Hull City have resurrected and updated an iconic kit from the 1990s for the new season.
The Tigers have often taken their nickname quite literally in their shirt designs, never more so than in the 1992/93 season when their Matchwinner-made shirt featured an all over tiger print.
Though it was met with widespread derision at the time, the kit became a cult classic and is frequently mentioned as one of the best kits of all-time and commands good money on eBay.
Umbro have taken inspiration from the 1990s for the new shirt but in a more subtle measured way, featuring tiger print across the chest rather than wrapping around the shirt. It also features the club’s new crest.
“We’re sure this new shirt will prove popular with supporters as we go for something a little different to previous years," said Hull City brand manager Natasha Chapman. "We would like to thank Umbro for their support in delivering a unique design that references one of the most recognisable Hull City strips of all time.”
The shirt was unveiled today to a decidedly mixed reaction. Some fans loved the retro look while others were underwhelmed.
Respected football shirt guru John Devlin who has written several books about kit design tweeted his approval: “OK… all other entrants for the ‘Kit of the Season’ award just give up now… you won’t beat this SUPERB strip from Umbro.”
Replying to the club’s Twitter account, Henry Clark tweeted his approval “You’ve outdone yourselves again guys.”
However, it wasn’t all flowers and ice cream. “It’s not April 1st is it?” asked @Collo571 on Twitter.
Jonathan McCourt, UK marketing manager for Umbro enthused: “This is a really exciting launch for the club, as well as Umbro, as we go with a really bold graphic design across the front chest, and one that will hit a chord with the fan base as we give a nod back to the 90s. We hope the kit can create lasting memories on and off the field.”
Clubs and manufacturers have been turning to shirts of the past for inspiration more and more in recent years. Umbro's new designs for West Ham United won praise for taking the best elements of the home and away kits from 1980.
The new kit goes on sale later this month.
