Written By Tony Mikkelson
Introduction
As we at Footballrs Network look ahead to 2024, we're excited to share our predictions for the upcoming football gear trends. Influenced by the pros, these trends are more than just a glimpse into the future; they're a roadmap for young and amateur players looking to up their game.
Our insights delve into what could be the next big thing on the field and what's likely to fade away. Remember, these are our forecasts, based on what we're seeing now.
So gear up and let's explore what 2024 might hold for football fashion – right here at Footballrs Network, where we're always one step ahead in the game.
Fading Out: The Decline of Scrunch Sleeves
First up on the list of fading trends in football gear for 2024 is the decline of scrunch sleeves. This style made a big splash in 2022, especially after being showcased by stars like OBJ in 2021. It's a classic example of how player choices can set a trend ablaze. However, the tide is turning.
The market itself tells this story. Scrunch sleeves, once a novel item, have become commonplace. Almost every small sports gear company has their version of it. In the world of fashion, when a trend becomes this widespread, it often signals its own end.
The uniqueness that once made scrunch sleeves desirable is now lost in a sea of similar products.Sales figures reinforce this trend's decline. Reports from those in the know suggest a decrease in scrunch sleeve sales, a clear indication that players are moving on to the next big thing.
While these sleeves won't vanish instantly, their reign as a top trend is fading. They'll likely linger on shelves as retailers attempt to sell off their remaining stock.
On the Rise: The Double Sleeve Trend
Following the trend trajectory, the double sleeve look is making its mark in 2024. Inspired by fashion-forward players like OBJ, this trend involves layering two sleeves for a unique, eye-catching effect. It's a style that's more than just functional; it's a statement.
When football icons like Marvin Harrison Jr. embraced this look, it was clear: double sleeves are not just a passing fad, but a growing trend.
This style's appeal is in its simplicity and the personal touch it brings to a player's uniform. It allows athletes to stand out on the field, showcasing their individuality while still fitting within team guidelines.
Bold and Bright: The Colored Mouthguard Wave
The colored mouthguard trend is gaining ground in both professional and college football. This new wave sees players opting for mouthguards in vivid, standout colors that often contrast with their team's colors. Stars like Stefon Diggs and AJ Brown have been early adopters, showcasing these bright mouthguards during games.
Its rise in popularity was evident in recent college football playoffs, where many players sported these colorful mouthguards. This trend is less about fashion and more about personal expression on the field. It's a small but noticeable way for players to add a bit of individual flair to their equipment.
High school players, who often draw inspiration from higher leagues, are also starting to embrace this trend. The shift towards colored mouthguards, while subtle, is a notable move towards more personalized gear choices in football, allowing players to stand out in their own unique way.
A Missed Mark: Jagged Eye Bars
In professional football, jagged eye bars have emerged as a new trend. This unique facemask style, spotted on players like Travis Kelce, adds a distinctive look to the standard helmet. However, its adoption in amateur and youth leagues seems limited.
Unlike cleats or gloves, changing a facemask involves more effort and expense, which might deter younger players. While jagged eye bars have gained visibility in the NFL, their practicality and cost could hinder their popularity at lower levels.
This trend might remain more of a professional player's choice, not quite catching on in the broader football community.
Back in Black: The All-Black Accessory Trend
The all-black accessory trend is really taking off in the football world! This sleek and stylish look has been increasingly adopted by top players like Saquon Barkley and Deshon Elliott.
They've showcased how striking all-black gear, from cleats to gloves, can be on the field. In college football, stars like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Caleb Williams have also embraced this trend, sporting all-black Lebron 4’s.
The appeal lies in its bold, yet understated elegance, giving players a sharp and focused look. It's a trend that's rapidly gaining traction, combining classic style with modern flair. Watch out, because black is definitely back in 2024!
New Eye Black Styles: Gaining Momentum
In football, eye black styles are evolving, with players getting creative with this functional gear. Traditionally used to reduce glare, eye black is now also a medium for personal expression.
Players like Aiden Hutchinson and JJ McCarthy are leading this trend, showcasing unique patterns that stretch from forehead to cheek. It's not just about glare reduction anymore; it's about making a statement.
This new wave of eye black styles is catching on and we're likely to see more inventive designs in the upcoming seasons. From college to the pros, watch for these eye-catching patterns to become a regular sight on the field, blending functionality with a dash of flair.
Custom Cleats: Personalization Peaks
The trend of customizing cleats is on the rise, mirroring a broader movement towards personalization in football gear.
In the past, standout items like iridium visors were the ultimate flex, exclusive and expensive. But now, options like SHOC visors in various colors are available for a fraction of the price.
This shift towards accessibility and personalization is now extending to cleats. Players are increasingly customizing their footwear, painting and tweaking them to match their personal style.
Brands like FBCleat Heat are even offering high-end custom options like off-whites. While still a premium choice, custom cleats are becoming more achievable for players who want to stand out. This trend reflects a significant change in football gear: from uniform and standard to unique and personal, giving players more ways to express themselves on the field.
Final Whistle: Summing Up 2024's Football Gear Trends
As we wrap up our exploration of football gear trends for 2024, let's take a quick look at what's catching on and what's fading away in the world of football fashion.
What's Out
Scrunch Sleeves: Once popular, now losing their appeal due to market saturation.
Jagged Eye Bars: Although unique, not widely adopted outside professional leagues.
Traditional, Monochrome Mouthguards: Being replaced by more vibrant and expressive options.
Standard, Unadorned Cleats: Giving way to customized and personalized designs.
Simplistic Eye Black Stripes: Being overshadowed by more creative and expressive styles.
What's In
Double Sleeve Look: Layered sleeves for a unique style.
Colored Mouthguards: Bright, standout colors that don't necessarily match team colors.
All-Black Accessories: Sleek and stylish all-black gear like cleats and gloves.
New Eye Black Styles: Creative patterns stretching from forehead to cheek.
Custom Cleats: Personalized and uniquely styled footwear.`
These are our predictions at Footballrs Network for the upcoming season. If you have different views or believe we've overlooked a trend, please let us know in the comments below. Your insights are always valued!
Tony Mikkelson
