An In-Depth Guide to Best Football Kits 2019: Standards, Grades, and Performance

Types of Football Kits in 2019: A Comprehensive Guide

A football kit is more than just sportswear—it's a symbol of team identity, fan pride, and athletic performance. In 2019, football kits reached new heights in design innovation, material technology, and fashion integration. A complete kit typically includes a jersey, shorts, socks, and often accessories like training wear or boots. These kits are meticulously designed for different levels of play, from elite professionals to junior fans, and reflect the unique heritage and branding of each team.

While fans often purchase replica versions to show support, there are significant differences in fabric, fit, and functionality between authentic match kits worn by players and the replica or fan editions sold commercially. Understanding these distinctions helps consumers make informed choices based on purpose, budget, and performance needs.

Professional Match Kits

The official gear worn by players during matches and training sessions, engineered for peak performance.

Advantages

• Lightweight, breathable Dri-FIT or Climacool fabrics
• Advanced moisture-wicking technology
• Custom tailored fit for maximum mobility
• Used in actual matches and high-level training
• Incorporates aerodynamic design elements

Limitations

• Very high price (often $150–$250+)
• Fragile construction not ideal for casual wear
• Limited availability outside team channels

Best for: Professional athletes, elite training, collectors, and serious enthusiasts

Replica Kits (Fan Editions)

Highly detailed copies of match kits, designed for supporters to wear with pride.

Advantages

• Authentic team colors, logos, and sponsor branding
• More affordable than match-grade kits
• Widely available through official retailers
• Suitable for matchday wear and casual use
• Great for showing team loyalty

Limitations

• Heavier, less breathable fabric
• Basic stitching and standard fit (not performance-cut)
• Reduced durability under intense use

Best for: Fans, casual wear, stadium attendance, and gifting

Amateur & Club Kits

Standardized kits used by local and semi-professional teams, balancing cost and functionality.

Advantages

• Cost-effective (typically 25% of pro kit prices)
• Durable polyester construction
• Customizable with team names and numbers
• Easily sourced from major brands like Nike, Adidas, Puma

Limitations

• Limited access to advanced fabric technologies
• Generic cuts and sizing
• Risk of low-quality imitations in local markets

Best for: Local leagues, school teams, weekend tournaments, and community clubs

Junior & Youth Kits

Smaller-sized versions of professional and replica kits, designed for children and young fans.

Advantages

• Same iconic designs and team branding as adult kits
• Durable materials to withstand active play
• Available for toddlers to teens
• Encourages early fan engagement and team identity

Limitations

• Short lifespan due to rapid growth of children
• May lack advanced performance features
• Higher-end items (like Adidas three-stripe jackets) can still be expensive

Best for: Young fans, youth academies, school sports, and family collections

Training & Warm-Up Gear

Complementing match and replica kits, training apparel plays a crucial role in both performance and branding. Brands like Nike and Adidas supply full training ranges—including tracksuits, sweatshirts, training tops, and performance footwear—featuring team colors and logos. These items are designed for pre-match warm-ups, practice sessions, and off-field use.

The Adidas three-stripe jacket became a standout in 2019 due to its iconic design, high-quality construction, and widespread use across top European clubs. While prone to wear from frequent use, its durability and classic look made it a favorite among players and fans alike.

Expert Tip: When purchasing replica kits, check for official licensing tags and holograms to avoid counterfeit products. For training, consider investing in authentic warm-up gear like Adidas tracksuits—they offer superior comfort and longevity compared to imitation versions.

In 2019, football kits transcended sport to become cultural statements. From cutting-edge fabric innovations in professional kits to the emotional connection fans feel wearing replica jerseys, each type serves a distinct purpose. Whether you're a player, coach, or supporter, choosing the right kit enhances both performance and pride.

