How to stay warm watching hockey this weekend

Hockey may be Canada’s national pastime, but if you’re watching outdoors in the -15 C cold, it can seem like time is passing very slowly. With three major outdoor hockey games being played this weekend in Ottawa, there will be plenty of opportunity to experience the greatest game in the land the way it was meant to be played. Just make sure you’re bundled up.

On Friday, Senators alumni are lacing up for a free-to-watch game on the Canada 150 rink on Parliament Hill. The NHL100 Classic on Saturday is the main event, and will see the Ottawa Senators face off against the Montreal Canadiens at the TD Place outdoor rink. Rounding out the lineup is a national capital region showdown, as the CHL’s Ottawa 67’s and the Gatineau Olympiques go head-tohead at Lansdowne on Sunday.

For spectators, that means three games of good, old-fashioned outdoor hockey — and a great deal of time in the cold.

Ahead of the first game Friday, this newspaper talked to some Ottawans who spend whole days working in the cold, to get some tips about how to suit up for the spectating experience. Gordon Miller, doorman, Château Laurier: “Basically, the way I keep warm is to just dress in layers. Enjoy the spirit of the time and keep moving. I am lifting a lot of luggage and going from cab to car and moving back and forth. So just keep positive and smile.

“I mean, there are going to be some really cold days, but use layers and merino wool. I change my socks at least three times a day in a shift.” Geoffrey Henry, outdoor vendor, By Ward Market: “Wear extra clothes. Good boots, a good tuque. Maybe bring a blanket or something.

“We’re out here until about 5 o’clock or 5:30. I walk around, but it’s basically the same thing. I’ve got two jackets on. Two jackets, two pairs of gloves.” Jim Ritchie, construction worker: “Well, I’ve got long johns on, my jeans, wind pants that are lined, and I’ve got around three pairs of socks on. I’ve got heavy boots on, obviously, work boots. And layers: I’ve got my coat, I’ve got a hoodie, I’ve got a sweater and I’ve got a Tshirt. And I’ve got a tuque.

“And just keep moving.”