NHL Signs 10 Year Deal with Fanatics to Manufacture NHL On-Ice Jerseys

Well, we know who will be making NHL jerseys for the next decade.
Here is an article outlining the deal and what we may see out of it: www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/3...
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[@nickalfidi3285]

McDavid cuts inside, he’s on a breakaway… and his jersey lettering falls off!

[@alvizothegreat8096]

Or the jersey will say McDonald instead of McDavid😂

[@JarradBruessel32]

The name plates are put on by the teams themselves thank goodness.

[@kaboom9081]

.....and Pastrnak will finally spell "Pasta" once it loses a few letters

[@TheLiberalTugboat]

This made me laugh so much I started tearing up.

[@AtamiskxIx]

"And the refs are giving the other team a penalty for roughing for the lettering coming off!"

[@jjcanyon]

I like that the NHL was like “we don’t like long contracts!” and then signed a 10 year contract.

[@adamrusso6118]

Good news, they're gonna fine themselves and take a few draft picks away next year for trying to circumvent. Stage was set with Kovalchuck. 😂

[@iampete8692]

Imagine the cap-recapture when Fanatics retires in three years

[@lucarossi9453]

By the time its over mcdavid will almost be retired lol

[@thatblackua7]

goes to show how desperate they are for a deal. apparently no one was interested in the slightest

[@FCT70]

This is the equivalent of signing Milan Lucic to a 10 year contract.

[@EvanEscher]

I wish each team could choose their own jersey manufacturer.

[@Guy-ze9cf]

UK hockey fan: here teams can pick their own manufacturer but only really see it as a downside. The teams can look a bit mismatched and that also opens the door to poor quality manufacturers. Worst case scenario: 1 manufacturer can’t produce the jerseys in time for a certain event. The reality isn’t quite as glamorous.

[@EvanEscher]

@@Guy-ze9cf do you think that each EPL team should have the same kit manufacturer? Personally, I think that teams having different jersey manufacturers brings a bit of diversity in terms of style & design, and just lets teams have more freedom, but I guess the NHL and most North American pro sports leagues aren't about that.

[@your2emo2love]

@@EvanEscher the team chose the design and get approved by the nhl than the manufacturer matched at best reality the desing the manufacturer dont play much role on the desing

[@MagicMike_101]

In Football, they usually do. The team in the most significant markets gets big contracts with the big brands. The small ones have whatever.

[@kadensharpin2156]

Arizona wouldn't have jerseys if this was the case

[@sharkgrayc7z06corvette9]

The best jerseys were the authentic CCM jerseys in the early 90s. The NYR CCM authentic jerseys in the early 90s were made by Gerry Cosby and they were the best jerseys made. The quality was unreal and made real strong

[@clonecommandermike332]

I have a few CCM 90s jerseys as well and I love them.

[@veritas2782]

I agree, I loved the CCM jerseys.

[@alelectric2767]

Made by hockey people.

[@kbaer3038]

Amen! I still have mine.

[@mezmerizer0266]

Still have my Blackhawks CCM

[@charliem9831]

I miss CCM for the NHL.

[@Spetsnazty]

We all do.

[@FrankieHresko]

Why did they stop?

[@FrankieHresko]

@JerseyDevilGMan it's a shame 😏.. CCM were the best!

[@Effenjae]

I have CCM jerseys from 25 years ago that are in better condition than Fanatics jerseys I've had for 5 years or less.

[@mtbcyclist]

I have an original Hurricanes jersey that is old, well taken care of and is very solid quality. CCM for the win.

[@Justin-yn5py]

This has got to be one of the biggest mistakes the NHL has made. One they chose a terrible partner and two the contract is extremely long. I really liked adidas and it’s unfortunate that the NHL couldn’t work something out. The adidas jersey quality is great while fanatics is sub par at best

[@theramplocal]

Yup, fanatics is absolute trash, will not be buying any of the fanatics branded crap. F you fanatics

[@judistzoinkiski3395]

i rather wear my reebok jersey over both. yall overreact to much. fanatic isnt that bad but making it the main isnt it. its 2023 and we all babies whinying

[@andrew6815]

really poor leadership in the NHL right now. Its a shame

[@maddrone7814]

Contracts like this are usually a decade. When the nfl moved to Nike it was a 10 year deal

[@isaacfernandes560]

@@judistzoinkiski3395 you do know ADIDAS owns Reebok right? They're the same brand, the split is more about brand recognition than something else.

[@hellaacapella]

I miss the Reebok jerseys! They hold up so much better than other brand ones.. even after years of heavy use and machine washing…

[@splashnskillz37]

Reebok gonna sponsor my football ⚽club soon

[@Deploracle]

CCM too

[@davidgaritta9195]

The replica Reeboks were so much better than the crappy fanatic jerseys. Didn't have to buy the more expensive retail authentic just to have better quality.

[@GabeDover1306]

The only problom I have with Reebok is the one they made for the avalanche were terrible. Not the quality just the Design just wasn’t good in my opnion. Hope fanatics keeps the mountains for the avalanche

[@rozzie101]

Rebook was good, but they couldn't keep fake Rebook jersey off the market

[@MrKendrickLlama]

As a new fan of the Kraken (Seattle native, thank god we got a team) I was so excited to see the future of our jerseys but now I don't know if ill buy another jersey for the next 10 years.

[@lunaticfade4044]

Right there with you….waited my whole life for a team in my hometown…was going to build a small collection….was hoping for a Borgen jersey with some grunge theme eventually….now? I just have the Inaugural Season Adidas….

[@jaredfisher4147]

Adidas regularly has the blank away jersey on sale for about $100. If you're desperate and don't mind a collection of the whites then you could always pick up a few and add letters/numbers as you see fit.

