Chelsea's 17/18 Kit: A Deep Dive

Alright, football fanatics, let's rewind to the 2017/2018 season and dive headfirst into the Chelsea football kit. That year, the Blues, under the guidance of then-manager Antonio Conte, sported a look that has become iconic among fans. We're talking about the kit, the colours, the feel, and everything in between. The 2017/18 season was one where Chelsea aimed to defend their Premier League title, and while they didn't quite make it, the kit itself certainly left its mark. So, grab your jerseys, and let's explore the details. It's time for a proper breakdown of the kit that graced Stamford Bridge during that memorable season. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what made this kit a favourite, its design elements, and how it's remembered by the Chelsea faithful. We’ll cover everything, from the iconic blue home kit to the away and alternative strips that Chelsea wore during their away games, and how these kits performed both on the pitch and in the hearts of the fans.

The Home Kit: Chelsea's Signature Blue

The Chelsea home kit for the 2017/18 season was, of course, a striking shade of blue – a colour synonymous with the club. But it wasn't just any blue; it was a carefully chosen hue that stood out both on and off the field. The kit's design featured subtle yet significant details. The jersey's body was a rich, vibrant blue, which was complemented by white accents. These white details usually appeared on the collar, sleeves, and the sponsor's logo – a clean, classic contrast that enhanced the overall aesthetic. The Nike swoosh, placed proudly on the chest, added to the kit's sleek appearance. Nike's involvement, a crucial factor in the kit's design, ensured both high-quality materials and a modern design. This made the kit not only visually appealing but also a comfortable and performance-enhancing piece of athletic wear for the players. For the first time ever, the kit also featured a new principal sponsor: Yokohama Tyres. The Yokohama Tyres logo was prominently displayed across the front of the shirt. This sponsorship was a key part of Chelsea's financial strategy, representing a significant partnership and making the kit more marketable.

The shorts, like the jersey, were predominantly blue, continuing the theme of the home kit. White detailing was again used, often found on the sides of the shorts, which enhanced the cohesive design. The socks completed the look, also in blue, and incorporating white stripes or other design elements to mirror the jersey and shorts. Together, these elements created a uniform that was both stylish and functional. Wearing this kit meant more than just supporting Chelsea; it was about representing a legacy and a vision. The 2017/18 home kit was a symbol of tradition and a commitment to excellence. It embodied the club's values, from the players on the pitch to the fans in the stands. The Chelsea home kit of 2017/18 was one of those kits that will forever remain in the hearts of the fans. It was a kit associated with memorable goals, iconic moments, and the spirit of the Blues. It's safe to say it was a home kit to remember.

Exploring the Away and Third Kits

Beyond the iconic blue of the home kit, Chelsea didn't stop there. They also rolled out a few away and third kits that fans got to see on their travels. The away kit offered a visual departure from the traditional blue, often showcasing different colours and designs. It provided a fresh, contrasting look when the Blues were playing away from home. These kits were strategically designed to grab attention. The goal was to provide an alternative that would be visually striking. The away kits were frequently used in high-profile matches. These kits allowed Chelsea to stand out against their opponents and make a statement. The away kits were crucial from a branding perspective. They offered another way to engage with supporters and to merchandise the Chelsea brand globally. The design and colour palettes of the away kits were key to their appeal. They needed to be appealing and have a unique character, while staying in line with Chelsea's values.

The third kits were even more experimental. They frequently featured bold and unique designs. The third kit would give Chelsea an extra option in matches where a clash of colours was an issue. For fans, the third kit was about embracing innovation and broadening their collection. These kits often included limited-edition features. This made them collectibles and increased their value. Third kits played a crucial role in building the Chelsea brand's diversity. They demonstrated the club's willingness to experiment with designs. The third kits, along with the away kit, were a reflection of Chelsea's adaptability and style, showcasing a variety of colour schemes and designs that gave fans plenty of options. They played a vital role in the club's overall identity.

Design and Technical Aspects of the Kit

Let’s dive into what makes this kit tick – the design and technical aspects that helped the players perform and that made the kit a classic for the fans. The 2017/18 Chelsea kit, as with all Nike kits, was designed to blend style and function. The material used was typically Nike's innovative fabric known for its breathability and durability. This allowed players to perform at their best, even during the most demanding matches. It was the same fabric used by many of the world's best teams. This guaranteed that the kits were suitable for professional sports and suitable for the intense demands of the Premier League. The fit of the kit was tailored to enhance performance. The shirts were designed to be both snug and flexible. This gave the players freedom of movement without sacrificing aerodynamics. The design team always paid special attention to the details. The placement of seams, the cut of the sleeves, and the design of the collar were all crucial factors. They all played a part in making the kit comfortable and improving the player's performance. The use of Nike's Dri-FIT technology was another key feature. This technology worked to wick away sweat, keeping the players dry and comfortable throughout the game. All of these features came together to create a kit that looked great and was ready for the intensity of the Premier League. This kit was more than a uniform; it was a tool designed to maximize athletic performance.

