Hockey and sweaters go hand in hand like peanut butter and jelly, like a goalie and their net. Since the early days of the sport, teams have been recognized by their iconic colors and patterns adorning their jerseys. Some sweaters are timeless classics, while others are cringe-worthy eyesores that make fans question the fashion sense of the team’s designers.
As we dive into our annual series on the best and worst sweaters in each team’s history, today we shine the spotlight on the Florida Panthers. From the best to the worst, we take a trip down memory lane to examine the evolution of the Panthers’ jersey designs over the years.
The Panthers made a bold choice with their powder blue base jersey, deviating from the traditional jet blue of their team colors. Featuring a shoulder patch with a sun, hockey stick, and palm tree, this design may not have any Panthers on it, but it just works. Fans are clamoring for the team to bring back this unique look, even if just for special events.
Back in 1993, when the Panthers burst onto the scene, they wowed fans with their “Leaping Cat” logo. The red and white base jerseys with blue and gold accents became an instant hit among fans. From the roaring panther to the sleek design, these jerseys set the tone for the team’s identity.
The road to finding the perfect jersey wasn’t always smooth for the Panthers. From red sweaters with blue shoulder yokes to navy blue, gold, and white striping, the team experimented with various designs until settling on their signature look. The home whites may be nice, but the red jerseys just edge them out for a spot on the list of the best Panthers jerseys.
Despite facing challenges and struggles over the years, the Panthers found a glimmer of hope when Vincent Viola took the reins in 2013. With a new vision and commitment to excellence, the team began to turn things around, both on and off the ice.
As the Panthers continue to carve out their legacy in the NHL, one thing is for certain – their sweaters will always be a visual representation of their journey. From the highs of the best designs to the lows of the worst, each jersey tells a story of triumph, defeat, and the unwavering spirit of the Panthers. As fans eagerly await the next chapter in Florida’s jersey history, one thing remains clear – the sweaters and hockey will forever be intertwined in the tapestry of the sport.