[@johnnyc.31]

Fanatics will use the same factory (in Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec) that Adidas did to produce its jerseys. Fanatics is also relying on past experience with personnel. Keith Leach, currently Fanatics Brands NHL VP/GM, will be the head of the authentic jersey project, having previously worked on game-worn gear with CCM, Reebok and Adidas. Jennings said Leach will "keep the trains on the right track from a supply chain perspective." Fanatics will use the factory in Saint-Hyacinthe so the jerseys have little variation from what they are today. The specs for the jerseys will be exactly the same. While there will be differences in some of the fabrics and materials, "it will be almost indiscernible" to the jerseys currently in use. - - Ok, my take on all this is, Do they think their current fan jerseys are “almost indiscernible” from the pros? The answer to that question determines everything we should expect.

[@markstaud]

Time to stock up on any old Adidas Stock before it’s too late.

[@toddmichaeljohnson7139]

I’m in the same boat! I’m gonna buy all available Kraken Adidas jerseys before this Fanatics garbage goes into effect.

[@kevincarsales]

Thank god I don't have to buy a jersey for the next decade.

[@JerziIceViper]

Same boat

[@darthvader3742]

Same. I will not buy jerseys from fanatics.

[@elliottryan13]

You and me both! Glad I've done a lot of stocking up on my authentic customs.

[@Jame5man]

I have one fanatics. I hate it. It sucks to wear for any extended period of time. The numbers and logos trap so much heat.

[@elliottryan13]

@James Sylvestre Dude! I ordered 2 authentic customs in EARLY December and they JUST let me know they were sold out a few weeks back (early March). The customer service is fucking atrocities!

[@xarkkal7662]

My jersey collecting hobby was just murdered for the next decade. Good job nhl.

[@theramplocal]

Same dude, fanatics is barely a step up from the Chinese knock offs

[@ukrainian.g.o.a.t.566]

I feel for you. Fanatics was a major disappointment

[@NESADDICT]

There’s always retro jersey collecting!

[@ukrainian.g.o.a.t.566]

@@NESADDICT only way to go now.

[@rogerszmodis6913]

The only thing that will change is the workers working in the same facility that are making the game jerseys now will be sewing a different manufacturer logo on. If you want a good jersey don’t buy replicas the expectation of lower quality is right in the name.

[@Empericalmonkey]

Saw the Fanatics deal and couldn't think of a better person for a review. You got a million jerseys and know hockey in and out. Best on KZbin by far

[@brianshaughnessy4020]

Yes this will likely one of THG's highest-earning videos for good reason.

[@phattylav]

Yet for some reason Steve Dangle gets to be on SportsNet constantly yet THG is legit w/ his videos and not a blowhard.

[@tatereno]

@@phattylav He's not a sell out. Hopefully he stays in his beautifully crafted lane, and doesn't get corrupted.

[@phattylav]

@@tatereno the same reason why I think it’s a shame. THG spits more info in two minutes than most hockey “pundits” do in a season.

[@D0ntTaseM3Br0]

I love how you actually organized every NHL jersey you own in ABC order. But I hope one day you do a video one what jersey set is your all time favorite from each team. Which would be great considering the Vancouver Canucks has a wild history of them, and so does the Minnesota Wild for that matter.

[@Mahoneyyay]

The NHLs PR, marketing, and advertising are abysmal. Such confounding marketing moves. It's consistent

[@moose9689]

It’s ridiculous that such an entertaining sport isn’t growing like it should

[@Dr.Frankensteen]

​@@moose9689 It doesn't help when you tell everyone that the NHL is "too white" considering that's your main base.

[@phightinphil25]

@@Dr.Frankensteen It's not a race problem its a cost problem. Hockey is very expensive equipment wise (especially compared to world football (ball and boots) and basketball (ball and sneakers) and that limits its reach among poorer white people in The United States (and probably Canada) as well.

[@phightinphil25]

Honestly most North American sports have that problem, minus the NBA. But given its weaker position its more damaging when the NHL makes these mistakes.

[@Dr.Frankensteen]

@@phightinphil25 I know that, but that's not what Bettman and the NHL said.

[@calebprice218]

Honestly so irritating how far Fanatics is going with sports merchandise given how awful their quality is. Very disappointing news.

[@MrTheWanz]

Its cheap, cheap always wins

[@jyynarpalisenniemi6242]

I’m from Europe and I find it very baffling how they seem to have a monopoly in the states. Even things like nascar are partnered with fanatics which sucks.

[@DapperAF]

@@jyynarpalisenniemi6242 some European pro teams also use them for their NA stores, for instance Bayern Munich's NA store is "a Fanatics *crappy* Experience"

[@shawklan27]

​@@DapperAF my club Aston Villa proudly lists them as our official merchandise provider on our team store and it makes me cringe thinking about it.

[@phightinphil25]

​@@jyynarpalisenniemi6242 You're a European who watches or pays attention to NASCAR rights deals. That is truly fascinating. I guess its like sports direct in England but a step further, cheap sh.t for those who want sports gear no matter how low the quality.

[@theandrew1375]

Speaking of weird logo mashups, I was at a Canes game where a person was wearing a Blackhawks hoodie with a Washington logo on it

[@hajeraa]

i been working at the official montreal canadiens boutique, the main one at the bell center for like almost three years now… i can say that fanatics merch are okey for kids merch, home decor and little accessories like socks and key chains … but for the most part, when we talk about fanatics jerseys it’s not the same quality. A lot of fans see their jersey as something special and sacred. The visual and the quality needs to follow the emotions, the memories and the achievements of that hockey team. It needs to reflect this greatness…greatness that fanatics DNA brand don’t have.

