History and Cultural Significance of the Iconic Ajax Tracksuit

The History and Evolution of the Ajax Tracksuit

The Ajax tracksuit is an iconic uniform that is deeply ingrained in the identity of AFC Ajax, one of the most successful and influential football clubs in the world. As one of the most recognizable kits in all of sports, the Ajax tracksuit has a rich history and evolution that parallels the club's journey to becoming a global powerhouse.

The Birth of the Famous Red and White

Ajax secured its first Dutch league title in 1918 while wearing a red and white vertical striped jersey, which established red and white as the club's official colors. In 1928, Ajax adopted solid red shirts paired with white shorts, the look that would eventually inspire their famous tracksuit.

The club experienced great success in the 1960s and early 70s behind the brilliant playmaking of Johan Cruyff. It was during this golden era that Ajax first began wearing tracksuit tops during training and pre-match warmups. The iconic red top and white bottom ensemble was born.

The Tracksuit Crosses Over

As Ajax piled up trophies in the 70s with their "Total Football" style of play, their crisp, clean tracksuit gained worldwide familiarity. By the end of the decade, the tracksuit had crossed over from training gear to fan attire. Supporters wore it proudly on matchdays at the club's De Meer Stadium.

In the 1980s and 90s, as sportswear became more prevalent in everyday fashion, the eye-catching Ajax tracksuit exploded in popularity. It became the uniform of choice for hooligans and counterculture movements across Europe. The club actually temporarily discontinued the tracksuit in 1997 to distance itself from some of these negative associations.

Return to Glory

After nearly a decade without, Ajax brought back the iconic tracksuit in 2006. This coincided with a return to glory for the club, as a young generation of talent helped secure three straight Eredivisie titles from 2011-2014.

In the 2010s, a nostalgia-fueled streetwear boom helped cement the Ajax tracksuit as a coveted fashion item. Collaborations with brands like Adidas, Nike and Puma introduced new designs and reissues that sold out instantly.

Contemporary Versions

Today, the tracksuit remains an iconic symbol of Ajax. As their creative collaborations demonstrate, the club is cognizant of the cultural clout of their famous kit. While they've made minor design tweaks over the years, smart design choices have kept the essence intact.

Recent home versions feature a classic v-neck top with the Ajax logo, three stripes down the sleeves, and the AEGON sponsor across the chest. Away versions include black and pink tops paired with white or black bottoms. There are also stylized versions that remix the color blocking but retain the overall aesthetic.

Customization and Accessorization

Part of the appeal of the Ajax tracksuit is how easily it allows for personal flair and customization. Zippers allow you to wear the top open or closed, while the stretchy fabric provides a comfortable athletic fit. Fans coordinate the top and bottom with creative shoes, undershirts, and other accessories.

The clean palette also makes the tracksuit a canvas for DIY embellishments. Iron or sew-on patches, pins, embroidery, and even custom screen printing allow fans to put their own twist on this timeless kit. This "make it your own" ethos helps explain its lasting connection with supporters.

The Cultural Significance and Enduring Legacy

While other teams have iconic kits, few transcend their sport and fanbase like the Ajax tracksuit. Its bold aesthetic captures the energy and ethos of the city of Amsterdam. The contrasting colors provide a dynamic look on the streets or in the stands.

The tracksuit also encapsulates Ajax's legacy of nurturing once-in-a-generation Dutch talent and playing attack-minded football. Johan Cruyff, Marco Van Basten, Dennis Bergkamp, and more all wore this suit during their rise to stardom in Amsterdam.

There's also an accessibility to the tracksuit that reflects Ajax's working-class roots and community-focused values. It has an everyman, anti-establishment appeal while also symbolizing Ajax's global reach and influence on the game.

Even those unfamiliar with Ajax see the tracksuit for its effortless cool and striking visual impact. Yet its meaning runs much deeper for the club's massive and passionate fanbase who live and breathe Ajax.

Final Thoughts

The Ajax tracksuit is one of those rare kits that transcends being just team merchandise. It's a cultural symbol that represents an attitude, identity, and community. There's a reason it continues to resonate and inspire loyalty after all these years.

Both retro and modern versions of this iconic tracksuit capture the past, present, and future of Ajax. While designs may update, the classic red and white ensemble endures as the definitive uniform of this legendary club.

FAQs

When did Ajax first start wearing their famous red and white tracksuit?

Ajax first began wearing tracksuits tops during training and warmups in the 1960s and early 1970s, which is when the iconic red and white ensemble was born. The tracksuit gained popularity and became fan attire by the late 1970s.

Why did Ajax discontinue the tracksuit in the 1990s?

Ajax temporarily stopped producing the tracksuit in 1997 to distance itself from some of the negative associations that came as it gained popularity with hooligans and counterculture groups.

How has the tracksuit evolved over the years?

While Ajax has made minor design tweaks to the tracksuit over the years, smart design choices have kept the classic v-neck top with three stripes and contrasting red and white colors intact. New versions feature updated sponsor logos and color blocking.

Why has the tracksuit become a fashion symbol?

The Ajax tracksuit's bold colors, comfortable fit, and ability to be customized and accessorized have made it an iconic fashion symbol that transcends just being team merchandise.

What makes the tracksuit so culturally significant?

The tracksuit represents Ajax's legacy, community values, and style of play. Its accessibility and working-class roots give it an enduring cool appeal that resonates with supporters and streetwear culture.