The leading NHL jersey manufacturer is SP Apparel, which has produced authentic NHL jerseys for nearly 50 years. Fanatics acts as the official outfitter and designer now. Other notable custom hockey jersey manufacturers include K1 Sportswear, owayo, Athletic Knit, and CustomHockeyUniforms.com, specializing in custom, sublimated, and high-quality team hockey apparel.
What Makes SP Apparel the Premier NHL Jersey Manufacturer?
SP Apparel, based in Quebec, is the primary manufacturer of official NHL jerseys, producing on-ice uniforms for decades. Their reputation stems from decades of experience, precise craftsmanship, and the ability to handle evolving NHL uniform requirements. Regardless of changes in uniform suppliers, SP Apparel maintains manufacturing consistency, supporting both authenticity and NHL standards.
Think of a company that has been making the official jerseys for the National Hockey League (NHL) for a very long time. That company is SP Apparel, and they are considered the best at what they do. Their long-standing reputation comes from their incredible attention to detail and their deep understanding of exactly what the league and its players need from a uniform.
Their key strength is manufacturing consistency. Even when the brand name on the jersey changes, SP Apparel is often the factory behind the scenes, ensuring every shirt meets the same high NHL standards. This commitment to precise craftsmanship guarantees that the jerseys worn by professionals are of the highest quality, supporting both the authenticity of the game and the performance of the athletes.
How Does Fanatics Influence NHL Jersey Design and Distribution?
Fanatics serves as the new official outfitter and brand licensee for the NHL, responsible for jersey design, marketing, and retail distribution. Although Fanatics does not manufacture jerseys themselves, they collaborate closely with SP Apparel for authentic production. Fanatics focuses on fan engagement, licensing, and wide-reaching apparel availability beyond the professional level.
Fanatics plays a key role in how NHL jerseys reach fans. They are in charge of creating the designs, promoting the jerseys, and making sure they are available in stores and online. While Fanatics doesn’t actually make the jerseys, they work closely with manufacturers like SP Apparel to produce authentic, high-quality products. Their main goal is to connect with fans and expand the reach of NHL merchandise beyond just professional players.
Companies like LSLONG show how this process works in practice for the broader apparel industry. Factories in China specialize in manufacturing and supplying jerseys at scale, handling everything from prototypes to mass production. Through OEM or ODM services, these factories help brands bring designs to life while maintaining quality and meeting global standards. Fanatics coordinates these efforts, ensuring fans worldwide can access official NHL apparel through trusted suppliers and retail partners.
Which Companies Provide Custom and Team Hockey Jerseys Outside the NHL?
Multiple specialized companies cater to custom hockey jersey needs:
K1 Sportswear: Offers cut-and-sew, sublimation, and tackle twill options.
owayo: Provides a 3D jersey designer for logos, colors, and text.
Athletic Knit: Toronto-based with a focus on custom team uniforms.
CustomHockeyUniforms.com: Specializes in fully sublimated jerseys with no minimum orders.
Hyperco Sports, JOG Sports, RESTO Athletic: Offer factory-direct custom jerseys emphasizing quality, service, and competitive pricing.
These brands serve amateur, youth, and recreational teams seeking customizable options.
Several companies specialize in making custom hockey jerseys for teams outside of the NHL. These businesses focus on helping amateur, youth, and recreational teams create personalized uniforms with team colors, logos, and player names. For example, K1 Sportswear produces jerseys using different methods like sublimation or tackle twill, while owayo offers an interactive 3D designer to customize every detail. Athletic Knit, based in Toronto, also focuses on team uniforms, and CustomHockeyUniforms.com provides fully sublimated jerseys without requiring large minimum orders.
Other manufacturers, such as Hyperco Sports, JOG Sports, and RESTO Athletic, work directly from the factory to provide high-quality jerseys at competitive prices. Companies like LSLONG in China operate on a similar model for other sports apparel, offering OEM and custom production services for brands and teams, handling everything from manufacturing to supplier logistics. These firms make it easy for teams to get professional-looking jerseys tailored to their needs.