[@johnnyc.31]

To you from failing hands we throw the torch…. Be yours to reduce costs and keep profits high

[@charlesnavin4482]

They are calledSWEATERS

[@Justin-yn5py]

This shows how much the NHL doesn’t give a sh** about their fans or the product. Fanatics has to be one of the worst possible options out there. Everyone get your jerseys now because you are not going to want to buy anything that this company makes

[@07foxmulder]

I’m reading a lot of comments like this. What does Fanatics produce currently that’s so bad? Not trying to be a “gotcha” moment or something. Genuinely curious.

[@csolivais1979]

​@@07foxmulder you can buy fanatics jerseys now. If you go to the NHL store, at least for Chicago. The problem is that if you buy the Adidas Chicago jersey, the logo is chain stitched on, just like the on ice jerseys. Fanatics jerseys just use a press on method and the logos will crease and bubble if you wear them to often. And by often I mean less than 10 times in some instances.

[@EditLivy]

​@@07foxmulder I give you one of my experiences. I bought a jersey of an NFL player. When I got it, it had a loose thread at the collar and the seam was already open. The number on the front side was not in the middle and was skew. On the name patch as well as on the team patch there was still the foil (from "iron/press on foil" I guess), so no chance to know what happens if I remove it - will everything tear off, shall I iron/press it myself and see what happens? No, that was too much of bad quality and I sent it back. THAT was a whole different ordeal! Next to non existing customer service - no reaction to mails, phone calls with people that don't speak English in a way you can possibly understand, weird method of returning the items and waiting for weeks until you get your money back (if ever...). That was ONE experience! I had more as I ordered again and always crossed fingers nothing too bad happens, because for some things you have no other choice anymore but buying it from Fanatics. But I stopped. I rather buy some cheaper but decent quality fake items. All the trouble with Fanatics it's not worth it.

[@PeterCPRail8748]

When did they ever care about the fans since the league put Bettman in charge as the mouth piece. The owners are beholden to there share holders not the fans of the game. Every single choice the league has implemented over the past 30 years have been against the fans wishes.

[@yothythoty729]

Honestly comments like this are just idiotic. The on ice jerseys will be comparable to Adidas. They have to be. If you’re buying any Indonesian trash jersey then you’re already lost. Contact your team stores or buy them at auction. MIC jerseys are the only things anyone should wear

[@whitneysmiltank]

The Entertainment Guy told us he's the one buying jerseys, can we have his opinion too?

[@TheKeeperofKeyss]

I'm with you on the hats, the number of options has seemed to drop off and the creativity certainly has as well. I enjoy a simple and clean design but it is also nice for you to be able to get different looks vs only being able to buy the same design year after year.

[@2ndLastStarfighter]

Agreed, haven't bought a nice NHL hat in 6 or 7 years...when i go to the arena gift shop after a game, all the designs SUCK.

[@michaelneblett9843]

Hey man, I just got to say that your jersey collection is probably the best hockey jersey collection I think I’ve ever seen in my life

[@YoungZackary96]

As the kids say, massive L for the NHL and another missed opportunity to grow the game by not going with Nike. Or just renewing the contract with adidas.

[@allstarchris1]

I don’t think Nike wanted the NHL contract. They already have the MLB, NFL and the NBA contracts along with a ton of colleges and soccer club and country jerseys. So they are spending a shit ton of money. I think that the NFL contract alone cost a billion. NHL probably wanted too much money and Nike said no since they already have too much money tied to the other leagues.

[@elliottryan13]

There's only so many children and sweat shops, and like you said, they are pretty busy.

[@YoungZackary96]

@@elliottryan13 True the Authentics and the Knockoffs are made on the same street (just in different factories) anyway I bet

[@levantjbean2712]

Nike would have made many teams change jerseys that didn’t fit easily into their templates. It’s far better for the sport Nike didn’t.

[@YoungZackary96]

@@levantjbean2712 Or just staying with Adidas all together

[@cmacdhon]

With ESPN and Fanatics, the NHL seems determined to shoot itself in the foot. I am proud to say that I still have a closet full of CCM jerseys. One of the benefits of being old.

[@andrewhaywood1262]

Got a Thrashers away CCM jersey not long ago. Very good quality, just hate that I got honey mustard on it recently. That and the dry cleaner couldn't fix it.

[@adamrusso6118]

​@Andrew Haywood hey. Wash it inside out and use the purcell (sp?). My wife has cleaned mine that way. Just use cold and delicate cycles and don't do it more than once every month.

[@tylercalkins8097]

they should have gone with CCM or Nike for sure, such a mind boggling decision

[@BondandBourne]

ESPN basically gave $400M to the nhl for no reason I’m sure bettman doesn’t mind

[@Stewieboy1995]

New ones aren’t made as good too, it’s all cheap garbage yet you’re paying a few hundred for a jersey. I buy old ones online vintage and they’re so detailed and well made, not some garbage that make today.

[@patrickrusso9919]

I have a Flyers CCM jersey from 1997 - it's still in great condition (other than slight flod in the crest) despite wearing it all the time

[@JB_II]

There are cut resistant materials used in hockey. They could easily incorporate it into the sleeves of the jerseys and add little to no weight to therapy. Like the socks that are available and worn by a lot of hockey players that are cut resistant.

[@leandroramos3041]

When I saw those news, I immediately thought about two things: - how would Shannon react to that; - the video on this channel about the local networks dying and how the NHL constantly shot itself on both feet thanks to poor decision making.

