Winter Classic - King of Retro

In just about an hour the sports world will be treated to not only the first official NHL game played outdoors in the US, but also the ultimate retro event. How retro? King of retro - it seems no stone has been left unturned when it comes to making this game look "old".

Jerseys
As was reveiled months ago the Penguins will be wearing their light blue jerseys which they wore between 1968-73, the only difference being that they are using their current number font. The Sabres are wearing their original white jerseys which were in use between 1978 (when the patches were added to the shoulders) and 1996 (when they changed everything). In addition to wearing the old jerseys they are also using the old system of white at home and dark for the away team.

The jerseys themselves are actually using the Rbk Edge templates, however they are the new "Edge 2" design, which apparently makes some changes to the fabrics used in certain parts. This is the first time these will be used in a game and whether it is Reebok's intention to expand this to the rest of the league remains to be seen.

Pittsburgh is apparently so pleased with the blue jerseys that they plan on appealing to the league to officially adopt them as an alternate jersey for next season.

Goalie Pads
Dany Sabourin, although not scheduled to start, has some mighty cool retro looking Sher-Wood pads and gloves. Complete with the old waffleboard style blocker. Larger images can be found here. It's too bad nobody has them, nor have any of the goalies gone with the old fibreglass style masks. (Although one can understand the decision not to.)

Sticks
According the the Penguins website in an article here, some players will actually be using "retro-looking" sticks. They haven't been unveiled yet, but are apparently the same carbon composite sticks designed to look as if they are all wood. Talk about taking things seriously. Hopefully we'll get some close up shots of these during or after the game.

In addition to all the hype and sideshow stuff surrounding the gear, there will in fact be a hockey game. If you aren't fortunate enough to be able to watch it, and in the case of this game it's definitely something that needs to be seen, you can always listen to it via NHL Game Radio where all NHL games are available live here.