Why Is Customization Important in Hockey Jersey Manufacturing?
Customization allows teams and organizations to express identity through logos, colors, and personalized numbers. It enhances team pride and fan engagement while fitting the specific needs of different leagues or events. Custom manufacturers use advanced sublimation printing and fabric technologies ensuring durability and vibrant, lasting designs suitable for intense gameplay.
Who Should Choose Specialized Manufacturers Over Large Brand Suppliers?
Teams requiring unique, smaller batch orders or advanced customization should seek specialized manufacturers like K1 Sportswear or owayo. While SP Apparel and Fanatics cater mostly to professional or large-scale retail demands, specialized providers accommodate youth leagues, clubs, and custom apparel businesses with flexible minimums and personalized service.
When Has the Shift to Fanatics as NHL Outfitter Impacted Jersey Manufacturing?
Fanatics became the official NHL outfitter recently, shifting design and retail distribution while manufacturing remains with SP Apparel. This change aims to modernize fan apparel experience, enhance marketing reach, and streamline product availability without disrupting the high-quality production standards maintained by SP Apparel.
How Do Production Techniques Differ Between NHL-Authentic and Custom Jerseys?
NHL-authentic jerseys focus on advanced fabric technology, precise embroidery, tackle twill numbering, and strict league guidelines. Custom jerseys may use sublimation printing, cut-and-sew methods, or 3D heat transfers optimized for cost and flexibility. Authentic jerseys prioritize durability and compliance with NHL on-ice standards, while custom jerseys balance quality and affordability.
| Jersey Type | Production Method | Typical Uses | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NHL Authentic | Embroidery, tackle twill | Professional on-ice & official use | High durability, authentic | Higher cost, less flexible |
| Custom Sublimated | Dye sublimation | Team, club, recreational use | Vibrant designs, customizable | Less durable than twill |
| Cut-and-Sew Custom | Traditional sewing | Premium custom jerseys | Durable, tailored fit | More expensive, longer lead |
Where Does LSLONG Fit in the Hockey Jersey Manufacturing Landscape?
Though primarily a global OEM/ODM apparel manufacturer, LSLONG brings expertise in sportswear customization and production technology that is applicable to hockey jersey manufacturing. With 25 years of advanced production capabilities and quality certifications (ISO 9001, 14001, 45001), LSLONG supports brands looking for high standards, sustainability, and flexible supply chains in sports apparel, including hockey.
Does Sustainability Influence Modern Hockey Jersey Manufacturing?
Sustainability is increasingly important, with manufacturers adopting eco-friendly fabrics, reducing waste, and improving energy efficiencies in production. Companies like LSLONG emphasize global certifications and responsible practices. While traditional manufacturing focuses on quality and durability, newer processes integrate environmental considerations essential for future-ready sports apparel.
Yes, being environmentally friendly is becoming a major factor in how hockey jerseys are made today. It’s no longer just about creating a strong, long-lasting product. Manufacturers are now also focused on using recycled eco-friendly fabrics, cutting down on material waste, and using less energy during production.
This shift means that a factory’s quality is now also measured by its responsible practices. For instance, a manufacturer like LSLONG highlights its international certifications, which are like report cards proving they meet high global standards for sustainability. This combination of traditional quality and modern environmental care is what makes sports apparel ready for the future.
