Women's football strip

From adaptation to specialization: the early days

In the nascent stages of women's football, players often wore whatever was available, which frequently meant ill-fitting male uniforms or standard recreational clothing. Teams like the famous Dick, Kerr Ladies of Preston, England, who played in the early 20th century, wore practical yet heavy cotton shirts and shorts, often indistinguishable from their male counterparts' attire, sometimes even including blazers for formal occasions. This was largely due to a lack of specific manufacturing for women's athletic wear and societal expectations regarding female modesty.

As the sport gradually gained traction through the latter half of the 20th century, the 'strip' remained largely a functional afterthought, with design focused more on team identity than player comfort or performance. Players often voiced concerns about restrictive materials, unflattering cuts, and the practical challenges of playing in clothing not designed for their physiology. For instance, the use of predominantly male-cut shirts meant baggy shoulders and chests, while shorts were often too long or too short without consideration for fit during dynamic play.

The revolution in material and performance

The late 20th and early 21st centuries heralded a significant revolution in sports apparel, profoundly impacting women's football strip. Advances in fabric technology led to the widespread adoption of synthetic materials like polyester, microfiber, and elastane. These materials offered crucial benefits:

• Moisture-wicking properties: Fabrics like Nike's Dri-FIT or Adidas' AEROREADY draw sweat away from the skin, keeping players dry and comfortable, crucial for maintaining body temperature during intense matches.
• Breathability: Lightweight, perforated materials improve airflow, preventing overheating.
• Stretch and flexibility: Enhanced elasticity allows for a greater range of motion, reducing restriction during sprints, tackles, and shots. This is particularly important for activities requiring explosive movements.
• Durability: Modern strips are designed to withstand the rigours of professional play, including frequent washing and abrasive contact.

This technological leap meant that designers could finally create kits that truly supported athletic performance, rather than simply covering the body. The focus shifted to engineering garments that enhanced speed, comfort, and endurance, directly addressing the physical demands of the game for female athletes.

Designing for the female athlete: fit, form, and function

One of the most critical developments in women's football strip has been the move towards gender-specific design and sizing. Recognising the distinct physiological differences between male and female bodies, sportswear manufacturers began tailoring kits to better suit women. Key considerations include:

• Bust support: While not integrated into the shirt itself, the design of women's jerseys often accommodates sports bras more comfortably. Some brands are exploring integrated support features.
• Waist and hip shaping: Kits are designed with a more contoured fit, tapering at the waist and allowing for wider hips, ensuring the garment moves with the body without bunching or restricting.
• Sleeve length and fit: Sleeves are often designed to be less bulky and more proportionate, allowing for unrestricted arm movement.
• Necklines: Various neckline options offer comfort and aesthetic preference, moving away from standard crew necks to more diverse designs.

A recent high-profile example of this focus on fit and comfort came during the 2023 Women's World Cup, where several teams, including England's Lionesses, reportedly raised concerns about wearing white shorts during their menstrual cycles. This led to manufacturers like Nike and Adidas developing innovative solutions, such as darker coloured shorts for women's teams and incorporating leak-proof technology, highlighting the industry's increasing responsiveness to specific female athlete needs. This focus on practical comfort is paramount for player confidence and concentration on the pitch.

The cultural significance and branding of the strip

Beyond functionality, the women's football strip holds immense cultural significance. It is a powerful symbol of identity, unity, and professionalism. For fans, wearing their team's strip is an expression of loyalty and belonging. For players, donning the national or club colours instills pride and a sense of purpose. The visibility of these kits, especially during major tournaments like the FIFA Women's World Cup or the UEFA Women's EURO, elevates the sport's profile and inspires a new generation of players.

Major brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma have invested heavily in creating distinctive and stylish kits for top women's teams and national sides. For example, the US Women's National Team (USWNT) kits have become iconic, synonymous with their dominant performances and advocacy for equality. Similarly, the Lionesses' Euro 2022 winning strip became a bestseller, symbolizing a landmark moment for English women's football. This commercialization and strong branding not only generates revenue but also firmly establishes women's football as a significant global sporting entity, attracting more sponsorship and media attention.

Sustainability and the future of women's football strip

As environmental concerns grow, sustainability has become a critical factor in the design and production of women's football strip. Major sportswear companies are increasingly incorporating eco-friendly practices:

• Recycled materials: Many kits are now made from 100% recycled polyester, often derived from plastic bottles. This reduces waste and lowers the environmental impact of manufacturing. For instance, Nike's 'Move to Zero' initiative and Adidas' partnership with Parley for the Oceans showcase commitments to using recycled materials.
• Ethical production: A greater emphasis is being placed on fair labour practices and reducing chemical use in the supply chain.
• Longevity and circularity: Designs are evolving to create more durable products and exploring end-of-life recycling programs for old kits.

Looking ahead, the future of women's football strip is likely to see further integration of smart technologies, such as sensors to monitor player biometrics or dynamic textiles that adapt to temperature changes. Personalized fit options, possibly through 3D scanning, could also become standard, offering unparalleled comfort and performance for every athlete. The ongoing focus will remain on empowering female players through innovative design, ensuring their attire supports their athletic prowess while promoting the sport's progressive values.