SA Rugby and apparel partner Nike pay homage to history and a national emblem in the striking new 2025 Springbok kit collection which was unveiled on Tuesday.
A newly designed playing kit and a retro jersey honouring the heritage of the 1995 Rugby World Cup winners was revealed for the first time – 30 years to the day that Nelson Mandela first presented the Webb Ellis Cup to a Springbok captain.
The release of a heritage jersey recreates the one worn by the Boks in the iconic 15-12 victory over New Zealand at Ellis Park, while the new team playing jersey incorporates elements of the King Protea in a striking collar design.
The playing kit remains firmly rooted in tradition in a clean and elegant design that honours the timeless green and gold, while the details include subtle nods to historic victories, uniting the past, present and future of the team into a single, cohesive design.
The unique, new neckline is inspired by the protea in a design that is rooted in green yet ‘crowned’ by the King Protea’s leaves. Inside the collar are four stars that feature as a nod to the team’s four Rugby World Cup victories, as well as #ForeverGreenForeverGold.
Cutting-edge materials ensure the kit is not only a celebration of heritage but also a testament to modern sportswear innovation, integrating state-of-the-art fabric technologies.
The materials enhance breathability, flexibility and endurance for the players while remaining lightweight and durable. The kit also features moisture-wicking properties, ensuring players stay cool and dry even during the most intense matches.
The alternate jersey is all-white with the Protea collar in traditional bottle green while the playing range is supported by a training and off-field range for the passionate supporter.
The Protea theme is most graphically carried through into the pre-match warm-up jersey which features a starburst of King Protea buds viewed from above.
The recreation of the 1995 jersey is in traditional cotton and features the iconic badge of the Springbok leaping over a wreath of proteas.
“Nike has done a superb job to produce a kit range that both honours the traditions of the Springboks while giving it a modern design edge,” said Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby.
“We also chose to honour the 30th anniversary of the 1995 victory that was such a watershed moment for rugby and for South Africa.
“We believe the replica kit and the wide range of lifestyle apparel and fan-centric accessories that go with it will allow supporters to wear their pride wherever they go – and especially on Bok Fridays.”
The home and alternative jerseys as well as the lifestyle collection will be available from Wednesday (25 June) from Nike stores, major retailers, and online.
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