Update: Many more Adidas 2021 MLS jerseys have been released. Some 'replica' jerseys like the Seattle Sounders 2021 Jimmy Hendrix lack especially many details, while others like New York City FC's look also good in the replica version.
Adidas these days releases their new 2021 MLS kits. However, just as in previous years, the Three Stripes brand heavily differentiates between the 'authentic' (Player Issue) and 'replica' (Fan) kits. We compare them to find out what the differences are.
Worse Than Ever? Adidas 2019 MLS Authentic vs Replica Kits
There are many differences between the Adidas MLS 2021 Authentic vs Replica Kits, of which not all can be seen at first glance. So we split up the different parts of a kit to make it as easy as possible for you.
Design
The authentic Adidas MLS 2021 kits have some major design differences for many teams. Most importantly, they lack elements such as colored sleeve cuffs and differently colored collars.
Adidas' replica kits for their European teams do not have these design differences
Adidas' replica / authentic kits for their European teams do not have such design differences at all...
Badges & Sponsors
The replica Adidas MLS 2021 jerseys not only have differently applied badges but also lack some important logos.
Authentic Adidas MLS kits have heat-sealed logos, while the replica kits have sewn on Embroidered team crests. Authentic kits have sleeve sponsors and the MLS badge, while replica kits have not logos on the sleeves at all.
What is a bit more ridiculous is that the replica MLS kits do not have stars above the team's crest.
The replica kits now come with the pride tags on the bottom hem
What is better than with previous MLS kits is that now both the authentic and replica kits come with the pride tags on the bottom hem and the back under the collar.
Worse Than Ever? Adidas 2019 MLS Authentic vs Replica Kits
Technologies
In terms of tech, the Adidas authentic and replica MLS kits have the same differences as Adidas' best teams kits
Tech-wise it is the same as for 'global' Adidas teams
The authentic 'player issue' kits have a slimmer, athletic fit, HEAT.RDY technology and other features made for optimal ventilation and lightweight.
The replica 'fan' kits have a relaxed fit and AEROREADY technology.
What is quite confusing is that MLS' store photoshopped some of the authentic kit images - so the back view of some authentic kits use images from the replica kits, just with an added MLS logo.
The image of the back of the authentic MLS Philadelphia Union replica kit shows the replica version on the official website...
Adidas MLS 2021 Authentic Kits - Technology
- Fit: Authentic Jerseys have a slimmer, athletic fit. For a looser fit, we recommend ordering one size larger than you normally wear.
- Material: 100% Polyester
- HEAT.RDY technology is breathable and air-cooling to keep you performing at your best.
- Tagless collar for added comfort
- Ventilated mesh panel inserts
- Heat-sealed adidas ® logo on right chest
- Back neck taping –no irritating stitch on the back neck
- Heat-sealed team crest on left chest
- Heat-sealed sponsor logo on chest
Adidas MLS 2021 Replica Kits - Technology
- Fit: Replica Jerseys fit true to size.
- Material: 100% Polyester
- AEROREADY technology absorbs moisture and makes you feel dry
- Heat-sealed sponsor logo on chest
- Ventilated mesh panel inserts
- Backneck taping –no irritating stitch on the back
- Sewn on embroidered team crest on left chest
- Embroidered adidas ® logo on right chest
- Tagless collar for added comfort
Price
The Adidas authentic 2021 MLS kits retail at 135 USD, while the replica kits are available for 90 USD.
2021 MLS Kit Overview: All 27 Team's (Adidas) Jerseys Released
What do you think of these differences? Would you buy a replica or authentic MLS kit? Comment below.
FAQs
The authentic Adidas MLS 2021 kits have some major design differences for many teams. Most importantly, they lack elements such as colored sleeve cuffs and differently colored collars. Adidas' replica / authentic kits for their European teams do not have such design differences at all...
