Better know a kit: A history of the modern U.S. soccer jersey

[from Project-2010.net]

USMNT Jersey 1984-2009

[We originally ran this retrospective a few months back. With the release of the 2010 Home jersey, we thought we'd update it and post it again.]

We're taking a look at the USA men's soccer jerseys of the last 25 or so years, not only to provide a bit of history, but also as a bit of a refresher before looking toward the future of the USA's kit. My main complaint about the USA kit is that there's no continuity. Unlike most national team kits, the design has changed drastically each time adidas or Nike has unveiled their latest designs. Whether it's red, white, or blue, stripes, sashes or denim, you'll see below that the designs are all over place. I know that I'm nowhere near the first to say this, but I really think that in order to develop a team identity, we need to have a consistent template for (at least) the home jersey.

I've always favored the red jerseys in general. It's good, bright color for fans to wear. Really, I'd rather have it as our home color, but US Soccer seems hung up on having white home jerseys (which have always seemed kind of bland to me). I guess it's fitting that the USA would wear whites at home since it's the traditional home color in most American sports.

Below, we've got images of every home and away kit since 1984. I've offered a brief commentary and grade for each shirt. Obviously, I'm not attempting to be objective in any way. If you disagree, make it known down in the comments section.

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