West Ham 24-25 Home Kit Collar Controversy: Umbro Crafts a Special Version for Michail Antonio
August 2024 Update: West Ham Players Modify Tight Collars of 24-25 Kit
The West Ham United 2024-2025 home kit, designed by Umbro, is drawing unexpected attention for its restrictive round neck collar, leading several players to take matters into their own hands. Michail Antonio, a key forward for the Hammers, began the season by cutting the elastic of his kit's collar to relieve discomfort. Umbro has since crafted a special version of the kit exclusively for Antonio, featuring a v-shaped cutout in the front for a more relaxed, breathable fit. This modification has become a practical solution for Antonio, while other teammates have found their own ways to cope.
Among these teammates, Jarrod Bowen has opted for a simpler workaround, folding over the collar to reduce restriction. Though it’s a temporary solution, it helps alleviate the pressure, providing a more comfortable fit. Interestingly, while Antonio and Bowen sought alterations, other West Ham players have continued wearing the kit as is, showing that the issue may not affect every player equally. The tight collar remains unchanged for most, suggesting that personal preferences and physique play a role in how restrictive the design feels.
The spotlight on these adjustments has raised the question of whether Umbro will implement further changes to the collar design. At least three players have reportedly modified the kit in some way, which could lead the brand to develop a more universally adaptable collar. Such updates would provide a fixed, looser collar option that might better suit varying comfort levels among players. This could mean a new standard for Umbro, emphasizing functional flexibility in kit design for elite athletes.
Collar design challenges are not new in sports apparel, and West Ham's experience is only the latest. Over the years, professional athletes have expressed mixed feelings about specific collar styles, particularly polo collars. Germany’s Toni Kroos, for example, has openly stated his dislike for polo collars, while former Frankfurt defender Martin Hinteregger famously cut off his polo collar. Nike eventually provided him with a custom version. Such instances underscore that collar preferences are unique and important for players' comfort and performance on the field.
As fans and teams anticipate Umbro’s response, it will be interesting to see if more kit manufacturers consider flexibility in collar designs. Whether it’s polo, round neck, or other styles, the need for adaptable, comfortable options is clear.
