Top 10 Umbro Premier League Kits

Umbro have long been associated with football, particularly in the Premier League, where the brand has produced some of the most iconic football kits in the league’s history. The association between Umbro and English clubs dates back to the early days of the sport in the country, with the brand forging a reputation for design excellence and innovation in sportswear.

Throughout the Premier League era, fans have witnessed a plethora of unique Umbro designs that have graced the pitches, some of which have left a lasting impact on the culture of football fashion.

Celebrating these designs, a look back through the Premier League’s sartorial history reveals a treasure trove of memorable Umbro kits. From pioneering the first all-black kit in English football for Manchester United to collaborations with some of the biggest clubs, these shirts tell the story not only of a brand, but of an evolving league as well.

In this article, we take a look at the top 10 Umbro Premier League kits in history, considering their design, cultural impact, and the memories they evoke among fans.

For our previous articles in the series about Premier League kits, there is further reading on the best Adidas, Nike and Puma kits.

Evolution of Umbro Premier League Kits

Umbro has played a pivotal role in football history with its kit designs and sponsorships, evolving from simple early designs to incorporating advanced technologies and iconic brand associations.

Inception and Early Designs

Umbro’s journey in the Premier League began with classic designs that prioritised comfort and durability. The kits of the early ’90s were characterised by heavier cotton fabrics and simpler patterns. These initial designs set the foundation for Umbro’s future in football kit manufacturing, with the emphasis on functional sportswear that could withstand the ever-evolving rigours of the game.

Technological Advancements

Moving into the new millennium, Umbro kits underwent significant technological advancements. The introduction of lighter, breathable materials transformed the players’ experience, with moisture-wicking fabrics becoming a standard feature.

Umbro also explored more ergonomic designs, allowing for better movement and comfort on the pitch. This shift towards innovation cemented the manufacturer’s reputation as a forward-thinking kit provider.

Iconic Sponsorships

Umbro’s partnerships with Premier League teams have featured some of the most remarkable kits. The company has been associated with iconic sponsorships that resonated with fans. This includes memorable team shirts like Chelsea’s centenary kit, celebrating their 100th anniversary with a refreshed badge and gold accents, which many consider a classic in Premier League history.

These sponsorships were not only commercial triumphs, but became intrinsic parts of each club’s visual identity.

Top 10 Iconic Umbro Kits in Premier League History

From classic looks to modern marvels, these kits represent a blend of style, innovation, and footballing tradition.

1. Manchester City Home Kit (2011-12)

The 2011-2012 Manchester City home kit is unforgettable for many reasons. Its classic design, featuring the traditional sky blue with white trim, is etched in the memories of fans for being the kit worn when City clinched their first Premier League title in dramatic fashion.

This Umbro kit is not just about its clean and stylish look, as it represents a pivotal moment in the club’s history, making it a worthy addition to this list.

2. West Ham United Home Kit (2015-16)

Celebrating the club’s final season at the Boleyn Ground, this kit featured a classic design with a modern twist. The claret shirt with blue sleeves paid homage to West Ham’s rich history, while incorporating contemporary elements that made it stand out. It’s a memorable Umbro kit that symbolises a significant moment in the club’s history.

3. Everton FA Cup Final Kit (1995)

Everton’s 1995 FA Cup Final kit, worn in their surprise victory against Manchester United, is a classic example of Umbro’s design excellence.

The royal blue shirt with its distinctive patterned sleeves and white collar captures the essence of the 90s football era. This kit is not just a piece of Everton’s rich history but a symbol of underdog triumph in English football.

4. Manchester United Away Kit (1992-93)

Although primarily known for their home colours, Manchester United’s 1992-1993 away kit by Umbro is memorable for its bold design and the start of a new era under Sir Alex Ferguson.

The kit’s striking pattern of black and gold was a departure from traditional away colours, highlighting a modern and daring approach that would come to define United’s dominant years in the Premier League.

5. Manchester United Home Kit (1999-2000)

The Manchester United 1999-2000 home kit by Umbro is iconic for its classic design during a period of unparalleled success. The kit features the traditional red base with white and black and white trims, symbolising the club’s rich history and dominance in English football.

It is most remembered for being worn by legends as they competed at the peak of their powers, a testament to United’s enduring legacy and the start of a new millennium of football.

6. Bournemouth Home Kit (2019-20)

The Bournemouth 2019/20 home kit, designed by Umbro, featured the club’s classic red and black stripes, embodying a modern twist on their traditional look. This kit was distinguished by its sharp, clean lines and innovative design details, such as the subtle pattern within the stripes and the black trim on the sleeves and collar.

Worn during a challenging Premier League season, this kit symbolises the Cherries’ fighting spirit and commitment to their identity, resonating deeply with fans and players alike.

7. Chelsea Home Kit (2004-05)

Chelsea’s 2004-05 home kit, designed by Umbro, is emblematic of a transformative era for the club under José Mourinho.

The royal blue kit was sleek and modern, with white trim that added a stylish edge. This season marked Chelsea’s emergence as Premier League champions, ending a 50-year wait for the league title. The kit represents a period of dominance and success, embodying the spirit and ambition of Mourinho’s Chelsea

8. Everton Home Kit (2006-07)

The Everton home kit for the 2006-2007 season stood out for its traditional royal blue colour, enhanced with white detailing for a clean and classic look. Designed by Umbro, it reflected the club’s proud heritage while embracing modern design elements.

This kit was associated with a period of resilience and ambition under David Moyes, as Everton sought to establish themselves among the Premier League’s competitive top sides, making it memorable for fans.

9. Tottenham Hotspur Home Kit (1991-92)

Tottenham Hotspur’s 1991-1992 home kit is a classic Umbro design, featuring the traditional white shirt but with a distinctive shadow pattern. This kit, combined with navy blue shorts and white socks, represents Spurs’ elegance on the pitch. It is remembered for its stylish look and as a symbol of the club’s heritage.

10. Ipswich Town Home Kit (1993-94)

Ipswich Town’s 1993-1994 home kit showcased the club’s traditional blue with a distinctive touch of white trim on the collar and sleeves.

This design was symbolic of Ipswich’s rich history and their status in English football during the early ’90s. Worn during a season where the team competed fiercely in the Premier League, this kit represents a time of hope and challenge for the club, embodying the spirit of Ipswich Town during that era.

These kits stand as beacons of football fashion, demonstrating both the identity of the clubs and the enduring quality of Umbro’s designs in Premier League history.