Review: Man United away jersey Long Sleeve 12-13
Here it is, the 2013-13 Manchester United Away shirt, made from 100% Nike Dri-Fit polyester, a special material that keeps the skin dry and well-ventilated. This is especially useful in a country like Singapore, where you get year round sunshine and high humidity!
Over here, I have chosen the long sleeved version, rather than the more practical short sleeve, as the long sleeve shirts are generally rarer and more collectible. My review will be based on the categories of Form (overall feel and look), Function/Fit (cut and sizing, useful aspects of the jersey) and Features (unique features about this particular jersey). I will not go into a lengthy introduction of Manchester United and repeat what you can easily find on the internet, as I believe reviews should be based on personal opinions rather than simply repeating what the manufacturers/other websites say 🙂
Firstly, the Form. Design wise, the Away jersey is sharply contrasted with the Home shirt, which comes in a plaid design and v-neck collar for 2012-13. The Away shirt which I have here is based on simple pure white, with tasteful dashes of red and black trims. I like how the AON, Nike logos and Manchester United Club Crest are all in the same colour; it offers a beautiful symmetry not always available in club jerseys.The collar with red trimming adds a fine balance to the overall silhouette. When you revisit the history of Manchester United, you will remember that many significant moments have been made in the White/Red/Black combination away shirt (e.g. Giggs solo goal in the 1998-99 season), and hopefully many moments of history will be created in this shirt too!
Symmetry of logos and club crest
Next, on to the Function.The sizing of the shirt this year is slightly baggy compared to last season’s blue and black away shirt, but still within acceptable limits to be deemed ‘true to size’. Only just, though. As for the sleeves, because this is a long sleeve version, the sleeves are understandably slightly bigger in length and width compared to typical t-shirts. Not too much trouble though, because you can always roll it up half way like what Ronaldo used to do in a United shirt! The Nike material feels great and soft, although it does not wick sweat as much as the Authentic jerseys do. Understandably though, since this is a replica version.
Finally, Features. I like how the buttons have been added to the collars, as it adds a classy look. The specially-designed collar deserves a mention too, as you do not get this type of collars in a football jersey often, if at all!
Buttons add a classy touch
Another feature I quite like is the black devil symbol at the back of the collar. Very subtle way of identifying the jersey as a Manchester United property! For this shirt, I have decided to add the official Premier League Senscilia printing of United legend Ryan Giggs, complete with the Premier League Player Size sleeve patches. Giggsy, oh Giggsy, what else can we say about this great player that has not been said. With United currently 15 points clear in the Premier League and going for a domestic league and cup double, there is no better name to adorn this jersey than the evergreen, everpresent Giggs. Great credit to Mikel and the friendly chaps over at Mmsports too, for being able to print the Senscilia Player size prints. Not only does it look and feel better with its felt-like texture, it is also more durable than the PU prints the club shop offers.
Official Senscilia Player size GIGGS 11 and Premier League Patches
So there you have it, my little contribution to this wonderful project here. Will be glad to come back for more, especially with great offers from the wonderful staff at Mmsports!