Do Jersey Colors Really Matter on the Field?

Image Source: Last Line Sports Australia

There’s more to soccer jersey colors than camaraderie, pride, and aesthetics. It's not just about looking good out there; different colors could potentially affect your mental or physical performance, for better or worse.

Research suggests that your soccer jersey color might influence how you feel, how your team plays, and how your opponents and referees perceive you. Whether it’s boosting aggression, calming nerves, or even keeping you cool, colors might play a bigger role than you’d think on the soccer pitch.

Red Soccer Jerseys = More Aggression?

Ever noticed how many sports teams wear red? There might be a reason for that. A study from 2005 found that athletes in red seemed to dominate more in combat sports, and this effect could potentially spill into soccer. It’s a bit primal—red often signals dominance and power in the natural world.

Image Source: Trikot

For example, Germany's national team even tweaked their away jersey kit in 2006, swapping out black shorts for red ones. The idea was that red might give players a psychological edge, potentially making them feel more dominant and aggressive, which could translate into bolder play. But keep in mind, the jury’s still out on whether this effect is consistent across all sports and situations.

Blue Soccer Jerseys = Staying Calm?

If red might fire you up, blue could potentially cool you down. Wearing blue might help players maintain their composure during tight situations, at least in theory. It’s not just about looking cool, though. Blue is often linked to stability and calm in color psychology, which could help players focus under pressure.

Image Source: Evening Standard

That could be the reason why teams like Chelsea FC stick with blue. Some studies on color psychology suggest that blue can promote trust and concentration, which is a must-have when making split-second decisions on the pitch. The cool tone of blue might even help players feel more in control, although more research is needed to confirm these effects in soccer specifically.

Black Soccer Jerseys = Pure Intimidation

Feeling bold? Black jerseys might be your go-to for intimidating opponents. Research dating back as far as 1988 showed that teams in black were seen as more aggressive—not just by their opponents, but by referees too. Case in point: AC Milan's black away kits are famous for turning heads.

But here's the kicker: while black might make you look tougher, it could also mean more fouls and penalties since refs might perceive you as more aggressive. It's a double-edged sword—you might look bold, but it could also lead to more calls and cards. These effects aren't guaranteed, but they’re worth considering.

White Soccer Jerseys = Cooler Temps

White jerseys do more than just look sleek—they can help you stay cool, literally. In hotter climates, white reflects heat and sunlight better than darker colors. This can help players keep their body temperature down, which is key for maintaining a balanced body temperature and avoiding heatstroke. So, while you're sweating it out on the field, a white jersey might give you a small advantage in staying cooler.

A Final Note: Tight vs. Loose Fitting Soccer Jerseys?

It's not just the color of your jersey that matters—fit plays a role, too. Loose jerseys allow for better airflow, which can help keep you cool by letting your body breathe. However, tight-fitting jerseys cut down on drag and make it harder for opponents to grip you during a challenge.

Modern jerseys try to strike a balance, using materials that wick away moisture while still offering a snug fit for performance. Whether you prefer tight or loose, choosing the right fit can influence how comfortable you feel and, ultimately, how well you perform on the field.

At Storelli, we produce soccer jerseys and tops in a wide range of colors. If you want to see how a particular color affects your performance, our selection can help you find out. We also use specially-formulated fabrics and cuts to give you maximum comfort on the field for distraction-free play.

Curious to see how different colors can impact your performance on the field? Explore Storelli’s wide range of soccer jerseys and find the perfect color and fit to elevate your game. Shop now and play with confidence!