Have you ever noticed the black smudges under the eyes of the hockey players as they take the ice? What are these black smudges? Do they serve a purpose? Well take a look at the history, benefits, ways of using, and different types of eye black to answer these questions.
If youve ever been curious about eye black and why hockey players use it, get ready to find out!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Yes, hockey players often use eye black to reduce glare from the bright overhead lights in arenas.
It’s also used to reduce sun glare during outdoor games.
The eye black is typically a black grease stick applied under the eyes.
It helps hockey players see better and stay focused on the game.
What is Eye Black?
Eye black is a grease-like substance similar to chapstick that is applied under the eyes to reduce the amount of light that reaches the eyes.
It is typically used by athletes in various sports, including hockey, and has been a part of the hockey culture for many years.
Eye black is beneficial for goaltenders and other players who face the most intense light from the spectators, as it helps them to focus more on the game and not become distracted by the bright lights.
It also helps to reduce the glare of the bright lights in the arena, making it easier to see the puck and other objects on the ice.
Eye black is typically applied in a thin strip beneath each eye, but some players may choose to apply it differently, such as in a thicker line or a wider shape around the eyes.
It is important to note that eye black should not be applied too heavily, as this can lead to an uncomfortable and smudgy appearance.
Eye black is usually made from a combination of waxes, oils, and pigments, which are combined to create a grease or paste-like substance.
It is also waterproof and sweat-resistant, making it ideal for use in sporting events.
Eye black is available in a variety of colors, such as black, white, and several shades of grey.
History of Eye Black in Hockey
Hockey players have been using eye black for many years, dating all the way back to the 1950s.
It was first used by professional hockey players to reduce the glare of bright lights in arenas, particularly for goaltenders who faced the most intense light from the spectators.
Since then, it has become a staple of hockey culture and is used by both professional and amateur players alike.
Eye black is a grease-like substance that is applied under the eyes to reduce the amount of light that reaches the eyes.
It also helps players to focus more on the game and not become distracted by the bright lights.
Not only does it help with glare, but it is also believed to help reduce sun glare, improve vision, and reduce the risk of eye injuries.
Eye black has become a very popular trend in hockey, with professional players like Wayne Gretzky, Sidney Crosby, and Alex Ovechkin all wearing it during their games.
Some players even have custom-made eye black with team logos or other designs.
It is a tradition for many teams to have their players wear eye black during pre-game ceremonies or when playing in an intense game.
Eye black is an important part of the hockey culture and has been used by players for many years.
It helps players to stay focused on the game and reduces the glare of the bright lights in the arenas.
It is a tradition that is passed down from generation to generation, and is sure to remain a part of hockey culture for years to come.
Benefits of Eye Black for Players
When it comes to hockey, eye black is an essential part of the game.
It helps players to reduce the glare of the bright lights in the arenas, allowing them to focus more on the game.
Not only does eye black reduce the amount of light that reaches the eyes, it also helps to reduce distractions from the spectators.
This can help players to improve their performance, as they are able to stay focused on the game and not be distracted by their surroundings.
Eye black can also be beneficial for goaltenders, who face the most intense light from the spectators.
By reducing the amount of light reaching their eyes, goaltenders are able to better focus on the puck and make the necessary saves.
It also helps goaltenders to better track the puck when it is moving quickly, as the eye black can reduce the glare from the bright lights in the arena.
Eye black is also helpful for players who have difficulty seeing the puck in bright arenas.
The reduced glare from the eye black can help players to better identify the puck and track its movement, allowing them to make the necessary defensive plays.
Finally, eye black has been a part of the hockey culture for many years.
It is a tradition that many players take part in, and it is seen as a sign of strength and determination.
By wearing eye black, players are showing that they are ready to take on whatever challenges the game may bring.
Different Ways Hockey Players Use Eye Black
Hockey players have long used eye black to reduce the glare caused by the bright lights in arenas.
This is especially beneficial for goaltenders, who have the most intense light shining directly in their face.
