"We are extremely excited to unveil our third jersey and uniform system to Bolts Nation tonight," Lightning chief executive officer Steve Griggs said. "As an organization, we saw the third jersey as an opportunity to grow our brand by evolving from our traditional, classic blue and white uniform system into one that is unique, youthful and innovative."
The new jersey concept began with an open survey for all fans nearly two years ago. Over 30,000 fans participated, and the results heavily favored a return to black, one of the original colors of the 26-year-old franchise. The results also showed a strong inclination toward the use of silver and gray. Gray has been used in both of the Lightning's previous third jersey concepts. Further, while the Lightning has become synonymous with the name Bolts, there was significant feedback indicating fans wanted the current primary logo to be featured on the new third jersey.
"The Lightning are always looking to develop new fans, especially at the grass roots level," Lightning chief marketing and revenue officer Jarrod Dillon said. "That is evidenced by our deep commitment to community hockey, live public events and more. We feel this new third jersey and uniform system provides us a great opportunity to connect with a much larger, younger demographic."
The new jersey was designed both internally and in collaboration with adidas. The jersey features a unique design element inspired by the rain in storms. This marks one of the very few times a fashion element has been integrated into a sports team jersey.
In addition to the new jersey, the team also launched a full retail line to include shirts, shoes, hats, skateboards and many other lifestyle items. All products will be available at TampaBaySports.com and the Tampa Bay Sports stores located at AMALIE Arena, International Plaza and Tampa International Airport.
"This unique and innovative jersey and corresponding retail line is likened to adidas' Primeknit design," senior vice president of event management Kevin Preast said. "The most unique aspect of the new jersey and system is the sublimation featured on the sleeves and socks. It is unlike anything seen previously in a sports jersey, creating a gradient look without the use of multiple colors. Today we launch more than just a jersey, it is a complete lifestyle retail line, complete with hats, shirts, shoes, socks, flags, cups and more. We look forward to blacking out Tampa Bay."
At the forefront of innovation, design and craftsmanship, the adidas ADIZERO Authentic Pro jersey takes the hockey jersey silhouette to the next level by redefining fit, feel and lightweight construction. The adidas ADIZERO Authentic Pro jersey is lighter, cooler and stronger, featuring ADIZERO lightweight cresting and twill numbers, adidas Clima® technology and Aeroknit detailing, the platinum NHL Shield and an interior fight strap.
"The Lightning-adidas relationship is a natural fit since both teams are committed to bringing unique products and experiences to the fan that are deep in narrative using storytelling to showcase the energy of both brands and the shared excitement of the sport," adidas director of NHL relations Nic Corbett said. "As a forward-thinking organization, the Lightning leadership has recognized the importance and value of embracing a non-traditional approach to hockey. That approach provides value to the fan and their partners."