[@erso5172]

me too :(

[@boombadoomba14]

The NHL needs to do better when it comes to growing the game. They make bad choices and say “huh, I wonder why we can’t attract too many new viewers”

[@dustylover100]

Bally's in the US is about to go bankrupt. They broadcast most of the MLB, NBA and NHL games locally. It looks like three leagues may be up a creek without a paddle.

[@nicholasmarshall8430]

That thumbnail said it all.

[@rebel-by-design]

I'd have to hope if they do a premium version of the current Fanatics jerseys, that they revise the sizing as well as the quality. Adidas sizing was also a big upgrade to me.

[@James-zg2nl]

I wear cut resistant uniforms all the time, the added weight is negligible, especially due to the fact the material does not absorb water/sweat that much. That being said, there is a spectrum from just light weight tear resistant, to reenforced cut resistant: weight and thickness will vary.

[@ShawwnParrr]

I played hockey for 20 years and not sure ive ever seen anyone get cut aside from idk some rare nhl clips. I think its a publicity thing rather than important

[@MotoFishy]

A sad day for hockey fans everywhere.

[@cris-99]

I’m willing to give it a chance only if they come out with a brand new improved line of jerseys with better quality whenever the contract starts in 2025. I‘ll miss the Adidas jerseys they were beautiful and clean

[@darthvader3742]

The Adidas jerseys are fantastic. It will be a shame when they are gone.

[@Phished123]

@@darthvader3742 I agree! I was never a big fan of slimming the jerseys down to no longer be "sweaters" because i am a bigger guy, but the quality of the Adidas jerseys are so good. The Lighter material made it not horrible to wear out in the sun. I have 3 of them and they are all great.

[@SarahMaywalt]

I have a bunch of crestless Reebok jerseys and they were surprisingly good as well.

[@rogerszmodis6913]

Im pretty sure adidas was only producing the in game jerseys. Fanatics has been making the authentic and official versions sold on the nhl store for adidas with the adidas logo for years now. I don’t know why but people seem to think only the cheap replicas will be available and what the players are wearing which isn’t the case. You get what you pay for in this world so just save up an extra $100 or whatever and go for the real one.

[@WYBsilon]

I got a bunch of 90‘s Rangers jerseys, and as far as I remember the majority is CCM stuff. Great quality, great memories, especially with the old mesh ones (Messier, Richter, Robitaille). Got a few Starter jerseys (Gretzky) and later Reebok (Callahan, Lundqvist) as well. I can only imagine what Fanatics jerseys will be like…

[@nyrmetros]

Same.

[@charlesnavin4482]

Rangers sweaters

[@sharkgrayc7z06corvette9]

Ha I just commented same thing. I have Messier, Leetch, Graves and Gretzky CCM authentic jerseys made by Gerry Cosby, who made the on ice jerseys, and they still are the best jerseys ever made IMO. Nothing is better than wearing one of those to the MSG for a game. I have an authentic Reebok Mcdonagh jersey and the quality is good but still doesn’t compare to the old CCM

[@johndor8772]

Reebok are they still offering jerseys

[@tifosi8500]

From Cosbys!!

[@KellenN92]

I'd love to see CCM back, but I'd be very interested in an Under Armour jersey. Every jersey I've seen them do for football, and what not always look really sharp. I'm a bit bias towards UA, but in my opinion they make a really quality garment. I've had multiple shoes, shirts & hoodies and they've all held up really well.

[@YouTube.Algorithmic.F-ckery]

It's "biased." You have a bias. You are biased.

[@wellyforpm]

I was hoping for UA

[@sydisticsandman]

​@@KZbin.Algorithmic.F-ckery kinda like the og comment literally says, "I'm a bit bias towards..." 😂😅🤦‍♂️

[@phoenixwrong570]

Some college teams have Under Armour uniforms and they’re pretty sharp. Wisconsin and UMD come to mind I wouldn’t mind Under Armour on an NHL level

[@MTU5oh]

Agree, UA is the best. NHL wanted cheap even though the price to the consumer likely won’t change. 👎🏼

[@Rockin_Ross]

Well…seems my jersey collecting is over. Thanks to CCM, Starter, Reebok and Adidas for all you’ve given me. It’ll be a cold day in hell before I buy a jersey from Fanatics.

[@theramplocal]

Same dude, fanatics is absolute trash

[@brendanedwards6633]

So, just buy from coolhockey.

[@csolivais1979]

Same, unless they really upntheir quality. But I will let someone else be that Guinea Pig.

[@buttonz6139]

Lmao , tell us you know nothing about collecting jerseys , without openly saying it ..

[@thecolorofdye]

@@buttonz6139 ur lame

[@kchamot]

My biggest worry is that they make the on ice product in Canada, and then for retail they offer just the breakaway line. I wish the announcement would have touched on a plan for retail authentics.

[@MrTheWanz]

Literally zero chance retail jerseys will be made anywhere other than over seas

[@yothythoty729]

lol if you’re buying retail authentication then you’re already eating Ls. I only wear Mic jerseys from the team. shell out the money and buy mics

[@johnnyc.31]

@@yothythoty729 You keep commenting everywhere like this makes you cool, and not an absolute bragging wanker. Eating Ls indeed! Lol.

[@KingKronik42o]

I remember the Canucks brought out a camo hat about 15 years ago, the wording was done like a 70s rock band on the front, and had the skate on the back. I haven't found a nucks hat as cool as that ever since.

[@mikaeljohansson101]

@The Hockey Guy There are cut-resistant garments where a very thin kevlar-like weave is woven onto the inside of the garment designed to protect against knife slashes. These garments are generally very light and very much commonplace in the private security industry. Given that Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin is also the executive chairman of the Rue Gilt Groupe which has its claws into basically anything clothing-related these days, it's possible they have a manufacturer in place that can implement a similar solution for player jerseys.