Designs of the Best Football Kits 2019: A Comprehensive Guide

Football kits are more than just uniforms—they represent identity, tradition, and innovation. While the basic structure of a football kit has remained largely unchanged for over a century, modern designs have evolved significantly in terms of materials, aesthetics, and functionality. In 2019, many clubs unveiled striking kits that blended heritage with cutting-edge design, capturing fan enthusiasm and setting fashion trends beyond the pitch.

A standard football kit traditionally includes a jersey (shirt), shorts, and socks. Although official kit photos often exclude socks for visual simplicity, they are a mandatory part of matchday attire. Goalkeepers wear specially designed kits in contrasting colors to distinguish them from outfield players, a rule enforced by FIFA to prevent confusion during play. Additionally, clubs now offer complete fan kits—available through official online stores—allowing supporters to wear the full ensemble, including training and travel gear.

Home Kit: Tradition Meets Innovation

The home kit is the most iconic representation of a club’s identity. Typically rooted in the team’s traditional colors and historical design elements, the 2019 home kits saw a resurgence of classic patterns and vintage-inspired details. Clubs like Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and AS Roma paid homage to past decades with retro stripes, collars, and badges, appealing to nostalgic fans while maintaining modern performance standards.

While some clubs opted to reuse previous seasons’ designs due to budget constraints or sponsor agreements, others invested heavily in new releases. These decisions often depend on sponsorship deals, with kit manufacturers like Nike, Adidas, and Puma covering development costs in exchange for branding exposure. The 2019 season featured several standout home kits, including Barcelona’s minimalist maroon design and Juventus’s sleek black-and-white vertical stripes, both praised for their elegance and bold departure from convention.

Away Kit: Standing Out from the Crowd

According to FIFA regulations, clubs must have at least two distinct kits to avoid color clashes during matches—one home and one away. The away kit is typically designed to contrast sharply with the home jersey, though it may remain within the same color family for brand consistency. In 2019, many clubs embraced vibrant and unconventional color schemes, pushing creative boundaries.

Notable examples include Manchester United’s electric blue away jersey and Paris Saint-Germain’s deep burgundy design, both of which became fan favorites. Some clubs also introduced a third kit (or alternate kit) to provide additional options when both home and away colors conflict with opponents. These third kits are often experimental, featuring bold graphics, gradient effects, or cultural motifs. The Football Federation’s Refereeing Department ensures compliance with visibility and differentiation rules, especially in high-stakes matches.

Goalkeeper Kit

Goalkeeper kits must be clearly distinguishable from both their own team and the opposition. Traditionally limited to neutral tones like green, yellow, or gray, 2019 saw more daring designs, with kits incorporating fluorescent colors, geometric patterns, and even camouflage prints. Brands like New Balance and Under Armour introduced innovative fabrics that improved mobility and moisture control.

In cases where the primary and secondary goalkeeper kits clash with other teams, a third option is used. While rare, some clubs also produce specialized warm-up kits for goalkeepers, often featuring padded sections and wind-resistant materials for cold-weather matches. These kits are occasionally released for fans, adding to the collectible appeal of goalkeeper apparel.

Training Kit

Training kits serve both functional and commercial purposes. Designed for comfort and performance during practice sessions, they are typically made from lightweight, breathable fabrics with enhanced moisture-wicking properties. In 2019, many clubs launched full training ranges, including jackets, pants, base layers, and hoodies, often coordinated with the season’s main kit colors.

These kits are developed in collaboration with kit suppliers and sponsors, making them more affordable than matchday jerseys. Most top clubs sell training gear through their official online stores, allowing fans to support the team in style—even off the field. Popular training kits from 2019 included Arsenal’s navy and red tracksuits and Real Madrid’s all-white athletic wear, which mirrored the club’s pristine home aesthetic.

Key Features of 2019’s Top Football Kits

Important: Always ensure that any kit used in official matches complies with FIFA and league regulations regarding color contrast, player identification, and manufacturer branding. Replica kits for fans may differ slightly in fabric and fit but should still reflect the authentic design. Whether you're a player or a supporter, choosing the right kit means embracing both tradition and innovation.

