Why Are Hockey Pants Called Breezers?

Step onto the ice rink and into the world of hockey, as we unravel the intriguing history behind the peculiar nickname “breezers” for the essential piece of equipment: hockey pants.

Why Are Hockey Pants Called Breezers?

The nickname “breezers” for hockey pants stems from their loose and breathable design, providing players with ample ventilation during intense physical activity on the ice. The term is widely accepted to have originated in Minnesota.

Why Are Hockey Pants Called Breezers?

The moniker “breezers” used for hockey pants originates from their relaxed and airy construction, affording players generous airflow while engaging in demanding physical maneuvers on the ice.

Breezers are especially breezy when compared to full-leg disigns such as Cooperalls and tight-fit designs such as girdles.

The term “breezer” is believed to have been coined by a old hockey manufacturer in Minnesota, one that’s no longer around, because the term is heavily used in the state and surrounding areas. However, the precise etymology remains a subject of debate and speculation.

What Are The Metal Buttons On Hockey Pants For?

The metal buttons that are commonly found on hockey pants serve a practical purpose: they are designed to accommodate suspenders.

Suspenders, also known as braces, are straps that go over the shoulders and attach to the pants, helping to keep them securely in place during the fast-paced and physically demanding gameplay of ice hockey.

Hockey players often engage in rapid movements, including skating, quick turns, and sudden stops. These movements can cause regular pants to shift and slide down, leading to discomfort and distraction.

To address this issue, hockey pants are equipped with metal buttons strategically positioned around the waist area. These buttons provide anchor points for the suspenders to attach to, effectively preventing the pants from sagging or slipping down as players maneuver on the ice.

The choice to use suspenders rather than a traditional belt is rooted in the dynamic nature of the sport. A belt might not provide the same level of secure support during the rapid movements and physical contact that are inherent to ice hockey.

Suspenders distribute the tension evenly over the shoulders and waist, allowing for a light and consistent fit that doesn’t hinder a player’s agility or movement.

In essence, these metal buttons on hockey pants are a functional detail that speaks to the sport’s unique demands. By providing an option for players to use suspenders, hockey pants manufacturers ensure that athletes can focus on their performance without having to constantly adjust their clothing.

It’s a small yet crucial design feature that contributes to the overall comfort and functionality of a hockey player’s gear ensemble, ultimately enhancing their ability to excel on the ice.

Do Hockey Pants Protect The Tailbone?

Hockey pants are designed to provide protection to the tailbone.

The pants typically feature padding and reinforced materials in the lower back area, including the tailbone region, to minimize the risk of injury from falls, collisions, and impacts during the fast-paced and physically demanding gameplay of ice hockey.

However, while hockey pants are designed to offer protection to the tailbone, it’s important to note that they may not entirely eliminate the discomfort or potential for injury from falls.

Despite the padding and reinforced materials incorporated into these pants, the tailbone remains a sensitive area that can still experience impact and discomfort when subjected to forceful collisions or falls on the ice.

Hockey is a physically demanding sport, and even with the best protective gear, players are still susceptible to experiencing some level of pain or discomfort from impacts to sensitive areas like the tailbone.

What Do Hockey Players Wear Under Their Hockey Pants?

Hockey players commonly wear protective equipment known as a “cup” under their hockey pants.

The cup is designed to provide essential protection to the groin area, safeguarding sensitive parts of the body from potential impacts, collisions, and stray pucks. The cup is typically made of a hard shell on the outside, often composed of plastic or composite materials, and a cushioned inner lining that offers additional comfort and shock absorption.

These cups are worn in combination with either hockey jock pant or traditional jock strap, both of which serve to securely hold the cup in place during intense gameplay.

1. Hockey Jock Pant
   • Many modern hockey players opt for the convenience and comfort of hockey jock pants. These specialized undergarments are designed to incorporate a pocket or pouch that securely holds the protective cup in position.
     • Hockey jock pants provide a streamlined and snug fit, ensuring that the cup stays in place even during rapid movements, skating, and physical contact. The pants often feature moisture-wicking materials that keep players dry and comfortable throughout the game.
2. Traditional Jockstrap
   • Some players still choose to wear traditional jock straps, which consist of an elastic waistband and leg straps that provide support and hold the protective cup in place.
     • The cup is usually inserted into a pouch on the front of the jock strap, and the straps are adjusted to achieve a secure fit. While not as comprehensive as hockey jock pants in terms of coverage, traditional jock straps still effectively keep the cup in position and offer an additional layer of protection.

The cup is an essential component of a hockey player’s gear ensemble, ensuring that they can confidently engage in the physically demanding and fast-paced nature of the sport without the constant worry of injury to the groin region.

By providing this vital protection, the cup allows players to focus on their performance, maintain their agility, and engage in the game without compromising their safety. It’s a fundamental piece of equipment that exemplifies the sport’s commitment to player safety and the need for comprehensive protective gear.