It’s a question that plagues hockey fans all across the world: is it really cold in a hockey arena?
The temperature can vary significantly from game to game, but can be generally cold especially towards the end of the season. Even when the mercury is on the rise, the atmosphere can quickly turn chilly. That might be what you want on a balmy Summer’s day, but in the dead of Winter, it can definitely feel less inviting.
Is it really that bad? Are you standing there shivering every time the referee blows his whistle?
You might be surprised to hear that there are ways to stay warm in a hockey stadium even when the climate is harsh. You might even find that the atmosphere in a hockey rink, as uncomfortable as it can be, is actually a lot more comfortable than you think. Let’s take a look at a few easy ways to stay warm in NHL arenas this winter.
Table of Contents
Carry An Icicle In Your Hand
While you might not want to carry an iced coffee into an arena, you can always bring an iced fruit or iced vegetable garnish to a game. The ice will keep your food fresh while adding a little touch of nature to the game. If you’re going to be in the area, it’s definitely worth checking out the ice display in the arena. You can pick up some small treats along the way while you’re there.
Ski In Your Suit
If you’re going to be in an arena anyway, why not try out some of the other features the venue has to offer? Did you know that several teams have their own ski park, complete with chairlift that brings the beginners to the top and the experts can enjoy the thrill of free skiing? It’s not uncommon for teams to have their own private bars inside the arena, which the players can enjoy during stoppages in play. You can also go for a walk or catch a bus directly to the rink and avoid the chill entirely. Not all fans want to, although it’s always a possibility.
Sauna
If you’re really serious about staying warm, you might not have to limit yourself to one area of the arena. The sauna is another option, and it might even be a good idea to consult the team physician before indulging in this activity. Saunas help loosen up muscles while lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, making them a welcome addition to any athletic program. The best part is that you can remove the stigma that comes with going into a sauna after a game. Some fans might even chuckle in disbelief at the idea of catching a warm-up in the presence of your fellow supporters.
Radiant Heat
Last but not least, we have radiant heat. Did you know that many arenas now have sections equipped with this marvelous technology? It might feel like heaven when you’re walking into the stadium, because the heat will envelop you immediately.
Radiant heat is a form of artificially induced thermal emitters that help to create a comfortable atmosphere for everyone. It was first introduced to North American sports arenas back in the late nineties, and today, almost all professional sports venues utilize this technology. The heat is generated by electric coils inside the floor, which are controlled remotely. This allows for constant adjustments to keep the temperature consistent.
It’s easy for fans to get confused about how cold it is in an NHL arena. While the air might feel chilly, there are ways to ensure that you stay warm. If you’re not feeling particularly social at the moment, why not consider using some of these innovative technologies and find that the atmosphere in an NHL arena is a lot more comfortable than you think? Be smart, and stay warm!