Stitch by Stitch: The Top Hockey Sweaters of All Time

What makes up a great hockey sweater? Like most other subjects, it's usually a matter of opinion. Sometimes, though, you can just look at a uniform (in any sport, for that matter) and think, "Maaannn, that thang is sharp-lookin'." Overall layout, color scheme, logos, and an enduring/classic design: I believe these are all factors that go into a solid hockey sweater. My picks for the top ten are below. What are your favorites?

10. Detroit Red Wings

Being from Chicago, it's hard to include your arch rivals' threads on this list, but there's no denying the appeal of the winged-wheel.  The red and white combo are reminiscent of the ever-feared Soviet national team.

9.  Colorado Avalanche

The most recent jersey on this list (in terms of conception), Colorado's integration of the avalanche swoop into the "A" looks very clean - as does the entire top.  I really like the Yeti foot logo on the shoulders, too. 

8. Buffalo Sabres

Luckily, for fans and players alike, the Buffalo organization decided to banish the nasty buffalo-slug jerseys that haunted the public for years prior. The Sabres current uni's features a classic crossed-swords logo...not to mention neck string ties (always a nice addition).

7. Boston Bruins

The color combination and horizontal stripes really work well together here. The look represents intimidation. Just the thought of this guy skating towards you in a Bruins sweater is enough to make anyone ride the bench.

6. Montreal Canadiens

You may notice a number of Original Six jerseys on this list, and that's no mistake. These are timeless, classic, and all-in-all simplistic looks that define hockey. The Habs "C" with basic blue accents is a great example of this notion.

5. Minnesota North Stars

A sports team with green and yellow colors: most would proably guess these guys. I think this combination also suites Wisconsin's neighbor to the west (before the team headed south, that is). The North Stars' logo is unmistakable and it's ultimately one of my favorites.

4.  Toronto Maple Leafs

Once again, very simple, but very effective.  The maple leaf logo has hardly changed at all over time, and the navy blue color is oh-so sharp.  Toronto's alternate white jersey is also pretty swell. 

3. Hartford Whalers

Upon closer examination, you will notice an "H" incorporated within the already stellar-looking "W" whale tale. This design is subtly ingenious. The Whalers uniforms did a great job of reflecting the northeastern atlantic region the team occupied.

2. 1980 USA Olympic Team

This sweater will always be linked with the greatest moment in sports historty and that's what makes it special. Just watch.

1. Chicago Blackhawks

In my humble (and somewhat bias) opinion, this is definitely the best hockey sweater of all time. The Indian head logo has so many intricate details, yet works as a whole; the crossed-tomahawks "C" shoulder patch is an excellent touch; the red color combines perfectly with the black/white horizontal stripes. All of these factors put the Hawks' jersey above the rest. It is beautiful and enduring.