Are authentic or replica jerseys better? ›
Authentic jerseys are designed with the best possible technology and fabrics for the highest level of play. They are an exact match to the jerseys you see players wearing on the field. Replica jerseys are made for a fan in the stands - with excellent materials for highest levels of comfort and wear.
Are authentic jerseys tighter? ›
Authentic kits are built for professional footballers so, naturally, they feature a more athletic cut which will feel tighter around the body. This isn't necessarily a problem, but we'd always recommend going a size up when buying an authentic shirt, particularly if it's from Puma or adidas.
Are fake football shirts worth it? ›
Ensure you are purchasing from a reputable authorised seller like Kitbag. Counterfeit websites are not authorised sellers and may offer prices that are so low they seem like a good deal, but the shirts are made with poor quality materials and workmanship. Look for the label.
What is the difference between authentic and replica MLB jerseys? ›
Although replica jerseys are still fully licensed by the MLB, they are much cheaper than authentic jerseys and of slightly less quality. Replica jerseys are a full-button jersey that feature the same design as authentic jerseys, but are made of less durable fabric.
What is the difference between authentic and replica adidas mls jersey? ›
What's the difference between a replica jersey and an authentic jersey? A replica soccer jersey is made for fans, and an authentic soccer jersey is the same as the kit players wear on the pitch. Replica jerseys have a more relaxed fit so they're comfortable for everyday wear and in the stands.
Are authentic jerseys worth the money? ›
Authentic jerseys use high-quality materials like polyester and nylon, which are lightweight yet durable. They also feature authentic team logos, embroidered names, and authentic stitching. Authentic jerseys also have double-knit materials that make them breathable and comfortable to wear all day long.
How do Adidas authentic jerseys fit? ›
For the Adidas jerseys, the NHL recommends ordering one size smaller than what you normally wear for everyday use. Conversely, if you will be wearing equipment or multiple clothing layers beneath your jersey, order a size larger than normal.
How to spot a fake soccer jersey? ›
Real vs Fake Jerseys: How to Spot the Difference
- Check for serial numbers and official logos.
- Cross-check the jersey you're buying with the offerings on the brand's official site.
- Compare materials.
- Double-check to make sure you have the right brand for the team you're supporting.
- Shop from a reputable retailer.
As you're checking out the jersey, look for the Adidas logo and the three stripes. This can tell you if it's a real Adidas product. The label should read "Adidas" or have an official 3-stripe mark. If it's not there in any form, then this is a fake jersey.
The bottom right or left of the front of the shirt will usually contain some sort of authenticity tag or a tag detailing the material type, but be warned! The look of these tags has changed considerably over time, and some adidas shirts don't include the standardised authenticity tag at all.
Are stitched NFL jerseys fake? ›
The highest quality jerseys are authentic jerseys that look identical to game worn jerseys and feature stitched on letters and numbers and durable fabrics. Nike improved the quality of all the NFL Jerseys now so really the choice comes down to what you prefer.
Is it illegal to buy replica jerseys? ›
The legality of buying replica jerseys is a complex issue that intersects with copyright infringement, trademark laws, and ethical considerations. While it is not inherently illegal for individuals to purchase replica jerseys for personal use, they should be mindful of the potential legal and ethical implications.
Who makes official MLB jerseys? ›
Major League Baseball teams are wearing newly designed uniforms this year aimed at improving performance and helping players stay cool throughout games in the summer months. The new gear, designed by Nike and manufactured by Fanatics, has drawn mixed reviews from players.
Is replica the same as authentic? ›
Replica goods are close copies of the original goods. Also referred to as knockoffs, they are acknowledged to be modeled after the original famous product. Therefore, even though they share a striking resemblance with the original goods, they are not passed off as being the real deal.
Are authentic jerseys comfortable? ›
Authentic jerseys are made to the same specifications the pros wear on court. They feature alll the premium finishes, including embroidered nameplates, numbers and team graphics. The fit is slim, so athletes should size up if a baggier fit is preferred. Dri-FIT technology wicks away moisture for comfort.
