A team's football kit can set it apart from other teams. Style is definitely a part of the culture of football, and many teams like to change their kit designs every couple of years to stay up with current trends. Most professional teams will have two or three kits that they wear in a season, ranging from the more traditional home uniform to more creative styles for their away and alternate uniforms. The most versatile part of the kit is the shirt, but there are accents that can be added to the shorts and socks to create different types of looks. From Kids to Professionals The basic football kit is the same no matter what level the game is played. It includes a jersey that has the player's number on the back for identification purposes, and sometimes includes the player's name as well. Modern football shorts are worn above the knee, and can be the same color as the shirt or an alternating color. Knee socks are generally worn, with knee pads included for extra protection. The most versatile part of the kit is the shoes, which may be any color or design depending on the preferences of the player. Different Styles Aside from the general makeup of the football kit, everything else about each team's uniform can be drastically different. Football teams will show off their individuality with shirts that have collars, laces, buttons, or V-necks. The colors and patterns of each team's shirt range from solid colors to intricate patterns that are computer generated. Some teams will use the different textures that can be achieved with modern materials to create patterns, like checkerboards, without using alternating colors. Stripes are a traditional option, especially the thin, vertical stripe. It is also popular to have short sleeves that are a different color than the body of the shirt. Practicality Of course, the main purpose of a football kit is strictly practical. No matter how creatively they may be designed, they still serve an important purpose: comfort and easy identification. Player names and numbers are featured prominently on the backs of the shirts so that officials and fans can identify them quickly and easily. The colors of the shirts are usually bold and bright enough to be seen across the wide pitch so that players can find one another at a glance during the game. The materials used in football uniforms provide the maximum amount of cooling for the players, who prefer to wear the lightest and most breathable materials possible. Kneepads in the socks help to protect the most vulnerable part of a football player's body - the knees. A player's cleats are the key to his game, and can make the difference between a fabulous performance or a twisted ankle. Football kits can be fashion statements, but it doesn't matter how good they look if they don't do the job. Combine the practical considerations of a good football uniform with the stylish nature of the designs and football is easily the most fashion forward game today.
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