The specific apparel worn by Real Madrid during the 2016/17 season as their alternate uniform featured a predominantly black color scheme. This attire was utilized primarily in UEFA Champions League matches and certain away games where the primary and secondary kits clashed with the opposing team’s colors.
The garment served not only as functional sportswear but also as a symbol of the club’s identity and ambition during a successful campaign. Its design, materials, and performance characteristics were all aimed at providing players with a competitive advantage while simultaneously projecting a strong brand image. The kit’s aesthetic contributed to the club’s global appeal and merchandise sales.
Further discussion will elaborate on the design elements, technological innovations incorporated, and the overall impact this specific edition had on both fans and the sporting world. This includes analysis of the color scheme, fabric technology, and associated marketing campaigns.
1. Predominantly Black
The adoption of a predominantly black color palette for the Real Madrid third kit of the 2016/17 season marked a departure from the clubs predominantly white home shirts and often lighter-colored away kits. This choice wasn’t arbitrary. Black, in this context, served as a statement a bold visual declaration intended to project an image of power and sophistication, particularly on the European stage of the UEFA Champions League. It was a calculated decision by Adidas, the kit manufacturer, to align the team’s appearance with the intensity and prestige associated with the competition.
Consider the effect. The black fabric provided a stark canvas, allowing the purple accents, representing royalty and tradition, and the white Adidas stripes, signifying the brand’s athletic prowess, to stand out vividly. On the field, under the bright lights of the stadiums, the black kit created a striking visual presence, immediately setting Real Madrid apart from its opponents. Commercially, the novelty of the color resonated with fans, driving sales and expanding the club’s reach into new markets. The black kit became intrinsically linked to the team’s successful Champions League campaign that year, solidifying its place in club history.
Ultimately, the “predominantly black” element was fundamental to the kits overall design and impact. It transformed a simple piece of sportswear into a symbol of ambition and success, highlighting how a seemingly simple color choice can profoundly influence both the perception and the legacy of a football club. The bold decision served as a visual representation of Real Madrid’s intent: to dominate, to conquer, and to leave an indelible mark on European football.
2. Purple Accents
Within the sleek black canvas of the Real Madrid third kit for the 2016/17 season, the deliberate inclusion of purple accents wasn’t merely decorative. It served as a potent visual link to the club’s rich history, a subtle yet powerful nod to its royal heritage and the traditions that underpin its identity.
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Symbolism and Heritage
Purple, historically associated with royalty and nobility, directly connects to Real Madrid’s “Real” designation, bestowed upon the club by King Alfonso XIII in 1920. The color choice acknowledges this royal patronage, embedding a subtle reminder of the club’s esteemed status and its deep roots within Spanish society. The accents, therefore, transform the kit into more than just sportswear; they become a wearable emblem of the club’s distinguished legacy.
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Contrast and Visibility
Strategically placed, the purple accents provided a striking contrast against the predominantly black background, enhancing visibility and creating a visually appealing design. The purple often appeared as trim on the sleeves, collar, and as part of the Adidas stripes. This contrast not only improved the kit’s aesthetic appeal but also ensured that key elements, such as the club crest and sponsor logos, stood out clearly, contributing to brand recognition and marketability.
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Unique Identity
While black kits weren’t entirely novel in football, the pairing with purple created a unique visual identity for this specific iteration. It differentiated the kit from other black kits, imbuing it with a distinct character that resonated with fans. This combination became instantly recognizable and associated specifically with Real Madrid’s 2016/17 Champions League campaign, making it a memorable and iconic design.
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Marketing and Merchandise
The purple accents played a significant role in the kit’s marketing and commercial success. The unique color combination allowed for distinctive marketing campaigns, highlighting the kit’s elegance and connection to the club’s history. This led to increased demand for merchandise, as fans sought to own a piece of the club’s identity. The accents thus became a driver of revenue, contributing to the club’s overall financial success.
The integration of purple accents into the 2016/17 third kit was a masterstroke of design, seamlessly blending tradition with modernity. These subtle details transformed the kit into a potent symbol of the club’s history, its royal connections, and its ambition on the European stage. They ensured that this particular uniform became more than just a piece of sportswear; it became a tangible representation of Real Madrid’s identity and legacy.
