Are Hockey Games Cold Inside?

Are Hockey Games Cold Inside?

So, you’re thinking about going to a hockey game? Awesome! But maybe you’ve heard some whispers about it being super chilly inside the arena. Well, let’s dive into that question: are hockey games cold inside? The short answer is, yes, it usually is cooler inside a hockey arena than outside, but it’s not usually an arctic blast. Let’s explore why that is, how cold it actually gets, and what you can do to stay comfortable while cheering on your favorite team.

The Science Behind the Chill

Why are hockey arenas kept cold? It all comes down to the ice! Unlike other sports that are played on a court or field, hockey needs a solid sheet of ice. That means the temperature has to be cold enough to keep the ice from melting. But it’s not just about freezing water, it’s also about maintaining the ice quality for good gameplay. Here’s the breakdown:

Maintaining the Ice

Ice needs to be a very specific temperature to be ideal for skating. If it’s too warm, it gets slushy and hard to skate on. If it’s too cold, it can become brittle and break easily. So, the arena’s cooling system is carefully regulated to keep the ice in that sweet spot. Usually, the ice surface temperature is kept around 24°F to 26°F (-4°C to -3°C). This temperature allows for fast skating and good puck movement. This requires powerful refrigeration equipment that circulates a cold fluid underneath the ice surface. The cold from the fluid radiates upwards, which cools the air above the ice.

The Air Temperature Difference

Now, the air temperature above the ice is where you, the spectators, are. Because the cold radiates upwards from the ice, the air temperature needs to be kept lower than normal. But the goal isn’t to make it an icebox for fans. Arena operators try to balance keeping the ice frozen with keeping fans reasonably comfortable. Usually, the air temperature in the seating areas is kept between 60°F and 65°F (15°C to 18°C). This range can vary slightly depending on the arena, the outside temperature, and how many people are in the building. A full arena will generate more heat, so the system will work harder to maintain the temperature. It’s a delicate balance.

Why It Feels Colder Than It Is

Even though the air temperature might be in the 60s, it can often feel colder at a hockey game. There are a few factors that contribute to this:

The Draft Effect

Arenas are large open spaces, and often, the airflow can feel like a slight draft. This is especially true if you’re sitting near the entrance or in the upper levels. This cool air movement can make it feel like you are experiencing a lower temperature than it is. Think of how it feels on a windy day, it’s the same basic idea. This means even if the temperature is 60 degrees, if the air is constantly moving around you, you’ll feel significantly cooler.

Concrete and Metal

Many parts of an arena, like the seats and the structure, are made from concrete and metal. These materials don’t retain heat well, they tend to absorb it and can feel cold to the touch. When you sit on a cold seat, or if you’re close to exposed concrete walls, your body loses heat more quickly. This effect makes the overall environment feel colder than the air temperature alone.

Proximity to the Ice

The closer you are to the ice, the more of a chill you’ll feel. The cold air radiates off the ice, and the closer you are, the more noticeable the effect. If you have seats right behind the player benches or in the lower bowl, you’ll definitely feel cooler than someone up in the nosebleeds. If you are in the lower levels, be prepared to feel cooler, while, the upper levels are usually a bit warmer due to the rising heat from people attending the game. The closer proximity to the cold air and the ice means you’ll feel the effects more directly.

How Cold Does it Actually Get?

The exact temperature inside a hockey arena can vary, but here’s a general idea:

• On the Ice: Around 24°F to 26°F (-4°C to -3°C).
• Lower Bowl Seating: Generally, between 60°F and 64°F (15.5°C to 17.7°C)
• Upper Bowl Seating: Usually a bit warmer, between 62°F and 66°F (16.6°C to 18.8°C)

Keep in mind, these are just general guidelines. Some arenas may be a little colder, and some may be a bit warmer. Also, if the arena is near a large body of water, and has concrete walls in the corridors, they’ll be even colder. The building’s construction materials can have an effect on temperature inside, adding another aspect to this subject.

