Few football clubs boast the iconic legacy of AFC Ajax. Known for its Total Football philosophy, a legendary youth academy, and a legacy of domestic and international success, Ajax commands attention both on and off the pitch. When Ajax unveils a new kit, especially a third kit, it’s more than just sportswear—it’s a cultural moment.
The Ajax Third Kit 2025 has officially been released, and it has already sparked widespread conversation among fans, pundits, and fashion enthusiasts alike. This year’s third kit doesn’t merely serve as an alternate uniform—it tells a story. A story of bold aesthetics, deep-rooted heritage, and the club’s forward-looking identity. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the design inspiration, the historical context, fan reactions, commercial implications, and what it says about Ajax as a modern football institution.
The Design: A Fusion of Innovation and Tribute
A Bold Aesthetic for a Modern Era
The Ajax Third Kit 2025 is a dramatic departure from the club’s traditional red-and-white home colors. The base of the kit is a striking shade of deep teal, accented with subtle gold and charcoal trim. The color palette is both modern and regal, reflecting Ajax’s position as a club with both style and substance.
The jersey features a textured geometric pattern across the front, inspired by the angular forms of Amsterdam’s modernist architecture. The pattern adds visual dynamism to the kit, allowing it to stand out under stadium lights and television screens. A matte finish with breathable mesh panelling ensures performance doesn’t take a backseat to aesthetics.
Paying Homage to the Past
Despite its contemporary design, the kit pays clear homage to Ajax’s storied past. Embroidered just below the collar is the Latin phrase “Gloria Amstelodamensis” (Glory of Amsterdam), a subtle nod to the club’s roots and enduring legacy in the Dutch capital. Additionally, the inside collar features an image of the old De Meer Stadion, Ajax’s historic ground before the move to the Johan Cruyff Arena.
The golden crest on the chest mirrors a version worn by the club during their early 1970s golden era—a time when Ajax, led by legends like Johan Cruyff and Johan Neeskens, redefined football on the global stage.
Adidas and Ajax: A Partnership Reinvented
Ajax’s long-standing relationship with Adidas continues to bear fruit. The 2025 third kit marks the 23rd year of collaboration between the German sportswear giant and the Eredivisie powerhouse. In recent years, Adidas has emphasized storytelling in its third kits for major clubs, and Ajax’s latest offering is no exception.
Sustainability Meets Performance
The Ajax Third Kit 2025 is crafted from Parley Ocean Plastic, part of Adidas’ ongoing sustainability initiative. The use of recycled materials reinforces Ajax’s commitment not only to excellence in football but also to global responsibility.
Adidas’s HEAT.RDY technology is embedded within the fabric, enhancing moisture management and airflow. This ensures players remain cool and comfortable even during high-intensity Champions League nights or heated domestic derbies.
Fan Reactions: Passion, Pride, and Polarization
Initial Social Media Buzz
The release of the third kit generated an immediate stir on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Reddit. Hashtags such as #AjaxThirdKit and #GloriaAmstelodamensis trended across Dutch and international sports communities.
Some fans were instantly captivated by the daring color scheme and historic details, calling it one of the most beautiful kits in the club’s modern history. One fan tweeted, “This kit is pure class—history, fashion, and function all in one.”
Traditionalists Weigh In
However, not all reactions were universally positive. A portion of traditionalists expressed disappointment over the departure from classic color themes. While the third kit is designed for use in away games or specific competitions, many feel strongly that club identity should remain visually consistent.
Yet even among critics, there’s acknowledgment of the kit’s attention to detail and craftsmanship. As one fan wrote on a supporters’ forum, “Not my favorite color combo, but I respect the artistry and historical nods.”
Commercial Impact and Merchandise Rollout
Selling More Than a Shirt
The Ajax Third Kit 2025 has already broken early merchandise records, becoming one of the fastest-selling third kits in club history. According to early reports from Ajax’s official store and Adidas outlets, pre-orders surged within hours of the unveiling.
Beyond jerseys, the club has also released a full merchandise range: from training wear and scarves to lifestyle apparel and limited-edition collectibles. The success reflects a broader trend in football where kits are now seen not just as sports gear but as statements of identity and fashion.
The Global Appeal
Ajax has grown into a globally recognized brand, especially following recent Champions League campaigns that reignited international interest. With supporters across Europe, Asia, and Africa, Ajax’s third kit reaches an audience far beyond Amsterdam. The club has even partnered with major online platforms like Fanatics and JD Sports to ensure global accessibility.
Historical Context: The Evolution of Ajax Third Kits
Ajax’s third kits have historically ranged from minimalist black kits to colorful tributes to Amsterdam culture. Notably:
- 2019/20: A bold black and gold kit paying tribute to Amsterdam nightlife.
- 2021/22: The Bob Marley-inspired kit celebrating “Three Little Birds,” a fan anthem, which sold out in hours and became a collector’s item.
- 2023/24: A tribute to youth development featuring academy names subtly integrated into the design.
The 2025 edition continues this tradition of thoughtful storytelling, anchoring the kit in a blend of past legacy and modern aspiration.
On-Pitch Debut: When and Where to Watch
Scheduled Appearances
The Ajax Third Kit 2025 will make its on-pitch debut during their UEFA Europa League away fixture in September. Additionally, it’s expected to feature in selected Eredivisie away matches where kit clashes or special occasions warrant its use.
Fans are particularly looking forward to its use in key fixtures like Feyenoord vs Ajax, where bold kits often add an extra layer of drama to the heated De Klassieker rivalry.
Expert Opinions and Style Reviews
Fashion Meets Football
Kit designers and fashion critics alike have praised Ajax’s 2025 third kit for blurring the lines between sportswear and streetwear. Amsterdam-based designer and Ajax fan Jesse van Dijk noted in an interview, “This kit wouldn’t look out of place on a catwalk—it’s that stylish. Ajax continues to set trends both on and off the pitch.”
Collector Value
Experts predict the third kit will become a sought-after item among collectors, especially given the club’s reputation for unique alternate kits. Limited-edition packaging and numbered tags for the first 1,000 jerseys further elevate its status as a premium item.
Conclusion
The Ajax Third Kit 2025 is more than just an alternate uniform. It’s a vivid expression of the club’s identity—a fusion of bold modern design, historic reverence, and sustainability. Whether you love it for its style, appreciate it for its heritage, or wear it to stand out in the stands, it’s clear that Ajax has once again delivered a kit that resonates on multiple levels.
From diehard fans in Amsterdam to international admirers watching from afar, the third kit reinforces why Ajax remains one of football’s most iconic institutions. With their 2025 kit, Ajax continues to blend legacy with innovation—both on the field and in the fashion world.
Read more: M25 Traffic Today: Live Updates, Congestion Hotspots, and Travel Tips for a Smoother Journey