Hockey Jerseys

Hockey fans are some of the most passionate and loyal fans in all of sports. One reason why fans fall in love with hockey so fast and never look back is because of the rich tradition and history that the game of hockey offers to hockey enthusiasts. The crazy thing about hockey is how many leagues there are in all of the world. This makes for some incredibly diverse styles of hockey as well as unique team identities.

Most hockey fans love to purchase the jerseys of their favorite teams, but some hockey enthusiasts actually collect the jerseys of any team as long as the jersey appeals to them in one way or another. In the last 10 years or so, professional hockey jerseys have made the shift back to the vintage style jerseys that were the norm back when hockey planted its roots over 100 years ago. Hockey jerseys have recently gotten simpler in terms of designs and colors, and this has been something that serious hockey fans really appreciate.

Although a lot of expansion teams in the late 80's and 90's tried some flashier jersey designs as a way to attract a younger and new fan base, one thing that has not changed much however, are the original six teams jerseys. The original six teams are the first six teams that were started when the modern National Hockey League was born. These six teams are the New York Rangers, Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Blackhawks and the Montreal Canadiens. One thing that you will notice when looking back at historic images from the early days of the N.H.L. is that these six teams have not strayed very far from their original jersey designs. This is one of the reasons why hockey is known for its amazing traditions.

When looking to purchase hockey jerseys, whether you are a player who wants to wear your favorite team while at a pickup skate or practice, or if you are just a fan that wants to wear a hockey jersey as part of their wardrobe, you will without a doubt be happier with an authentic jersey. Authentic hockey jerseys are those that are identical to what the players are wearing. There are a few tell tale signs of an authentic jersey. First, authentic jerseys are always thicker and heavier than replicas or practice jerseys. Also, everything is embroidered on the authentic style. But perhaps the most unique and interesting thing about the authentic hockey jersey is the fact that they have a "tie down" or "fighting strap". A fighting strap is what is used to tie the jersey to the pants of the player, allowing them to fight without easily getting their jersey pulled over their head. Fighting in hockey is yet another one of those unique hockey traditions that most hockey enthusiasts and fans can appreciate for the honor it bestows on its players, as well as the excitement that comes when watching two capable fighters duke it out.

Whether you are just a fan or a recreational hockey player, chances are that you are going to be purchasing a jersey in the future. If you are looking to buy a jersey, make sure that you purchase the authentic version of your favorite teams jersey rather than the replica. Though it will be a bit more expensive, you will definitely get more for your money compared to the replica.

Below is a decent video by The Hockey Newscast with a round-up of some of the best hockey jerseys in NHL History. I have to say I agree with him on a lot of his picks.

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