In the world of hockey, there is a special bond between sweaters and the sport itself, dating back to the earliest days of the game. Teams have long been recognized by their iconic colors and patterns, some classic and timeless, while others are just plain awful. This summer, our annual series delves into the best and worst sweaters in each team’s history, exploring the iconic jerseys that have left a lasting impact on the world of hockey.
Today, we turn our attention to the Calgary Flames, a team whose sweaters have become synonymous with passion and pride. The Flames’ red jerseys are truly iconic, a symbol of the team’s roots in Atlanta. The decision to retain the name and color scheme when moving to Calgary was a stroke of genius, with the team opting for a bold “C” to represent their new home. These sweaters have stood the test of time, remaining a staple of the franchise for decades.
From 1980 until 1995-96, the Flames proudly sported these iconic red jerseys. They made a triumphant return for the team’s 30th anniversary in Calgary in 2009-10, and have since become a beloved part of the team’s identity. With only minor changes over the years, these jerseys have been worn during some of the Flames’ most historic moments, including their Stanley Cup victory. To fans, mention of the Calgary Flames immediately conjures images of those classic red sweaters.
Of course, not every sweater in the Flames’ history has been met with universal acclaim. Some may remember the divisive “Blasty” jersey, featuring a horse crest on a black background, introduced as an alternate in 1998. While this jersey may not have been to everyone’s taste, the striking imagery of Blasty has become ingrained in Flames lore. Despite its retirement in 2005-06, Blasty made a brief comeback as a shoulder crest in 2006-07, and reappeared in the 2021 Reverse Retro, delighting fans with its nostalgic charm.
In the world of hockey fashion, the Calgary Flames have certainly made their mark with a diverse repertoire of sweaters, from the iconic red jerseys to the polarizing Blasty design. These jerseys are more than just clothing ā they are symbols of team spirit, history, and tradition, embodying the passion and pride of Flames fans everywhere. As we celebrate the best and worst sweaters in Flames history, we are reminded of the enduring legacy of these iconic jerseys and their place in the rich tapestry of hockey lore.
