The official apparel worn by Chelsea Football Club during the 2017-2018 season is the central subject of this discussion. It encompasses the home, away, and third kits utilized by the team in all competitions, including the Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup, and Champions League. These uniforms are characterized by their design, manufacturer, and sponsorship logos present during that specific campaign.
The importance of these garments extends beyond mere sportswear. They represent a visual identity for the club and its supporters. The designs often incorporate historical elements or reflect the club’s current brand identity, influencing merchandise sales and fan engagement. Furthermore, these kits are now considered collectibles, capturing a specific moment in the club’s history and the players who wore them.
The following sections will delve into the specific details of each kit variant, examining the design choices, the performance of the team while wearing them, and the lasting impact of this particular season’s attire on the club’s fanbase and memorabilia market.
1. Home
The 2017-2018 season saw Stamford Bridge awash in the familiar, unwavering hue of royal blue. This was not merely a color choice; it was a statement, a continuation of tradition woven into the fabric of the club’s identity. The home kit, a canvas of this iconic shade, represented more than just the team’s apparel; it embodied the hopes and expectations of a fanbase yearning for continued success.
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The Weight of Tradition
Royal blue, synonymous with Chelsea for generations, carries the weight of history. Each thread is imbued with memories of past triumphs, legendary players, and unforgettable moments. The 2017-2018 iteration upheld this legacy, serving as a visual link to the club’s rich heritage. The colour inspired a sense of belonging, resonating deeply with supporters who saw it as more than just a uniform, but a symbol of their unwavering devotion.
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A Symbol of Unity
The dominant royal blue served as a unifying force. On match days, the stands transformed into a sea of blue, erasing social divides and fostering a sense of collective identity. Regardless of background, every fan clad in the home shirt became part of a single entity, bound together by their shared passion for Chelsea. The shared color promoted a feeling of solidarity and belonging among the Chelsea fans that they shared this color during the games.
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Nike’s Interpretation
While the color remained constant, Nike brought its own interpretation to the design. Subtle details, such as the placement of the sponsor logo and the cut of the jersey, distinguished the 2017-2018 kit from its predecessors. These modern touches, while respecting tradition, gave the kit a contemporary edge, appealing to a new generation of supporters. Each design element brought the players into one common identity.
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On-Field Performance
The true test of any kit lies in the performance of the team while wearing it. The royal blue of the 2017-2018 home kit witnessed both moments of brilliance and periods of frustration. It was present during victories that ignited the stadium and defeats that served as reminders of the challenges inherent in football. The shirt became a silent witness to the ebb and flow of the season, forever linked to the team’s journey that year.
The “Home: Royal Blue Dominance” of the 2017-2018 design transcends the realm of mere sportswear. It represents a tangible connection to the club’s history, a symbol of unity for its supporters, and a witness to the on-field drama that defines the beautiful game. As such, it remains a significant artifact in Chelsea’s visual narrative, evoking memories and emotions long after the final whistle of that season has blown.
2. Away
In the tapestry of Chelsea’s 2017-2018 campaign, the away kit presented a stark contrast to the traditional royal blue, opting instead for a subtle silver-grey. This choice, seemingly understated, held its own significance within the broader narrative of the season’s apparel, representing a departure from the familiar and a venture into understated elegance.
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A Departure from Tradition
While royal blue remained the undisputed emblem of Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, the away kit offered a chance to experiment. The silver-grey hue, a significant deviation from the club’s established color palette, signaled a willingness to embrace modernity and sophistication. This subtle statement resonated with a segment of the fanbase who appreciated the understated style, marking a shift away from bold declarations towards a more refined aesthetic.
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The Allure of Subtlety
The appeal of the silver-grey lay in its quiet confidence. Unlike the vibrant colors often associated with away kits, this choice exuded a sense of calm and composure. On the pitch, it provided a clean, uncluttered look, allowing the players’ performance to take center stage. It spoke volumes without shouting, embodying a sense of understated strength and resilience during away games.
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Visual Contrast on the Road
The color selection ensured clear visibility against various pitch conditions and stadium backdrops encountered during away matches. The silver-grey provided a visual contrast against the green of the field and the often brightly colored seating, allowing fans in the stands and viewers at home to easily identify the Chelsea players. This practical aspect, while subtle, contributed to the overall experience of following the team on their travels.