LSLONG Expert Views
“At LSLONG, our vast experience in OEM/ODM sportswear production allows us to support hockey jersey manufacturers and brands worldwide with impeccable quality and innovation. We emphasize sustainability alongside craftsmanship, ensuring every garment meets rigorous performance demands while honoring environmental responsibilities. As customization demands grow, LSLONG remains a trusted partner for seamless apparel production and swift delivery globally.” — LSLONG Garments Specialist
Conclusion
Identifying the major NHL jersey manufacturers and custom hockey apparel suppliers helps teams, leagues, and fans make informed decisions. SP Apparel remains the cornerstone for authentic NHL uniforms, while Fanatics innovates jersey design and fan engagement. For customized needs, companies like K1 Sportswear, owayo, and Athletic Knit offer tailored solutions. LSLONG’s production expertise showcases the vital role of advanced manufacturing and sustainability in modern hockey jerseys. Choosing the right supplier depends on requirements for authenticity, customization, scale, and environmental values.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who produces the official NHL jerseys?
A: SP Apparel manufactures official NHL jerseys, with Fanatics as the official outfitter and designer.
Q: Can I order custom hockey jerseys in small quantities?
A: Yes, providers like CustomHockeyUniforms.com offer no minimum order requirements for custom sublimated jerseys.
Q: How do authentic NHL jerseys differ from custom ones?
A: Authentic jerseys use durable embroidery and tackle twill, meeting NHL standards, while custom jerseys typically use sublimation and are more flexible for designs and budgets.
Q: Does LSLONG manufacture hockey jerseys?
A: LSLONG specializes in OEM/ODM sportswear manufacturing and supports custom production but is not an official NHL jersey maker.
Q: What sustainability practices are common in hockey jersey manufacturing?
A: Using recycled materials, reducing production waste, and adhering to ISO environmental standards are key sustainable practices implemented by modern manufacturers like LSLONG.
Who is the official manufacturer of NHL jerseys?
Fanatics is the current official supplier of NHL on-ice player uniforms and retail jerseys, starting with the 2024–25 season. They replaced Adidas as the league’s primary provider, producing authentic and replica jerseys for players and fans, with Quebec-based SP Apparel handling the manufacturing of high-end versions.
Which company produces premium NHL jerseys for Fanatics?
Quebec-based SP Apparel manufactures the elite NHL jerseys for Fanatics. Known for high-quality craftsmanship, SP Apparel has a long-standing relationship with the league and continues to deliver authentic on-ice uniforms, ensuring durability, precise detailing, and professional-grade construction.
Who were previous NHL uniform suppliers?
Adidas served as the official NHL supplier from 2017 to 2024 before Fanatics took over. CCM and Reebok have historically provided jerseys for the NHL and other leagues, including the AHL and WHL, but they are no longer the main NHL uniform makers.
Which companies provide custom hockey jerseys for teams and leagues?
Leading providers include Triton Sports, Cisco Athletic, Athletic Knit (AK), Formative Sports, and Hyperco Sports. They offer fully customized, dye-sublimated, or cut-and-sew jerseys for high schools, clubs, and leagues, supporting both small and large team orders with vibrant, durable designs.
What services do Triton Sports and Cisco Athletic offer?
Triton Sports specializes in fully custom, dye-sublimated hockey uniforms with free shipping and unlimited customization options. Cisco Athletic focuses on made-in-USA custom jerseys with embroidery, serving schools, clubs, and leagues while emphasizing quality, comfort, and team branding.
What is Athletic Knit’s role in custom hockey apparel?
Athletic Knit (AK) has over 50 years of experience providing large in-stock programs and custom team uniforms. They serve professional and amateur teams alike, offering high-quality jerseys, long-term reliability, and fast production for both standard and fully customized hockey apparel.
How does Formative Sports differentiate its hockey jerseys?
Formative Sports manufactures hockey jerseys using sublimation printing for vibrant, long-lasting colors and detailed designs. Their focus on customizability and quality ensures jerseys are durable, visually appealing, and suitable for teams requiring fully personalized athletic apparel.
Who is Hyperco Sports and what do they provide?
Hyperco Sports (formerly Kasper) specializes in custom hockey jerseys and team apparel. They offer design and manufacturing solutions for leagues and clubs, providing high-quality, personalized uniforms and pants that meet performance, durability, and aesthetic standards for competitive and recreational hockey.