In 2025, the world of women’s ice hockey is more competitive, global, and elite than ever. With expanded tournament participation, historic championship matchups, and groundbreaking performances from players across North America, Europe, and Asia, the sport is reaching new heights. From Olympic veterans to teenage prodigies, today’s women’s teams are reshaping how ice hockey is played and followed on the international stage.
This list of the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams in 2025 is based on verified IIHF rankings, World Championship results, and national program consistency. These teams have proven their skill through dominant regular-season records, medal finishes, and tactical brilliance in international tournaments. They blend tradition with innovation, setting new benchmarks for physicality, finesse, and team structure in women’s hockey.
Whether it’s the fierce rivalry between the USA and Canada, Finland’s relentless defense, or the rising stars from Czechia and Japan, these teams represent the pinnacle of modern women’s ice hockey. Each program is not just successful—they’re shaping the future of the sport, and their presence in this ranking is a testament to years of dedication, investment, and athletic excellence.
Top 10 Best Women’s Ice Hockey Teams you must know :
10. Norway
Norway rounds out the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams, boasting speed and smart puck movement. Though outside the quarterfinals, their roster showed heart and execution under pressure. They’re steadily building toward top-tier competitiveness.
Their ranking reflects strong development at the national level. As they continue to grow, Norway remains one of the emerging members of the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams in 2025, representing the sport’s expanding global reach.
| Tournament | Final Game | Ranking |
| Division I Group A | Did not reach Top Division | 10th (IIHF, April 2025) |
9. Germany
Germany enters the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams with a ninth-place showing and exceptional goaltending. Their performance was built on fundamentals—shot blocking, breakout control, and efficient zone defense.
Holding strong in global rankings, Germany’s smart play and growing youth system position them well among the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams. Their upward trend signals a promising future in competitive international hockey.
| Tournament | Final Game | Ranking |
| Division I Group A | Did not reach Top Division | 9th (IIHF, April 2025) |
8. Japan
Japan’s speed and discipline earn them a firm place in the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams in 2025. Their eighth-place finish included close matches and strategic play against stronger teams. Agile forwards and a tight defensive core defined their tournament run.
As one of Asia’s leading programs, Japan is gaining global respect. Their focus on precision and tactical agility supports their ranking among the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams of the year.
| Tournament | Final Game | Ranking |
| IIHF Women’s World Championship 2025 | Did not reach QF | 8th (IIHF, April 2025) |
7. Sweden
Sweden continues to hold a steady spot in the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams, finishing seventh in the 2025 championship. With solid positioning and clean puck movement, they showcased their trademark smart hockey and system-driven play.
Their domestic league strength and rising talent keep Sweden relevant globally. Ranked seventh, they maintain their reputation as one of the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams this year with a strong foundation for growth.
| Tournament | Final Game | Ranking |
| IIHF Women’s World Championship 2025 | Did not reach QF | 7th (IIHF, April 2025) |
6. Russia
Despite not participating in the top division, Russia is still among the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams due to strong IIHF ranking points and program depth. Their disciplined systems and player development continue at a high level across domestic leagues.
Ranked sixth, Russia’s strategic foundation and long-term player investments ensure their relevance in the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams. With future re-entry into major tournaments likely, they remain a team to watch.
| Tournament | Final Game | Ranking |
| Division I (No Top-Tier Entry) | Did Not Participate (D1) | 6th (IIHF, April 2025) |
5. Switzerland
Switzerland earns its place in the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams with a fifth-place finish and standout goaltending. Their defensive focus and system-based play frustrated even higher-ranked teams. While they didn’t medal, their performance was tactically strong.
Ranked fifth in the world, Switzerland’s reliability and structure keep them firmly in the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams. Their ability to remain competitive year after year reflects the depth of their national program.
| Tournament | Final Game | Ranking |
| IIHF Women’s World Championship 2025 | Lost in Quarterfinals | 5th (IIHF, April 2025) |
4. Czechia
Czechia broke into the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams with a strong performance at their home tournament. Their explosive 7–0 quarterfinal win and tight bronze match against Finland proved they can compete at the highest level. The team played with unity, speed, and crowd-charged momentum.
Officially ranked fourth, Czechia is now seen as a serious contender in women’s hockey. Their rapid rise and competitive edge solidify their position among the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams of 2025.
| Tournament | Final Game | Ranking |
| IIHF Women’s World Championship 2025 | Lost 3–4 vs Finland | 4th (IIHF, April 2025) |
3. Finland
Finland sits confidently within the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams, having secured bronze in 2025 with a thrilling 4–3 win over Czechia. Known for tactical discipline and defensive grit, the Finnish squad delivered yet another podium finish on the global stage.
Ranked third in the world, Finland’s women’s program remains a model of structure and consistency. Their ability to control the tempo and execute under pressure reaffirms their place in the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams this year.
| Tournament | Final Game | Ranking |
| IIHF Women’s World Championship 2025 | Won 4–3 vs Czechia (SD) | 3rd (IIHF, April 2025) |
2. Canada
Canada remains a powerhouse in the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams, finishing second at the 2025 World Championship. In a dramatic final, they narrowly missed gold, losing 4–3 to the United States in overtime. Their tournament was marked by structured defense and a lethal power play.
Holding the second spot in global rankings, Team Canada continues to be a dominant force in the sport. Their consistency and championship pedigree make them a core member of the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams in 2025, continuing their fierce rivalry with the United States.
| Tournament | Final Game | Ranking |
| IIHF Women’s World Championship 2025 | Lost 3–4 vs USA (OT) | 2nd (IIHF, April 2025) |
1. United States
The United States leads the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams in 2025, thanks to their gold medal win at the IIHF World Championship. Their 4–3 overtime victory over Canada showcased not just their offensive firepower but also their elite goaltending and game management. With key veterans and rising stars, Team USA dominated each round with speed and precision.
As the current world number one, the U.S. women’s team consistently sets the benchmark in global women’s hockey. Their balance of strategy, strength, and experience firmly secures their place among the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams this year.
| Tournament | Final Game | Ranking |
| IIHF Women’s World Championship 2025 | Won 4–3 vs Canada (OT) | 1st (IIHF, April 2025) |
FAQs
Q. What are the top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams in 2025?
The top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams in 2025, based on IIHF rankings and tournament results, are: USA, Canada, Finland, Czechia, Switzerland, Russia, Sweden, Japan, Germany, and Norway.
Q. Which team is ranked number one in women’s ice hockey in 2025?
The United States women’s national team holds the number one spot in 2025 after winning the IIHF Women’s World Championship and leading the global rankings.
Q. Are there any rising women’s teams outside the top 10 in 2025?
Yes. Countries like Hungary, Denmark, and China are showing rapid development and may soon challenge the current top 10 best women’s ice hockey teams in upcoming tournaments.
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