When you think about the most iconic jerseys in all of sports, the Blackhawks’ sweaters are usually at or near the top of any list. The timeless design has been largely unchanged since 1955, echoing the history and status of the Original Six franchise.
But while the red home jerseys and white road jerseys are certainly staples, Chicago has even been among the best when they try to branch out. In 1996, they debuted a sleek black jersey, which was their alternate look until 2009. It was worn by legends like Chris Chelios, Denis Savard, and countless others, becoming as visually iconic as the standard home and road kits. Many thought of it as a way of bridging the gap between the storied past of the Blackhawks and the new era, an era that would see three Stanley Cups come to Chicago (after the black sweaters were phased out).
On Friday morning, the Blackhawks broke the internet with one of the best announcements of the year, paying tribute to not just the franchise, but to Chicago sports as a whole:
If there was ever a season for the Blackhawks to make it happen, it’s during their ongoing centennial campaign.
“The long-awaited black alternate jersey returns this season as we celebrate 100 years of Blackhawks hockey, giving a nod to some of the greatest players to ever wear the sweater. Originally worn by Tony Amonte, Chris Chelios, Eric Daze and Denis Savard in the 1990s-2000s, these jerseys defined an era and became a symbol of the grit, strength, commitment and legacy that still holds true to today’s era of Blackhawks hockey.”
— Danny Wirtz, Blackhawks Chairman and CEO
Chicago will debut the new jerseys on Black Friday next week against the Predators. But this isn’t just a one-time thing for Black Friday like they did a few years back. They’ll be worn seven times this season (in six home games)—next Friday’s game against Nashville, Sunday, Nov. 30 against the Ducks, Jan. 9 against the Capitals, Jan. 23 against the Lightning, Jan. 30 against the Blue Jackets, March 14 at Las Vegas, and March 20 against the Avalanche. They’re also keeping the black jerseys in rotation for the next three seasons (through 2027-28).
The jersey is available for purchase now in the Blackhawks Store on Michigan Avenue and the Madhouse Team Store located at the United Center, or online at CBHShop.com (sold out for now). The Blackhawks are planning “blackout games” on Nov. 28 and Nov. 30.