The design itself was a reflection of Chelsea's style. The colours, as we've already covered, were vibrant and bold, with a classic look that celebrated the club’s history. The club crest and the Nike swoosh were perfectly positioned, providing a balanced and professional look. The inclusion of the sponsor's logo was also integrated, a crucial element in modern football kits. The overall look was stylish, reflecting the club's identity. From the materials used to the construction of the kit, every element was meticulously considered. This made the 2017/18 Chelsea kit a perfect mix of performance and style. It offered the players the tools they needed to excel while offering the fans something to take pride in.

Players Who Wore the Kit

Some of the biggest names in football wore the Chelsea kit during that 2017/18 season. Looking at the players who proudly wore this kit, we remember the stars who made this kit even more special. The lineup included legends who have left a lasting impact on Chelsea fans. It's always a pleasure to reminisce and to celebrate the careers of these iconic players. Each of them brought their own unique skills and charisma to the field. Their contributions are still highly valued by the fans. Their memorable performances are a fundamental part of the club’s history. From the defence to the attack, this Chelsea team was filled with top-tier talent. This kit became a symbol of their skill, perseverance, and dedication. These players were not just wearing a jersey; they were also wearing the pride of Chelsea. When they wore this kit, they represented a history that stretched back over a century. Each appearance made in this kit was a demonstration of the club’s spirit and ambition. The 2017/18 Chelsea kit is still connected with these iconic players. Their connection with the kit has cemented its legacy in the hearts of the fans.

• Eden Hazard: The Belgian wizard, known for his incredible dribbling skills and goal-scoring ability, was a key figure. Hazard’s performances in the kit were a constant source of excitement for the fans. His individual brilliance often illuminated Stamford Bridge, and his contribution cemented his status as a Chelsea legend. Every time he wore the 2017/18 kit, fans knew they were in for something special. He was a symbol of the creative flair that made Chelsea one of the most exciting teams in the league. His time at Chelsea, particularly when wearing the 2017/18 kit, will remain in the memories of the fans.
• N'Golo Kanté: The tireless midfielder, renowned for his incredible work rate and defensive prowess, was a vital part of the team's engine room. Kanté's tireless work ethic and ability to win back possession made him a favourite. His performances were the heart of the team. In the 2017/18 season, he showcased the impact of defensive play. He was a player who always gave his all for the team. Kanté’s commitment and skill were a fundamental part of Chelsea’s success. It was a season where his importance to the team was really highlighted. His efforts were instrumental in maintaining the balance and strength of the team.
• Cesc Fàbregas: The Spanish maestro, with his exceptional passing skills and vision, dictated play from midfield. Fàbregas added a level of sophistication and creativity. His passes were a joy to watch, and his vision was unmatched. His ability to change the tempo of a match was something special. His contributions were fundamental to Chelsea’s style of play. Fàbregas provided the crucial passes that helped create goal-scoring opportunities. He was always one step ahead, planning the next move. He showed great consistency and his performances were always exciting.
• Thibaut Courtois: The Belgian goalkeeper, known for his shot-stopping ability and commanding presence in the box, was a rock in goal. Courtois' performances between the posts provided a great deal of confidence to the team. His ability to make crucial saves during key moments was important. He was a great example of the last line of defense. His saves and presence in the 2017/18 kit were always a reassurance to the team. He was a symbol of reliability and helped to keep the team in the game during challenging moments.

The Kit's Legacy and Where to Find It Today

The Chelsea 2017/18 kit is more than just a piece of sporting apparel; it’s a symbol of a season that had its ups and downs. The kit reminds us of the exciting matches, the goals, and the players that wore it with pride. The 2017/18 kit represents a specific moment in Chelsea's history. This kit is now viewed as a piece of history by Chelsea fans. It's often associated with memorable matches and iconic players. The value of this kit extends beyond its monetary value. It embodies a shared sense of nostalgia. The kit triggers memories of some of the best moments from that season. It brings back memories of thrilling victories and unforgettable moments from the players. For many fans, the kit is a representation of loyalty and a love for the game.

If you're looking to get your hands on a Chelsea 2017/18 kit, you might be wondering where to start. There are several avenues you can explore. The best place to start is often online, with sites that specialize in classic football shirts and memorabilia. These platforms frequently have a wide range of sizes and conditions. You might also want to check out specific Chelsea fan forums or social media groups. Fans frequently sell or trade shirts within these communities. This might allow you to get a kit that is authentic and well-cared-for. Make sure you confirm the kit's authenticity to avoid counterfeits. Examine the tags, stitching, and overall quality of the kit to ensure it matches the original. Be prepared for prices to fluctuate. Limited-edition shirts or those in excellent condition could be more expensive. With some patience and research, finding a Chelsea 2017/18 kit is possible. Collecting the kit helps keep the spirit of that season alive.

So there you have it, folks! The Chelsea 2017/18 kit is more than just a uniform. It's a key part of Chelsea's history, a symbol of a memorable season. The kit is now a piece of football memorabilia, and also a piece of Chelsea's story. Whether you're a long-time fan or just discovering the game, the kit is worth exploring. Go out there, find one, and celebrate the Blues!