Welcome to Old_Time_Hockey. Today we are presenting a truly rare piece of North American skating history: The Bobby McLean "The Canadian" Professional model.
Bobby McLean (1894–1964) was an international sensation. Known as the "Windy City Speed King," McLean was a World Champion speed skater (1912) and one of the most dominant athletes of the early 20th century. His transition into the equipment business brought a "speed-first" philosophy to hockey.
These skates, distributed by his Milwaukee-based company, were the pinnacle of high-end equipment. They were marketed to the elite players of the late 1930s—those who wanted the agility of a speed skater with the protection of a hockey boot. The "The Canadian" holders were specifically "Tested and Approved" by McLean himself, ensuring the aggressive attack angle and rigidity that defined his own world-record-breaking career.
The Milwaukee Label: Finding the original embroidered Bobby McLean Company Inc. Milwaukee tag intact is a rarity, firmly dating these to his specialized production era.
The "Hyde-Style" Punching: The size "9" is punched into the tongue in a distinct dot-pattern, a hallmark of the most elite athletic footwear makers of the time.
The Natural Tan Outsole: Unlike mass-produced models with painted black soles, these use premium Compressed Tan Leather, providing a beautiful contrast and superior torsional rigidity.
The Canadian Hardware: The chrome tubes are stamped with "THE CANADIAN" on the center bridge and "MADE IN CANADA" on the plates.
Uppers: The leather is well-preserved. Note the tear on the inside toe of the left skate and a notable cut on the right toecap.
Holders & Steel: Holders show small patches of surface oxidation (rust), but the chrome plating remains highly reflective. The runners are remarkably clean and appear rarely sharpened.
Interior: The blue and gold striped fabric reinforcement is a stunning visual detail and remains structurally sound.
Hardware: Original brass eyelets are intact with no significant corrosion.
US Skate Size: 9.0
US Men's Shoe Size: 10.5
EU Men's Shoe Size: 44.0
US Women's Shoe Size: 12.0
Mondo: 28.5 cm
The Game May Change, But the Soul Remains.
At Old_Time_Hockey, we find rare and retro equipment so that enthusiasts and collectors can experience these legendary pieces exactly as they were manufactured.
Our Promise to You:
Honest Photography: We highlight the scars and the stories, not just the highlights.
Curated with Care: We only list items that legitimately fascinate us.
Delivered with Respect: Your artifacts are packed with specialized care to ensure they arrive ready for your collection.
— The Team at Old_Time_Hockey