Man City Away Kit 21/22: A Deep Dive
The Manchester City away kit 21/22 sparked a lot of conversations when it was first released. Guys, let's be honest, football kits are more than just what the players wear on the pitch; they're a statement, a symbol of the club's identity, and a piece of history you can wear. For the 2021-2022 season, Puma, the kit manufacturer, went for a bold and distinctive design that certainly turned heads. This article will dissect every aspect of the Manchester City away kit 21/22, exploring its design elements, the inspiration behind it, the fan reception, and its place in the club's rich history of kits. We'll also look at how you can get your hands on one and what to consider when buying. So, buckle up, Cityzens, as we delve into the world of the 21/22 away strip.
Design and Features
When you first lay eyes on the Manchester City away kit 21/22, the most striking feature is undoubtedly the all-over pattern. Forget the traditional block colors; Puma opted for a design that features a repeating pattern of the club's name embedded within a mosaic or urban art-inspired graphic. The base color is officially described as "dark denim," a sophisticated dark navy that provides a sleek and modern backdrop for the bolder elements. This dark base is crucial because it allows the other colors and design elements to pop without making the kit look too garish.
Accent colors play a significant role in the overall aesthetic. The kit features light blue, reminiscent of the classic City home colors, used for the logos of Manchester City and Puma. These light blue accents offer a visual link to the club's heritage, subtly connecting the bold new design with the traditional sky-blue associated with the club. Additionally, there are hints of pink, which add a touch of vibrancy and modernity to the kit. This combination of light blue and pink against the dark denim creates a balanced and visually appealing look. The placement of the logos is also noteworthy; the Puma logo sits on the right chest, while the Manchester City crest is proudly displayed on the left, as is customary. The sponsor logo, usually a prominent feature on football shirts, is integrated seamlessly into the design, ensuring it doesn't clash with the overall aesthetic. The devil is in the details, and Puma seems to have considered every aspect of the design meticulously.
Inspiration Behind the Kit
Every great kit has a story, and the Manchester City away kit 21/22 is no exception. The design is said to be inspired by the mosaics and street art found in the Northern Quarter of Manchester. This vibrant and creative area of the city is known for its independent spirit, colorful murals, and thriving cultural scene. By drawing inspiration from the Northern Quarter, Puma aimed to capture the essence of Manchester's urban landscape and celebrate the city's unique identity.
The mosaic pattern on the kit is intended to reflect the diverse and dynamic nature of Manchester. Just like the city itself, the kit is a blend of different elements that come together to create something unique and eye-catching. The use of street art as a source of inspiration also adds a layer of authenticity to the design. Street art is often seen as a form of self-expression, a way for artists to communicate their ideas and perspectives to the world. By incorporating this element into the kit, Puma aimed to create a design that resonates with the fans and reflects the club's connection to its community.
Moreover, the "dark denim" color choice wasn't arbitrary. It subtly nods to Manchester's industrial heritage, reminiscent of the denim workwear historically associated with the city's mills and factories. This thoughtful integration of local cultural and historical elements transforms the kit from mere sportswear into a wearable tribute to Manchester.
Fan Reception
Okay, let's talk about what the fans really thought! The Manchester City away kit 21/22 definitely stirred up some strong opinions. When the kit was first unveiled, social media was flooded with reactions, ranging from love to... well, let's just say not so much love. Some fans praised the bold and unconventional design, appreciating the effort to create something different and unique. They saw it as a refreshing departure from the traditional football kits and admired the way it captured the spirit of Manchester's urban culture.
However, others were less enthusiastic. Some felt that the mosaic pattern was too busy and distracting, making the kit look cluttered and difficult to read. They argued that the design was too far removed from the club's traditional colors and identity. There were also concerns about the pink accents, which some fans felt were out of place on a Manchester City kit. Ultimately, the fan reception was mixed, with supporters divided on whether the kit was a hit or a miss. However, one thing is for sure: the Manchester City away kit 21/22 got people talking, and that's never a bad thing in the world of football fashion.
Despite the initial mixed reactions, the kit has gradually gained acceptance over time. As fans saw the players wearing it on the pitch and as more images and videos of the kit circulated online, many began to appreciate its unique qualities. Some even changed their minds completely, going from initial skepticism to genuine admiration. This highlights the fact that first impressions aren't always everything, and sometimes it takes time for a bold design to grow on people.
Historical Significance
Every Manchester City away kit contributes to the club's evolving visual history. While the 21/22 kit might not immediately scream "classic" in the traditional sense, its bold design ensures it will be remembered. It represents a moment in time when the club, in collaboration with Puma, was willing to push the boundaries of kit design and embrace a more modern and unconventional aesthetic. Whether you loved it or hated it, the Manchester City away kit 21/22 is undoubtedly a memorable piece of the club's history. It stands as a testament to the ever-changing landscape of football fashion and the willingness of clubs to experiment with their visual identity.
Looking back at other memorable City away kits, you see a diverse range of styles and colors. From the classic red and black stripes of the 1960s to the more recent black and yellow designs, Manchester City has a rich history of striking away kits. Each kit tells a story, reflecting the era in which it was worn and the club's aspirations at the time. The Manchester City away kit 21/22 fits into this narrative as a bold and modern design that reflects the club's ambition and its connection to the city of Manchester.
Where to Buy
Want to rock the Manchester City away kit 21/22 yourself? While it's a bit older now, finding one is still possible! Your best bet is to check online retailers like eBay or other resale platforms. Sometimes, you can get lucky and find it at a discounted price, especially as newer kits are released. Also, keep an eye on the official Manchester City online store or the Puma website; they occasionally have sales or restocks of older merchandise. When buying online, double-check the seller's reputation and read reviews to ensure you're getting an authentic product. Nobody wants to end up with a cheap knock-off!
Authenticity Checks
To ensure you're getting the real deal, look for key indicators of authenticity. Official Manchester City away kits will have a hologram or authenticity tag somewhere on the garment. Check the stitching and overall quality; genuine kits will have neat, precise stitching, whereas fakes often have loose threads or uneven seams. Compare the logos and branding to official images online; counterfeit kits often have slight variations in color, size, or placement of logos. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Authentic kits are usually priced accordingly, so be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
Care Instructions
So, you've snagged your Manchester City away kit 21/22 – awesome! To keep it looking fresh, proper care is essential. Always check the care label inside the shirt for specific instructions. Generally, it's best to wash your kit inside out in cold water to protect the colors and logos. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as these can damage the fabric and cause the colors to fade. Tumble drying is generally not recommended, as the heat can shrink the fabric and damage the logos. Instead, hang your kit to dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. If you need to iron your kit, use a low setting and iron it inside out to avoid damaging the logos and any other embellishments. With proper care, your Manchester City away kit 21/22 will continue to look great for years to come.
Conclusion
The Manchester City away kit 21/22 is more than just a piece of sportswear; it's a symbol of the club's identity, a celebration of Manchester's urban culture, and a testament to the ever-evolving world of football fashion. While it may have divided opinions upon its release, its bold and unconventional design has undoubtedly made it a memorable piece of the club's history. Whether you loved it or hated it, the Manchester City away kit 21/22 sparked conversations, challenged conventions, and ultimately added another chapter to the rich tapestry of Manchester City's visual identity. So, wear it with pride, Cityzens, and remember the spirit of innovation and creativity that this kit represents.