[@memeaste7820]

There’s always some hope that the quality will be better with retail as opposed to their current breakaways, and I hope that that’s the case, but I don’t have high hopes

[@elliottryan13]

I would agree with you, but on a national scale, not many people carry for hockey, so our voices won't be heard.

[@MrTheWanz]

Yes im sure that is the reason the NHL chose them, a promise of quality, expertise and legal manufacturing practises that dont take advantage of cheap foreign labour

[@Technica-xe5xb]

Go look at the Mitchell and Ness line. That is owned by Fanatics and sell at a similar price point to Adidas Indo made "authentic" jerseys. That is likely what you can expect with the line that replaces Adidas.

[@elliottryan13]

@@Technica-xe5xb Thanks for the heads-up.

[@Silenceaverted]

The breakaway jerseys are probably going to be the new “authentics”

[@blu300]

Tried to buy my son a RED Rangers cap this past Christmas. Fanatics sent us a blue hat in a "red" labeled bag...FIVE. TIMES. through various return processes. Zero quality control and customer service, apparently. Never did end up with the right one and just gave up, ran out of time.

[@NotThatTerrible]

I have never purchased anything from Fanatics that didn't either have a super long shipping delay or was just straight up cancelled 2 weeks after I was supposed to get it. Heck my parents ordered something from them, after a week told them it was getting shipped that day. Another week later they said they never had it.

[@naughtyemochild]

I've never had a Starter jersey, but my Dad and I have Starter jackets (both winter and windbreaker). Imo they are great quality. They've lasted us a very long time.

[@darthvader3742]

That's the exact look I had this morning when I heard the news Shannon.

[@TwiggglesMcNasty]

I was really hopeful about NewEra being the supplier. Honestly their CFL jerseys are awesome and they had the best designs for hats. It's seriously a shame that NE lost the hat licensing. Most my fitted hats are new Era and it's hard to find any hockey ones anymore. Fanatics messed up one guy's Bedard team Canada jersey (spelled Beadrd) that is not a good look.

[@andrewhaywood1262]

Tank Head For Beadrd!

[@Eirik_Bloodaxe]

I remember when the only company that made hockey hats was Zephyr and I remember them being kinda weird.

[@NolanEgbert]

ermahgerd beadrd

[@Card_lol]

​@@Eirik_Bloodaxe only had one hat made by zephyr and i remember it being super comfortable. My dog chewed it up though.

[@haybaile9478]

Loved the Winnipeg grey uni. Big complaint about Adidas is they were more concerned about thier logo then the teams

[@jediko610]

Cut resistant/proof hockey socks already exist (I have a pair of Coyotes pro stock socks). There is a large strip of a kevlar like material on the back of the socks protecting the back of the knee all the way down to the ankles. I don’t even notice a difference in feel when wearing them. In my opinion, it wouldn’t be much of a stretch to use that same material on parts of jerseys (price would probably be the biggest impact)

[@joelwhite8538]

Whew, guess I’ll be able to use the money I save from not buying jerseys on other things I’ll need. Thanks NHL!

[@kelsielaveta8733]

I'm VERY concerned about Fanatics quality and all of the various unknowns. Feeling really grateful for the Adidas jerseys (not that they're perfect, but at least they're decent enough) I already have, and I'll probably get another one or two next season and hope they all last for the next 12 years. 🤷‍♀️

[@Pause0]

I may just have to buy as many blanks as i can get my hands on and number/letter those over the next decade.

[@charlesnavin4482]

Sweaters, not jerseys

[@markstaud]

Time to stock up on Adidas Jerseys.

[@TheBotchGuy]

I was waiting for this video! Great job as always

[@wellyforpm]

If you're looking for reverse retro, coolhockey has most of them available, only ones I saw that were missing were boston, NYR, Washington and Vegas. Anyone remember the player jerseys from sportchek? I thought it was hilarious that they had the navy Canucks jerseys with the name done with the sparkly letters from the maroon 3rd jerseys 😂😂😂😂

[@KURSEDSOULS666]

Was very interested in hearing your opinions on this news as a jersey guy

[@shawklan27]

Same as a fellow jersey collector

[@chetbackwudz9882]

I'll grab another Adidas jersey or two and call it good on anything new ever again. Maybe I'll occasionally grab an older CCM or Reebok off Ebay or something. Fanatics is straight garbage. They acquired Mitchell and Ness last year and the quality has begun to head further downhill than that brand already was. Really disappointing they've got such a stronghold on the market now

[@EnderSword]

Glad you did a video on this, I have been trying to buy some stuff this year, new Bruins hats, new Jersey, new player named gear, and its feels like Fanatics has squeezed out all the old variety that used to exists. It's all boring hats, no variety... and they never seem to update sizing. I've been trying to get an Ullmark jersey sized that I can actually wear on the ice over goalie gear, and they've got it in the US store, but not the Canadian one and it's been like 5 months and they've got nothing above an XL I used to always wear a full yellow Bruins Practice goalie jersey, and it just seems like you can't get any of that stuff anymore. The NHL to me is just the league that refuses to fulfill demand for its products. I want to buy stuff and I can't I want to pay to watch the games I want to, and I can't.

[@VegasTwins]

i have a pens starter that i got around 1994 it was the diagnal pittsburgh one, ive played net in well over 100 recreational roller hockey games in that jersey its still going strong.

[@kj6446]

Sometimes I wish I was rich enough to fund children's hospitals, and sometimes I wish I was rich enough to boost CCM or Koho so they could take over the NHL jersey contract again.

[@nolananderson4782]

Gary: "The fans absolutely love this decision!"

