Today sees the launch of Nike’s new England Rugby Home kit for the 2009/10 season the lightest and most innovative playing jersey ever worn by the squad.
The new kit is 27% lighter than in previous seasons, designed to give the team every possible advantage on the pitch.
Tight fitting rugby apparel was introduced by Nike in 2003 in a bid to help reduce the opportunity to be tackled via the shirt, and this season sees further innovations to improve the fit of the apparel. The ergonomically designed jersey, with underarm sleeve panels gives players complete freedom of movement, an optimised fit and comfort.
Visually the classic all-white playing shirt returns, embracing the tradition and history of the English game. The front of the shirt boasts an open neck collar and iconic embroidered Rose.
On the back the jersey carries the motto “RUGBEIA FLOREAT UBIQUE” Latin for ‘RUGBY FLOURISHES EVERYWHERE’, plus a subtle print of the St George’s flag to capture the spirit of the England side.
A new and improved ‘gripper’ print features on the chest panels of the jersey, effective in both wet and dry weather. Nike has worked with players to ensure that the gripper print is positioned at the optimum position on the chest to help catch and carry the ball, whilst the gripper layout was inspired by the famous structure of Twickenham Stadium.
Nike’s Dri Fit fabric has been specially engineered to be stronger and more flexible than ever, ensuring that sweat is moved away from players’ bodies to provide comfort and enhance performance against the opposition.