Hockey and heavy metal have long been intertwined. Last year, during their ill-fated Stanley Cup Finals run against the Pittsburgh Penguins, the San Jose Sharks enlisted Metallica to perform the national anthem prior to Game 4 at the SAP Arena. A few seasons earlier, a Washington Capitals beat writer opined that Philadelphia Flyers fans -- specifically women and children -- looked, "as if they could work security for Megadeth," leading frontman Dave Mustaine to record a video message where he welcomed them to do just that. And this past March, the New Jersey Devils promoted a "Rock the Rock Night" with a poster that paid homage to Metallica, Kiss, Black Flag and Quiet Riot.
Now, with this year's NHL playoffs in full-swing -- and the majority of hockey fans celebrating last night's second round ousting of the New York Rangers courtesy of the Ottawa Senators -- boutique apparel company Puck Hcky has added a couple of hard-hitting artists to its lineup of heavy metal-themed hockey jerseys. Thrash acts Testament and Overkill have joined Misfits guitarist Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein, All Hail the Yeti, 36 Crazyfists, Hed PE and Snoop Dogg in lending their logos to the brand.
"Metal and hockey, Overkill and Puck Hcky -- sounds like someone is about to be checked into the boards!" says Overkill frontman Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth in a statement. "Overkill proudly announces a new signing, and that would be our 'In Union We Skate' partnership with Puck Hcky, where we will be presenting jerseys, hats and other fine gear fit for the ice and the pit! Metallic hockey street-wear. So let's drop the puck and stand 'em up at the blue line... Ooooooooooh, now that's got to hurt!"
The New Jersey natives are offering their jerseys in three styles; obviously one with a Devils theme, a green one with an Overkill crest and, dishearteningly, one with Rangers colors. The Testament line, dubbed "Brotherhood of The Skate," a nod to their latest album Brotherhood of the Snake, features sweaters in the colors of fellow Bay Area dwellers and favorite team San Jose Sharks), as well as jerseys in colors from the Original Six teams: Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, Montreal Canadiens, Detroit Red Wings, Toronto Maple Leafs and the Rangers.
"Testament have teamed up with Puck Hcky to produce a collection of hockey jerseys for the fans!" says singer Chuck Billy in a statement. "Our collaboration with Puck Hcky is cleverly named 'Brotherhood Of The Skate.' Playoffs are in full swing so get your Testament jersey and represent your team."
The jerseys are all pro-series weight, custom-made sewn-on twill chest design, custom-made embroidered patches on chest and arm, double shoulders and double elbows. Prices range from $89.99 to $159.99 with turnaround time being about 10 days. Check out the slideshow below for some of our favorite designs.
