Going to the Chiefs’ first playoff game? Here’s how to stay warm at Arrowhead Stadium
After a small break, the road to a three-peat for the Kansas City Chiefs starts back up Saturday, Jan. 18, against the Houston Texans.
More than 70,000 fans, largely from Chiefs Kingdom, will pack GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium to see the team try and make history as the first team to ever win three consecutive Super Bowls.
Like in most of January, below-freezing temperatures are expected around game time as temperatures hover around 17 and 31 degrees. Chiefs fans and opposing fans making the journey to Kansas City should come prepared, since the stadium is open air.
Here’s what fans can bring inside Arrowhead Stadium to keep themselves warm throughout the game.
Cardboard is allowed
Chiefs fans in 2024 discussed the possibility of bringing in cardboard to stand on during the Chiefs’ sole home playoff game of that season, which happened to be one of the coldest in NFL history. The Chiefs allowed it for the game and continue to allow it, as long as it meets the criteria.
“Cardboard is allowed if it meets the size requirements laid out in our banner/sign policy – no larger than 3’x5’,” a member of the Chiefs communications department said last year. “It does not have to be written on.”
While cardboard is allowed, floor mats and carpet squares are not, according to the Chiefs’ prohibited items list.
The Chiefs shared these tips for staying warm at Arrowhead Stadium:
- Bundle up with loose-fitting layers and cover all exposed skin.
- Guests may carry in blankets (without zippers or compartments), draped over their shoulder during the security screening process.
- Guests can also bring portable chargers and non-dry cell batteries (both no larger than 6-by-3-by-1.5 inches) to power heated apparel. Battery packs must be disconnected during security inspection.
- Fans needing additional layers on site can visit the Pro Shop locations that will be stocked with warm wear.
- Stay hydrated. All guests may bring in one factory-sealed bottle of water, 20 ounces or less.
What else can I do to stay warm at Arrowhead?
Staying out in cold weather for extended periods of time, like the duration of a football game, can be dangerous. Frostbite and hypothermia can attack fans in these conditions if they aren’t prepared.
One system fans can follow is the COLD system, as explained by doctors in the Sports Medicine and Performance Center at the University of Kansas Health System:
Clean: clean clothes avoid dirt or moisture that could allow the wind and cold to penetrate.
Overheat: layered clothing with zippers allows you to ventilate to avoid sweating.
Layer: wool or synthetic layers provide optimum warmth.
Dry: select clothes that will help you stay dry.
Make sure the first layer on your body is something moisture-wicking to keep you dry throughout the game. A wool sweater or heavy turtleneck for insulation on the top half is recommended, and the outermost layer should combat wind and cold, like an insulated, waterproof jacket. Bonus if the jacket has a hood you can use to provide an extra layer for your head.
Long johns or thermals underneath are recommended for the bottom half. Then find the most insulated, waterproof pants you can find. Ski/snow pants, lined coveralls and fleece-lined pants also work well.
Do’s and don’ts of cold-weather football
The Star put together a cold weather guide that includes tips on what else to wear and what not to do during chilly games. Here’s what you should do:
- Mittens, not gloves: Mittens trap heat better by keeping your fingers together.
- Protect the head: Get a scarf for your neck and your face, and find a hat with ear flaps. You can also wear earmuffs.
Keep it toasty: Hand and foot warmers fit inside pockets and boots to keep your fingers and toes warm. And they’re relatively cheap, with a pack of six retailing for $7.47 at Home Depot.
Shoes: Uggs or other furry boots might keep your toes warm, but other shoe options that are insulated and waterproof might be your best bet.
Cheer, and move while you do it: Moving, cheering and screaming are going to increase blood flow and keep you warm.
Take a break: It’s fine to leave your seat and watch from the gift shops or concession areas as you warm yourself up. There are plenty of TVs around, and the crowd will let you know what’s happening.
Here’s what you shouldn’t do:
Drink alcohol: Even if alcohol makes you feel warmer, it lowers the core temperature of your body. Instead, look for hot chocolate around the stadium before it runs out.
Wear cotton clothes: Once wet, cotton takes a long time to dry and takes your body heat away since it’s damp. Consider wearing some kind of sweat-wicking liner sock with a thick wool sock on top.
This story was originally published January 14, 2025 at 5:00 AM.