3. Adidas Design
The story of the Real Madrid third kit for the 2016/17 season is inextricably linked to Adidas Design. It wasn’t a mere act of slapping a logo on fabric; it was a calculated exercise in brand synergy and performance enhancement. Adidas, as the technical sponsor, bore the responsibility of translating Real Madrid’s identity and ambitions into a tangible, wearable form. The design brief likely included directives to create a kit that was not only visually striking but also technologically advanced, befitting a club of Real Madrid’s stature. The predominantly black canvas, the purple accents, even the placement of the sponsor logos, were all deliberate choices made by Adidas designers. The underlying cause was the need to create a garment that met the stringent requirements of professional athletes while simultaneously appealing to a global fanbase, driving merchandise sales and brand recognition.
The importance of Adidas Design as a component of the kit cannot be overstated. It went beyond aesthetics. The fabric technology employed likely a breathable, moisture-wicking material was crucial for player comfort and performance on the field. The cut and fit of the kit were designed to allow for maximum freedom of movement. The placement of seams was carefully considered to minimize chafing. All these elements, seemingly minor in isolation, contributed to the overall performance advantage. Take, for example, Cristiano Ronaldo’s powerful strides down the wing or Sergio Ramos’ commanding presence in defense. The kit, designed by Adidas, played a role in facilitating these actions, allowing the players to perform at their peak. The practical significance of understanding this lies in appreciating the level of detail and expertise that goes into creating a professional sports garment. It highlights the blend of art and science, of fashion and function, that defines modern sportswear design.
In essence, the Adidas Design wasn’t simply a superficial element of the third kit; it was the foundational framework upon which the entire garment was built. The challenges likely included balancing the club’s historical identity with the need for innovation, appealing to a diverse global audience, and meeting the performance demands of elite athletes. The kit served as a powerful marketing tool, connecting the team’s on-field successes with the Adidas brand, a testament to the effectiveness of thoughtful, strategic design. The story of the 2016/17 third kit underscores the symbiotic relationship between a club and its kit manufacturer, illustrating how Adidas Design can transform a piece of fabric into a symbol of ambition, performance, and brand identity.
4. Champions League
The Real Madrid third kit of 2016/17 is indelibly linked to the Champions League. It wasn’t merely a uniform worn in any competition; it was the armor donned during a campaign that culminated in European glory. The connection is not coincidental. The kit was specifically designated for Champions League matches, a visual cue signaling the club’s heightened ambitions on the continental stage. The black and purple design, a departure from the traditional white, became synonymous with Real Madrid’s pursuit of a record-extending twelfth title. The kit’s debut coincided with the group stage matches, each appearance a step towards the ultimate prize. Thus, the garment became a tangible symbol of the club’s European aspirations, a silent promise of their intent to conquer.
Consider the psychological impact. Opponents, facing Real Madrid in this distinct attire, were confronted not just with the players but also with the visual reminder of the club’s formidable Champions League pedigree. Fans, donning replicas of the kit, felt a closer connection to the team’s European journey, their support amplified by wearing the colors of ambition. The Champions League connection boosted merchandise sales, turning the kit into a sought-after item, a badge of honor for supporters worldwide. The practical impact was felt across the club, from increased revenue to heightened team morale. The importance of this understanding lies in recognizing how a simple piece of sportswear can be strategically leveraged to enhance a club’s brand and strengthen its connection with its fanbase, particularly within the high-stakes environment of the Champions League.
In conclusion, the Real Madrid third kit of 2016/17 transcended its function as mere sporting apparel. It became a symbol of the club’s Champions League aspirations, a visual representation of its dominance on the European stage. The challenges faced in designing and marketing the kit were overcome by aligning it with the prestige and excitement of the Champions League. The result was a design that resonated deeply with fans, players, and even opponents, solidifying its place in the club’s history. The black and purple colors will forever be associated with Real Madrid’s twelfth Champions League title, a testament to the power of visual identity in the world of football.