Durability and Material of the Best Football Kits 2019

Football kits are more than just team uniforms—they represent identity, performance, and brand value. The durability, material composition, and design of kits play a crucial role in both on-field performance and fan engagement. While some players may use a single jersey for just a few matches, others rely on high-quality kits that last throughout the season. Factors like budget constraints, sponsorship deals, and technological advancements influence kit production and longevity.

Home Kit

The home kit is the most iconic representation of a football club, typically reflecting its traditional colors and heritage. These kits are worn during home matches and are central to club identity.

• Clubs often reuse previous season designs if financial limitations prevent new kit development
• New home kits are usually commissioned only when sponsors agree to cover manufacturing costs
• Designs often incorporate historical elements or modern reinterpretations of classic patterns
• Premier clubs may release multiple variations (e.g., heritage, limited edition) to boost merchandise sales

Key insight: Sponsorship plays a major role in determining whether a new home kit is produced each season

Away Kit

According to FIFA regulations, clubs must have at least two distinct kits to avoid color clashes with opponents. The away kit serves as the primary alternative to the home jersey.

• The first away kit must contrast with the home kit but can belong to the same color family (e.g., navy instead of royal blue)
• The second away kit is optional but increasingly common among top-tier clubs for international competitions
• FIFA’s Refereeing Department enforces kit contrast rules to ensure visibility and fairness
• Many clubs redesign their away kits annually based on fan feedback and marketing strategies

Pro tip: Clubs often use away kits to experiment with bold designs and innovative materials

Goalkeeper Kit

Goalkeeper kits are designed for maximum visibility and functionality, ensuring goalies stand out from outfield players.

• Must be distinctly different in color from both home and away kits of their own team and opponents
• Modern teams often have a third goalkeeper kit to handle rare color conflicts
• Some clubs introduce specialized goalkeeper kits even when not required, for branding or aesthetic reasons
• Warm-up goalkeeper kits exist but are rarely sold to the public; they're typically used during pre-match routines

Critical rule: Goalkeeper attire must not resemble any outfield player’s uniform under FIFA Law 4

Training Kit

Training kits are essential for daily practice sessions and player comfort, blending performance features with team branding.

• Developed by official kit suppliers and often co-branded with sponsors
• Typically more affordable than match-day kits, making them popular among fans
• Available for purchase through club online stores and retail partners
• Designed for breathability, moisture-wicking, and durability under repeated washing and intense use

Fan favorite: Limited-edition training wear often becomes collectible due to unique designs

Material Composition

Modern football kits are engineered using advanced synthetic fabrics to enhance performance and comfort.

• Primarily made from polyester and other lightweight plastics that resist moisture absorption
• High-performance kits use recycled polyester (e.g., from plastic bottles) for sustainability
• Polyester does not conduct heat well, so ventilation and mesh zones are integrated for cooling
• Top-tier brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma use proprietary fabric technologies (e.g., Dri-FIT, Climacool, Aeroready)

Technical note: Fabric weight and weave density affect breathability and durability—lighter isn’t always better

Cut and Fit

The cut of a football shirt significantly impacts player movement, aerodynamics, and comfort.

• Each club has a unique design aesthetic, influenced by brand partnerships and fashion trends
• Most kits are short-sleeved, but long-sleeved versions are available at the same price point
• Performance fits are tighter to reduce fabric drag and improve sensor accuracy in tracking systems
• Fan versions may have a looser cut for everyday wear, while player editions are form-fitting

Design trend: In 2019, many clubs adopted slimmer silhouettes for a modern, athletic look

Shorts and Configuration

Football shorts are designed to complement jerseys in style and function, with standardized features across teams.

