#1 – Henrik Lundqvist
Surprised to see the most stylish goalie in the NHL yet again on this top five?
Unlikely. Lundqvist provides a new set just about every summer for goalie gear nerds to gush about for months before the season. This season did not disappoint. Lundqvist paid homage to one of the most iconic Ranger symbols with his most recent set, by far his best set yet.
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The pads, Bauer 2S Pros, are a followup to the Bauer 1S that Lundqvist wore in 2016. There are quite a few great symbolic pieces on these pads. Starting with the centerpiece, Lady Liberty.
The New York Rangers have been syndicated with the Statue of Liberty particularly since they created the Lady Liberty uniforms in 1996-1997. Worn as an alternate, the Liberty has become one of the most coveted of Ranger apparel.
Behind the great American icon, is the city skyline. Highlighted by the Freedom Tower, Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, The Garden, as well as a few other buildings, this is about as New York as it gets.
Above the skyline, is the famous paneled roof of Madison Square Garden itself. One of the most iconic designs in American sporting arenas for sure.
Finally, on the boot of the pads, is what seems to be the sleeve of a Ranger jersey fluttering in wind, the iconic white-red-white armband flanked by blue.
Next: Are there seven better goalies than Lundqvist?
The Pinstripe pads may have been reminiscent of one of New York’s most successful franchise, but the new pads to be worn by Lundqvist are reminiscent of the city itself, certainly a beautiful ode to New York, in artistic form.