The Netherlands Kit: A Guide to the Uniforms of the Oranje

Introduction

The Netherlands national football team, affectionately known as the Oranje, has a rich history and a passionate following around the world. The team's kit, consisting of the orange shirt, white shorts, and black socks, has become an iconic symbol of Dutch football and a source of pride for the nation.

The History of the Netherlands Kit

The origins of the Netherlands kit can be traced back to the late 1800s, when the team played in blue and white uniforms. However, in 1907, the Dutch Football Association (KNVB) decided to adopt orange as the team's primary color, referencing the House of Orange-Nassau, the reigning royal family of the Netherlands.

Initially, the team's kit consisted of an orange shirt and black shorts. White socks were added in the 1920s, completing the iconic look that has remained largely unchanged for almost a century.

The Significance of Orange

The color orange holds deep significance for the Netherlands. It is associated with the Dutch national flag, the House of Orange-Nassau, and the Dutch royal family. The color is also a symbol of national pride and unity, and is often used to represent the country in various cultural and sporting events.

Design and Evolution

Over the years, the design of the Netherlands kit has undergone subtle changes, while retaining its core elements. The traditional orange shirt, white shorts, and black socks have remained consistent, although variations have been introduced in the form of different shades of orange, collar styles, and sleeve designs.

In recent years, the KNVB has collaborated with leading sportswear manufacturers such as Nike and Adidas to create innovative and high-performance kits for the team. The use of lightweight materials, moisture-wicking fabrics, and ergonomic designs has helped to enhance the performance of the players on the field.

The Home Kit

The Netherlands home kit is the most recognizable and widely used uniform of the team. It consists of an orange shirt, white shorts, and black socks. The shirt typically features a simple design with the KNVB crest on the left chest and the Nike or Adidas logo on the right. The shorts are plain white, while the socks are black with orange trim.

The Away Kit

The Netherlands away kit is used when the team plays away matches against other nations. The design of the away kit varies more frequently than the home kit, but generally follows the same color scheme of orange, white, and black. Recent away kits have featured variations such as a navy blue shirt with orange trim, a white shirt with orange and black stripes, or a black shirt with orange and white accents.

The Third Kit

In addition to the home and away kits, the Netherlands also has a third kit which is used occasionally for special matches or to avoid color clashes with opponents. The third kit typically features a different color scheme from the home and away kits, but still incorporates elements of the Dutch national identity. Past third kits have included a black shirt with orange and white accents, a green shirt with orange and black trim, and a purple shirt with orange and white detailing.

Special Kits

From time to time, the Netherlands has also released special kits to commemorate specific events or anniversaries. These kits often feature unique designs and color combinations that are not typically used for the regular home or away uniforms. Notable special kits include the black and gold kit worn for the team's 125th anniversary and the orange and purple kit worn for the UEFA EURO 2020 tournament.

Manufacturers

Throughout its history, the Netherlands kit has been manufactured by various sportswear companies. The current kit manufacturer is Nike, which has a long-standing partnership with the KNVB. Previous manufacturers have included Adidas, Lotto, and Umbro.

Availability and Pricing

Official Netherlands kits are available for purchase through the KNVB's online store and select authorized retailers. The price of a kit varies depending on the size, quality, and demand. Authentic kits worn by the players are typically more expensive than replica kits made for fans.

FAQs

1. Why is the Netherlands kit orange?

The Netherlands kit is orange as a reference to the House of Orange-Nassau, the reigning royal family of the Netherlands. The color orange is also a symbol of national pride and unity.

2. What is the nickname of the Netherlands national football team?

The Netherlands national football team is nicknamed the Oranje, which means "orange" in Dutch.

3. Who is the current kit manufacturer for the Netherlands?

The current kit manufacturer for the Netherlands is Nike.

4. Where can I buy an official Netherlands kit?

Official Netherlands kits can be purchased through the KNVB's online store and select authorized retailers.

5. How much does a Netherlands kit cost?

The price of a Netherlands kit varies depending on the size, quality, and demand. Authentic kits worn by the players are typically more expensive than replica kits made for fans.

6. What are the different types of Netherlands kits?

The Netherlands has three main types of kits:

• Home kit: Orange shirt, white shorts, black socks
• Away kit: Varies in design, but typically follows the color scheme of orange, white, and black
• Third kit: Features a different color scheme from the home and away kits, but still incorporates elements of the Dutch national identity

Stories and Lessons

1. The "Orange Craze"

In the 1970s, the Netherlands experienced a surge in national pride and football enthusiasm known as the "Orange Craze." The team's success on the international stage, combined with the vibrant orange kits, created a sense of unity and excitement that swept across the country. Fans would don orange clothing and accessories to show their support for the team, and the streets would be filled with orange flags and banners. The "Orange Craze" is a testament to the power of sports in uniting a nation.

2. The "Cruyff Turn"

Johan Cruyff, one of the greatest Dutch footballers of all time, is credited with inventing the legendary "Cruyff Turn," a move that has become synonymous with the Netherlands kit. The move involves a quick change of direction with the ball, leaving the opponent bewildered and often on the ground. Cruyff's mastery of the "Cruyff Turn" inspired a generation of footballers and became a symbol of the Netherlands' attacking style of play.

3. The "Total Football" Era

In the 1970s, the Netherlands national team developed an innovative style of play known as "Total Football." The concept involved a fluid formation where players could switch positions seamlessly, creating a dynamic and unpredictable attack. The team's success, coupled with their orange kits, made them one of the most iconic and influential sides in football history. "Total Football" became a blueprint for future generations of teams and left a lasting legacy on the game.

How to Step-by-Step Approach

1. Choose the Right Kit

The first step in getting the perfect Netherlands kit is choosing the right type for your needs. If you're going to be watching matches at the stadium or on TV, a replica kit will provide a comfortable and stylish way to show your support. If you're planning on playing football yourself, an authentic kit will give you the performance benefits you need on the field.

2. Determine Your Size

Once you've chosen the type of kit you want, it's important to determine your correct size. Most manufacturers offer a size chart on their website or in their retail stores. Measure your chest, waist, and hips to find the best fit. If you're unsure about your size, it's always better to order a size larger than you think you need.

3. Order Your Kit

Once you've determined your size, you can order your Netherlands kit online or at a retail store. Be sure to check the shipping times and return policy before placing your order.

4. Care for Your Kit

To keep your Netherlands kit looking its best, follow these care instructions:

• Machine wash in cold water with like colors
• Do not bleach
• Tumble dry on low heat or air dry
• Iron on low heat if necessary

Why It Matters and How It Benefits

The Netherlands kit is more than just a uniform. It is a symbol of national pride, unity, and footballing excellence. Wearing the Netherlands kit shows your support for the team and your country. It also allows you to connect with other fans and share in the excitement of watching the Oranje play.

In addition, the Netherlands kit is a well-made garment that is comfortable to wear and built to last. It is made from high-quality materials that will withstand the rigors of football play or simply cheering on the team from the stands.

Conclusion

The Netherlands kit is an iconic symbol of Dutch football and a source of pride for the nation. Its unique design and vibrant orange color have made it one of the most recognizable kits in the world. Whether you're a fan of the team or simply appreciate the beauty of the game, wearing a Netherlands kit is a great way to show your support and celebrate the rich history of Dutch football.