West Ham United Football Club, one of England’s most historic and beloved clubs, has worn many iconic football shirts over the years. From memorable cup victories to significant seasons, the team’s kits have become symbols of pride and nostalgia for fans. In this article, we explore the top 10 West Ham United football shirts of all time, celebrating the designs that have defined generations of Hammers fans.
1. 1964-65 FA Cup Final Shirt
The 1964-65 FA Cup final shirt is often regarded as one of the most iconic in West Ham United Football Shirts history. This claret and blue design was worn during the club’s historic FA Cup victory, where they defeated Preston North End 3-2. Led by club legend Bobby Moore, this shirt is a favorite among collectors for its association with the club’s first FA Cup win.
Design Highlights: The classic claret body and blue sleeves, adorned with the club crest featuring crossed hammers, embodied West Ham’s identity.
2. 1980 FA Cup Final Shirt
Another FA Cup triumph came in 1980, and the shirt worn during the final is etched into the memories of West Ham fans. This victory was even more remarkable as West Ham, a second-division team at the time, upset Arsenal 1-0 in the final.
Design Highlights: The 1980 FA Cup shirt featured a simple V-neck design, traditional claret and blue colors, and a retro logo. It’s a reminder of Trevor Brooking’s iconic goal and an underdog story.
3. 1999-2000 Fila Home Shirt
The Fila-designed home shirt from the 1999-2000 season is a fan favorite for its sleek design and the players who wore it. This shirt was part of a memorable era for West Ham, with players like Paolo Di Canio and Joe Cole making headlines.
Design Highlights: A clean, modern take on the traditional claret and blue, with the Dagenham Motors sponsor and Fila logo complementing the kit. It remains one of the most aesthetically pleasing West Ham kits.
4. 2015-16 Farewell Boleyn Ground Shirt
The 2015-16 season marked the final year that West Ham United played at the historic Boleyn Ground (Upton Park), and the home shirt from this season holds immense sentimental value for fans. It was worn during the club’s farewell to their iconic stadium.
Design Highlights: The shirt paid tribute to the club’s heritage, with a retro claret and blue design and special “Boleyn Ground 1904-2016” badge, commemorating the club’s final season at their beloved ground.
5. 2019-20 125th Anniversary Home Shirt
Designed to celebrate the club’s 125th anniversary, the 2019-20 home shirt had a distinctly retro look inspired by West Ham kits of the past. Fans loved the nod to the club’s history combined with modern kit technology.
Design Highlights: Claret with blue sleeves and a classic collar, this shirt was a perfect blend of tradition and modern style. The subtle anniversary detailing made it extra special for fans.
6. 1992-93 Bac Windows Shirt
One of the more striking kits in West Ham’s history, the 1992-93 shirt was made by Bukta and sponsored by Bac Windows. The design was bold, featuring a unique geometric pattern across the claret and blue.
Design Highlights: The geometric patterns and unconventional design set this kit apart from the typical plain claret and blue, making it a cult classic among fans who appreciate the more daring designs.
7. 1985-86 Adidas Home Shirt
This shirt is remembered fondly for its association with the legendary 1985-86 season, where West Ham finished third in the top flight, their highest-ever league finish. The team, led by players like Tony Cottee and Frank McAvennie, set a club record for points.
Design Highlights: The Adidas shirt featured a striking pinstripe pattern, with the Adidas logo and iconic club badge on the chest, symbolizing a season of great achievement.
8. 2007-08 Umbro Home Shirt
The 2007-08 home shirt by Umbro returned to the more traditional design fans love, featuring a clean and classic look. Worn by players like Carlos Tevez and Mark Noble, it was a standout kit for its simplicity.
Design Highlights: With a claret body and blue sleeves, the shirt kept a traditional look, with a white collar adding a sharp contrast. The “XL Holidays” sponsor completed the look.
9. 2021-22 Third Kit
West Ham’s 2021-22 third kit was a departure from the club’s usual claret and blue, and that’s exactly why it became so popular. This kit was worn during the club’s impressive European campaign, where they made waves in the Europa League.
Design Highlights: The bold black design with subtle claret detailing created a modern, sleek look. It quickly became a fan favorite as it represented an exciting period of West Ham’s return to European football.
10. 1989-90 Home Shirt
The 1989-90 home shirt, designed by Scoreline, featured a unique combination of claret, blue, and white, with diagonal stripes on the chest. Worn during a challenging season for the club, it still stands out for its bold design.
Design Highlights: The diagonal white stripes cutting across the claret base gave this shirt a distinctive look. It was one of the more experimental designs of its time but has since become a collector’s item.
Conclusion
West Ham United football shirts are more than just kits; they are symbols of the club’s history, identity, and memorable moments. From FA Cup victories to milestone seasons, each shirt tells a unique story of the club’s journey. Whether it’s the classic claret and blue of the 1964-65 shirt or the modern sleekness of the 2021-22 third kit, West Ham’s football shirts remain cherished by fans and collectors alike. These top 10 shirts reflect the legacy of a club that continues to thrive and inspire its loyal fanbase.