Factors That Affect the Temperature

Several things can affect how cold it feels inside a hockey arena:

Outdoor Temperature

If it’s freezing outside, the arena may feel colder indoors, even with heating systems working. This is because the walls and structure of the arena will be colder. The outside temperature has a clear impact on the temperature inside the building. If it’s very hot outside, the systems will struggle to maintain the ideal temperature inside the stadium.

Crowd Size

A sold-out game means a lot of bodies, and bodies generate heat! A fully packed arena will naturally feel warmer than a game with lots of empty seats. The more people who attend, the warmer the overall area will get, due to the amount of heat that is produced by humans. The cooling systems will work harder when the arena is at capacity to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Arena Design

Some arenas are newer, with more modern climate control systems. Older arenas might have less efficient systems, which could lead to colder spots, or overall colder experience. Some arenas with huge windows, or skylights may have more extreme fluctuations in temperature during the day. The design, and age of the stadium both play a role in the temperature during games.

Time of Year

As we’ve talked about, the temperature outside impacts the temperature inside. In the middle of summer, it will likely be more comfortable in a hockey arena, but in the dead of winter, it might feel very cold.

Staying Comfortable at a Hockey Game

So, what should you do to make sure you enjoy the game without shivering? Here are some tips:

Dress in Layers

Layering is key! Start with a base layer that wicks away moisture (like a thin thermal shirt), then add a warmer middle layer (like a sweater or fleece), and top it off with a jacket. This way, you can adjust your clothing as needed. If you start to feel warm, you can easily remove a layer. If you feel cold, you have extra warmth ready to go.

Wear Warm Socks and Shoes

Cold feet can make your whole body feel cold. Wear thick socks and warm shoes or boots. Even if you’re wearing long pants, your feet are often on a cold floor, which can impact your overall body temperature. Try to avoid canvas shoes and go with warmer, leather or insulated boots or shoes.

Bring a Hat and Gloves

Don’t underestimate the warmth a hat and gloves can provide. A lot of heat is lost through the head, and warm hands make everything feel more comfortable. It’s important to cover your exposed skin, to avoid losing body heat.

Consider a Blanket or Scarf

A small blanket or a warm scarf can make a huge difference, especially if you’re sitting for long periods. Having the additional layer of protection can really help you enjoy the game. A blanket or scarf will allow you to adjust your warmth based on how you feel during the game.

Choose Your Seat Wisely

If possible, try to choose seats in the upper levels or farther away from the ice. The closer you are to the ice, the cooler it tends to be. Think about where your seats are and consider if you need to bundle up a little extra if they’re closer to the ice surface.

Move Around During Intermissions

Walk around during intermissions to keep your blood flowing and stay warmer. This will also give you a chance to get a snack or drink. Moving around will help your circulation and will keep you warm when you’re spending a lot of time sitting still.

Utilize Hand Warmers

Small, disposable hand warmers can be a big help if you’re prone to getting chilly. They can be placed inside your gloves or pockets. These are a great and portable way to stay extra comfortable when it’s very cold inside.

Hot Drinks Can Help

A cup of hot chocolate or coffee can help warm you up from the inside out. Many arenas sell hot beverages, which are a great way to warm up in between periods. A small hot beverage can help you feel warmer and more relaxed.

Avoid Open-Necked Shirts

Consider wearing a shirt with a collar or a turtle neck. This will help prevent air from reaching your chest and losing body heat. This is another way to keep yourself warm and comfortable during a long hockey game. Keeping the air from moving around your neck and chest will keep you warmer.

A Quick Recap

So, yes, hockey games are usually colder inside than you might be used to, but it’s not usually an extreme freeze. The temperature is carefully controlled to keep the ice in perfect condition, and the arenas have to find a balance between the needs of the ice, and the needs of the fans. By dressing in layers, choosing the right seats and being prepared, you can stay comfortable while enjoying all the excitement of the game. It’s all part of the fun and excitement!