In 2024, a significant change is underway for the manufacturing of NHL jerseys: Fanatics is stepping in as the new official outfitter for the league's on-ice uniforms, beginning with the 2024-25 season. This marks a new era for NHL apparel, shifting from the previous supplier.
Fanatics Takes Over as Official NHL Uniform Outfitter
Following an announcement made in 2023, the National Hockey League (NHL) and Fanatics solidified an expanded partnership that designates Fanatics as the exclusive manufacturer of authentic on-ice uniforms. This pivotal agreement ensures that Fanatics will produce jerseys for all NHL teams for the next 10 seasons, commencing with the 2024-25 NHL season.
Historically, Adidas held the rights to produce NHL on-ice jerseys. However, the transition to Fanatics means that by the time the puck drops for the 2024-25 season, all players will be wearing jerseys manufactured by Fanatics. This partnership also extends to replica jerseys, providing fans with officially branded apparel.
Key Aspects of the Fanatics-NHL Partnership
The long-term partnership between the NHL and Fanatics covers several crucial areas related to team apparel:
- Official On-Ice Uniforms: Fanatics will produce the authentic jerseys worn by players during games, ensuring consistent quality and design across the league.
- Duration: The agreement spans an impressive 10 seasons, indicating a long-term commitment from both parties.
- Start Date: The new uniforms will debut at the beginning of the 2024-25 NHL season, which typically kicks off in October 2024.
- Fan Apparel: In addition to on-ice uniforms, Fanatics will continue to provide a wide range of official NHL fan gear, including authentic and replica jerseys available for purchase by the public.
For more details on this transition, you can refer to the official announcement by the NHL and Fanatics regarding their new line of authentic and replica jerseys for fans.
Transition Timeline for NHL Jersey Manufacturing
The shift in manufacturing responsibility can be summarized as follows:
| Period | Official On-Ice Uniform Outfitter |
|---|---|
| Until End of 2023-24 Season | Adidas |
| 2024-25 Season Onwards | Fanatics |
This timeline clarifies that while the 2023-24 season (which concluded in mid-2024) still featured Adidas jerseys, all new official on-ice jerseys for the upcoming season and beyond will be produced by Fanatics.
What This Means for Fans and Players
The introduction of Fanatics as the official jersey provider brings several implications:
- For Players: The on-ice uniforms will be designed and manufactured by Fanatics, potentially introducing new material technologies or fit preferences as developed by the company.
- For Fans: Enthusiasts will find a new line of authentic and replica jerseys available, crafted by Fanatics. This partnership aims to enhance the availability and variety of NHL merchandise for fans worldwide.
This marks a significant chapter in the NHL's history, aligning with a company known for its vast sports merchandise production and distribution capabilities.
