Brian's Optik Optik X4
Top RetailTop of Optik line; MAX Core profile, aggressive precurve, Primo-Slide edges
Base price: $1399·Style: butterfly·Level ceiling: AAA·Sizing: true
The Optik X4 is the current 2026 top of Brian's Optik line — sitting below the flagship Iconik 2 and above the prior-gen Optik 4 Pro. Intermediate and senior sizing. The Optik line is Brian's butterfly-focused option: aggressive precurve thigh, MAX Core stiff profile, and Primo-Slide inner edges.
Construction: MAX Core is Brian's stiffest regular butterfly core — not the soft mid-flex of the Iconik 2, but a full stiff-core design focused on explosive rebound output. The aggressive precurve locks in the thigh shape for better 5-hole coverage without relying on pad weight or break to achieve the geometry. Primo-Slide inner edges and boot are the same slide system as the Iconik — community-rated on par with Vaughn QuickSlide.
The honest positioning: Optik X4 versus True HZRDUS 9X4 at $1,500. Both are stiff-core butterfly pads with pro-level build quality. True has better community awareness and slightly better strapping reputation; Brian's has equivalent slide tech and a distinct stiff-core feel that some goalies specifically prefer. At $1,399 versus $1,500, the Brian's case is price plus the Primo-Slide advantage.
Best for: AAA-ceiling butterfly goalies who want a stiff core with best-in-class slide tech; goalies who've specifically tried and preferred Optik's aggressive precurve and stiff feel.
Not ideal for: hybrid goalies who belong in the Iconik 2's mid-flex architecture; buyers who need Bauer-level resale or community breadth.
Scores
Score breakdown
durability
4/5MAX Core construction is proven from prior Optik generations — no structural surprises. Brian's build quality at the Optik tier is consistently solid. Multi-season ownership reviews are positive.
mobility
4/5MAX Core stiff profile is heavier than the Iconik 2's carbon-assisted lightweight construction. Intermediate-senior sizing adds flexibility. Appropriately mobile for AAA-ceiling play.
rebound
5/5MAX Core is the defining strength. Best rebound output in the Brian's lineup — stiff, explosive, predictable. On par with Bauer Vapor HyperLite 2 and True HZRDUS 9X4.
sliding
5/5Primo-Slide is Brian's top slide system, on par with Vaughn QuickSlide per community consensus. Combined with Optik X4's aggressive precurve, delivers excellent edge-to-ice contact.
comfort
4/5Aggressive precurve is a fit advantage for butterfly style — thigh rise stays correctly positioned without fighting the pad. Standard Optik strapping is functional but not market-leading.
value
3/5At $1,399, competitive with True HZRDUS 9X4 ($1,500) and Bauer HyperLite 2 ($1,399). Brian's wins on slide tech; Bauer wins on resale. Fair value for the performance.
resale
3/5Brian's is niche — smaller used market means these take longer to sell and typically at lower percentages than Bauer equivalents. Loyal Brian's buyers exist but are a smaller pool.