Few names are as deeply woven into the fabric of hockey history as CCM. For over a century, CCM (Canada Cycle & Motor Co. Ltd.) has been a cornerstone of the sport—outfitting legends, powering championship moments, and helping shape the way hockey is played around the world. From its early days producing bicycles to becoming one of the most dominant brands in the NHL, CCM’s legacy is as rich as the game itself.
Early Beginnings: From Bikes to Blades
CCM was founded in 1899 in Weston, Ontario, as a bicycle manufacturer. But when the automobile boom disrupted the cycling industry, CCM shifted gears. In 1905, it entered the hockey market by producing ice skates, combining its metalworking expertise with Canada’s passion for winter sport.
By the 1930s, CCM had become the dominant skate manufacturer in North America, trusted by pros and amateurs alike. Their skates were known for durability, precision, and comfort—qualities that still define the brand today.
CCM in the NHL: A Dynasty of Gear
CCM became synonymous with elite performance as it began outfitting NHL players through the mid-20th century. From skates to sticks to helmets, CCM became a staple in locker rooms across the league.
Highlights from the NHL era:
-
1970s–80s: CCM Tacks skates became the top choice for NHL pros, worn by stars like Mark Messier and Paul Coffey.
-
1983: CCM introduced the HT2 helmet, worn by Wayne Gretzky for much of his career.
-
2000s–2010s: CCM began producing high-performance sticks used by stars like Alex Ovechkin, Sidney Crosby, and Connor McDavid.
Today, CCM continues to be a leading supplier of equipment to NHL players, rivaled only by Bauer.
Innovation and Expansion
CCM has never stood still. Over the decades, the company has pushed the envelope in hockey technology:
-
Skates: The Tacks and JetSpeed lines offer distinct fits and features for all player types.
-
Sticks: The Ribcor line became known for its quick release, while JetSpeed and Tacks sticks offered hybrid and mid-kick options for different shooting styles.
-
Protective Gear: Helmets like the FitLite and shoulder pads with D3O smart foam elevated protection without sacrificing mobility.
In 2004, CCM merged with Reebok, expanding its global presence. Then, in 2013, Adidas sold the hockey division, and CCM became an independent brand under Birch Hill Equity Partners, refocusing entirely on hockey and returning to its roots.
Supporting the Future of the Game
Beyond outfitting pros, CCM is a major force in grassroots hockey. The brand sponsors minor hockey associations, national federations, and development programs worldwide. They are also partners with:
-
USA Hockey
-
Hockey Canada
-
IIHF (International Ice Hockey Federation)
Their support spans from learn-to-play programs to elite youth tournaments, helping grow the game at every level.
Iconic CCM Moments
-
Gretzky’s Helmet: CCM’s iconic white helmet became part of Gretzky’s legendary image.
-
Ovechkin’s Ribcor Stick: Known for his powerful one-timers, Ovechkin helped popularize CCM’s low-kick-point sticks.
-
McDavid’s Speed: The JetSpeed skate line was tailor-made for explosive skaters like Connor McDavid.
Final Thoughts
From handcrafted skates in the early 1900s to outfitting the fastest skaters in today’s NHL, CCM's history is the history of hockey itself. The company’s relentless commitment to innovation, performance, and tradition makes it one of the sport’s most enduring and respected brands.
Whether you're stepping onto the ice for the first time or playing under the lights of a packed arena, CCM continues to deliver the tools players trust to perform at their best.
CCM isn’t just a brand—it’s a piece of hockey history still writing its next chapter.