NHL and Fanatics Introduce New Jerseys for 2024-25 Season
Fanatics and the NHL have announced the introduction of new on-ice player jerseys for the upcoming 2024-25 season. These jerseys have undergone rigorous testing and refinement to ensure they meet the highest standards before being worn in games later this year.
This marks the first time that Fanatics has taken the lead in designing and producing in-game uniforms bearing its own branding for a major professional sports league in North America. The company, previously under scrutiny for uniform issues in Major League Baseball that were attributed to Nike, has partnered with a factory with a long history of producing hockey sweaters to create these new NHL jerseys.
Fanatics Commerce CEO Andrew Low Ah Kee expressed excitement about this milestone, highlighting the dedication of the company’s 22,000 employees in showcasing their capabilities through this project. He emphasized that the focus is on delivering a high-quality product that players and fans alike can appreciate, with the true measure of success lying in the actual jerseys themselves.
Players from all 32 NHL teams, including notable names like playoff MVP Connor McDavid, Stanley Cup-winning captain Aleksander Barkov, and two-time champions Steven Stamkos and Nikita Kucherov, had the opportunity to preview and test the new jerseys. This hands-on approach allowed for feedback to be incorporated into the design process, ensuring that the final product meets the needs and expectations of the players.
Keith Leach, Fanatics’ NHL VP and general manager, shared insights into the development process, highlighting adjustments made based on initial prototypes to enhance durability and performance. By involving players in the testing phase ahead of the playoffs, the company aimed to avoid any surprises and ensure a seamless transition when the jerseys are officially introduced.
The collaboration between Fanatics and the NHL, established through a 10-year agreement in 2023, prioritized continuity while allowing for necessary updates. Despite some teams undergoing rebrands, such as the Arizona Coyotes’ relocation to Salt Lake City, efforts were made to minimize disruptions and maintain a consistent brand identity across the league.
The commitment to quality and player input was echoed by NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh, who praised Fanatics for upholding the standards of performance and design in the new jerseys. Players like Auston Matthews commended the comfort and breathability of the jerseys, emphasizing the importance of every detail in enhancing their on-ice performance.
With a focus on supporting players in showcasing their skills under the spotlight, the introduction of these new NHL jerseys represents a significant step in elevating the league’s on-ice presentation. By combining innovative design elements with input from players and industry experts, Fanatics and the NHL aim to set a new standard for performance apparel in professional hockey.