[@skyscraper5910]

Kevlar strands woven into sleeves is an easy cut resistance option and has been done in stuff like cycling clothing (road rash resistance), it’s a rougher material but not bad given its purpose. The material is called Dyneema, but I bet there are others.

[@kingkrimson8771]

"Dyneema"

[@skyscraper5910]

@@kingkrimson8771 ty

[@glass_oni0n]

I’m glad you brought up the M&N jerseys. I understand why people reacted negatively, it looks like they took some really weird pictures and stupidly included some creased logos, but I think people missed the point. Mitchell and Ness does a replica version of a jersey and usually an authentic. The NHL jerseys they released are their replica line, and it’s actually a nice jersey. Essentially feels like a softer CCM jersey. Now i’m a Rangers fan, so the wordmark tends to not suffer from the logo creasing, but M&N shipped my jersey in a really proper way that didn’t allow the jersey to be creased. Fanatics just chucks it in a bag and you get what you get

[@CrescentCitySweaters]

Mitchell & Ness is owned by Fanatics. They don’t do authentics, only the janky replicas that were released with incorrect colors, patches that aren’t even the right shapes much less stitched down twill like the real thing, and have those gaudy logos at the bottom for no reason. And that’s without even analyzing what specific jerseys they chose to release as M&N throwbacks, the most egregious being a current day New York Rangers Adam Fox jersey allegedly from the 2021-22 season lol

[@icebergpreservation5164]

I know the Calgary Wranglers in the AHL have had a hell of a lot of trouble getting retail CCM jerseys. I wish they had on ice ones for sale. I hate the screen print label shoulder "patches"

[@tomservo9254]

Haven't bought a jersey since before they started putting jock tags on the replicas. Thanks for the consistency, Detroit!

[@csolivais1979]

What's a jock tag? Never heard that term before.

[@tomservo9254]

@@csolivais1979 The stupid patch they put on the hem of the replica jerseys, because the size of your shirt is apparently something that needs to be broadcast to the public.

[@SharkForge29]

I remember in Pittsburgh I saw a rack at Dick's Sporting Goods of Lemieux throwbacks that all had 99 on the back instead of 66. It blew my mind that they all made it through manufacturing... and then through the store staff and onto the shelf. haha. Absolutely hilarious. The fanatics jerseys, we all know the poor quality but even beyond that... the sharp corners of the shitty vinyl they use ends up shredding other jerseys if you keep them on a rack with others. For me, I don't doubt Fanatics will make a proper jersey for the players but the merch they make for the fans is seriously cheap. The cuts of fanatics t shirts make you look like a flying squirrel... the sleeves are so bizarre. Just seeing the quality of what we have, like the hats you said... has me concerned about what they'll do with jerseys. The bare minimum i want is real twill patches sewn... if they can at least give us that... that's a start. 10 years is a hell of a time to be married to a company that has monopolized the industry and has no real motivation to give us a quality product. I've also noticed the hats are really cheap and flimsy... Sorry for ranting... this just seriously sucks for us all. I feel like my hobby of jersey collecting will be coming to an end... only chasing older gems. On a positive note... you're wearing one of my favorite jerseys of all time so that's sick. Wish pens would bring that back as a third or something (would love it to be our main but I know it'll never happen).

[@tomhull1276]

Kevlar is already incorporated into fabric used for sports equipment. Speed skaters wear an under-layer made of Kevlar fabric to prevent and protect against skate cuts in the event of a fall or collision. Kevlar fabric is generally lighter in weight than other materials used in the manufacture of protective clothing. It also has a high heat-resistant factor so it tends to keep those who wear it cooler as well.

[@rossmartens]

I appreciate the video was gonna wait a bit too get a reverse retro oilers jersey turns out pretty much sold out sadly I had to get a plain one

[@chrisstopher2277]

Good work as always. I havent really heard of fanatics. I thought it was only a website. Not surprised about starters they were always way behind Nike, Adidas, reebok and puma when I was younger. I'm surprised starters is still around. Seems like clothing brands don't go out of business easily.

[@alanfox691]

They sometimes get bought over then sold off again like Reebok getting bought over buy Adidas then dumping them when they had The N.H.L contract. Or Nike buying Umbro to get The contract for The England National Football ( Soccer team ) then selling them off to the highest bidder this happens all the time.

[@Kinvarus1]

I have a couple of Fanatics jerseys mostly because of either A: Couldn't afford the proper jersey and Fanatics were the budget option or two I just couldn't get the official one. It is very hard to get a New York Rangers away jersey over here in the UK for some reason unless it's a Fanatics one. Home Jersey, no problem, away jersey can never seem to find. The only issue I've ever had with a Fanatics jersey is with my Kachina Yotes jersey, which has the wrong color nameplate and number on the back, which is black and white instead of white with the red outline, which is annoying in and of itself but made even worse by the fact they used the right colors on the sleeve numbers. Being a UK fan a jersey here is expensive as it is, generally the Adidas ones are about £230-250/$280-300 whereas the Fanatics are about £150/$182 which is a significant price difference between the two but at least you know you're sacrificing a bit of quality as the Fantatics one is very much the budget jersey over the official Adidas one. I do find it interesting that by the sound of it Fantatics are going to be doing both the on ice official jersey and the cheaper replica jersey as well and not having one make one and one make the other.

[@johnnyc.31]

They will be using the same factory in Quebec that Adidas is currently, so the Made In Canada Pro equipment will be great. Everything else (like “pro” branded fan jerseys, and lower end “breakaway-style” fan jerseys) will likely be complete garbage in comparison. The only way to get a good one will be to win a Game Worn auction.

