Brian’s Pad of the Week: Jaroslav Halak Helps Design New Look

Jaroslav Halak returned to St. Louis with new pads and a new look this week.

Not only has Halak switched from Brian’s Pro Stock to their new G-NETik pads, but the Blues’ backstop debuted a new graphic at training camp, tweaking the old “Scratch” graphic with a new, smaller version he actually helped design.

“I wanted to create a new version of the graphic I have had past few years,” Halak said. “This is a more realistic version of the scratches, and the combination of the location of the graphic and being mostly white makes everything look very big.”

As for the pads – and be sure to read InGoal’s review of the complete G-NETik line – Halak went away from the softer stock 3-3-3 pattern with the stiffest flex at the top and bottom, and a medium flex in the middle, which is the only spot with a break on the outer roll (or a 1-2-1 flex in Brian’s speak). His 35+2 pads feature an 80-degree taper at the toe, and for the first time Halak is using Brian’s Smart Strap Velcro system to secure his calf, with the more traditional two leather straps around the knee area.

Halak first switched to the new G-NETik pads and strapping while playing in Germany.

“The Smart Straps provide a comfortable and effective way to hold my leg to the pad while helping rotation,” Halak said.

Enjoy the new set up, and check out one our first-ever Ask a Pros with Halak in the first edition of InGoal Magazine.