Evolution from 2012 to Today’s NWSL Kits

One of the most exciting days in a soccer fan’s journey is seeing the unveiling of a brand new club kit. But it’s also exciting to compare current kits to those of the past. From their founding in 2012 to becoming one of the most decorated clubs in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), the Thorns’ kits tell a story of growth, passion, and a fierce connection to the Rose City. Let’s trace the evolution of Portland Thorns’ jerseys!

When the NWSL kicked off in 2013, the Portland Thorns were one of the original eight teams, and they immediately set a high standard for fan engagement and on-field success. Their inaugural kits, like many early NWSL designs, were functional and clean, with no frills or fancy designs like we see today. The kit primarily featured the team’s signature red and black.

As the NWSL grew, so did the creativity of team kits, thanks to the increase in funding and advertising power. Nike, the official kit sponsor for the NWSL, began to infuse more unique elements into each team’s designs, moving beyond earlier basic templates.

Over the years, we’ve seen various iterations of the primary red and secondary black (or sometimes white) jerseys. While the core colors have remained consistent, the details have evolved significantly. Designers have incorporated subtle patterns, textures, and graphic elements that directly reference Portland’s identity. You can see how the red and black colors take on a shaded effect below, adding a level of depth to the original colors.

A major shift in recent years, particularly leading up to the 2025 season, has been Nike’s commitment to creating truly bespoke designs for each NWSL team. For the Thorns, this meant an increasing emphasis on their “Rose City” nickname and the “thorns” motif, with designs playing with the Thorns’ colors.

This means that Thorns jerseys are no longer just about team colors, but about telling a deeper story. For instance, the 2025 Thorns away kit, aptly named “Bonfire Embers,”  “celebrates the unstoppable flame that is the Thorns’ family,” according to Nike. This use of the kits for storytelling helps connect with fans on a deeper, more artistic level.

Beyond aesthetics, there have also been significant advancements in jersey technology. Modern kits feature Nike’s Dri-FIT ADV technology, designed for optimal performance, breathability, and comfort on the field. Plus, the NWSL has made authentic versions of jerseys more widely available to fans, with improved features like embroidered crests, and expanded sizing options to fit all body types.

The evolution of the Portland Thorns’ jerseys reflects the growth of the NWSL itself – from a new league with a promising future to a powerhouse in women’s sports. Each Portland Thorns jersey tells a part of the team’s story: their championships (three NWSL titles and two NWSL Shields!), their passionate fan base, and their deep connection to Portland. So, the next time you see a Thorns player on the pitch, take a moment to appreciate the journey woven into every thread of their jersey!

_

GIRLS SOCCER NETWORK: YOUR SOURCE FOR GIRLS SOCCER NEWS