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A Collector’s Item
The distinctive nature of the silver-grey away kit has since elevated its status among collectors. Its departure from traditional Chelsea colors makes it a unique piece of memorabilia, representing a specific moment in the club’s sartorial history. The kit serves as a reminder of the season’s away fixtures, the challenges faced, and the victories secured on foreign soil. Its scarcity and distinctive design make it a sought-after item among enthusiasts and historians alike.
The “Away: Subtle Silver-Grey” kit of the 2017-2018 season is more than just a change of colors. It represented a calculated departure from tradition, an embrace of understated elegance, and a practical choice that enhanced visibility on the road. It has since become a coveted collector’s item, embodying a unique chapter in Chelsea’s visual identity and serving as a reminder of the team’s journey beyond the familiar confines of Stamford Bridge. This kit contributes to the overall story of “chelsea kit 2017 2018”.
3. Third
Within the broader collection of Chelsea’s 2017-2018 season apparel, the third kit emerged as a daring statement: a departure from tradition bathed in a dark, electric blue. This wasn’t merely a change of color; it was an assertion of modernity, a bold visual expression designed to capture the energy and dynamism of a team striving for dominance. As a part of “chelsea kit 2017 2018” this particular kit deserves a deeper exploration.
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A Bolt from the Blue
The choice of a dark, almost midnight blue, infused with an electric vibrancy, spoke of ambition and innovation. It was a color designed to stand out under the floodlights of European nights, a beacon representing Chelsea’s aspirations on the continental stage. This color, a stark contrast to the club’s traditional hues, signaled a willingness to embrace the future while respecting the past. The electric blue color was made for the spotlight during the game.
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A Nod to the Night
The darkness of the blue evoked a sense of mystery and power. It suggested a team ready to operate under the cover of night, capable of surprising opponents with swift and decisive action. This was not a color of passive defense, but rather one of proactive aggression, reflecting a team eager to seize the initiative and dictate the terms of engagement. It was the team that struck at night to win.
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Nike’s Vision of the Future
The design of the third kit reflected Nike’s vision for the modern footballer. Sleek lines, advanced fabric technology, and a minimalist aesthetic combined to create a kit that was both functional and visually striking. It represented a fusion of performance and style, designed to enhance the players’ capabilities while projecting an image of confidence and sophistication. Nikes vision to have the players look and play good was coming to play here.
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A Symbol of Continental Ambition
Primarily worn during Champions League matches, the third kit became synonymous with Chelsea’s European campaign. It served as a visual reminder of the club’s aspirations on the grandest stage, a symbol of their commitment to compete against the best teams in Europe. With this ambition and vision, the third kit inspired fear to other team.
The “Third: Dark, Electric Blue” kit of the 2017-2018 season wasn’t just an alternative jersey; it was a statement of intent. As a part of “chelsea kit 2017 2018” it was a symbol of ambition, a nod to modernity, and a visual representation of Chelsea’s desire to conquer Europe. Its dark, electric hue served as a constant reminder of the club’s aspirations, both on and off the field, cementing its place as a memorable piece of Chelsea’s sartorial history.
4. Nike’s Design Innovation
The 2017-2018 Chelsea kits were more than mere fabric; they were canvases showcasing Nike’s evolving approach to sportswear design. The collaboration, by this point, was deeply entrenched, and the season’s attire reflected a maturity in the partnership. The Swoosh was no longer simply branding; it was integral to the kit’s identity, its design philosophy woven into every fiber. A narrative of innovation unfolded with each thread, each carefully considered panel, and each strategically placed accent.
Consider the VaporKnit technology deployed. Beyond a marketing buzzword, it was a tangible performance enhancement. The open knit structure across key zones allowed for increased breathability and flexibility, essential for elite athletes enduring the rigors of a Premier League season. This wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about engineering a garment that actively aided performance. The streamlined fit, meticulously tailored to reduce drag and maximize freedom of movement, further exemplified this commitment to functionality. Even the seemingly simple act of incorporating the Yokohama Tyres logo was executed with a design sensibility that ensured it complemented, rather than detracted from, the overall aesthetic. The dark electric blue third kit, particularly, stands as a testament to Nike’s willingness to push boundaries, to experiment with color palettes and design elements that deviated from traditional norms. The ripple effect was evident; fans embraced the modern look, and other clubs took note, sparking a broader trend towards bolder, more experimental kit designs.
