Bauer Hockey Becomes Exclusive Global Provider of Integrated Neck Protection for Hockey

TORONTO, Jan. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Bauer Hockey, the world's leading manufacturer of ice hockey equipment, today announced it has purchased intellectual property assets and patents from Jock Plus Hockey to become the only global supplier of integrated neck protection for hockey. Those exclusive assets combined with a long-term strategic agreement with DuPont Protection Technologies that allows Bauer to market and incorporate the Kevlar® fiber into its neck protection, results in an exclusive two-in-one protective apparel piece built specifically for the needs of today's hockey players.

"At Bauer Hockey, we're committed to providing the most innovative products to players at all levels and we look forward to raising the bar on hockey apparel with our Protective Base Layer," said Kevin Davis, President & CEO, Bauer Hockey. "Incorporating the Kevlar® fiber into the world's only integrated neck protection for hockey increases overall comfort and protection needed in today's fast-paced sport of hockey."

Nearly a million registered hockey players around the world are required to wear neck protection and the majority of those players wear separate neck guard and base layer pieces. Bauer's Protective Base Layer combines those two key products into one, integrated protection top with revolutionary product features.

The Protective Base Layer combines Bauer's leading Performance Base Layer with an adjustable, built-in neck guard that provides a customized fit to maximize protection. Built exclusively for the hockey player, the built-in neck guard features patented technology plus Kevlar® for the utmost in protection without sacrificing an ounce of mobility, fit and comfort.

"There is a lot of attention focused on the pads players wear to protect themselves, but far too often the apparel they wear under the uniform is an afterthought," said Kathy McGown, Category Business Director, Apparel, Bauer Hockey. "We recognize the growing trend for overall neck protection and by providing an integrated neck piece to players of all levels, we are reinforcing the fact that apparel is truly equipment."

Bauer's Protective Base Layer will be available at retail locations throughout the world in Summer 2010.

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 and Vapor lines of products.

SOURCE Bauer Hockey