Germany Away Kit 2018: A Classic Revisited

The Germany away kit 2018 is more than just a jersey; it's a statement. It's a nod to the past, a celebration of German football heritage, and a symbol of the team's aspirations on the world stage. When the German national team steps onto the field, their kit represents a nation's hopes and dreams. The 2018 away kit, with its unique design and historical inspiration, captured the hearts of fans worldwide, even if the team's performance at the World Cup didn't quite live up to expectations. Let's dive into what made this kit so special, exploring its design elements, the history behind it, and why it remains a favorite among football jersey collectors and fans alike.

Design and Inspiration

The design of the Germany away kit 2018 is a masterclass in blending modern aesthetics with classic touches. The base color is a cool, muted teal, which immediately sets it apart from the traditional black or white away kits. This unexpected choice adds a contemporary feel while still maintaining a sense of understated elegance. What truly makes this kit stand out is the graphic pattern that adorns the front. This intricate design is not just a random collection of lines; it's a subtle yet powerful tribute to the iconic green away kit of the early 1990s. That classic kit, worn during Germany's victorious 1990 World Cup campaign, holds a special place in the memories of German football fans. By incorporating elements of that design, the 2018 away kit creates a tangible link to a glorious past.

The graphic pattern itself consists of various shades of green, creating a dynamic and visually appealing effect. It's a modern interpretation of the angular shapes that characterized the 1990s design, giving it a fresh and contemporary look. The Adidas logo and the German national team crest are prominently displayed on the chest, both in contrasting white to stand out against the teal background. This ensures that the kit remains instantly recognizable and proudly displays the team's identity. The overall design is clean and uncluttered, allowing the unique color and graphic pattern to take center stage. It's a kit that manages to be both stylish and respectful of tradition, appealing to both older fans who remember the 1990s and younger fans who appreciate modern design.

Historical Significance

To truly understand the appeal of the Germany away kit 2018, it's essential to appreciate its historical context. As mentioned earlier, the kit draws inspiration from the legendary green away kit worn by the German national team during the 1990 World Cup in Italy. That tournament was a momentous occasion for Germany, as they emerged victorious, defeating Argentina in the final to lift the coveted trophy. The green away kit became synonymous with that triumph, forever etched in the memories of football fans.

The decision to pay homage to that iconic kit was a deliberate one, aimed at tapping into the nostalgia and positive associations surrounding that era. By incorporating elements of the 1990s design, the 2018 away kit sought to evoke feelings of pride, hope, and optimism. It was a reminder of past glories and a symbol of the team's ambition to replicate that success on the world stage. Of course, football is unpredictable, and the 2018 World Cup didn't go as planned for Germany. However, the kit itself remains a beloved piece of memorabilia, a testament to the enduring power of nostalgia and the importance of historical context in football culture. The green away kit of 1990 is more than just a piece of clothing; it represents a golden era in German football history. The 2018 kit, by referencing that design, taps into that rich legacy and reminds fans of the team's potential for greatness.

Details and Features

Beyond its overall design and historical inspiration, the Germany away kit 2018 boasts several notable details and features that contribute to its appeal. The kit is made from Adidas' Climalite fabric, a lightweight and breathable material designed to keep players cool and comfortable on the pitch. This is a crucial feature for performance, as it allows players to focus on the game without being distracted by discomfort. The fabric also wicks away moisture, helping to regulate body temperature and prevent overheating. The fit of the kit is also carefully considered, with a slim and athletic cut that allows for freedom of movement. This ensures that players can perform at their best without feeling restricted by their clothing.

The collar of the kit is a classic crew neck design, providing a comfortable and secure fit. The sleeves are short and feature ribbed cuffs, adding a touch of style and preventing the sleeves from riding up during play. The Adidas three stripes are present on the shoulders, a signature element of Adidas football kits. These stripes are in contrasting white, adding to the overall visual appeal of the kit. The German national team crest is embroidered on the chest, a symbol of national pride and a mark of quality. The crest is meticulously crafted, with intricate detailing that showcases the team's iconic emblem. Overall, the Germany away kit 2018 is a well-designed and thoughtfully constructed piece of sportswear. Every detail has been carefully considered to ensure both performance and style, making it a favorite among players and fans alike.