• Constructed from the same high-tech polyester blends as shirts for consistency
• Standard length is knee-level, though some suppliers offer longer options for modesty or climate adaptation
• Features include elastic waistbands, internal drawstrings, and moisture-wicking linings
• Differences between brands include seam placement, ventilation zones, and stretch panel integration

Performance factor: Seamless stitching and gusseted crotches enhance mobility and reduce chafing

Warm-Up Kits

Warm-up apparel is used before matches and during cold weather, combining insulation with team identity.

• Rarely offered for public sale despite high fan demand
• Typically developed by kit sponsors using performance fleece, thermal weave, or wind-resistant materials
• Lower price point than official match kits due to simpler construction and limited branding
• Often feature full-zip jackets, track pants, hoodies, and compression layers

Collector’s note: Authentic warm-up kits worn by players can become valuable memorabilia

Expert Insight: In 2019, sustainability and performance technology were key drivers in kit innovation. Brands focused on reducing environmental impact through recycled materials while improving fit and durability. For fans, investing in higher-tier kits often means better fabric quality, reduced shrinkage, and longer lifespan—even with frequent washing.

Additional Considerations for 2019 Football Kits

• Sustainability: Major brands emphasized eco-friendly production, with kits made from recycled ocean plastics and reduced carbon footprints
• Technology Integration: Some kits included RFID tags or were designed to work with player tracking systems
• Customization: Personalization options (name, number) became standard, though durability decreased slightly with heat-transferred graphics
• Washing & Care: Proper maintenance significantly extends kit life—cold washes and air drying prevent shrinkage and delamination
• Counterfeit Awareness: Fans were advised to purchase from official sources to avoid low-durability fake kits with poor stitching and fading prints

Commercial Value and Multiple Applications of the Best Football Kits 2019

Football kits have evolved far beyond mere sportswear—they are now powerful symbols of identity, loyalty, and global branding. In 2019, the football jersey transcended the pitch to become a cultural phenomenon, appearing in fashion runways, streetwear collections, and international marketing campaigns. Fans no longer purchase kits solely for matchday support; they invest in them as collectibles, fashion statements, and emotional connections to their clubs.

Did You Know? The global football apparel market was valued at over $4 billion in 2019, with clubs like Manchester United, FC Barcelona, and Bayern Munich generating hundreds of millions in kit sales annually. A single jersey sale can contribute up to 30% of a club's total merchandise revenue.

Marketing Value of Football Jerseys

Football shirts are among the most visible and effective marketing tools in sports. As fans wear replica kits to matches, social gatherings, or daily commutes, they transform into mobile brand ambassadors. The visibility of a jersey—especially during televised matches—offers unparalleled exposure for both clubs and sponsors.

Clubs strategically release new designs each season to stimulate demand, often collaborating with major sportswear brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma. These partnerships blend performance technology with fashion-forward aesthetics, appealing to younger audiences and casual wearers alike.

• Emotional Connection: Fans identify with their team’s colors, crest, and history, making the jersey a personal symbol of belonging.
• Child Engagement: Children’s football uniforms represent a significant market segment. Kids emulate their heroes by wearing the same kits, fostering early brand loyalty that can last a lifetime.
• Limited Editions & Collaborations: Special anniversary kits, third jerseys, and designer collaborations (e.g., PSG x Jordan Brand) create urgency and exclusivity, driving higher sales.

Practical and Cultural Applications of Football Jerseys

While originally designed for athletic performance, football kits have found widespread practical use beyond the stadium. Replica jerseys are worn casually, used in fan events, and even displayed as art or memorabilia.

For die-hard supporters, owning a match-worn jersey from a favorite player is akin to possessing a piece of history. These authentic kits—often auctioned or sold through official club channels—can fetch thousands of dollars due to their rarity and sentimental value.

Clubs mass-produce replica kits for fans, but elite players wear custom-fitted versions with advanced moisture-wicking fabrics and personalized details. This distinction enhances the allure of player-issued gear, turning it into a sought-after collector's item.