Ultimately, Nike’s design innovation during the “chelsea kit 2017 2018” season represented a confluence of performance enhancement, aesthetic refinement, and brand storytelling. It underscored the understanding that a kit is more than just a uniform; it’s a symbol of identity, a source of pride, and a tool for athletic achievement. The designs weren’t merely worn; they were experienced, embodying the spirit and ambition of the club. The challenge lies in maintaining this balance pushing the boundaries of innovation while remaining true to the club’s heritage a challenge that Nike, with its track record and design acumen, appears well-equipped to navigate in seasons to come.
5. Yokohama Tyres Sponsorship
The visual landscape of the 2017-2018 Chelsea Football Club kits was indelibly marked by the presence of Yokohama Tyres. More than a simple logo placement, the sponsorship agreement between the tyre manufacturer and the club wove itself into the very fabric of the jerseys, becoming a ubiquitous symbol of that specific era. Its presence dictated not just the aesthetic, but also subtly influenced the commercial narrative surrounding the team.
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Visual Dominance on the Jersey
The Yokohama Tyres logo, emblazoned across the chest of each kit, served as a constant reminder of the commercial partnership. Its size and placement ensured visibility, transforming the jersey into a walking advertisement. The logo’s design, colors, and overall aesthetic had to be carefully considered to ensure it complemented, rather than clashed with, the kit’s overall design. This careful balance between commercial interests and aesthetic sensibilities highlights the complex dynamics of modern football sponsorships. The Yokohama Tyres logo was displayed over the chest as a constant advertisement.
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Financial Underpinning of the Club
The sponsorship deal with Yokohama Tyres provided Chelsea with a significant financial boost, contributing to the club’s ability to invest in players, infrastructure, and other resources. This financial underpinning, while not immediately visible to the average fan, played a crucial role in shaping the team’s performance on the pitch. The success of the team, in turn, enhanced the value of the sponsorship, creating a symbiotic relationship between the club and its corporate partner. The tires provided the club to purchase players that enhance the brand for everyone.
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Global Brand Exposure
The partnership with Chelsea provided Yokohama Tyres with unparalleled global brand exposure. The club’s international fanbase, coupled with the extensive media coverage of the Premier League and Champions League, ensured that the tyre manufacturer’s logo was seen by millions of people around the world. This global reach was a key driver behind Yokohama’s decision to sponsor Chelsea, as it allowed them to increase brand awareness and market share in key regions. Chelsea allowed the Yokohama to become a household name.
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Fan Perception and Association
For Chelsea supporters, the Yokohama Tyres logo became inextricably linked with the 2017-2018 season. It was a symbol of the era, evoking memories of specific matches, players, and moments. While some fans may have viewed the sponsorship as a necessary evil, others embraced it as a sign of the club’s commercial success and global standing. The logo became part of the visual language of being a Chelsea fan during that period, a badge of honor worn with pride or a symbol accepted as part of the modern football landscape. It was simply a symbol of being a chelsea fan.
In conclusion, the Yokohama Tyres sponsorship was far more than a simple branding exercise. It represented a complex web of financial considerations, marketing strategies, and visual aesthetics that shaped the look and feel of the Chelsea kits from 2017-2018. The logo’s presence served as a constant reminder of the commercial realities of modern football, while simultaneously becoming an integral part of the visual identity of the club during that specific period. The “chelsea kit 2017 2018” is deeply influenced by the tires itself.
6. Premier League Badge Presence
The Premier League badge, a seemingly small detail affixed to the sleeves of the “chelsea kit 2017 2018”, carried a weight far exceeding its dimensions. It was more than mere adornment; it was a symbol of participation, a mark of belonging to an exclusive club, and a constant reminder of the battles fought and the ambitions pursued within the most watched football league in the world. Its presence on the jersey signified a season-long campaign, a grueling test of skill, endurance, and tactical acumen against the very best competition. The presence of the badge on the jersey was a symbol for the most watched league in the world.
Each match, each tackle, each goal scored while wearing the “chelsea kit 2017 2018” under the watchful gaze of that badge contributed to the narrative of the season. Victories were celebrated with the badge gleaming under stadium lights, a testament to the team’s success in upholding the standards of the league. Defeats, conversely, served as a stark reminder of the relentless competition and the need to strive for improvement. The badge, in its silent observation, became a constant motivator, urging the players to push their limits and represent the club with pride. One challenge to win, the other was to accept the need to improve with that badge displayed.
