Gone are the days of NHL players squeezing into stuffy suits for travel—a change that’s as refreshing as a breakaway goal in overtime. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some celebrate this sartorial freedom, others worry it might chip away at the league’s traditional image. So, what’s the real story behind this wardrobe revolution? Let’s lace up our skates and dive in.
Last month, the Edmonton Oilers made headlines when they boarded a flight to New York for their season opener—not in the usual stiff suits, but in matching navy tracksuits. It was a small change, but a symbolic one. For years, NHL players had been required to wear full suits to and from games, even if it meant changing into sweats mid-flight. Now, thanks to a relaxed dress code introduced in the latest collective bargaining agreement, players can finally ditch the formalities and embrace outfits that align with modern fashion trends. And according to a recent player poll, this was the change they were most excited about—even more than salary cap adjustments or trade rules.
But why does this matter? For starters, it’s about comfort and practicality. As Mikhail Sergachev, the Utah Mammoth’s alternate captain and two-time Stanley Cup winner, put it, ‘It’s a relief not to have to switch outfits three times just to get to a game.’ Sergachev, who’s been working with a stylist, was thrilled when the change was moved up a year from its original 2026-27 rollout. ‘We started planning immediately,’ he told GQ over Zoom, ‘looking at NBA players and rappers for inspiration.’
And this is the part most people miss: the old dress code wasn’t just inconvenient—it was outdated. Menswear expert Derek Guy, who had advocated for the change on social media, pointed out that the suits NHL players wore often looked like relics from 2010. ‘Many of these suiting companies prioritize business over tailoring,’ he explained. ‘They push trendy, dated silhouettes that don’t flatter the average athlete’s build.’ So, while the traditionalists might mourn the loss of the suit-and-tie era, the reality is that poorly tailored outfits did little to elevate the league’s image.
So, how are players embracing this newfound freedom? The results are mixed—but fascinating. Some have stuck to their old suits, minus the tie, while others have gone full casual, showing up in plain T-shirts or golf polos. But a growing number are stepping into the spotlight with style. Take William Nylander of the Toronto Maple Leafs, who’s been rocking Canadian tuxedos and designer accessories like a Tiffany chain and Dior loafers. Or Filip Forsberg of the Nashville Predators, whose all-over print camp collar shirts have become a talking point. Even goaltenders like Seattle’s Joey Daccord are getting in on the action, pairing a red Ferrari jacket with Prada sneakers for a preseason game.
Here’s the controversial question: Is the NHL ready to rival the NBA or NFL in terms of fashion-forward flair? While we haven’t seen the same level of flamboyant boldness yet, it’s clear that more players are passionate about style than ever before. Sergachev’s stylist, Nastassia Andreyanova, praised his eagerness to learn: ‘He’s an A+ student,’ she said. ‘He’s not just wearing the outfits—he’s understanding why they work.’
But not everyone is on board. Some traditionalists have scoffed at the more daring looks, arguing that they detract from the league’s classic appeal. And that’s the beauty of this debate—it’s not just about clothes; it’s about identity. Does the NHL want to stick to its roots, or embrace a more modern, expressive image?
What do you think? Are tracksuits and designer jackets the future of NHL fashion, or should players stick to the tried-and-true suit? Let us know in the comments—this is one conversation that’s just getting started.
