the kind of carry-over that makes the 7X6 punch above where it sits.

The colorway

The 7X6 comes in a look that will jump out at anyone who watches Juuse Saros — close enough to his setup that it is the first thing a lot of goalies notice when they see the set.

Pricing

At The Hockey Shop, the 7X6 senior leg pads run $1,129.99, the catcher $399.99 and the blocker $349.99.

Who it’s for

Goalies who want True’s Catalyst shape and the 590 break glove, and who actually prefer a softer flex to the stiffer flagship feel. If you are weighing the 7X6 against the Catalyst Pro, the flex question matters as much as the budget one. The goalie experts at The Hockey Shop Source for Sports can talk you through both and get you sized right.