In July, the New York Islanders announced a unique opportunity for fans to design the team’s next third jersey. This move suggested that fans would have less room to criticize the design since they would be the architects of its success or failure.
But as the team revealed the eight finalists, it became clear that social media users were unimpressed with the options. Although none of the designs were glaringly bad, none stood out as remarkable either.
Among the final choices, one design—a navy jersey with the ‘ISLANDERS’ wordmark and a chest stripe—seemed more appealing to some, though opinions varied widely.
The Islanders’ history with third jerseys has been less than stellar. Previous designs were used from 2011 to 2014, yet many fans may not even remember them. The current fan-design process featured an innovative tool from the team, although it appears the end results did not live up to expectations.
Some fans, who may have had their submissions rejected, voiced their disappointment on social media about the selected designs, some of which resembled past NHL jerseys, like the Edmonton Oilers’ old orange jerseys.
Despite unenthusiastic reviews, one of these eight designs will soon make its debut on the ice. Considering the strong appearance of the Islanders’ home and away jerseys, the necessity of a third jersey is debatable.
The winning jersey from this contest will premiere next season, offering its designer a “VIP gameday experience” as a reward.