Dressing for Glory: The Importance of Custom Kits in the Paris 2024 Olympics

The Olympic Games are a grand celebration of sportsmanship, unity, and national pride and the Paris 2024 Olympics is nothing different. This event not only showcases athletic excellence but also highlights the importance of custom sports kits, which play a crucial role in representing national identity and enhancing performance.

The Significance of Custom Sports Kits

Custom sports kits are more than just uniforms; they are a reflection of a nation’s culture and spirit. For the Paris 2024 Games, Adidas has unveiled Team GB’s kit, featuring the iconic red, white, and blue of the Union Jack. This design pays homage to British heritage while ensuring athletes perform at their best. Notable athletes like Tom Daley have expressed their pride in wearing these kits, which embody the essence of representing one’s country on the world stage.

Fashion Meets Functionality

The current Olympics will also see a fusion of style and functionality in sportswear. Brands are increasingly focusing on designs that cater to the needs of athletes, ensuring comfort and performance without compromising on aesthetics. For instance, Adidas has created kits that are not only visually appealing but also functional, allowing athletes to compete without distraction. Sublimation, which My Club use, is a popular manufacturing process which is popular for this reason.

A Global Showcase of Styles

As nations prepare for the opening ceremony, the diversity in designs is striking. From Mongolia’s traditional attire to Team USA’s chic uniforms designed by Ralph Lauren, each kit tells a story. The designs often incorporate cultural elements, making them unique and memorable. Diversity and inclusivity is a big player this years games, which we are all celebrating! Paris 2024 is a fashion-forward Olympics, with athletes stepping out in outfits that blend traditional motifs with modern flair.

In conclusion, the excitement surrounding personalised teamwear adds an extra layer of anticipation as the games commence each day. These uniforms not only enhance athletic performance but also celebrate national pride, making the Olympics a truly global event that unites us all through sport and style.

Rugby Through the Ages: The Journey of the Jersey

Rugby has deep roots in the UK, with the sport emerging in the early 19th century at school. As the game spread across Britain, playing kits evolved over time from basic woollen shirts and trousers to today’s modern technical fabrics and designs. Let’s take a look at this fascinating evolution of rugby uniforms

The Early Days. In the formative years of rugby, there were no standardised uniforms. Players simply took to the pitch wearing whatever sportswear or everyday clothes they had available. Caps, woollen shirts, trousers or knickerbockers were common – not exactly the ideal athletic attire! Colours and styles varied widely between teams. 

Around the 1870s, as the sport’s popularity grew, the first dedicated custom rugby jerseys began appearing. Made of heavyweight wool or cotton, these sturdy shirts had long sleeves to protect against the elements. Bold colours like scarlet, navy or green distinguished each school or club. 

The 20th Century. By the early 1900s, specific design elements like the classic rugby shirt collar had been introduced. Woollen jumpers featured embroidered club badges or emblems. Short-sleeved jerseys started appearing as well for better mobility. 

World War I brought rugby kit evolution to a halt, as resources were scarce. But the interwar period saw innovations like the move to more lightweight cotton fabrics for improved air flow. Also during this time, numbered shirts became standard for identification. 

The Modern Era

In the 1960s and 70s, new synthetic technical fabrics like nylon and polyester were incorporated into rugby jerseys to provide moisture-wicking, increased durability and ease of care. The classic rugby shirt style with rubber buttoned placket remained a signature look. 

Today’s cutting-edge rugby uniforms feature highly technical fabrics optimised for grip, breathability, flex and moisture management. Our sublimated kit was definitely built to last. Lightweight padded protection has also been integrated into some jerseys. While traditional styles and colours still prevail, an array of bold, eye-catching designs have made their way onto rugby pitches too. 

At My Club, we stay on top of the latest innovations in technical sports fabrics and printing, while also honouring classic looks and styling. Our in-house design team works closely with each rugby club to create custom uniforms that make a statement on the pitch. Need some inspo? Check out our favourite pieces! Get in touch today to create your own kit and elevate your team’s kit game!