For decades, the NHL teams imposed a strict dress code on their players, which is even stipulated in the collective agreement: You come to the game in a suit and tie. That fit perfectly with the hockey culture and this ultimate team sport, where everyone only saw themselves as part of the whole and didn’t want to attract attention.
But times have changed. Based on the greats in American football or basketball, whose appearances have long since become fashion shows, ice hockey players also became more extroverted and began to dress more extravagantly and appear as stars. Above all PK Subban (New Jersey) or Brent Burns (San Jose). Away from uniformity to individualism with bling-bling or a flashy outlook in the style of Hollywood celebrities.
In the meantime, the dress code has been relaxed at several NHL clubs. “Business casual” is now the trend. And the Arizona Coyotes are now giving their players a completely free hand, because they are of the opinion that this will also go down well with the fans and can be used very well on social media.
Arizona gives the players a free choice of clothes
“Being the first team without a dress code was fantastic,” said defender Jakob Chychrun, who had opted for a funky Balenciaga sweater. “The boys loved it. I think it’s great when you can show a little of your personality and your wardrobe. “
But two Columbus Blue Jackets players made the most spectacular appearance on the hockey runway. The Finnish striker Patrik Laine, who presented himself in bright sunglasses with a turtleneck sweater and a purple suit and looked like a villain from a comic or fantasy film.
And the eccentric ex-Lugano goalie Elvis Merzlikins entered the building in a daring outfit: purple suit, green shirt, yellow tie and hat. It was a tribute to his goalie friend Matiss Kivlenieks, who died in a fireworks accident and was nicknamed “Joker”.
But not all players love it flashy. The classic suit has not yet had its day and does not look bad on the NHL catwalk either.