Adidas MLS 2021 Authentic vs Replica Kits - Horrible For Some Teams
Mar 27, 2021, by Chris
Update: Many more Adidas 2021 MLS jerseys have been released. Some 'replica' jerseys like the Seattle Sounders 2021 Jimmy Hendrix lack especially many details, while others like New York City FC's look also good in the replica version.
Adidas these days releases their new 2021 MLS kits. However, just as in previous years, the Three Stripes brand heavily differentiates between the 'authentic' (Player Issue) and 'replica' (Fan) kits. We compare them to find out what the differences are.
Adidas MLS 2021 Authentic vs Replica Kits
There are many differences between the Adidas MLS 2021 Authentic vs Replica Kits, of which not all can be seen at first glance. So we split up the different parts of a kit to make it as easy as possible for you.
Design
The authentic Adidas MLS 2021 kits have some major design differences for many teams. Most importantly, they lack elements such as colored sleeve cuffs and differently colored collars.
Adidas' replica kits for their European teams do not have these design differences
Adidas' replica / authentic kits for their European teams do not have such design differences at all...
Badges & Sponsors
The replica Adidas MLS 2021 jerseys not only have differently applied badges but also lack some important logos.
Authentic Adidas MLS kits have heat-sealed logos, while the replica kits have sewn on Embroidered team crests. Authentic kits have sleeve sponsors and the MLS badge, while replica kits have not logos on the sleeves at all.
What is a bit more ridiculous is that the replica MLS kits do not have stars above the team's crest.
The replica kits now come with the pride tags on the bottom hem
What is better than with previous MLS kits is that now both the authentic and replica kits come with the pride tags on the bottom hem and the back under the collar.
Technologies
In terms of tech, the Adidas authentic and replica MLS kits have the same differences as Adidas' best teams kits
Tech-wise it is the same as for 'global' Adidas teams
The authentic 'player issue' kits have a slimmer, athletic fit, HEAT.RDY technology and other features made for optimal ventilation and lightweight.
The replica 'fan' kits have a relaxed fit and AEROREADY technology.
What is quite confusing is that MLS' store photoshopped some of the authentic kit images - so the back view of some authentic kits use images from the replica kits, just with an added MLS logo.
The image of the back of the authentic MLS Philadelphia Union replica kit shows the replica version on the official website...
Adidas MLS 2021 Authentic Kits - Technology
- Fit: Authentic Jerseys have a slimmer, athletic fit. For a looser fit, we recommend ordering one size larger than you normally wear.
- Material: 100% Polyester
- HEAT.RDY technology is breathable and air-cooling to keep you performing at your best.
- Tagless collar for added comfort
- Ventilated mesh panel inserts
- Heat-sealed adidas ® logo on right chest
- Back neck taping –no irritating stitch on the back neck
- Heat-sealed team crest on left chest
- Heat-sealed sponsor logo on chest
Adidas MLS 2021 Replica Kits - Technology
- Fit: Replica Jerseys fit true to size.
- Material: 100% Polyester
- AEROREADY technology absorbs moisture and makes you feel dry
- Heat-sealed sponsor logo on chest
- Ventilated mesh panel inserts
- Backneck taping –no irritating stitch on the back
- Sewn on embroidered team crest on left chest
- Embroidered adidas ® logo on right chest
- Tagless collar for added comfort
Price
The Adidas authentic 2021 MLS kits retail at 135 USD, while the replica kits are available for 90 USD.
What do you think of these differences? Would you buy a replica or authentic MLS kit? Comment below.
Preston North End 26-27 Third Kit Revealed
The Preston North End 26-27 third kit has been revealed. Produced by Castore for the upcoming Championship campaign, the new Preston North End 26-27 third shirt introduces a striking red base.
The most notable design element is a subtle topographical line pattern across the front, which represents the River Ribble flowing through the city. Adding a touch of local identity, the back of the neck features the word "Cha," a recognizable nod to Preston slang. The design is rounded off with the Spud Bros sponsor logo prominently placed on the chest, matching the look of the home and away kits for the season.
Viktoria Köln 26-27 Home Kit Released
German 3. Liga side Viktoria Köln has officially launched its new home kit for the 26-27 season. Produced by technical sponsor Joma, the release completes the club's matchwear lineup for the new campaign, following the earlier announcements of their away and third kits over the summer.
The Joma Viktoria Köln 26-27 home shirt introduces a fresh look while maintaining the traditional identity of the club. The design features Joma's customary performance materials and showcases the main sponsor logo centrally on the chest, completing a professional aesthetic tailored for the upcoming 3. Liga campaign.
The new Viktoria Köln 26-27 home kit is available to purchase via the club's official online store and physical retail locations. It will be worn by the team throughout their league fixtures as they prepare to kick off the new season.
KV Mechelen 26-27 Third Kit Released
Italian sportswear brand Erreà has officially launched the new KV Mechelen 26-27 third kit. This latest release celebrates the identity and heritage of the Belgian club, affectionately known as Malinwa.
The KV Mechelen 26-27 third jersey introduces a striking look that combines a dynamic blue gradient across the front. It is a noticeable departure from the minimal brown and garnet pinstripe design used for the club's previous third shirt. Bespoke club details are incorporated throughout the design to honor KV Mechelen's rich history.
This kit release comes as part of Erreà's ongoing partnership with KV Mechelen, which was extended last year and is set to run until the end of the 2027 season.
Torquay United 26-27 Home Kit Released
Torquay United today launched their new 26-27 home kit. Made by VX3, the new Torquay United 26-27 home kit will be worn in the upcoming campaign.
The VX3 Torquay United 26-27 home shirt introduces a bold look for the club, combining the traditional yellow base with navy stripes. The design incorporates a subtle nod to the team's 1995 season, bringing a touch of history to the modern template. Additional navy accents are present on the collar and sleeve cuffs.
The VX3 Torquay United 26-27 home shirt is available to purchase online immediately, with physical in-store sales commencing on July 16.
