Imagine a world where professional athletes can finally ditch the stuffy suits and embrace a more relaxed, comfortable style. Well, that's exactly what's happening in the NHL, and it's a game-changer!
Last month, the Edmonton Oilers made history by flying to New York for their first away game of the season in matching navy tracksuits. A simple move, but a significant one, as it marked the first time the NHL relaxed its dress code. No more suits on the plane, no more changing into sweats, and no more putting on a show for the cameras. Now, players can wear outfits that reflect contemporary fashion norms, both on and off the ice.
This change was part of a larger collective bargaining agreement between the NHL and the NHL Players Association, and it seems to be a hit among the players. According to a recent poll, it was the revision that brought the most joy to the athletes.
Mikhail Sergachev, the alternate captain of the Utah Mammoth, was thrilled when he heard the news. He's been working with a stylist this summer and was excited to explore new fashion avenues, drawing inspiration from NBA players and rappers. Sergachev and his Mammoth teammate, Dmitri Simashev, have become two of the season's biggest style surprises.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Menswear expert Derek Guy had been advocating for the abolition of the NHL's strict dress code, arguing that the cons outweighed the pros. He pointed out that many of the suits worn by NHL players looked outdated and ill-fitting, often resembling styles from a decade ago.
"Many of these suiting companies are run by businessmen, not tailors," Guy explained. "They create trendy but dated silhouettes, which may work for a Hedi Slimane model, but not for the average guy, let alone a professional athlete."
So, what's the verdict on this new sartorial freedom? Are NHL players embracing their inner fashion icons, or are they sticking to their comfort zones?
While some players have continued to wear suits, albeit without ties, others have opted for a more casual approach, arriving in plain T-shirts and golf polos. However, a small but growing number of players are pointing towards a more stylish future for the league.
The usual suspects, like William Nylander of the Toronto Maple Leafs, have continued to impress with their unique takes on the Canadian tuxedo. Nylander's teammate, Auston Matthews, has stayed true to his casual streetwear style, incorporating brands like Kith and Dior. Nashville Predators' Filip Forsberg has been sporting fun, all-over print camp collar shirts, and Seattle Kraken's Joey Daccord fused the NHL and F1 worlds with a red Ferrari jacket and Prada sneakers.
And this is the part most people miss...
Even though the NHL's new fashion freedom hasn't quite reached the boldness of the NBA or NFL, it's clear that there's a growing passion for style among hockey players. And when players feel confident in their outfits, whether it's a tailored suit or a more relaxed ensemble, it shows.
So, what do you think? Is the NHL's relaxed dress code a step in the right direction? Or do you prefer the traditional suit look? Let us know in the comments!
