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Adidas and the Scottish Football Association have today unveiled the brand new Scotland away kit for 2012/13 season.

The traditional Scottish colours remain strongly represented throughout the new away kit with an array of design innovations. This keeps the strong national identity and brings a modern look and feel to the kit, with subtle hints of the national heritage throughout.

The badge

The crest pays homage to the round badge used on the 1974 shirt worn at the World Cup in West Germany. This variation (as seen on the recently released new home kit) of an iconic emblem of Scottish folklore features awoven badge with the embroidery applied with satin stitching. It features the Royal Standard (aka the Lion Rampant of Scotland) and marks the founding of the Scottish FA in 1873.

Bespoke imprint on the chest

The new white kit is subtly modernised with the reflective two tone use of the shadowed stripe and the incorporated fleur de lys that is repeated across the front panel. The hallmark adidas three stripes has been proudly retained and adds detail through the sleeve with the navy subtly incorporated into the white kit. The V-neck collar is blocked with the traditional Scottish navy with a subtle addition of yellow trim to add flair to the shirt. 

Shorts and socks

Navy shorts, which incorporate ClimaCool™technology, feature a tie chord and Scottish FA crest.The traditional colour rotation for the kit is completed with a two tone colouredsock, which comprises of the predominantly deep Scottish navy while featuring a white cuff detailed with the adidas 3-strips. The socks feature the word ‘ALBA’ -the Gaelic word for Scotland and a new construction features materials that add comfort to the foot-bed and provide Achilles support.

Technology

Advancements in technology have yet again allowed adidas to push the boundaries in the development of their apparel giving the Scotland players an extra edge on the pitch as well as looking the part.

TechFit™ – On the field, the players’ kits will incorporate adidas’ cutting edge TechFit™ technology, to help improve speed, increase endurance capabilities and enhance awareness. This works by stabilizing and focusing the muscles’ energy to generate explosive acceleration and deliver maximum power output.

Climacool™-The shirts also feature adidas ClimaCool™ technology, a mixture of heat and moisture controlling materials, ventilation channels and 3D fabrics which improve air flow to the skin in the key heat zones.

The new Scotland away kit will go on pre-sale from today Tuesday 7thFebruary 2012, and can be purchased from retail from 24^th February, 2012. Pre-order online at: www.scottishfootballdirect.com

The Brasilian home jersey, affectionately known as Amarelinha (“Little Yellow One”), has become a revered national symbol that represents both the hopes of the Brasilian people and their vibrant and diverse culture.

In line with Nike’s commitment to superior athletic performance and lower environmental impact, the fabric of the new shorts is made with 100% recycled polyester, while the fabric of the jerseys is made with at least 96% recycled polyester.  Kits are made using an average of 13 recycled plastic bottles.

The new kit marks a return to tradition with a classic, authentic design that recognizes the country’s glorious football history. The shirt boasts a clean yellow body and a classic V-neck collar with a thin green trim. The shirt also features deep green cuffs, which can be turned over to reveal the rallying cry of Nascido Para Jogar Futebol (“Born to Play Football”) written in the style of Pichacao, a distinctive form of urban graffiti.

Printed on the inside of the back of the neck is a graphic by Brasilian artist Don Torelly. The graphic depicts an outline of the Brasilian federation’s crest containing the Southern Cross, a constellation of stars that was seen over Rio de Janeiro when the Brasilian republic was founded in 1889.

The design of the bold green numbers on the shirts is inspired by the numbers on Brasil’s national bank notes.

The new home shorts are a traditional blue color with a thick white stripe along the side.The new home socks, now with improved cushioning for greater comfort, movement and protection, are white with a green band at the top. A band of diamonds wraps around the center, echoing the tattoos of indigenous warriors.

The new kits are Nike Football’s lightest ever — up to 23 percent lighter than the previous versions. Nike Dri-FIT technology is incorporated throughout the  kits, which helps regulate players’ temperatures on pitch by removing sweat from the body to keep them dry and cool. Laser-cut ventilation on the shirts delivers localized cooling where athletes need it most.

Thanks to a new double-knit structure and yarns, the kits are 20 percent stronger than previous versions, without compromising on fit and feel. A small amount of natural cotton has been added for comfort.

Brasil 2012 Away Kit
The new away kit contains the same distinctive features as the home kit, but is entirely in varsity royal blue with yellow trim. The shorts are blue, and for the first time feature a thick yellow stripe along each side. The socks are blue with a tonal band of diamonds around the center.

