Which are the best football kits of all time?

Football kits have undergone a long period of development. Initially, players did not wear uniforms but chose whatever they had available. Later, in the 1870s, the first regulations emerged requiring teams to wear different colored jerseys for easier identification. The period from 1870 to 1880 saw clubs begin registering their official kit colors with the Football Association (FA).

In 1882, the Laws of the Game officially stipulated that teams in a match must wear different colored jerseys so that referees and spectators could distinguish between the two sides. In 1891, a rule was introduced stating that if two teams wore the same color jersey, the home team had to change their color, although this rule was later changed so that the away team would change instead.

Later, the regulations were gradually refined with the introduction of numbers on the back and later, names on the back. Today, with modern manufacturing techniques, teams prioritize creating jerseys that are not only comfortable for players but also visually appealing for commercial purposes. As a result, many jersey designs have been created and have become part of football history. goaloomobi.com answers the question: which are the best football kits of all time?

Which are the best football kits of all time?

This list is the personal opinion of the author.

5. Arsenal (1991-1993) away kit

Known as the “Bruised Banana,” this kit is one of the most controversial designs in football history. It combines a bright yellow base with interwoven navy V-shaped chevron patterns. The blurred, zigzag triangles create a visual effect resembling a bruised banana peel, which led to the nickname “Bruised Banana.”

When it was first released, it was considered too flashy and unusual compared to traditional football standards. However, over time, it has become a highly sought-after retro item among collectors. The kit is also associated with a successful period for Arsenal, when they won a domestic double (FA Cup and League Cup) in 1993 under manager George Graham.

4. AC Milan (1988-1990) home kit

More than just a match kit, this shirt is a symbol of one of the most dominant teams in football history. In terms of design, the red and black (Rossoneri) stripes are perfectly balanced in width. The shirt features a simple yet elegant round neckline. One of the most distinctive details is the gold star on the left chest, symbolizing Milan’s more than 10 Serie A titles.

Wearing this jersey, AC Milan dominated European football, winning back-to-back European Cups in 1989 and 1990, along with the European Super Cup and the Intercontinental Cup. The team at that time featured a legendary lineup, including the “Flying Dutch Trio”: Frank Rijkaard, Ruud Gullit, and Marco van Basten.

3. Brazil (1970) home kit

For the national team, this is arguably the most iconic kit in Brazilian football history. The design features a classic combination of a bright yellow shirt with dark green trim on the collar and sleeves. The collar is a simple round neck, made from thick cotton fabric designed to absorb sweat.

This jersey represents the peak of simple yet effective design. It also holds special historical significance, as the 1970 World Cup was the first to be broadcast in color worldwide. The bright yellow of Brazil against the green pitch of the Azteca Stadium created a powerful visual image, leaving a lasting impression on millions of viewers and establishing the yellow and green colors as a global symbol of Brazilian football.

2. West Germany (1990) home kit

At the 1990 World Cup, Adidas introduced a truly unique design for West Germany. Three bold stripes in black, red, and yellow, representing the national flag, ran diagonally across the chest. The pattern resembled a heartbeat or mountain range, creating a strong sense of energy and motion. The jersey also featured a refined crew neck with subtle detailing.

This kit became legendary thanks to West Germany’s success at the tournament, winning the World Cup after defeating Argentina in the final in Rome. Some of the greatest German players wore this shirt, including Lothar Matthäus, Jürgen Klinsmann, Rudi Völler, and Andreas Brehme.

1. Netherlands (1988) home kit

Finally, the most iconic kit on this list is the Netherlands jersey from 1988. At the time, it represented a major step forward in Adidas design. The entire shirt featured a geometric chevron pattern in different shades of orange, creating a striking three-dimensional effect. The traditional Dutch orange was transformed into something more dynamic and modern.

This design has since become a lasting source of inspiration in sportswear. Many clubs and national teams have drawn ideas from its bold geometric style. The kit is also closely linked to the Netherlands’ triumph at Euro 1988, marking a golden era led by legendary players, including the “Flying Dutch Trio.”

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