Unveil the Jersey Legacy: 85 Years of Hershey Bears Hockey History

Since its inception in 1938, the Hershey Bears have captivated hockey enthusiasts with their unwavering spirit and distinctive jersey designs. Over the years, the team's jersey has undergone a remarkable evolution, reflecting the changing trends in sports fashion and the team's rich history.

The Inaugural Jersey: A Classic Tradition

The Hershey Bears' first jersey featured a simple yet iconic design. It was predominantly white with thin blue stripes adorning the chest. The words "Hershey Bears" were boldly emblazoned across the chest, with the number 12 on the back, paying homage to the legendary hockey player Dick Sarrazin.

Sporting the Hometown Colors

In the mid-1950s, the Bears embraced their hometown roots by incorporating the iconic chocolate brown color into their jersey design. The new home jersey boasted a rich brown base with white stripes across the chest and sleeves. The away jersey followed a similar pattern, but swapped the brown for white, making the team's connection to the municipality of Hershey unmistakable.

Embracing the National Hockey League (NHL)

When the Hershey Bears joined the NHL in 1985, they underwent a major jersey redesign to align with the league's standards. The new home jersey featured white as the primary color, with blue and brown trim adorning the sleeves, chest, and hem. The classic Hershey Bears logo, depicting a bear holding a hockey stick, was prominently displayed on the chest.

Celebrating 75 Years of Excellence

To mark their 75th anniversary in 2012, the Hershey Bears unveiled a special edition jersey honoring the team's rich heritage. The jersey replicated the inaugural design, complete with the white base and blue stripes. The iconic number 12 was emblazoned on the back, paying tribute to the team's first captain, Dick Sarrazin.

Introducing Alternative Jerseys

As the NHL embraced alternative jersey designs, the Hershey Bears followed suit. In recent years, the team has introduced several eye-catching alternatives, including a vibrant orange jersey featuring a cartoonish bear mascot, a sleek black jersey adorned with silver accents, and even a commemorative jersey celebrating Military Appreciation Night.

The Bears' Jersey Timeline

The Business of Hershey Bears Hockey Jerseys

Hershey Bears hockey jerseys have become a hot commodity among hockey fans and collectors alike. According to Fanatics, the official retailer of NHL merchandise, the Bears are ranked among the top 10 most popular teams in jersey sales. The average price of a Hershey Bears jersey is around $150, with some limited-edition and signed jerseys fetching significantly higher prices.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Hershey Bears Jersey

When selecting a Hershey Bears jersey, there are several factors to consider:

• Fit: Choose a jersey that fits comfortably and allows for freedom of movement.
• Style: Consider the various jersey designs available, including home, away, and alternative jerseys.
• Player: If you have a favorite Bears player, look for a jersey with their name and number.
• Customization: Many retailers offer jersey customization options, allowing you to add your own name or a special message.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the most popular Hershey Bears jersey design?
A: The home jersey with the white base and blue and brown trim remains the most iconic and sought-after design.

Q: How much does a Hershey Bears jersey cost?
A: The average price is around $150, but prices can vary depending on the style, availability, and size.

Q: Can I customize a Hershey Bears jersey?
A: Yes, many retailers offer customization options, such as adding a name or a special message.