The 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs began on April 18, and like many hockey fans, I filled out a bracket challenge, but not in the usual way. Instead of picking teams based on performance, I built mine around WAG jackets.
In the hockey world, WAGs (wives and girlfriends of players) have a tradition of creating custom jackets for the playoffs.
These designs usually include player names, numbers, team logos and unique playoff details.
The trend has grown a lot on social media, with jacket reveals becoming a big part of the playoff atmosphere. WAGs like Lexie Lafleur Brown, who is married to former NHL player J.T. Brown has shared details on her TikTok account about how much work goes into the process.
The jackets are custom-made by different designers and typically organized by a head WAG, often the partner of a captain or longtime player.
So instead of ranking teams, here are my top four WAG jackets from this year’s playoffs:
1. My first-place jackets are from the Tampa Bay Lightning. Designed by Kevin Leonel, these bomber-style jackets have a mix of textures and a color scheme of black, gray and blue that form lightning bolt patterns across the fabric. The modern logo is on the left side, while the player’s name sits on the right under an older logo. The number is placed on the sleeve, and the back features a cursive Tampa Bay script. The overall design is very detailed and unique, which makes them feel electric.
2. Coming in second are the Dallas Stars, designed by Sports Club Atelier. They feature a mix of dark green leather and suede with fringe on the back. The back keeps it simple with Dallas Stars written across it, while the front includes the player’s name and number on the pockets. I’m usually not a big fan of monochrome designs, but this one works really well. The fringe adds just enough personality and gives it a bit of Texas flair. As someone who is not a fan of the monochrome look this year, this jacket absolutely has the details that really elevate it.
3. The Pittsburgh Penguins take third place with one of the most unique designs of the year, created by Ashley Harris Designs. The jackets are suede puffer designs with a patchwork look made of gray and black sections, plus a full yellow sleeve and leather shoulder.
The team logo is split across the zipper on the front, while the back mirrors a traditional hockey jersey with the player’s name and number. This jacket earns its spot for originality alone, especially compared to many of the simpler designs this year. These feel much more creative.
4. Rounding out the top four are the Edmonton Oilers jackets, also by Sports Club Atelier. These feature a rich copper suede base paired with creamy white leather shoulders and a black collar. The standout detail here is the player’s signature stitched onto the collar, which makes these jackets more personal and significantly sets them apart. The back includes the player’s name and number, along with Edmonton Oilers written in cursive across the shoulders, tying the whole design together.