Brasil Training and Lifestyle Collection
Nike has also launched an integrated training and lifestyle collection to complement the new uniform and enable players and fans to show their pride on and off the pitch.

For training, players will benefit from an innovative range of apparel designed to keep them comfortable in a variety of conditions. In hot weather they’ll keep cool in a short-sleeve training top with ventilation panels. When the temperature drops they’ll warm up in a mid-layer training top that protects against wind chill. In rainy conditions, players can add a windproof and waterproof long-sleeve performance shell top.

Brasilian fans will also be able to express their pride and honor their team’s culture with the launch of a new range of hoodies, tracksuit tops, T-shirts, sweatshirts, caps, jackets and rugby tops. The range comes in Brasil’s iconic colors, features the Brasilian crest and other symbols, and boasts premium fabrics and elevated design.

Despite not being at Afcon, Bafana Bafana fans have reason to get excited this month.  PUMA, the official sponsor of Bafana Bafana, will stock selected stores with the national teams new fan wear merchandise on 15 February. Fans can buy the South Africa Away Shirt for R599 and the South Africa Anthem Jacket for R999, and can also purchase a range of other fan wear from selected retailers.

The new kits are designed to maximise player’s performance. The jersey fits the body closely to avoid grabbing from the opponent and to enable players to exhibit their physical presence on the pitch. The fabric features PUMA’s U.S.P Moisture Management technology, which enhances airflow and body performance by dragging moisture away from the body and keeps the body at the ultimate performance temperature.

adidas today revealed the new limited edition Orlando Pirates jersey which represents the celebration of the club’s 75^th anniversary. The players will come out in their new kit when they take on BIDvest Wits during the Telkom Knockout Cup Final in Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium next Saturday.

“Orlando Pirates gave us a brief to develop an anniversary jersey that celebrated the rich history of the club as well as the bright and exciting future. The design inspiration came from the strip used by the all-conquering 1973 team that won all trophies that were on offer in that season,” says Zobuzwe Ngobese, the Public Relations Manager at adidas South Africa.

adidas has also developed a special anniversary logo, using the round logo which dates back to the 50s and was used until the late 60s as inspiration. “For the inner-neck logo we used the original logo as an inspiration with 1937 accompanying it. As a result of close interaction between adidas and the Club, respecting the history and celebrating the future, we have created a jersey that all Buccaneers can be proud of,” adds Ngobese.

As the defending league champions and MTN8 Cup winners, Orlando Pirates seem to be on their way to emulating the class of 1973.

“Whilst our focus is always on providing for the future, it is equally important that we look to commemorate our long and rich heritage. As one of the oldest football clubs in Africa, it is imperative that we celebrate these key milestones. With the club turning 75 years next year, the Telkom Knockout Cup Final has presented a perfect platform for Orlando Pirates Football Club to mark the beginning of the celebrations, which will be carried throughout 2012” says Mickey Modisane, the Public Relations Officer at Orlando Pirates.

The new jersey features Climacool Technology- a combination of performance fabrics, open mesh and ventilation channels which keep cool air flowing in and heat and sweat flowing out. Climacool works by considering how and where the body produces heat and sweat and focuses on specific fabric and garment features in those zones. The effect is that athletes stay dry, comfortable and perform at their peak in even the most heated competitions.

The jersey will retail at a recommended retail price of R 599 and will be available in retail shops from Monday the 05^th of December.

The CR7 Collection features a striking new CR Mercurial Vapor Superfly III signature boot mirroring the performance and style Cristiano Ronaldo embodies with a disruptive graphic treatment on the left and right side of the boot.  As CR moves into position or tracks back the left side of his boot reveals a subtle pinstripe effect with a clear screen and pattern treatment.  In contrast, the right side features a bold contemporary stripe of Mach blue and Solar red which is a signature color theme throughout the collection. Together, the boot graphics will create a striking flicker effect on pitch to stand out in the heat of game day competition.

Inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo’s love for premium white sneakers, his collection brings a new interpretation of the Nike5 Street Gato. Taking a new spin on the classic white in-line version, the Gato CR7 uses a rich color tone for a premium and distinctive look completed with a “7” graphic on the heel representing his playing number.

