Liverpool’s history is not only written in trophies or memorable goals—it’s also stitched in the material of the shirts worn over time. From simple red strips of the ’60s to stylish designs of the present, every kit bears memories of magic moments. They’re not merely kits—they’re signs of belief, glory, and identity.
The All-Red Revolution
It all changed in the late 1960s. Manager Bill Shankly had a thought—get rid of the old white shorts and socks. Go red. All the way. It was daring, but it paid off. That all-red strip first appeared with players such as Ian St John and Ronnie Yeats appearing like giants under Anfield lights. It wasn’t a fashion statement; it was a statement. That strip defined Liverpool’s image for generations to come. It was bold, yet effective.
The ’80s: Liverpool’s Times of Glory in Umbro and Adidas
In the early ’80s, Umbro developed an icon: red with delicate yellow pinstripes. Worn during the 1983–84 treble-winning year, it’s still worn by fans now. That strip reminds one of super nights in Europe and Kenny Dalglish playing his finest.
Next was Adidas, and the iconic “Candy” strip in the late ’80s. Its distinctive design and crisp white piping made it a favorite overnight. Liverpool used it during their league-winning season of 1989–90—its last in three decades. For many, that shirt is a capsule of all the things that made Liverpool great then.
Istanbul 2005: The Reebok Miracle
You can’t discuss excellent kits without referring to the 2005 Champions League final. That simple red Reebok shirt became iconic overnight. Liverpool were 3–0 down at halftime and came back to win it. That shirt represented something more than fashion—it represented belief, determination, and one of the greatest comebacks in football history.
New Balance and Liverpool’s Return to the Top
Fast forward to 2018–19. New Balance struck the perfect balance between vintage flair and contemporary cuteness. Their home jersey had subtle pinstripes and a clever collar. It was sported in a Champions League-winning campaign and the 2019–20 Premier League championship charge. That shirt is near and dear to supporters—it signalled Liverpool back to the top.
Nike’s Modern Touch
Nike has moved in the last few years, and opinions have been divided, but what is certain is that they’re not shy about pushing boundaries. Although not a home jersey, the 2021–22 away shirt—a cream-colored design with stripes of green and orange—proved surprisingly popular. A bold reference to the past with a twist, it indicated just how much supporters are interested in genuine design and respect for history.
More Than Just Looks
What makes these kits unique isn’t the design or the material. It’s what they stand for:
•They were used in landmark games.
•They have the weight of tales, from league titles to tearful nights in Europe.
•They’re part of what makes cheering for Liverpool like being part of something more.
When fans tug on that shirt—a vintage look or the latest model—they’re not merely demonstrating allegiance. They’re tapping into a deep, emotional past.
Author’s Note
Each glorious moment in Liverpool’s history has been followed by a great shirt. These shirts are not fashion—then they are memory, pride, and heritage. It’s the radical shift to all-red in the ’60s, or the ’80s Candy swagger, or the sweat-drenched Reebok shirt from Istanbul, or the poise of the New Balance era. Every jersey is a part of Liverpool’s pulse. As we begin a new era with Adidas, our fans are ready—because in red isn’t just tradition. It’s who we are.
As featured on Walkon.com