Eye black is a grease-like substance that is applied under the eyes to reduce the amount of light that reaches the eyes.
It also helps players to focus more on the game and not become distracted by the bright lights.
Eye black has been a part of the hockey culture since the early days of the sport and is used by many professional and amateur players.
There are several different ways that hockey players use eye black.
Some prefer to apply a single “strip” of eye black under each eye, while others prefer to use a thicker, more continuous layer of eye black.
Some players also opt to use colored eye black, which can be used to add a bit of flair to their look.
Additionally, some players will use eye black to make a unique pattern or shape on their face, such as a star or a smiley face.
Eye black is also used by some players to make a statement.
For example, some players will use eye black to display a team logo or slogan, while others will use eye black to write out a personal message.
Some players even use eye black to display political or social messages, such as a hashtag or phrase that they believe in.
No matter how they choose to use it, eye black is an important part of hockey culture and it can be a great way to show team spirit, individual style, or support for a cause.
How to Apply Eye Black
Applying eye black is a simple and straightforward process.
First, the player should make sure to clean their face thoroughly, as any dirt or debris could cause the eye black to clump up or become ineffective.
This can be done with a mild soap and warm water.
Once the face is clean, the player should dry it off thoroughly before applying the eye black.
When applying the eye black, it is important to make sure that the substance is evenly distributed under the eyes.
To do this, the player should apply a thin layer of the eye black to the area just beneath the eyes.
The eye black should be applied in a circular motion and should not be too thick.
Once the eye black is applied, the player should let it dry for a few minutes before playing.
It is important that players remember to remove the eye black before they go to bed or when they are finished playing.
To do this, the player should use a mild soap and warm water.
The player should be careful not to rub the eye black off, as this can cause irritation and can even cause the eye black to be less effective.
After the eye black has been removed, the player should clean their face again with a mild soap and warm water.
In conclusion, applying eye black is a simple and straightforward process.
Players should make sure to clean their face before applying the eye black, and should make sure to evenly distribute the eye black under the eyes.
It is also important to remember to remove the eye black when the player is finished playing or before going to bed.
Following these steps will ensure that the eye black is effective and comfortable for the player.
Different Types of Eye Black
Eye black is available in various forms, from adhesive strips to grease sticks and even wax.
Adhesive strips are made from a thin, flexible material and are applied directly to the skin.
They are easy to apply and remove and can last for several hours, depending on the type of adhesive used.
Grease sticks are thicker and more solid than adhesive strips, and are applied directly to the skin.
They provide more intense coverage than adhesive strips, but can be difficult to remove.
Wax-based eye black is applied to the skin with a brush and provides a long-lasting, waterproof coverage.
It can be used to create intricate designs and patterns on the face, and can last for several hours.
No matter which type of eye black is used, it is important to ensure that it is removed properly after use to avoid skin irritation.
Common Eye Black Brands
When it comes to eye black, there are many different brands that hockey players use.
The most popular brands include Under Armour HeatGear, Warrior O-Tech, and Reebok Pro Stock.
Each brand offers different products and styles, so its important to find the one that is most comfortable and effective for you.
Under Armour HeatGear is a popular choice for hockey players, as the oil-free formula helps to reduce sweat and keep skin cool.
Warrior O-Tech eye black is specially formulated to reduce glare and provide a natural look.
Reebok Pro Stock is a favorite among goaltenders, as it is designed to provide maximum glare reduction.
All of these brands are trusted by professional and amateur hockey players alike, and they can be found in most sporting goods stores.
Final Thoughts
Eye black has been a part of the hockey culture for many years, and its benefits are undeniable.
Not only does it reduce the glare of the bright lights, it also helps players to better focus on the game and prevents distractions.
There are several different types and brands of eye black available, as well as various ways of applying it.
With this knowledge, you are now ready to make an informed decision on whether or not to use eye black when playing hockey.
So go ahead and give it a try you won’t be disappointed!