Remember the NHL’s New Reebok Jersey Launch?

Let’s face it. It was much ado about nothing.

We were all expecting something a lot more radical – like Speedo suits on ice. But when the NHL finally revealed the new Reebok EDGE Uniform System, it almost didn’t warrant a double take.

The new digs featured a stretch mesh that provides for ventilation, a better range of motion, and water repellency. The fabric was supposed to last longer than the traditional jerseys. An anatomical fit is supposed to integrate better with padding and protectors, thus allow better range of motion and more overall protection.

That doesn’t seem too radical. So why were traditionalists screaming foul? Maybe some fans didn’t like them because they wouldn’t hide their own body imperfections. Some players didn’t like them because it was something new. However, Penguins ace center Sid Crosby had a point, when he spoke at an All Star presser in 2007. Innovation and technology has changed sticks, skates, and everything else. Why not jerseys? So when will the pants be next?

Of course, the NHL jersey is a mandated item, while skate blades, helmets, and shoulder pads are a personal choice. So how do players choose their equipment, anyway?

Some look like they do it blindfolded, such as former Chicago Blackhawks and Calgary Flames RW Tony Amonte. His shoulder pads had the stability of a jock strap and looked pretty ugly. He had only been using them for at least eight years, apparently. Former Detroit D-man Chris Chelios had supposedly been wearing his since he was 15. Some guys will wear the same helmet for years and just change the padding.

“Some guys, they just put the skates on and go play the game,” commented Montreal D-man Roman Hamrlik. “Usually they are hard on the ankles so you break in a few practices. My old ones, I don’t think they make them any more. I had to try a new company for skates and it’s hard because the skates I had for 15 years. (sticks) It’s the same thing. After the season, you can try out different companies. Guys, they are comfortable, they stick with it.”

Islanders’ goalie Dwayne Roloson goes by feel when it comes to pads. “When I’m on the ice, make sure it feels good. There’s an area there where you give up on lightness and they’re stiff and hard to break in. Or if you give up on breakdown, then you change your pads every other week.”

Grant Fuhr used to get a brand new pair of pads and wear them that day. Some will go through a set or two a year, some will go through four or five sets a year. It’s the same with other equipment and other positions.

Of the more technologically-advanced equipment, certainly fit, comfort, feel, and support play into deciding what to wear. Modern equipment tends to absorb less moisture and dry easier.

Explore posts in the same categories: Canada's Publishing Expert, Debbie Elicksen, Equipment, Freelance Communications, Freelance Publishing, hockey, insidethelockerroom.com, National Hockey League, sports, Uncategorized