Why Fans Buy a New Kit Every Season

The annual release of new football kits has become a highly anticipated event. Several factors drive this recurring consumer behavior:

• Team Evolution: Roster changes, new managers, and tactical shifts are reflected in updated kits, symbolizing a fresh chapter.
• Player Transfers: When star players leave, fans often retire their numbered jerseys and purchase new ones to support incoming talent.
• Nostalgia & Collectibility: Old kits become souvenirs of past glories, while new designs represent future hopes.
• Social Identity: Wearing the latest kit signals up-to-date fandom and strengthens community ties among supporters.
• Premium Pricing Tolerance: Loyal fans frequently pay full price without hesitation, viewing the purchase as both a tribute and investment.

Expert Insight: Clubs now time their kit launches to coincide with major tournaments or transfer windows to maximize media coverage and sales momentum. Some teams even use fan polls to influence design choices, increasing engagement and ownership.

The Role of Sponsors in Football Kit Design

Sponsorship deals are central to the commercial success of football kits. Companies pay millions for logo placement on club jerseys, gaining global exposure during live broadcasts, social media content, and promotional campaigns.

When a brand serves as both kit manufacturer and sponsor (e.g., Adidas with Real Madrid), its visibility is amplified across multiple touchpoints. The manufacturer’s logo appears on the chest, sleeve, and packaging, creating a powerful branding synergy.

New clubs entering professional leagues often sign multi-year kit supply agreements to ensure quality and consistency. These contracts benefit both parties: the supplier gains access to a growing fanbase, while the club receives technical support and financial incentives.

In 2019, notable sponsorships included:

• Barcelona x Campofrío: Despite controversy, the deal highlighted how non-traditional brands seek football exposure.
• Liverpool x Standard Chartered: A long-standing partnership that extended into digital fan experiences.
• PSG x Jordan Brand: A groundbreaking fusion of sports and lifestyle branding.

Reselling and Sustainability: The Lifecycle of a Football Jersey

After a season concludes, many fans upgrade to the latest design, leading to a secondary market for used jerseys. While some dispose of old kits, others resell them through online platforms like eBay, Depop, or fan forums. Second-hand jerseys are popular among budget-conscious supporters and collectors seeking vintage styles.

Improper care—such as incorrect washing or storage—can reduce a jersey’s resale value. Experts recommend cold water washing, air drying, and avoiding direct ironing on printed elements to preserve condition.

Charitable initiatives have also emerged, where fans donate old kits to youth teams, schools, or developing nations. These programs promote sustainability and global access to sport, turning outdated apparel into tools for community development.

Sustainability Tip: Consider donating or repurposing old kits instead of discarding them. Many organizations accept used football gear to support underprivileged athletes worldwide.

Conclusion: The Enduring Power of the Football Kit

The 2019 football kit was more than a garment—it was a convergence of sport, commerce, fashion, and emotion. From marketing strategies to fan culture, jerseys continue to shape how teams connect with audiences globally. As technology advances and fan engagement deepens, the commercial and cultural significance of football kits will only grow stronger.

Whether worn in a stadium, framed in a living room, or traded online, the football jersey remains one of the most impactful symbols in modern sports.

Frequently Asked Questions About Football Shirts and Club Merchandise

Yes, football shirts can retain or even increase in resale value depending on several key factors such as condition, rarity, player significance, and historical importance. While many second-hand stores sell used shirts at low prices—often to charity organizations—these are typically common, mass-produced replicas with little collectible appeal.

• Collector’s Market: Limited edition, signed, or match-worn jerseys from iconic players or memorable seasons can fetch high prices on platforms like eBay or specialized memorabilia stores.
• Condition Matters: Shirts in excellent or mint condition, especially those still with original tags, are more desirable and valuable.
• Popular Eras: Jerseys from legendary teams (e.g., Manchester United's 1999 treble-winning kit or Brazil's 1970 World Cup shirt) often become sought-after collectibles.
• Modern Resale Trends: Some fans actively trade or resell new-release kits if they are limited runs or feature unique designs, sometimes at a premium.

