Therefore, for my first entry, and in honor of the new 2010-2011 Arsenal kits (which are pretty darn snappy mind you), I thought I would pose the question, "Over the past 40 years, what has been your favorite Arsenal jersey?" I think the majority of Gooners out there would agree that the home jersey should be red with white sleeves, but there have been almost 20 versions that fulfill that criteria.
To help you decide, I present to you (gathered from many different websites) a pictorial history of the Arsenal Home jersey from 1970 to the present day. For the purposes of this entry, let us focus solely on the home jersey and save the away, third kits and FA Cup Final shirts for future entries.
a) 1970-1981
Definitely the "classic" jersey.
b) 1981-1982
The first Arsenal jersey with a sponsor. JVC would remain on the jersey for almost 20 years.
c) 1982-1984
A slight variation from the prior jersey. The Umbro logo has been removed and the collar has changed. Simple, straightforward...classic.
d) 1984-1986
Again, a slight variation on the collar. It should be noted that 1985 was the centenary year and a version of this jersey has that indicated by the cannon.
e) 1986-1987
Adidas takes over from Umbro.
f) 1988-1990
Adidas' second season. Note the change in sleeves.
g) 1990-1992
Adidas tries out their traditional black stripes.
h) 1992-1994
A radical change...Coincidence that this was Adidas' last jersey?
i) 1994-1996
Nike takes over from Adidas.
j) 1996-1998
A return to a more classic look. Also, I think the first Arsenal jersey to feature a polo-like collar since the 1930's.
k) 1998-1999
Nike introduces Dry Fit technology and puts white down the entire sides of the shirt offset by two thin black stripes. The last JVC jersey.
l) 1999-2000
Same as 1998-1999 but with "Dreamcast", Sega's video game console.
m) 2000-2002
Nike changes the collar, removes the white from the sides of the jersey and moves the black stripes to the shoulders, extending down the sleeve.
n) 2002-2003
O2 replaces Dreamcast, and Arsenal introduces the current crest, but I'm not quite sure what they were thinking with this design. I'd imagine the white extending down towards the torso would have a slimming effect for the more portly among us. I apologize if this one is your favorite.
o) 2003-2004
Jersey of the Invincibles!
p) 2005-2006
A totally new look. Nike seems to completely dismisses tradition and introduces the red courante jersey, though I suppose one could argue that this jersey was a return to the original Woolwich Arsenal jersey of 1913 when the jersey was solid red. I must say that I absolutely love this jersey...so sharp. But, is it Arsenal?
q) 2006-2008
A new stadium, a new sponsor and a new jersey. Nike returned to the more classic look, but added two thin gold stripes down the sides.
r) 2008-2010
Nike tries to compromise between tradition and a more modern look by replacing the white sleeve with a white stripe down the sleeve and side of the jersey offset with two thin red courante stripes. Did the compromise work?
s) 2010-2011
Mustard!! The current jersey is a traditionalist's dream. Actually, it's almost identical to the 1981-1982 jersey. Of course the maker, crest and sponsor have changed, but everything else is pretty much on par.
Well, there you have 'em. 19 home jerseys over the past 40 years, so I ask you again...which jersey is your favorite? Of course, as fans, we associate memories with special jerseys. Favorite players, special matches, season results and your age all will have an effect on how you feel about any particular kit. Therefore, when sharing your favorite I'm sure the readership would love to hear the reasons why a particular jersey is your favorite.
Cheers.
C'MON YOU GUNNERS!!
