Major League Soccer (MLS) has come a long way from the days of plain white shirts with minimal designs. In 2024, MLS teams, in collaboration with Adidas, have embraced bold and colorful kits that are sure to evoke strong opinions among fans and critics alike.
While some kits have been praised for their creativity and ambition, others have missed the mark. Austin FC's cream-colored kit, for example, has been criticized for its lack of vibrancy and failure to represent the club's identity effectively.
On the other hand, Toronto FC's decision to prominently feature their shield logo on the front of their kit has been well-received, adding a fresh and distinctive element to an otherwise plain design.
However, not all kits have been met with praise. Dallas' gradient look has been described as disjointed and messy, with conflicting colors that fail to create a cohesive overall aesthetic.
Nashville SC's shift towards emphasizing blue in their kit design has raised eyebrows, as the club's traditional shade of yellow has been a defining feature of their visual identity.
Colorado Rapids' burgundy and sky blue color pairing has always been popular, but their latest kit, featuring a waving-flag design, has failed to make a significant impact due to the choice of burgundy shorts that do not complement the overall look.
Despite some missteps, certain kits have managed to stand out. FC Cincinnati's white kit with orange and blue trim has been praised for its smart design choices, including the use of orange logos from kit sponsors that enhance the overall cohesiveness of the jersey.
Montreal Impact's departure from their traditional colors with a light blue kit has been seen as a refreshing change, while Sporting Kansas City's return to an argyle pattern, although not perfect in execution, has been welcomed for its unique visual identity.
In conclusion, the 2024 MLS season has brought a diverse range of kit designs, from bold and ambitious to classic and understated. While some kits have been celebrated for their creativity and innovation, others have faced criticism for their lack of cohesion or failure to capture the essence of the club. Overall, the evolution of MLS kits reflects a league that is constantly striving to push boundaries and engage fans with visually striking designs.
