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Capitals’ Lindgren Goes In-Depth About New Goalie Gear, Laceless Skates

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Washington Capitals Charlie Lindgren

ARLINGTON, V.A. — Netminder Charlie Lindgren has created a signature look for himself as he prepares for his first full NHL season with the Washington Capitals, and he’s also making a statement with his choice of gear.

Last season, Lindgren made goalie gear history. He became the first known pro goaltender to wear the Bauer Konekt skates in-season. The Konekt skates are a revolutionary new product for Bauer, one never-before-seen for netminders: laceless skates.

The skates, which require a specific heat molding process, are secured with ski-inspired buckles and offer 22 degrees of additional flex in the ankles. The new “PushPlate” also helps goalies with their butterfly pushes in the crease.

“I really, really enjoyed it. First, it takes about five seconds to put them on. I haven’t tied skate laces in over a year,” he smiled. “Certainly, I feel like there’s more ankle flexation. I feel like I can be more athletic in the crease, and I think it’s better for my body as well. The last boot I was in was maybe a little stiff and felt my hips and stuff getting tight. Now, I can get down in an athletic position, and I don’t feel as much strain on my hips and groins.”

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Beyond his skates, Lindgren has also switched from Vaughn to Bauer, but he has been sure to maintain his signature look. He is known for the “Iceberg” design, one that has become familiar in the world of Vaughn. The 28-year-old was able to keep that going as he switched brands.

“I started wearing the icebergs when I was a sophomore in high school. I think that’s going back 12 years, so I think there’s been one year where I didn’t wear the icebergs,” he laughed. “It’s just been a part of me. Kind of weird going from Vaughn to Bauer still having the icebergs. But I like the way they look, and Bauer does a good job and so does Vaughn.”

‘They Can Definitely Trust Me’: Lindgren Ready For NHL Jump With Capitals

Lindgren will continue to wear his signature icebergs as he begins his new three-year deal with Washington, working in tandem with Darcy Kuemper. He comes to the Capitals following a standout 2021-22 season that saw him go undefeated with a .958 save percentage and 1.22 GAA through five games up with the St. Louis Blues. Also, his .925 SV% at the AHL level with the Blues’ affiliate Springfield Thunderbirds was the second-best in the league.