Ultimately, the Premier League badge on the “chelsea kit 2017 2018” represented a tangible connection to a larger story, a story of competition, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. It served as a visual embodiment of the club’s commitment to compete at the highest level, and a constant reminder of the challenges and rewards that come with participating in the Premier League. The value was measured in sweat, blood, and hopefully a championship.
7. Season’s Historical Significance
The garments donned by Chelsea Football Club during the 2017-2018 season transcend the realm of mere sportswear, serving as tangible artifacts of a campaign etched into the annals of the club’s history. The cut of the cloth, the shade of blue, the placement of the sponsor all conspire to evoke a specific moment in time, laden with triumphs, tribulations, and the enduring echoes of a season lived and fought on the pitch.
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Conte’s Second Act
The 2017-2018 season marked Antonio Conte’s second year at the helm, following a triumphant Premier League title win the previous season. Expectations were high, and the kits bore witness to the pressure of defending that crown. The home kit, a constant presence at Stamford Bridge, absorbed the energy of a fanbase yearning for continued success, while the away and third kits traveled the continent, accompanying the team on their Champions League journey. The season, however, proved to be a tumultuous one, marked by inconsistency and ultimately ending with a fifth-place finish. The kits, therefore, became associated not with glory, but with the struggle to maintain dominance, a stark reminder of the cyclical nature of footballing fortunes.
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The FA Cup Triumph
Amidst the league struggles, a glimmer of silverware emerged in the form of the FA Cup. The kits were worn with pride at Wembley Stadium as Chelsea overcame Manchester United in the final, securing a trophy that partially salvaged the season. The images of the players lifting the cup, clad in the familiar blue, cemented the kits’ place in the club’s history, forever linking them to a moment of jubilation amidst a period of uncertainty. The FA Cup win was a bright part of an otherwise dim season.
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Hazard’s Brilliance
Eden Hazard, arguably Chelsea’s talismanic figure during that era, graced the pitch in these kits, his dazzling displays providing moments of magic amidst the team’s fluctuating form. His individual brilliance, showcased in flashes of skill and moments of match-winning impact, became intertwined with the visual identity of the kits. For many fans, the sight of the 2017-2018 jerseys evokes memories of Hazard’s artistry, a reminder of the individual talent that illuminated a challenging season. Hazard was a superstar but was not enough to get chelsea back on top.
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A Transition Period
The 2017-2018 season ultimately proved to be a transition period for Chelsea. Conte’s departure at the end of the campaign marked the end of an era, and the kits became symbolic of a time of change and uncertainty. They represent a bridge between the title-winning season of 2016-2017 and the new direction the club would take under a different manager. As such, they serve as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of success and the constant evolution of footballing institutions.
In retrospect, the “chelsea kit 2017 2018” are more than just articles of clothing; they are historical documents, each thread woven with the stories of triumph, struggle, and transition. They represent a specific chapter in the club’s history, a season etched in the memories of fans and forever linked to the players who wore them, the matches they contested, and the emotions they evoked.
Frequently Asked Questions
The passage of time often lends a certain mystique to objects, imbuing them with a significance that transcends their original purpose. So it is with the Chelsea Football Club kits from the 2017-2018 season. Years have passed, leaving behind a trail of questions and recollections that warrant examination.
Question 1: What distinguishes the home kit from its predecessors?
The answer lies not in a radical departure but in subtle refinements. While the royal blue remains constant, the 2017-2018 iteration bears the distinct mark of Nike’s design philosophy at that time. A closer inspection reveals nuances in the fabric technology, the collar design, and the precise placement of the sponsor logo. It’s a study in evolution, not revolution.
Question 2: Was the silver-grey away kit a popular choice amongst supporters?
Reception was divided. Traditionalists often favor the club’s more established colors, while others appreciated the understated elegance and the departure from the norm. Its popularity, or lack thereof, adds to its unique story within the larger collection of Chelsea kits.
Question 3: Why the decision for a dark, electric blue third kit?
The third kit often serves as a canvas for experimentation, a chance to push boundaries and explore alternative aesthetics. The dark, electric blue was likely chosen to create a bold visual statement, particularly under the floodlights of European competitions. It’s a strategic move to capture attention and project an image of modernity.