CR’s classic number 7 is also accented through training and lifestyle items. A distinctive t-shirt featuring 7 stripes across the chest comes in three different colors (white, red and blue) and is made of organic cotton. Special graphic and wash treatments give the V neck tee a touch of CR’s style. The training top features a bold “7” graphic and both top and shorts are made of Dri-FIT ensuring comfortable and focused training sessions. Solar Red GS Polo, blue Aw77 Hoody and grey M65 jacket are also part of CR7 Collection.  The collection is rounded out with striking interpretations of the color thematic through a CR7 match ball, shin guards and back pack.

When it comes to football boots with a wealth of history and heritage few rival the Umbro Speciali. Now, to celebrate the iconic Speciali 92 football boots’ 20th anniversary, Umbro unveiled the 5 piece limited edition lifestyle Speciali 92 collection at a stylish launch event in London.

The new Umbro Speciali 92 football boots were created to honor the same model boots worn by the likes of Alan Shearer, Michael Owen and Robert Carlos and are the perfect embodiment of classic style.

A fold-over tongue, ultra-soft K-leather upper and Speciali silhouette are legendary Speciali traits and feature on the new incarnation. A classic K-leather upper gives these boots great comfort and exceptional feel for the ball. While the ankle and heel sections have been re-enforced with padded support zones, to offer exceptional fit and improve stability.

The flex-groove soleplate has been retained from the original 1992 edition, with the exception of the conical heel studs have now been replaced with blades for improved traction and stability.

The launch event in London took place in a swanky gallery where the new Speciali 92 collection was on display. The walls were filled with images of the new collection while projectors replayed videos of some of the greatest ever Speciali goals, including Michael Owen’s wonder-goal against Argentina and Robert Carlos’ physics-bending free-kick.

Legendary England strikers Alan Shearer and Michael Owen are two of the greatest players to ever wear the boots and made a special appearance at the launch to do a Q&A session.

The collection oozes style and features a black leather Anthem jacket as well as Speciali inspired Milton Trainers.

The collection is completed by the Speciali 92 Ball and Bag

Since its launch, the Speciali boot has graced the feet of countless greats and has featured in many iconic footballing moments. Speciali highlights include:

• 6 English Golden Boot winners

• 30 top tier hat-tricks

• 775 English top flight goals have been scored in the Umbro Speciali

• 5,000: number of games played in the Speciali  on the highest stage

• 1992: Umbro release the first Speciali with the “wishbone” system

• 1994: Umbro releases the ‘Pele Speciali’ – one of the lightest boots on the market at 225g

• 1996: Umbro release a new style of Speciali featuring an ‘A Frame’ design for enhanced comfort and fit

• Mark Hughes* scores a spectacular volley in extra time against Oldham Athletic in the 1994 FA Cup semi-final

• Alan Shearer scores 5 goals at Euro 96 wearing the Umbro Speciali, securing the title of top scorer of the tournament

• Roberto Carlos scores an “impossible” 35 yard free kick for Brazil against France in Le Tournoi in 1997

• An 18 year old Michael Owen scores a wonder goal against Argentina in the 1998 World Cup

• Ole Gunnar Solskjaer scores the winning  goal for Manchester United in  the 1999 Champions League Final

• Carlos “El Pipe” [The Kid] Valderrama, considered to be Colombia’s finest player, wears the Umbro Speciali between 1996-1998

The new Italian Football home kit takes its inspiration from one of the world’s most powerful teams, and is designed for the most powerful of performances.  The shirt boasts four stars, representing the four FIFA World Cup victories the Azzurri have enjoyed in their history, the official FIGC badge and a classic vintage styling.  The slim fit shirt has a 3D graphic embossed print and a welded patch pocket. The 4-way stretch underarm panel, cuffs, and back mesh enhance freedom of movement, fashioned after on-pitch player jerseys. Finally, the flat knit rib collar with contrast tipping and tonal bottomless placket add a bit of retro styling to this modern, fast-forward design. To celebrate the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy, the collar has been personalized with the “tricolore”, the three colours of the Italian flag.

A full range of replica shirt, shorts and socks were also launched worldwide today, along with a merchandise collection.  For the first time, PUMA has included a QR code woven label in the home replica shirt, which when scanned takes people on a special journey through the history of the Italian national team, exclusively on www.puma.com/football.