[@oregonhockeyfan]

I have a starter Sakic jersey that my mom bought back in 97 in Colorado. I rarely wear it, kept the tags in, and spot clean it to avoid washing. I’m glad I dis that because it would be a mess today if I didn’t.

[@tyranus159]

As an Avalanche fan. I love the reverse retro for the Nordiques we had a couple of years ago. I wish they would bring those back, or continue that concept

[@TomDangs]

My fanatics Coyotes jersey was expensive and fell apart the first day

[@jonasgorea3823]

That thumbnail 😂😂😂

[@darthvader3742]

That was the exact look I had when I woke up and read the news.

[@arttkd1018]

When Shannon adopts KZbinr face, there is ACTUALLY a problem.

[@macmoneymanmellon9224]

Thank you so much. Almost bought a new pens jersey today because the authentic ones where discounted. Now it makes sense why there on sale

[@cristianof812]

The Starter on-ice authentics from the late 90s were actually pretty nice.

[@10.11.9]

So were the Pro Player jerseys during that one season. HG only wears crappy replicas.

[@Cardboardcorner416]

CCM had great jerseys I also remember koho making jerseys

[@migsy0]

My issue with Fanatics is their online store. I try to order gear and about 10 minutes later I get an email saying the order is cancelled with no explanation. Not sure if it's an inventory issue or if they're just sh!t but it has happened to me multiple times. Really frustrating

[@chebpatak580]

I ordered a few things including a pennant and a keychain from them and they sent me a different pennant with a more basic design and a keychain that was just a piece of paper inside of some plastic which is fine I guess but it wasn't even clear plastic on both sides of the keychain! I was only okay with one of the three items I ordered. They suck!

[@DucksUpDogsDownCatsSlide]

I remember back in the 90's, my dad got an actual leather orca logo Canuck hat, I never see leather hats like that anymore, my dad got his for $20 on sale back then.

[@Ependeon]

I've torn multiple shirts from Fanatics trying to remove these massive and awkwardly placed tags for some reason put on the shoulder or by the ribs. And good luck getting your order anywhere near the eta if you order online.

[@brettrossi034]

Although they were kind of flowy and boxy by design, I'll always have a soft spot for the CCM jerseys

[@johnnyc.31]

Because they had a proper collar and collar stripe options. The NHL crest on the front has to go too. Such an eyesore. (We know what league we are watching, Mr Bettman).

[@tonydean44]

For me personally I don’t have a major issue with fanatics, I’m a bigger guy and like that they have bigger jersey sizes. I don’t like the heat pressed name and numbers however. I think that having one of the supposed 4 major leagues partner with a brand like fanatics just feels cheap and diminishes the brand of the NHL. I was really hoping they would get creative with their New Jersey partnership but feels like they just took the easy road. I shouldn’t be surprised anymore from the leadership of the NHL.

[@dvotzmusiccompilationsandc5647]

The reason Detroit has always has bad reverse retros is because they try to work with what you said were the rules with reverse retros but the problem is Detroit only has 2 colors and only really has one logo throughout history so it’s hard to make a cool looking jersey with just trying to use past colors and logos

[@IndeclineKills]

I bought a rebook kings kopitar jersey at staples and I’m content with it. I wanted a retro but both times they were gone instantly. If fanatic sells on ice products I’d be interested for sure

[@charlesnavin4482]

Kopitar sweater.

[@wellyforpm]

cool hockey has em if ur still lookin, they are my go to for jerseys, for probably the last ten or so years.

[@ClipsSal]

So I grew up not having much money to buy jerseys as a kid and still struggled with the high prices as a college student. Fanatics has actually allowed me to get my first 3 jerseys from sales/discount stores at $15, $30 and $60 USD which has been far more doable than $150+. I've never had any other jersey and only wear them as sweaters so the quality has been pretty great for me personally. However, I have had hopes of getting into collecting once I can afford it and this deal does raise some questions. I hope the quality is improved for the higher end product but it remains to be seen.

[@ColonizerChan]

That's valid, it is just the quality is definitely lower and it is possible to get a lemon. I only have 1 fanatics jersey and it is the first year rangers reverse retro cause I got on that too late. I think I'll just lurk around for reverse retro 2.0 rangers one from Adidas to replace it. We have about a year to bite the bullet on new and even then, there is plenty of stock to go around for next couple years from old ccms to Adidas.

[@alanfox691]

The quality will get wose & prices rise buy 20% at the lest but could be as high as 35% on top of what a jersey costs now.

[@wellyforpm]

Go to your local team store after next season ends, they'll be clearing out all the remaining Adidas ones.

[@MrZics]

In person sales of jerseys will likely decrease dramatically as that's where people will see the quality first hand. Online sales will decrease too but will likely recover slightly because of the cheaper price (not up to Adidas era sales levels though.)

[@Technica-xe5xb]

Sales will be fine. Most people don't live in a jersey collecting bubble. Replica jerseys have been dropping in quality for the last 20 years. Reebok Premier jerseys were terrible, and sales did not drop. Fanatics introduced the Mitchell & Ness line to target the market segment who don't like their approach of making the Fanatic replicas feel and fit more like a shirt than a traditional jersey. It's going to be a huge downgrade for any collector who is in the wheel house where the aren't a big enough fanatic to drop 500-1000 on MiC authentic jerseys, but instead collected the often heavily discounted Adidas Indonesian made "authentic" jerseys. For your mainstream buyer, they probably won't notice or care about the difference between a Mitchell & Ness jersey and an Indo "Authentic" Adidas jersey.

[@alanfox691]

I honestly dont know why you would think the price will decrease buy going up buy at the very least 20% on top of the cost now best case scenario more likely 30% to 35% on to retail price.