Question 4: Beyond aesthetics, did the kits offer any performance advantages?
Nike’s incorporation of VaporKnit technology sought to enhance breathability and freedom of movement. These aren’t merely cosmetic flourishes; they are deliberate design choices aimed at optimizing athletic performance. Whether these advancements translated into tangible gains on the pitch is, of course, open to debate.
Question 5: How has the Yokohama Tyres sponsorship impacted the club’s finances?
Such partnerships are often confidential, the exact financial details shrouded in secrecy. However, it is reasonable to assume that the sponsorship provided Chelsea with a substantial revenue stream, contributing to the club’s ability to compete in the transfer market and invest in infrastructure.
Question 6: Do the 2017-2018 kits hold any particular historical significance?
They are inextricably linked to Antonio Conte’s second season at the club, a campaign marked by both triumph and turmoil. The FA Cup victory provides a silver lining, but the kits ultimately represent a period of transition and ultimately, a departure from Conte’s management. They are a reminder that in football, as in life, nothing remains constant.
The kits of the 2017-2018 season represent more than just apparel; they are artifacts of a specific moment in time, imbued with the memories, emotions, and narratives that define Chelsea Football Club. Their value, therefore, extends far beyond their monetary worth.
Continue to explore the various aspects of the “chelsea kit 2017 2018” season and what made it the legacy it is to date.
Lessons Woven in the Fabric
The story of Chelsea’s 2017-2018 season, etched into the fabric of its kits, offers more than mere nostalgia. It serves as a reminder of football’s fickle nature, a cautionary tale spun from threads of ambition, expectation, and ultimately, disappointment.
Tip 1: Embrace Tradition, But Don’t Be Shackled By It. Royal blue is sacrosanct at Stamford Bridge, yet the silver-grey away kit signaled a willingness to experiment. A balance is crucial: honor the past, but dare to innovate.
Tip 2: Invest Wisely, But Money Doesn’t Guarantee Success. The financial backing of Yokohama Tyres was substantial, yet the team faltered. Resources are vital, but the right personnel and tactical cohesion are paramount.
Tip 3: Stars Shine Brightest When Surrounded by a Team. Eden Hazard’s brilliance was undeniable, but individual talent alone cannot overcome systemic issues. A collective effort is essential for sustained success.
Tip 4: Championship Glory is Fleeting. Never Rest on Laurels. Coming off a title-winning season, complacency may have crept in. Resting on past achievements is a recipe for downfall.
Tip 5: Adaptability is Key in a Ruthless League. The Premier League demands constant evolution. Failure to adapt to changing tactical landscapes and emerging threats will be swiftly punished. The “chelsea kit 2017 2018” season proves it.
Tip 6: European Nights Demand a Different Breed. The dark, electric blue third kit, designed for Champions League battles, couldn’t mask the team’s shortcomings on the continental stage. Success in Europe requires a distinct mentality and approach.
The kits of 2017-2018 are not merely relics of a bygone season. They are physical reminders of lessons learned, cautionary tales woven into the very fabric of Chelsea’s history. They serve as a potent reminder that in football, as in life, success is never guaranteed, and complacency is the surest path to failure.
Consider these lessons as one reflects on the enduring legacy of the Chelsea Football Club from the 2017-2018 season.
Chelsea Kit 2017 2018
The narrative woven throughout this exploration of the Chelsea Football Club apparel from the 2017-2018 season reveals more than just a study of sportswear. It uncovers a tapestry of ambition, design innovation, commercial partnerships, and the unpredictable nature of competitive football. From the traditional royal blue of the home kit to the audacious dark, electric blue of the third, each garment tells a story of a season marked by both triumph and tribulation. The presence of the Yokohama Tyres logo and the Premier League badge further grounds the kits within a specific historical context, highlighting the financial realities and competitive aspirations of the club.
As time marches on, these kits will continue to serve as tangible reminders of a specific era in Chelsea’s history. They stand as a testament to the enduring power of sport to capture the imagination, evoke profound emotions, and weave itself into the very fabric of our memories. Though seasons may come and go, the lessons learned and the stories told through these garments will continue to resonate with those who cherish the beautiful game. Ponder the legacy, remember the players, and appreciate the complex story woven into every thread of the Chelsea kit 2017 2018.
