NHL and Fanatics Introduce 2024-25 On-Ice Jerseys
The latest news from the National Hockey League (NHL) and Fanatics has brought forth the unveiling of the new Fanatics Authentic Pro NHL on-ice uniforms. This unveiling marks a significant transition as Fanatics steps in to replace Adidas, the previous on-ice uniform provider since 2017. The upcoming 2024-25 season will see these new uniforms in action for the first time.
Fanatics has a history of designing and producing performance and training apparel for NHL players, coaches, and team staff, dating back to 2018. The recent on-ice uniform deal, announced last year, solidifies a partnership that will extend for the next decade, running through the 2033-34 season. Notably, despite this change, the physical manufacturing of the on-ice NHL uniforms will continue to take place at SP Apparel in Quebec, maintaining a longstanding production tradition.
Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin expressed pride in the unveiling of the inaugural Fanatics branded NHL uniforms. He highlighted the meticulous craftsmanship involved in the design process, which incorporated feedback from various stakeholders including NHL players, the NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA), equipment managers, teams, and the NHL itself. The design was well-received during previews with all 32 teams last season, generating overwhelmingly positive reactions. Rubin emphasized the dual purpose of these jerseys, to be worn by elite hockey players worldwide and made available for fans to purchase.
The collaborative effort between Fanatics, NHL players, the NHLPA, and team executives played a crucial role in the design and development of the new uniforms. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman acknowledged the significance of NHL uniforms in sports, emphasizing the importance of preserving the history, tradition, and respect associated with NHL jerseys. The partnership with Fanatics aims to maintain the quality, performance, and design standards of the uniforms while serving the players and fans effectively.
The new uniforms retain the base construction of the current jerseys but feature some subtle enhancements. Notable changes include an additional layer of fabric inside the lower sleeve to reduce wear, a new shoulder fabric design replacing the previous pattern, and a special hologram finish on the NHL Shield at the front collar. Furthermore, the Fanatics logo now adorns the back, replacing the Adidas logo.
In addition to the on-ice jerseys, a redesigned practice jersey with new embroidered lightweight crests will be available for purchase. Fans will have the opportunity to acquire various versions of the jerseys, including the on-ice authentic, high-end replica, standard lower-end replica, and the on-ice practice jersey, starting in September 2024.
The feedback from players following previews of the new uniforms was positive, with an emphasis on comfort, breathability, and design. Players like Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Connor Bedard of the Chicago Blackhawks, and John Tavares, also from the Toronto Maple Leafs, praised the fabric quality and attention to detail in the design.
As the NHL and Fanatics forge ahead with this new partnership, fans can anticipate the debut of these fresh uniforms on the ice, maintaining a balance between tradition and innovation in NHL apparel. The upcoming seasons will reveal how this collaboration continues to evolve, potentially bringing further changes and enhancements to the NHL uniform landscape.