[@iansteelmatheson]

why do you assume the Fanatics jerseys will be cheaper than the Adidas ones are now?

[@BMack37]

Cut resistant isn't terribly heavy, it's just a fabric. Nike's Swift socks had a cut resistant panel in the back that was a request by Gretzky. I can send you pics...Nike removed it not too long after Gretzky left the Olympic program because the fabric is more expensive than normal fabric.

[@mub716]

I bought a Lakers championship hat and shirt from Fanatics in 2020. The Lakers logo fell off the hat and the shirt barely fit even though I ordered my usual size. I had to send them back sadly. Never had that issue before in years past.

[@kale_ski2248]

I bought a Dahlin jersey last year…got sent a Jack Eichel jersey with the price tag saying Dahlin. They got a very strongly worded email from me.

[@2ndLastStarfighter]

i'd be pissed too getting jersey for a guy the team dumped already, lol.

[@whotfcares-fr9qo]

Fanatics is such sloppy quality. This is very disappointing.

[@10.11.9]

The 90s CCM era was by far the best for authentic jerseys - and it's never coming back. I'm not wearing any hockey jersey not made in North America.

[@Indium111]

I miss the old CCM jerseys...but the Reebok ones were quite nice as the best of the recent manufacturers.

[@RMoysters]

Way to go Gary!!! /s

[@daltonbaxter6892]

I’m just starting to collect NHL jerseys and this is such a massive blow. I’m going to have to scrounge up some money to join the run on Adidas jerseys that’s coming

[@charlesnavin4482]

NHL sweaters

[@jordanstreib3898]

I Agree starter and some old ones also have stiff logos make you look bigger. Also really old jerseys have to watch how you clean them fragile numbers rip off/if not stitched come off. My favorite is pro style koho ones,with lots of patches. Some of reverse retros or 3rd jerseys are ugly or better past designs to go off or just totally off board is better then same 2 tone. Like you said jets/Toronto my favorite were Capitals eagle,and st Louis.

[@KHoltzie]

I’ve always wanted an authentic (I own a 54 Sabres Sluggalo Afinogenov one that’s on a hanger in my closet) but I may wait and finally get a new authentic one under the new Fanatics umbrella… I’ll have to see what they look like and how they wear first! 💭🤷🏼‍♂️

[@lv5669]

My retirement outlook this morning 📈📈📈

[@crz8]

Was waiting for your response to this.

[@AMC439]

You’ve gotta love the (completely purposeful) “Carolina Hurricanes” on a green shirt with the Whalers logo on it ❤️

[@Jrh-rp7np]

Man I still have a Sergei Fedorov Nike Jersey from the late 90s and some CCM Red wings Jerseys from that time period that are all still in great shape.. they could really make a sweater back then.. when I think of fanatics I think of replica jerseys that I hate

[@edgeofchaos_]

Jerseys are out of my price zone but I have a number of t-shirts. I have 3 shirts from 2011, a Marchand, krejci, and Stanley Cup Champions (when I was in 6th grade) all by Reebok that have stood up to regular wear and tear to this day. They are starting to fall apart, and of course have faded and are stained, but the fabric quality is still overall high and the logo, name, and number are in relatively good condition for being 12 years old. I have a handful of fanatics shirts from 2019/20 ish and every single logo is crooked and off center. It's frustrating to have these shirts that I don't like wearing as much because they look terrible. I want to be able to replace my old player shirts (and hopefully add a championship!) but don't want to buy any more fanatics, so it's just going to be the old ones until they're too worn, and then no team rep at all. This is really disappointing

[@ugiswrong]

Fewer large comments making someone else money and more focus on yourself will level you up

[@thecolorofdye]

@@ugiswrong what?

[@patrickcoughlin4148]

This could be added to the video you did about the NHL taking the short-term $ to cost themselves $ long-term.

[@moonglow630]

I was sooooooo hoping that CCM was going to go back to making the jerseys. I’ve got 5 Fanatics jerseys. 2 of them have either the nameplate or “A” falling off after wearing them only once.

[@Tex-Toons]

Hopefully this helps with quantity. I’ve been trying to buy an Avs away jersey (the one they won the Cup in) since just a couple minutes after they won the Cup last year and haven’t been able to find one. It’s so frustrating. I’m trying to give you my money! Not holding my breath though. I’m a stickler for getting the quality that the players wear, so it’s sad to hear quality is likely to go down now as well.

[@Railblade]

I'm kinda surprised to learn that Fanatics is this hated. I don't collect, but the couple of jerseys I own are Fanatics and I've not had an issue with them. Granted I'm a bigger guy, but I like that I can find a Fanatics jersey that fits. My folks gifted me a reverse retro for my birthday, and I had to return it because it was too small - found a Fanatics in the same size (basically) and it fit as expected. Actually hoping that doesn't change if they start using the same factory Adidas did.

[@TaroTsujimoto716]

Same here, don't collect Jerseys, only have one Starter and now one Fanatics. Love the way the fanatics fits. I am glad I bought it in person at a game though. I'm a smaller dude and I usually wear a medium but that was clearly a lot bigger than usual mediums and I ended up with the small and it fits great.

[@dymd3z]

Same here, I have a fanatics jersey and a Reebok one, and my fanatics fits me so much better, and is way more comfortable.

[@TT-rt9vv]

Counterfeit fanatics jerseys probably will be better than the real things in the future

[@ethanduncan157]

Wasn’t an nhl product but i bought Baylor University shorts from Fantastics and got Baylor colored LSU shorts. I was baffled when I opened the box.

[@AlwayzFresh]

I bought 8 Fanatics hoodies in the last year, zero issues with any of them so far. I don't buy/wear jersey's or hats, so I cant speak on those.