Update: Many more Adidas 2021 MLS jerseys have been released. Some 'replica' jerseys like the Seattle Sounders 2021 Jimmy Hendrix lack especially many details, while others like New York City FC's look also good in the replica version.
Adidas these days releases their new 2021 MLS kits. However, just as in previous years, the Three Stripes brand heavily differentiates between the 'authentic' (Player Issue) and 'replica' (Fan) kits. We compare them to find out what the differences are.
Worse Than Ever? Adidas 2019 MLS Authentic vs Replica Kits
Adidas MLS 2021 Authentic vs Replica Kits
There are many differences between the Adidas MLS 2021 Authentic vs Replica Kits, of which not all can be seen at first glance. So we split up the different parts of a kit to make it as easy as possible for you.
Design
The authentic Adidas MLS 2021 kits have some major design differences for many teams. Most importantly, they lack elements such as colored sleeve cuffs and differently colored collars.
Adidas' replica kits for their European teams do not have these design differences
Adidas' replica / authentic kits for their European teams do not have such design differences at all...
Badges & Sponsors
The replica Adidas MLS 2021 jerseys not only have differently applied badges but also lack some important logos.
Authentic Adidas MLS kits have heat-sealed logos, while the replica kits have sewn on Embroidered team crests. Authentic kits have sleeve sponsors and the MLS badge, while replica kits have not logos on the sleeves at all.
What is a bit more ridiculous is that the replica MLS kits do not have stars above the team's crest.
The replica kits now come with the pride tags on the bottom hem
What is better than with previous MLS kits is that now both the authentic and replica kits come with the pride tags on the bottom hem and the back under the collar.
Worse Than Ever? Adidas 2019 MLS Authentic vs Replica Kits
Technologies
In terms of tech, the Adidas authentic and replica MLS kits have the same differences as Adidas' best teams kits
Tech-wise it is the same as for 'global' Adidas teams
The authentic 'player issue' kits have a slimmer, athletic fit, HEAT.RDY technology and other features made for optimal ventilation and lightweight.
The replica 'fan' kits have a relaxed fit and AEROREADY technology.
What is quite confusing is that MLS' store photoshopped some of the authentic kit images - so the back view of some authentic kits use images from the replica kits, just with an added MLS logo.
The image of the back of the authentic MLS Philadelphia Union replica kit shows the replica version on the official website...
Adidas MLS 2021 Authentic Kits - Technology
- Fit: Authentic Jerseys have a slimmer, athletic fit. For a looser fit, we recommend ordering one size larger than you normally wear.
- Material: 100% Polyester
- HEAT.RDY technology is breathable and air-cooling to keep you performing at your best.
- Tagless collar for added comfort
- Ventilated mesh panel inserts
- Heat-sealed adidas ® logo on right chest
- Back neck taping –no irritating stitch on the back neck
- Heat-sealed team crest on left chest
- Heat-sealed sponsor logo on chest
Adidas MLS 2021 Replica Kits - Technology
- Fit: Replica Jerseys fit true to size.
- Material: 100% Polyester
- AEROREADY technology absorbs moisture and makes you feel dry
- Heat-sealed sponsor logo on chest
- Ventilated mesh panel inserts
- Backneck taping –no irritating stitch on the back
- Sewn on embroidered team crest on left chest
- Embroidered adidas ® logo on right chest
- Tagless collar for added comfort
Price
The Adidas authentic 2021 MLS kits retail at 135 USD, while the replica kits are available for 90 USD.
2021 MLS Kit Overview: All Leaks & Releases
What do you think of these differences? Would you buy a replica or authentic MLS kit? Comment below.