New York Islanders Fan-Designed Third Jersey Contest Faces Criticism

In July, the New York Islanders invited their fans to design the team’s next third jersey. The idea was that fans might not criticize the design if they played a part in creating it. However, the reaction has not been as positive as anticipated.

The team recently revealed eight jersey finalists, which will compete in a bracket to determine the winner. Social media feedback has been largely negative, with no design standing out as a crowd favorite.

While none of the designs are particularly offensive, none have excited the fanbase. Personally, if forced to choose, I would opt for the navy jersey featuring the “ISLANDERS” wordmark and a chest stripe. I appreciate a classic chest stripe design.

The Islander’s third jersey history hasn’t been remarkable. Jerseys used between 2011 and 2014 can attest to that. Still, credit goes to the team for trying something new.

The design tool for this contest was well-received, despite the underwhelming final designs. Even I submitted a design that I felt was impressive, but it didn’t make the final cut.

One of the finalists closely resembles the Edmonton Oilers’ old orange jerseys. Many NHL fans, likely disappointed that their creations were rejected, expressed their dissatisfaction with the finalists on social media.

Despite the lukewarm reception, one of these jerseys will eventually hit the ice. Given how strong their home and away jerseys are, it raises the question of whether the Islanders need a third jersey at all.

The original announcement from the team stated that the winning design will debut next season. The designer of the winning jersey will enjoy a “VIP gameday experience.”