I wonder if there's ever been a study into if there's any link between how a set of kits (especially home kits) are received by fans and players alike, and how a team performs each season.
It sounds nonsensical but I wonder if the thoughts from the fans of "that's a relegation kit that" translates into increased fan apathy in games, translates into worse performances. Or vice versa, thoughts of "promotion kit if I've ever seen one" translates into increased fan vociferousness, translates into teams getting a proverbial boost.
That new Stoke kit for example, the fans hate it, the players even looked uncomfortable wearing it in the reveal photoshoot. Will that translate into fan apathy from the get go this season
Ive genuinely never heard someone describe a kit pre season as being a promotion or relegation kit. Is this a new Twitter thing or something, as I really don’t think it’s a thing so there will not have been any studies I wouldn’t have thought.
CharcyIve genuinely never heard someone describe a kit pre season as being a promotion or relegation kit. Is this a new Twitter thing or something, as I really don’t think it’s a thing so there will not have been any studies I wouldn’t have thought.
I don't think so, tbf I'm 36 and I've long looked at our new kits and thought "not a chance on earth we get promoted in that".
I've also thought "that's a proper fecking kit that, ave it Blues" (2015/16) and we finished the highest we've finished in a decade
I think it's probably nonsensical but there might be something to it, even if just 6-8 points a season through virtue of the fans being more vociferous early doors.
In the world where marginal gains can have a big impact I'm sure the opinion of the players on the seasons kits could make an impact.
Famously the Manchester United grey kit.
Level of sponsor could do something psychologically. I'd rather have undefeated than boylesports or nicolites.
In our Championship years from 2011 it wouldn't have mattered what kit we wore, we wouldn't have got promoted anyway.
And there were plenty who were less than enthusiastic about last season's kit and yet we got promoted with record points.
thought i read somewhere once that red kit had a subconscious effect , red being natures way of warning of poison .
ai says
Yes, the colour of a football kit can have psychological effects on players, opponents, and even referees! Studies suggest that certain colours influence emotions, energy levels, and perceptions on the pitch.
- Red kits are often associated with power, dominance, and aggression. Research indicates that teams wearing red may have a psychological edge, as they appear more formidable to opponents.
- Blue kits tend to evoke feelings of calmness and stability, potentially helping players feel more composed and in control during matches.
- Grey kits are rare in football, as they are linked to neutrality and modesty, which might not be ideal for standing out on the pitch.
- Colour visibility also plays a role—some colours are easier to spot in peripheral vision, which can affect passing accuracy and team coordination.
- Referee decisions may be subtly influenced by kit colours, with some studies suggesting that teams in certain colours receive fewer yellow and red cards.
While kit colour alone won’t win matches, it can contribute to marginal gains in performance and perception. What do you think—could a colour change boost a team’s success
Dirty BertieIn our Championship years from 2011 it wouldn't have mattered what kit we wore, we wouldn't have got promoted anyway.
And there were plenty who were less than enthusiastic about last season's kit and yet we got promoted with record points.
I liked last seasons kit.
Decent shade of blue with white shorts and blue socks.
Limited pissing about with too much razzmatazz and a visually appealing sponsor.
If you have a big enough belly do the stripes on the Stoke kit stretch until they are straight?
Sheep2If you have a big enough belly do the stripes on the Stoke kit stretch until they are straight?
I'll let you know in 9 months
I know that there was a study into strategy of players in video games.
When playing on the red team, players would be more aggressive in genres like first person shooters. Those same players would then play more reserved when on the blue team and assess more before making decisions.
AmyT-FEASheep2If you have a big enough belly do the stripes on the Stoke kit stretch until they are straight?
I'll let you know in 9 months
Good luck
Sheep2If you have a big enough belly do the stripes on the Stoke kit stretch until they are straight?
There are plenty who wear replica kits that could certainly test that theory. (PS I aint seen the kit)