West Ham United Football Club has a rich history that spans over a century, and one of the most enduring symbols of the club is its iconic football shirts. From the classic claret and blue to modern designs, West Ham’s kits have evolved over time while maintaining the club’s identity. These shirts have witnessed memorable moments, legendary players, and significant changes in design and technology. In this article, we’ll explore the evolution of West Ham United football shirts through the years, highlighting key designs, innovations, and the significance of these kits to the fans.
The Early Days: Simplicity and Tradition (1900s–1950s)
West Ham United Football Shirts in the early 20th century were simple yet iconic. The team’s signature claret and blue color scheme was first introduced in 1903. Before this, the club wore a variety of designs, including navy and light blue shirts. The choice of claret and blue colors came about after club officials received a donation of Aston Villa kits, and these colors have stuck ever since.
Key Features:
- Simple designs, often without a badge or logo.
- Basic collars and buttoned necklines, reflecting the traditional football kits of the era.
- The club first introduced the crossed hammers badge on its shirts in 1923, symbolizing the team’s working-class roots.
Memorable Moments:
West Ham United’s kits from the early 20th century were worn during the club’s first major appearance in the 1923 FA Cup Final, which is famously remembered as “The White Horse Final.”
The Post-War Period and the Birth of Modern Football Kits (1960s–1970s)
The 1960s brought significant changes to football kits in general, with West Ham United at the forefront of this evolution. The introduction of lighter fabrics and more structured designs allowed for more flexibility on the pitch. This period saw the rise of some of West Ham’s greatest players, including Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst, and Martin Peters, who all wore the famous claret and blue during the club’s golden era.
Key Features:
- Introduction of the iconic V-neck design in the early 1960s.
- The club crest started appearing more frequently on shirts, cementing the club’s identity.
- Shirts became more fitted, reflecting modern trends in football kit design.
Memorable Moments:
The 1964-65 FA Cup-winning shirt is one of the most iconic in West Ham’s history, worn by Bobby Moore when he lifted the trophy. The team also won the 1965 European Cup Winners’ Cup in similar kits.
The Commercial Era Begins: Sponsorship and Bold Designs (1980s–1990s)
By the 1980s, football shirts became more than just kits; they became commercial products. West Ham embraced this new era by adding sponsorship logos and introducing more creative designs. The team’s shirts during this period reflected the fashion and trends of the time, with manufacturers like Adidas and Bukta playing a big role in shaping the look of West Ham’s kits.
Key Features:
- Introduction of shirt sponsorship with Avco Trust as the first major sponsor in the 1980s.
- Bold designs, including pinstripes, contrasting collars, and innovative use of claret and blue.
- Shirts became tighter and made from polyester, helping to improve performance.
Memorable Moments:
The 1980 FA Cup Final kit, without a sponsor, stands out as a classic. Trevor Brooking’s winning header in the final against Arsenal etched this kit into the memories of West Ham fans.
Modern Designs and Global Branding (2000s–2010s)
The 2000s saw a rapid evolution in football shirt technology and design. West Ham, like many clubs, moved towards lightweight, breathable materials, with brands like Umbro and Macron delivering sleek, modern designs. This era also saw a focus on global branding, with sponsors like Dr. Martens and XL Holidays featured prominently.
Key Features:
- Breathable materials and moisture-wicking fabrics became standard, improving player comfort.
- The return of retro-inspired designs, reflecting the club’s rich history.
- Increased commercialization with global brands sponsoring the team’s kits, such as Betway and Alpari.
Memorable Moments:
The 2006-07 home shirt, sponsored by XL Holidays, is often remembered for the great escape from relegation, thanks in large part to Carlos Tevez’s heroics. The kit itself, with its simple design and traditional colors, became a fan favorite.
Commemorating the Past: The Farewell Boleyn Ground Kit (2015-2016)
The 2015-16 season was an emotional one for West Ham, as it marked the club’s final year at the Boleyn Ground, their home for over a century. The kit that season was designed with the club’s history in mind, featuring a more traditional design that paid homage to the shirts worn during the club’s earlier years.
Key Features:
- Retro-inspired design with claret sleeves and blue body, evoking the club’s heritage.
- A commemorative badge celebrating the Boleyn Ground’s 112-year legacy.
- Elegant and simple design, perfect for such a historic season.
Memorable Moments:
West Ham’s 3-2 victory over Manchester United in their final match at the Boleyn Ground was one of the most emotional moments in the club’s history, and the players wore this special kit with pride.
The Move to London Stadium and Adidas Era (2016-Present)
In 2016, West Ham United moved to the London Stadium, marking a new chapter in the club’s history. The move also coincided with a new kit deal with Umbro, which has since produced a range of modern, stylish kits. The club’s shirts during this period have embraced modern design trends while maintaining the traditional claret and blue colors.
Key Features:
- Modern, streamlined designs with a focus on performance and comfort.
- High-tech fabrics, including ventilation panels and heat-pressed badges.
- The 125th-anniversary kits (2019-2020) were especially popular, reflecting a blend of modernity and tradition.
Memorable Moments:
The 2021-22 Europa League campaign, where West Ham reached the semifinals, was one of the most exciting seasons in recent history. The black and gold third kit worn during this campaign became an instant fan favorite.
Conclusion
West Ham United football shirts are more than just a part of the club’s kit; they are symbols of the team’s history, its identity, and the pride of its supporters. From the early days of simple cotton shirts to today’s high-tech designs, these kits have evolved in style and function. But despite the changes in design, one thing remains constant – the claret and blue colors that have defined West Ham United for over a century. As the club continues to grow, its football shirts will remain a key part of its legacy, capturing moments of triumph, struggle, and everything in between.