Fan Reception and Collectibility

Upon its release, the Germany away kit 2018 was met with widespread acclaim from fans and collectors alike. Its unique design, historical inspiration, and high-quality construction made it an instant hit. Fans loved the unexpected teal color and the subtle nod to the iconic green away kit of the 1990s. Many saw it as a stylish and modern interpretation of a classic design, a kit that could be worn both on and off the pitch. The kit quickly became a popular choice for fans attending matches, with many proudly sporting it in the stands. It also became a sought-after item among collectors, with many eager to add it to their collections of football memorabilia.

Even though Germany's performance at the 2018 World Cup was disappointing, the kit itself remained popular. Fans recognized that the kit was more than just a symbol of that particular tournament; it was a celebration of German football history and a testament to the enduring power of nostalgia. Today, the Germany away kit 2018 remains a highly sought-after item among collectors. Its unique design, historical significance, and limited availability have all contributed to its value. Whether you're a die-hard German football fan or simply appreciate well-designed sportswear, the Germany away kit 2018 is a piece of history that you can wear with pride. It's a reminder of past glories and a symbol of the enduring passion for football that unites fans around the world.

Where to Buy

If you're looking to get your hands on a Germany away kit 2018, you might face a bit of a challenge since it's no longer in official production. However, don't lose hope! Here's where you can start your search:

• Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay and other similar platforms are great places to find rare and vintage kits. Be sure to check the seller's ratings and reviews to ensure you're getting an authentic product.
• Specialty Kit Retailers: Some retailers specialize in vintage and retro football shirts. These stores, both online and brick-and-mortar, often have a selection of older kits that are hard to find elsewhere.
• Fan Forums and Groups: Online communities dedicated to football shirts can be valuable resources. Members often sell or trade kits among themselves, so it's worth joining a few forums and keeping an eye out for listings.
• Auction Sites: Keep an eye on auction sites, as rare football shirts sometimes come up for sale. Set up alerts for the Germany away kit 2018 to be notified when one becomes available.

Care Instructions

So, you've managed to snag a Germany away kit 2018 – congrats! To keep it in top condition, especially if it's a vintage find, follow these care tips:

• Read the Label: Always check the care label inside the shirt for specific washing instructions.
• Wash Inside Out: Turn the kit inside out before washing to protect the logos, names, and numbers.
• Use a Gentle Detergent: Harsh detergents can damage the fabric and cause colors to fade. Opt for a mild detergent designed for delicate items.
• Wash in Cold Water: Cold water is gentler on the fabric and helps prevent colors from bleeding.
• Avoid the Dryer: Tumble drying can shrink the kit and damage the print. Hang it up to air dry instead, preferably in a shaded area to prevent fading.
• Don't Iron Prints: If you need to iron the kit, avoid ironing directly over any printed areas. Use a low setting and iron inside out.
• Store Properly: Store the kit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Consider using a garment bag to protect it from dust and moths.

Conclusion

The Germany away kit 2018 is more than just a piece of sportswear; it's a symbol of German football history, a celebration of iconic design, and a testament to the enduring passion of fans. Its unique color, subtle nod to the 1990s, and high-quality construction make it a true collector's item. Even though the team's performance at the 2018 World Cup may not have lived up to expectations, the kit itself remains a beloved piece of memorabilia, a reminder of past glories and a symbol of hope for the future. Whether you're a die-hard German football fan or simply appreciate well-designed sportswear, the Germany away kit 2018 is a piece of history that you can wear with pride. So, go ahead and start your search – you might just find a hidden gem that will become a cherished part of your football collection.