5. Fly Emirates
The prominent “Fly Emirates” logo emblazoned across the chest of the Real Madrid third kit in 2016/17 represents more than just a commercial transaction; it signifies a long-standing partnership and a confluence of global brands. The presence of the airline’s name, rendered in crisp white against the kit’s black backdrop, visually links the reigning kings of European football with a symbol of international travel and connectivity. The arrangement, initiated years prior, demonstrates the power of sports sponsorship in projecting a brand onto a global stage, associating “Fly Emirates” with Real Madrid’s image of excellence and success. The arrangement was that, in return for a significant financial contribution, their logo would be featured prominently. This arrangement was replicated across numerous major football clubs, highlighting the lucrative nature of sports sponsorship.
The impact extends beyond simple brand visibility. The “Fly Emirates” sponsorship provided Real Madrid with crucial financial resources, enabling the club to invest in world-class talent and maintain its competitive edge. Consider the acquisition of key players or the development of state-of-the-art training facilities; these investments were partially fueled by the revenue generated from partnerships like the one with “Fly Emirates.” The arrangement provided marketing opportunities for “Fly Emirates” to associate their brand with Real Madrid’s global appeal and reach. The airline could leverage the club’s image in advertising campaigns, reaching millions of football fans worldwide. “Fly Emirates” utilized Real Madrid players in its promotional material, further blurring the lines between sport and commerce.
In essence, the “Fly Emirates” logo on the 2016/17 third kit encapsulates the modern realities of football, where commercial partnerships are integral to a club’s success. The prominence of the sponsorship underlines the challenges of maintaining financial stability while competing at the highest level. The story of “Fly Emirates” and Real Madrid showcases the mutually beneficial nature of such arrangements, where both parties leverage each other’s strengths to achieve their respective goals. It serves as a reminder that behind the on-field action, a complex web of commercial relationships sustains the spectacle, connecting a Dubai-based airline with millions of football fans across the globe through a simple logo on a black jersey.
6. Technical Fabric
Beneath the striking aesthetics of the Real Madrid third kit of 2016/17 lay a crucial, often unseen, element: technical fabric. This was not mere cloth; it was a meticulously engineered material designed to enhance player performance and comfort under the intense pressures of elite-level football. Adidas, the kit manufacturer, understood that a winning team needed more than just style; it needed the best possible equipment, and the choice of technical fabric was paramount. This fabric was engineered to wick away sweat, keeping players cool and dry even during the most strenuous matches. It allowed for optimal airflow, preventing overheating and ensuring maximum comfort. It possessed a remarkable elasticity, allowing for a full range of motion without restriction, essential for the dynamic movements of players like Cristiano Ronaldo. The decision to incorporate this fabric was not an afterthought; it was a fundamental component of the kit’s design, directly impacting the players’ ability to perform at their peak.
Consider the Champions League final of that season. The grueling match extended into extra time, testing the players’ physical and mental endurance. Amidst the sweat and exertion, the technical fabric played a crucial role in maintaining player comfort and preventing fatigue. Had the players been clad in traditional, less advanced materials, the outcome might have been different. The kit facilitated peak performance, while giving their opponent disadvantage. Furthermore, the durability of technical fabric ensured that the kits could withstand the rigors of a long season, enduring countless washes and high-intensity matches without losing their shape or functionality. This longevity not only benefited the players but also reduced the need for frequent replacements, proving a cost-effective solution for the club. Marketing technical fabric to promote brand values and enhance consumer loyalty.
In retrospect, the technical fabric of the Real Madrid third kit of 2016/17 highlights the increasing importance of technological innovation in modern sports. The invisible benefits of this sophisticated material contributed significantly to the team’s success, demonstrating that true performance enhancement extends far beyond mere aesthetics. The challenges in sourcing and manufacturing these advanced fabrics are substantial, requiring significant investment in research and development. The story of this kit serves as a reminder that beneath the surface of any sporting triumph lies a complex interplay of factors, and the choice of technical fabric, though often overlooked, plays a vital role in achieving victory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Delving into the details of specific football kits often raises questions, especially when considering the blend of sporting history, fashion, and technological innovation. This section addresses some common inquiries surrounding the Real Madrid third kit from the 2016/17 season.
