Overview:
Player Version refers generally to the match kits that are worn by the pros on the field. It is made of a lighter, thinner, more breathable material that is more tighly fit and breathable in order to more quickly absorb and dissipate sweat and heat to cool the skin faster in order to make long games easier for serious players. This however does not mean that it is a better choice than the regular stadium kits – it is just more purpose built. The actual name for player version varies from brand to brand, and has changed many time throughout the years, but all of this will be explained below.
Nike Player Version:
Ahead of the EURO 2016, Nike introduced its all-new first ever player version kit, called Nike Aeroswift, on top of its stadium (regular) kit technology, Dri-FIT. In 2018 the player version name was changed, and Nike Aeroswift was replaced with Nike Vaporknit. In 2020, Nike released the second-gen Vaporknit with an improved design. However, in 2021, that name has been changed once again and Nike has revealed its new kit technology is called Nike Dri-FIT ADV. The name derives from Nike’s regular kit technology, Dri-FIT, with an added ADV for “Advanced”. The stadium kit technology is still called Nike Dri-FIT.
The Nike Dri-FIT match kits come with a new cut – it was designed with reduced seams to allow for free movement. Tech-wise, the Nike Dri-FIT ADV products combine “moisture-wicking fabric with advanced engineering and features” to keep players cool, and the logos are heat pressed on instead of sewn. Itfollows the same approach as Vaporknit – optimal breathability through advanced engineering. So it is an evolution and name change for the next-generation authentic player-issue performance products but not a completely new beginning.
All Nike 2021-2022 player version kits will have the “Nike Dri-FIT ADV” technology. The Nike Dri-FIT ADV will be also used for other high-end Nike football products such as training gear and tracksuits.
Adidas Player Version:
In 2014, Adidas released their Climacool (regular) and Adizero (player version) kits to the world for the first time. These names were changed ahead of the last world cup in 2018 when the new improved Climalite (stadium) and Climachill (player version) were announced. In 2020 we got the latest, most advanced model of these kits – the Adidas Aeroready and HEAT.RDY kits. Just as before, the two versions of the shirt are different in several ways. For one, the material is 100% polyester doubleknit for the HEAT.RDY edition, while the Aeroready features uses a half-and-half polyester and recycled polyester doubleknit.
Next up, the shaped hem of the 2020 HEAT.RDY Adidas jerseys is even more accentuated than the one seen on the 2018 Climachill. In the case of kits that have the 3 Stripes on the sides, they don’t go all the way on the HEAT.RDY version now, further differentiating it from the Aeroready jersey.
Finally, the logos on the player version Adidas jerseys are heat-transferred, while they are woven on the stadium kits.
Conclusion:
There is no real “better” choice between the two kits, and your decision should ultimately come down to usage. If you’re serious about planning to use the kit regularly or for extended periods of time playing ball, then the player version is probably a better choice, but if you plan to use the kit for regular wear to show support for your team, or to play the occasional game of soccer with your friends, then maybe the stadium edition is your better choice. Either way, whichever you decide, Footballers SA offers both so the choice is up to you.
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