During the late-19th century, the now English Championship soccer side Blackburn Rovers embraced a blue-patterned kit. To date, the Blue and Whites still use the same color scheme. Over the following years, the concept of sports jerseys began to take off in the United States, with the NFL’s early design surfacing during the 1970s. Over the following decades, other sports followed suit and they’ve since become fashion staples. So, what are the best jerseys to gift sports fans?
NHL – Chicago Blackhawks, 2010
It’s not outlandish to suggest that the Chicago Blackhawks’ jersey from the 2010 season is one of the most iconic sports kits in existence. While some may argue that the Hawks’ on-rink performances during that campaign have clouded judgment, the away kit was undoubtedly a thing of beauty. The six-time Stanley Cup winners went through seven logos before settling on their current design, which was voted as the league’s best in 2008.
The Blackhawks’ away jersey has since remained the same, and that’s a testament to its aesthetic appeal and history of success. Between 2010 and 2015, the Central Division side won three Stanley Cups. The white kit with black and red stripes and a central logo was a winner off the field, and it seemingly elevated the Hawks’ game during the early and mid-2010s.
NBA – Los Angeles Lakers, 1978-99
There’s a widespread belief that the Los Angeles Lakers possess the best jersey in the NBA, and it’s tricky to argue otherwise. To this day, the team still have a breath-taking kit, and its appeal stems from its simplicity. As USA Today states, the Laker’s gold jersey isn’t too flashy or gimmicky, but it still stands out from other designs.
Those wanting to gift a Lakers kit should try to pick up the icon jersey from 1978 to 1999. During this period, the 17-time championship winners used their Showtime Gold kit, and they went back to the iconic design for the 2018-19 season. During the late-20th century, the likes of Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar wore the famous jersey, and the Lakers won five championships between 1980 and 1988.
NFL – Dallas Cowboys, 1990s
It’s no secret that the Dallas Cowboys were one of the most successful NFL teams in the 1990s. Doomsday Defense won three Super Bowls between 1992 and 1995, and they did so in their famous navy jersey. The Cowboys’ blue kit is iconic because, as CBS Sports highlights, the team didn’t wear it at every opportunity. In turn, this gave it a mysterious aura.
At the time of writing, the Dallas Cowboys continue to wear a navy jersey, although it hasn’t brought them similar levels of success over the past two decades. However, Mike McCarthy, the team’s head coach, will hope to change The Boys’ fortunes in 2021-22. As of May 18th, the Cowboys are +2500 in NFL odds on Bet365 to win the Super Bowl this season. However, whether the navy kit can once again inspire them to glory will only become evident in time.
Iconic Jerseys and Success Go Together
Few can argue that some of the best kits in sports history aren’t associated with teams that are triumphant on the field of play. The sides in question reached the pinnacle of their respective professions in style with the above jerseys. So, why not gift one of these iconic designs to a hardcore sports fan?