Have Special Kits Gone Too Far?

Today, Borussia Dortmund, AS Roma, and 1. FC Union Berlin took to the field in special kits, each sparking a unique response.

Borussia Dortmund - 4 Special Kits Within 5 Years

BVB lost 0-1 against rivals Stuttgart, who are now 7 points ahead - BVB might fail to qualify for the Champions League.

Dortmund celebrated the 50-year anniversary of their stadium with a special kit. What was possibly even more special than the shirt itself was the tifo of the fans to celebrate the anniversary.

For Borussia Dortmund, it was the fourth special-edition kit within five seasons. Next season, BVB will release five kits; however, Dortmund fans apparently have no problem with the club releasing special kits.

In fact, Borussia Dortmund is exemplary when it comes to staying true to its classic kit colors, which might be one reason why the fans have nothing against special kits. BVB only has black and yellow kits instead of experimenting with colors that have nothing to do with the club.

AS Roma: "Origin" Kit With Manchester United Design

AS Roma debuted a special derby kit in their match against city rivals Lazio. Called the "Origins" kit, it has the old Manchester United 2021-22 kit pattern - quite a joke to call the kit "origin."

Still, the full combination of the kit with white shorts and black socks managed to elevate its overall appearance. However, opinions remained divided among supporters.

1. FC Union Berlin: Away Kit at Home

Union Berlin and its shirt sponsor Paramount+ opted for a special move by wearing a "Star Trek" themed kit. However, instead of putting the Star Trek logo on the red home kit, Union Berlin placed the logo on the away kit.

The decision to put the Star Trek logo on the away kit and wear the away kit at home led to protests from organized fans who viewed it as a bad marketing stunt. The fans were even calling for a ban on such marketing gimmicks during home games.

The differing reactions to these special kits underscore the challenge clubs face in balancing tradition with innovation while also navigating commercial interests. As clubs continue to experiment with alternate designs and collaborations, they must carefully consider the sentiments of their loyal fanbase to maintain their connection and support.

It seems like clubs will always find a reason for a special kit, but is it always a good idea?

Are you a fan of special kits? Do you understand Union Berlin fans' desire to ban away kits at home (which is actually a rule in the Premier League)? Let us know in the comments below.