The Cool Factor: The Hartford Whalers

If you're not a serious hockey fan, chances are you've never heard of the Hartford Whalers. Originally known as the New England Whalers, the team was formed in November 1971 and played its inaugural season in the World Hockey Association in 1972. It later changed its name after joining the National Hockey League in 1979 when the rival leagues merged. Then in 1997, the Whalers relocated to North Carolina, ultimately settling in Raleigh, and became the Carolina Hurricanes.

When the Whalers changed their name to the Carolina Hurricanes, they lost an incredibly cool team identity. I know you're thinking, "Wait, did I read that right? Did The Style Ref really just say whales are cool?" Just work with me here.

This whale is anything but ordinary. The combination of colors, the logo's sharp, modern feel and the whale mascot (affectionately know as "Pucky the Whale") make this team's brand palatable for fans of all ages and backgrounds. Not many current teams have a brand this fun, cool and aesthetically pleasing. In fact, a few of them could learn a thing or two from the Whalers.

There's more to this logo than meets the eye:
The Hartford Whalers logo combines a green "W"
with a blue whale's tail to create the letter "H"
in the negative (white) space.

"Pucky the Whale" was the team's official mascot. He now serves as the
mascot for the Connecticut Whale, an AHL team based in Hartford.

You don't have to be from Connecticut or even a hockey fan to appreciate the Whalers' signature style. It's original, playful and classic, which are all qualities that most people would categorize as "cool."

Even though the Whalers became history over a decade ago, die-hard hockey fans still collect and trade Whalers gear to keep the team's spirit alive. They also celebrate the team's distinct, colorful look. This loyalty breeds high demand for Whalers wear and there's no shortage of merchandise available to satisfy nostalgic fans. The Hartford Whalers might be long gone, but we'll always have memories and of course, Pucky the Whale.

Check out some of TSR's favorites for Whalers fans:

Hartford Whalers Classic Full Zip Hooded Sweatshirt

Hartford Whalers Navy Fitted Hat

Hartford Whalers '47 Brand Green 'Pucky The Whale' Retro Logo Scrum Tee

Mitchell & Ness Hartford Whalers Power Play Zip-Front Hooded Sweatshirt

Mitchell & Ness Hartford Whalers Ladies Comeback Premium T-Shirt

Old Time Hockey Hartford Whalers Heathered T-Shirt

Hartford Whalers Mitchell & Ness Vintage Duffle Bag

Hartford Whalers iPad 2 Hard Case Cover

Do you think the Hartford Whalers have the cool factor?

XO,

The Style Ref