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Secrets behind new NHL World Cup of Hockey jersey designs

Greg Wyshynski
Canada

The NHL, NHLPA and adidas unveiled the World Cup of Hockey’s logos and jerseys on Wednesday. Some, like Team North America, were straight fire; others were a little more puzzling.

But there’s a method behind all of this madness, and adidas has revealed why inspired each look.

First off, know this: These jerseys use “adizero” technology, which is a blend of three lightweight fabrics that have been tested over a four-year period. It’s supposed to reduce weight and add flexibility. And no piping!  Death to piping!

Now, regarding the designs …

Canada

From adidas:

Celebrating the designation as the host team for the World Cup of Hockey 2016, Canada’s uniforms recall a modern interpretation of the national icon—the maple leaf. The motif wraps each sleeve, creating a visual with a direct connection to a crowning era in Canada’s hockey heritage. The three veins contained in the Dominion Leaf crest represent Canada’s three coasts and make this a mark to represent all of the Great North.

Ah, yes, the three coasts of Canada: West, East and Up.

USA

From adidas:

Building upon a tradition befitting the land of the free and home of the brave, the USA uniform features bold striping inspired by service uniforms that creates a distinct yet cohesive visual across the uniforms. National emblems and banners inspire an unapologetic shield and word mark.

Very solid look, and something slightly different from what we’ve seen from the other national teams..

Sweden

From adidas:

Focusing on Scandinavian sensibility, Sweden’s uniform uses bold assertive color blocking drenched in the national blue and gold. The emblematic tre kronor crest is appointed with kurbits detailing, an honored Swedish traditional motif.

It’s hard to improve on perfection, but that “kurbits” texturing comes close.

Finland

From adidas:

Paying homage to heritage, the Finland uniform design honors the bold Nordic cross of the Finnish flag. Reflecting the spirit of Suomi, the crests feature the national coat of arms with its crowned lion.

The “Crowned Lion” is a Finnish coat of arms that hasn’t been used all that prominently on previous national team sweaters.

Czech Republic

From adidas:

The Czech Republic’s uniform seizes upon the boldness of national emblems and banners. The statement color blocking highlights the coat of arms, a silver double-tailed Lion crest representing all of the Republic.

A bit less grandiose than previous Czech jerseys, but solid. Jagr will look great in it. You hear, us, Jagr?! PLAY IN THE TOURNAMENT.

Russia

From adidas:

Centered around the powerful double-headed eagle national shield, Russia’s uniform features the traditional crest surrounded by impact color blocking that carries the colors of Russia’s national flag. The uniform reflects a modern interpretation of the steadfast Russian identity.

Nothing we haven’t seen before from the Russians. Steadfast, indeed.

Europe

From adidas:

Signifying a united Europe, the players’ countries are all represented by a modern E shield, featuring a single crest that connects all of their home nations. Players wear their flag on their shoulder and the names of each European nation in the unity stripe across their sleeve. A continental blue color scheme highlights harmony on a unified team.

It’s a big blue ‘E’ with a hockey stick. It’s probably the most difficult logo they had to create, so kudos for coming up with … something. Even if it’s vaguely ENRON-esque.

The two-tone jersey is ... interesting. More on that in our ranking.

North America

From adidas:

The North America team is a group of young talented phenoms who will play in black and white under an inclusive badge of brotherhood. The crest and uniform feature highlights of beacon red, signaling the high energy these stars bring to the ice. This uniform admits the wearer to the exclusive club of the next generation.

And it’ll make a great tattoo after they win the tournament, right?

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Greg Wyshynski is a writer for Yahoo Sports. Contact him at puckdaddyblog@yahoo.com or find him on Twitter. His book, TAKE YOUR EYE OFF THE PUCK, is available on Amazon and wherever books are sold.

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