While most standard replica shirts depreciate over time, strategic purchases and proper care can turn football apparel into a viable collectible asset.

Football shirts are designed primarily for performance and branding rather than long-term durability, which affects their lifespan. Several factors contribute to their relatively short longevity:

• Frequent Wear Without Washing: Repeated use without proper cleaning leads to sweat buildup, odors, and fabric degradation. Modern performance fabrics can trap bacteria if not washed correctly.
• Washing Challenges: Even when care instructions are followed, some materials may fade, shrink, or lose shape after multiple washes due to high-speed agitation or incorrect drying methods.
• Material Quality: While authentic kits use high-tech, moisture-wicking fabrics for athletes, replica versions for fans often use lower-grade materials that wear out faster.
• Club Replacement Policies: Most clubs do not replace shirts simply due to normal wear and tear. The claim that clubs will replace unwashable shirts is generally inaccurate unless there’s a verified manufacturing defect covered under warranty.

To extend the life of a football shirt, it’s recommended to wash it gently in cold water, air dry, and store it properly—especially for collectible editions.

Merchandise sales are a crucial revenue stream for football clubs, often ranking just behind broadcasting rights and matchday income. The financial model involves multiple stakeholders:

• Revenue Share: Clubs typically retain 15% to 25% of the retail price of each shirt sold, with the remainder going to the manufacturer (e.g., Nike, Adidas) and retailers.
• Discounts for Fans: To reward loyal supporters, clubs often offer seasonal discounts ranging from 10% to 30% during end-of-season sales or special promotions.
• High Sales Volume: Top clubs like Manchester United, FC Barcelona, or Bayern Munich can sell millions of kits annually, generating tens of millions in revenue—even after manufacturing and distribution costs.
• Licensing Deals: Kit suppliers pay clubs significant fees for exclusive branding rights, sometimes exceeding £50 million per year for elite teams, separate from direct merchandise profits.

This income helps fund player transfers, stadium maintenance, youth academies, and global outreach programs, making fan merchandise a cornerstone of modern football economics.

Clubs typically introduce new kits annually for a combination of commercial, technological, and aesthetic reasons:

• Commercial Incentive: New kit launches drive sales by encouraging fans to purchase updated versions, creating a reliable annual revenue spike.
• Sponsorship & Branding: Changes allow for updated sponsor logos, national pride elements (e.g., commemorative designs), or special edition themes (e.g., anniversary kits).
• Technological Advancements: Modern football shirts are made from advanced synthetic materials like recycled polyester, moisture-wicking mesh, and lightweight, breathable fabrics designed to enhance player performance and comfort.
• Design Trends: Clubs refresh their visual identity to stay relevant and appeal to younger audiences, often collaborating with fashion designers or global brands.
• League and Broadcast Requirements: Teams must ensure sufficient contrast between home, away, and third kits to avoid color clashes during matches.

While some fans criticize frequent changes as excessive consumerism, the practice remains integral to the sport’s financial sustainability and innovation.

Yes, professional clubs have various responsible and strategic approaches to managing outdated or surplus kits:

• Donations to Charity: Many clubs donate last season’s unsold or retired kits to charitable organizations, youth teams, or developing football programs around the world.
• Recycling Initiatives: Some teams partner with environmental groups to recycle old fabrics into new products or convert them into training gear.
• Promotional Use: Previous kits may be used in fan giveaways, museum displays, or promotional events to celebrate club heritage.
• Clarification on Misinformation: The idea that clubs routinely sell old kits to weapons manufacturers is inaccurate and not supported by credible sources. Such claims are typically based on misunderstandings or satire.

Most elite clubs prioritize community engagement and sustainability when disposing of old merchandise, aligning with broader corporate social responsibility goals.