“Materials, design and graphics change day by day, but the charm of the Italian shirt remains the best expression in the world of football”, said Antonello Valentini, General Director of FIGC. “This new shirt represents the long partnership between PUMA and FIGC, emphasising the common values our brands share, as well as the importance of style and traditions.  It represents a new step in our relationship, not only in a commercial sense, but as the expression of a new vision to encourage charity initiatives, and in particular to promote the Italian national team as the ultimate expression of Italian Football”.

Gianluigi Buffon, Italian National Football Team Captain said, “Modern football is such a powerful game, the performance of playing kits is very important, and we are very happy with the new kit that PUMA has created for Italy.  It is a great looking kit – we are a proud nation, and the design is also very important to us.  In my long international playing career, I can certainly say this is the best kit I have worn for the Azzurri.”

Stefano Caroti, Chief Commercial Officer of PUMA SE commented, “We are very pleased with both the design and performance innovations that have been integrated into the new Italy home kit.  Italy is one of our leading Power assets in world football, and we have worked hard with the FIGC to deliver a playing kit and replica wear that meets the high standards we set ourselves.  We hope the Azzurri go on to achieve great things in it in Poland and Ukraine next year.”

PUMA has partnered with the FIGC for eight years, a period that saw the Italian National Team win the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany.

A wardrobe essential for the bona fide Azzurri fan, the Italy Home Replica Short features an official FIGC badge and sporty styling. The gusset increases freedom of movement, complemented by the side leg panels. And for the finishing patriotic team touches, the tonal waistband panel features Italian flag-colored stitching and an embroidered ‘Italia’ script on the belt.

A match-day essential for the bona fide Azzurri fan, the Italy Home Replica Socks feature a sporty styling. The socks have tonal mesh panels, Italian flag-colored tipping on the reverse, and ‘Italia’ wording on the front.

Along with the new kit Puma have launched a a great new campagn called ‘More Than Football’. As the second most successful team in the world with four World Cup wins in 1934, 1938, 1982 and 2006 the Italy kit possesses a legacy that goes beyond most teams. In a football fanatic country it is the azure blue kit that brings Italians from all over the world together under the common love for their beloved national team. For Italians the Azzurri blue is more than just a color. For Italians the Gli Azzurri kit is so much more than football.

Having just released all the African kits they provide kit for, PUMA today announced it has signed a long-term contract extension with the Swiss Football Association (SFV).  The global Sportlifestyle brand will continue to be the official technical partner to the SFV and licensed partner in relation to replica kits, fanwear and other merchandise, through the 2014 FIFA World Cup and UEFA EURO 2016.  On the day of the announcement, PUMA also launched the new home kit ahead of the Swiss national team’s fixture against The Netherlands in Amsterdam on Friday night.

Continuing with a partnership that started in 1998, PUMA will remain the official supplier of playing kits, training and representation apparel and equipment for all associated Swiss national teams, including the National A, Youth, Women’s and Futsal teams.  PUMA will also extend its active partnerships of various SFV grass roots and youth initiatives, including the Credit Suisse Football Academies.

Today in Feusisberg, Switzerland, PUMA also unveiled the new home playing kit for the Swiss National Team.  Part of the Power 12 range of PUMA kits that includes Italy, Uruguay, Czech Republic and Austria, the Switzerland kit is unique as it incorporates the Swiss flag on the shirt, shorts and socks, in addition to the SFV badge.  Engineered mesh at the front of the shirt increases breathability and a technical fabric greatly improves moisture wicking tendencies.

Franz Koch, CEO of PUMA SE said, “We are delighted to extend and deepen our partnership with the Swiss Football Association.  The SFV’s work and commitment to the development of football at all levels in Switzerland is very impressive, evidenced by both the Switzerland U17 team winning the FIFA U-17 World Cup last year and the U21 team reaching the final of the UEFA U21 Championship earlier this year.  We are proud to be associated with SFV, as they strive to build on these successes in the coming years.”

Alex Miescher, General Secretary of SFV commented, “The SFV has enjoyed a highly successful partnership with PUMA over a 13 year period, and we are thrilled to announce the continuation of this relationship.  PUMA’s proficiency in developing technical performance playing and training apparel is second to none, and their support in the development of our grass-roots and youth programmes has been instrumental.  They are the perfect partner for the SFV in every respect, and we very happy to continue with them.”

In addition to the SFV, PUMA also partners with Swiss international players Johan Djourou, Stephan Lichtsteiner, Diego Benaglio and  Xavier Margairaz.