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Attending a hockey game is a thrilling experience. The fast-paced action, roaring fans, and the buzz of live sports make it unforgettable. However, one thing that might catch newcomers and even seasoned fans off guard is how cold it can be inside ice hockey arenas.
Before heading out to the hockey game, you must be prepared for the ice conditions so you can enjoy every moment without shivering. Let’s explore why hockey arenas are cold, what to expect and how to dress for maximum comfort.
Hockey is played on hard ice, so keeping the hockey rink ice in prime condition requires a cold environment. Typically, professional and recreational hockey arena temperatures range from 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 15.5°C), though this can vary depending on several factors:
Ice Quality: The ice must stay hard and smooth for the game’s speed and flow. If the air temperature is too warm, the ice can become slushy or soft, negatively affecting play.
Humidity Control: Cold air helps manage humidity in the ice rink, preventing condensation from forming on the ice, which keeps the playing surface fast and clean in amateur and NHL games.
Crowd Size: A large crowd can slightly warm professional hockey arenas, but it will still be cool enough to keep the ice frozen for an NHL game.
These conditions are optimal for ice hockey games and players but can make it quite chilly for spectators, particularly if seated near the rink.
From Seasonal Pastime to Major Sport: Opened in London in 1876, the Glaciarium was the first rink with artificial ice. The development of refrigerated ice rinks gave rise to ice shows and skating sports, including hockey.
The closer you sit to the ice surface, the colder it will feel. If you have professional hockey game seats in the lower bowl or near the glass, expect to feel the chill more intensely. The temperature range near the ice rink is carefully controlled to maintain the ice, and this cold can creep up into the stands.
Conversely, if you're sitting higher up in the arena or in a luxury suite, the temperature might feel warmer due to heat from the crowd and the building's ventilation system.
The key to staying comfortable at a hockey game is layering your clothing. While the temperature inside the arena isn’t freezing, sitting on a cold bench for hours can make you feel cooler. Here’s a guide to dressing smart for a game, whether you are going to professional or recreational hockey arenas:
Base Layer: Start with a long-sleeve shirt or thermal top to keep your core warm.
Mid Layer: A sweater or hoodie adds warmth and can be removed if you start to feel too warm.
Outer Layer: Personalized hockey hoodies and jackets are good options, especially if you’re sitting close to the ice rinks or attending a game during winter. You can always place them on your lap if you warm up.
Bottoms: Opt for jeans or thicker pants rather than thin fabrics. You can also layer thermal leggings underneath if you’re particularly sensitive to the cold.
Accessories: Don’t forget a hat, gloves, or even a scarf. These small additions can make a big difference in staying cozy, especially if the ice temperature is particularly low.
If you do start to feel cold during the game, you don’t have to endure the chill from the ice rinks for long. Most professional and recreational arenas offer concessions and restroom areas that are significantly warmer than the seating area.
Stepping out for a hot drink, like coffee or hot chocolate, will give you a quick warm-up. Plus, the game's adrenaline and the crowd's energy can often help you forget the cold altogether, especially when there are overhead heaters to help warm the spectators.
Cold Under Pressure: In 1936, the Detroit Red Wings and Montreal Maroons recorded the longest overtime in NHL playoff history. The Red Wings finally prevailed after an overtime length of 116:30. Imagine being in the cold for that long.
Afternoon games might feel slightly warmer than evening games, as arenas may retain some of the day’s residual warmth. However, this can vary depending on the arena and local climate.
Some hockey games are held in outdoor or semi-outdoor venues, especially during special events like the NHL Winter Classic. These NHL games can be significantly colder as you're exposed to the natural elements, so dressing warmly is even more important.
While a hockey arena isn’t ice-cold for spectators, it’s definitely chilly enough to warrant dressing in layers. Whether you are visiting professional or recreational rinks, a bit of preparation can go a long way in making sure you’re comfortable and can focus on the excitement of the hockey game.
At Sports Gear Swag, we have everything you need for your hockey adventures in and out of the rink. From fully customizable hockey jerseys and hockey socks to jackets and hoodies, our selection of personalizeable hockey apparel has something for athletes and fans at all ages, including toddlers!
Next time you head to a hockey match, remember to bundle up, grab a warm drink, and get ready for an unforgettable experience on the ice!