Shoutout to the "Broken Up" Equipment Combos in the NHL

In the fast-paced, ultra-competitive world of the NHL, every detail matters. From diet, training, to pregame rituals, and of course, equipment. It’s no secret that most players in the league are paid to use the gear they wear on the ice. Big-name athletes secure endorsement deals that often align them with a single brand across their entire setup: stick, gloves, helmet, pants, and skates. These deals can be lucrative, and for the stars of the game, the more unified their gear, we can assume the bigger the paycheck. But even in a league driven by business and brand loyalty, a few players continue to buck the trend, choosing comfort and performance over financial gain.

Take Mikko Rantanen of the Dallas Stars, for example. Widely recognized as one of the premier players in the world, Rantanen is a unique case. Despite likely receiving compensation from Bauer to use their sticks and skates, he opts for CCM gloves, helmet, and pants. This “broken up” combination is probably not the most financially strategic choice. Surely, a full-head-to-toe deal with either Bauer or CCM would net him a higher endorsement deal. But for Rantanen, the priority seems clear, and that’s to go with what feels best, regardless of brand uniformity.

Gabriel Vilardi of the Winnipeg Jets is another notable example. Similar to Rantanen, Vilardi chooses Bauer for his sticks and skates but leans on CCM for the rest of his gear. It’s a choice that’s clearly rooted in familiarity and personal comfort. While many players eventually transition to a full-brand setup that is often prompted by new contracts, better financial incentives, or team equipment deals. Vilardi continues to trust his instincts, even if it means sacrificing some off-ice revenue.

Then there’s Jeff Skinner, who has long been loyal to his Warrior stick, despite remaining with CCM for both his gloves and helmet. This blend of preferences speaks to a player who has developed deep trust in the specific feel and performance of certain products. Switching to a new stick or glove can feel like changing your shot or puck-handling abilities at times. So for professionals whose careers depend on consistency, that’s a risk they may not be willing to take.

What makes these choices even more intriguing is the rarity of such setups at the top level. The vast majority of players in the NHL, particularly those with recognizable names and high-profile contracts, wear matching brand gear from head to toe, with the possible exception of skates. Skates are often the one area where players might be granted leeway, even under an endorsement deal, simply because the fit and performance of skates are so personal and critical to performance.

However, cases like Rantanen, Vilardi, and Skinner highlight how particular players can be when it comes to their gear. These aren't rookies or fringe players trying to figure things out, these are established NHL talents with the leverage to choose comfort and performance over brand loyalty.

Ultimately, these choices underscore the deeply personal relationship players have with their equipment. In a game where a fraction of a second can make all the difference, every detail counts. And for some NHLers, sticking with a mixed-brand setup is just what it takes to feel at home on the ice. Even if it means leaving a bit of money on the table.

Photo Credit: Jonathan Kozub