(This is a new segment I plan on doing weekly where I cover a lighter topic to keep my sanity and yours)
As the offseason comes to an end I’m left wondering, do I have the right Wild gear for the upcoming season? If you’re having the same issue here’s my list on what you should get and why.
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One of the dilemmas of the offseason for a super fan is figuring out how to stock up their gear for the next season. It’s a curse for sure that most people don’t understand…ask my family. Lots of searches through eBay or the NHL.com shop, but little buying because we all know that if you hit “Complete Order” your bank account could be dealt a mortal blow in the name of Minnesota Wild fandom.
So what’s the key though? Where’s the happy medium? What’s the right mix of fan gear, and what’s the stuff a Wild fan really needs for the upcoming season? I’m sure you have your idea, but let me grace you with my acquisitions, as well as my desires to be ready to meet the demands of repping the Wild in and out of my domicile.
1) A Jersey – You’ve got to have at least one. I’m a big fan of a few, but for me it’s all about my new Stadium Series Suter jersey. They’ve started to come down on price a bit, and it’s really one of those sweaters that is coolio in all the sense of the word. The State of Hockey logo and larger sleeve numbers makes it hugely different than its peers. Sure there’s no tie-up, but sometimes that can just be annoying anyway.
When picking a player though if you go personalized make sure to get one who’s gonna be with the Wild for a while. Parise and Suter are a good bet because of their monster contracts. If you don’t like them then get a player you’ll still want to wear even if they depart the team, or just go blank and save some money. DO NOT try to squeeze a player name on a sweater you know they didn’t ever wear. Example do not make Boogaard out of the current white road jersey, people see through that stunt.
2) A Jersey T-Shirt – The lower cost brother of the jersey is a must for any fan. You can’t always rock the jersey. After all, when making a $150.00 plus investment in a jersey you can’t just take it anywhere. Not to mention buying multiple jersey ts makes it to where if a player leaves or just plain starts to suck, you can jettision that thing quickly. I’m also a fan of just having a short-sleeve option for times when it’s just too hot for the jersey.
3) A Ballcap – Okay some of you don’t need a hat…I get it, but if you’re folliclely challenged like myself a good ball cap is a necessity. Might I recommend any of the franchise hats from 47’ Brand. It’s a simple and non-structured hat that conforms to the contours of your noggin. Basically go for the slouch style of hat, more comfy and a bit more on the stylish side.
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4) A Touque – It can get cold out there! You need something to warm your squash while repping the Wild and a good Touque can be it. How can you be expected to shovel the driveway without some cool Wild gear? Go for the classic look with the fuzzy pom on top…it’s about going all in ya know. (Disclaimer: If you call it a beanie sorry I’ve listened to the Mackenzie Brothers album way too much.)
5) A Hoodie – Nothing says warm and lounging like a good hoodie. So why not get one in green or red with a sweet Wild logo? I wouldn’t waste my time with the jersey hoodies, they are too expensive and like a jersey you’ll just stain avoid in em all day. Get a simple logo type hoodie and move on. You can sit in that thing all day, or multiple days depending on your social schedule.
Next: Camp is a Tryout for Every Wild Player
Okay so that wraps up the gear talk for now. I’m sure there will be more as my insatiable appetite for Wild stuff knows no end. Hope you enjoyed it though and I gave to a little direction on where to go this season. So now go forth and raid the NHL store, or run to your nearest Hockey Lodge!