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Having trouble deciding which of the NFL Nike jersey types to buy?
While the disparity in price makes it an easy decision for many fans, you’re not just any fan.
Accordingly, only your wife/girlfriend you know what’s best for you.
Furthermore, it’s not only about the money. There are other things to consider, such as how many jerseys you buy, how often you wear them, and your physique.
Therefore, in order to help you determine which one is best for you, we will:
- Explain what are the different NFL jerseys, and…
- Discuss the key differences in detail.
In addition, for each jersey type, we’ll provide you with some reasons why you should – and shouldn’t – buy it.
Reebok NFL Jerseys vs Nike: Which Is Best For You?
The 4 main NFL Nike jersey types
The latest NFL Nike jersey type is the Vapor Untouchable. It features “an all-new chassis with minimal seams and fewer panels… creates a shrink-wrap fit”.
However, the Vapor isn’t an additional type or level of jersey, but rather an enhancement of the Elite and Limited models (same cost). There is no Vapor Untouchable Game jersey.
Elite jersey
The highest quality, & therefore the most expensive. This is “closest to what the players wear on the field”.
- Price: $325-$370
- Numbers & Names: Twill numbers, player names, & logos are sewn on.
- Fabric: Water-repellant and heavier, with form-fitting stretch zones. Sleeves have elasticized cuffs.
- Sizes are numbered, 40 through 60.
Pros:
- Super durable. With proper care, a Nike NFL Elite jersey will last 5-10 years, or longer. Put it this way – if you’re going to buy only one jersey in the next decade, then make it an Elite. After all, (an annual average of) 32 bucks a year won’t break anyone’s budget.
- With its tapered fit & slender features, it’s easily the best looking jersey.
Cons:
- If you do want more than one jersey, the cost makes it prohibitive. For the price of one Nike Elite, you can buy 2 Limited jerseys, or 3 Game jerseys. By and large, this is an easy decision for most NFL fans.
Limited jersey
- Price: $150-$170
- Numbers & Names: Twill numbers, player names, & logos are sewn on.
- Fabric: Quality is similar to the Elite. It’s also water-repellant. with “strategic ventilation”.
- Sizes are lettered, S up to 4XL.
Pros:
- No stretch zones. Not everyone is blessed with an NFL player’s body. So for you non-athletic types, the lack of stretch zones on the Limited jersey is actually a good thing.
Cons:
- It costs 50% more than Game jerseys, & 88% more than the Legend.
Game jersey
- Price: $120-$140
- Numbers & Names: Silicon-printed, which makes for a lighter garment.
- Fabric: The fit is slightly more relaxed than the Limited and the Elite. “Strategic mesh-ventilation over major heat zones for maximum breathability.”
- Sizes are lettered, S up to 4XL.
Pros:
- Instead of spending $150 on a Limited, you can get a Game jersey and still have enough for a second one. Save up to 54% on select Nike NFL Game Jerseys right here.
Cons:
- Less durable. Printed names & numbers are only going to endure so many wash cycles before they start to fade. This isn’t a problem with the Limited and Elite jerseys.
Legend jersey
- Price: $90
- Numbers & Names: Sublimated, i.e., fused right into the fabric itself.
- Fabric: Dri-FIT moisture-wicking material.
- Sizes are lettered, S up to 4XL.
Pros:
- This is the lightest and least-constraining of the Nike jerseys, if that’s what you’re looking for.
- Contrary to popular belief, the sublimation process creates a better value than screen printing. Sublimated numbers last longer because they’re essentially part of the fabric, and therefore don’t have the potential to peel like the screen printed variety.
Cons:
- Not as durable as the Elite or Limited.
- The light, snug fit makes it unsuitable for colder weather.
Why should you choose sublimated jerseys?
Conclusion
To sum up, the Nike Elite jersey is considered to be the best. However, that doesn’t mean it’s the best one for you.
Still undecided? Download the free Cheap NFL Jersey Buying Guide, and compare the NFL Nike Jersey types in greater depth.