Question 1: What motivated the choice of black and purple for the attire?
The selection of black as the primary color was a deliberate move to project an image of power and sophistication on the European stage. Purple, a color historically associated with royalty, served as a subtle nod to Real Madrid’s royal patronage, bestowed upon the club by King Alfonso XIII. The combination aimed to blend modernity with tradition, creating a visually striking and symbolically rich design.
Question 2: Beyond aesthetics, did the kit offer any practical benefits to the players?
Indeed. Adidas, the kit manufacturer, employed advanced technical fabric designed to wick away sweat, ensuring player comfort and optimal performance. The fabric’s breathability and elasticity allowed for a full range of motion, crucial for the dynamic movements of elite athletes. Every seam was carefully placed to minimize chafing, demonstrating that the design considered the players’ physical well-being.
Question 3: How did the “Fly Emirates” sponsorship impact the club beyond mere brand visibility?
The partnership with “Fly Emirates” provided Real Madrid with significant financial resources, enabling investments in world-class talent and state-of-the-art facilities. The sponsorship extended the clubs global reach through collaborative marketing campaigns that increased brand awareness. It allowed the airline to associate itself with one of the most successful clubs in football history.
Question 4: Why was this particular kit so closely associated with the Champions League?
The 2016/17 third kit was specifically designated for Champions League matches. This cemented in the minds of players and fans that this was the uniform worn during the pursuit of European glory. This association heightened the kit’s appeal and contributed to increased merchandise sales.
Question 5: How did the design address the challenges of appealing to a global fanbase with diverse tastes?
The design successfully blended Real Madrid’s core identity with a modern aesthetic, creating a kit that resonated with fans across different cultures. Black is a universally accepted symbol of sophistication and purple added a unique visual element, while Adidas branding ensured quality and recognition. The partnership resulted in the kit gaining international appeal.
Question 6: What made this kit particularly memorable compared to other Real Madrid kits?
The combination of colors, the Champions League triumph and prominent sponsorship made this kit unique. Its association with a period of success, and bold design made it a kit that would be remembered by fans.
The Real Madrid third kit of 2016/17 was more than just a uniform; it was a symbol of ambition, performance, and brand identity. Its design, its technological innovations, and its commercial partnerships all contributed to its lasting legacy.
Next, the story concludes, reflecting on the kit’s significance and its place within Real Madrid’s extensive history.
A Collector’s Considerations
For those seeking a tangible piece of Real Madrid’s history, the 2016/17 third kit presents a unique opportunity. However, navigating the collector’s market requires a discerning eye and a strategic approach. Here are some key considerations.
Tip 1: Authenticate the Source: The prevalence of counterfeit merchandise necessitates careful scrutiny. Purchase from reputable sources, such as established sports memorabilia dealers or directly from the club or Adidas. Examine tags, stitching, and fabric quality for inconsistencies. A Certificate of Authenticity (COA) from a recognized authority provides added assurance.
Tip 2: Assess Condition Meticulously: The kit’s condition significantly impacts its value. Examine for stains, tears, fading, or damage to logos or sponsor markings. Mint condition, unworn kits command a premium. Gently used kits may still hold value, but their condition should be accurately described.
Tip 3: Consider Player-Worn Variations: Kits worn by specific players, particularly those of iconic status, possess heightened collector appeal. These variations often feature unique details, such as player names, numbers, or match-specific patches. Documented provenance is essential for verifying authenticity.
Tip 4: Seek Signed Memorabilia: A signature from a key player from the 2016/17 squad substantially increases the kit’s value. However, authentication becomes paramount. Opt for signatures obtained through reputable channels or witnessed by trusted authenticators. A COA from a respected organization is crucial.
Tip 5: Research Market Trends: The value of collectible items fluctuates based on market demand and historical significance. Monitor auction prices, online marketplaces, and collector forums to gauge current trends. Understanding market dynamics informs informed purchasing decisions.
Tip 6: Preserve with Care: Proper storage is essential for maintaining the kit’s condition and value. Avoid direct sunlight, humidity, and extreme temperatures. Consider professional framing or archival-quality storage solutions to protect the fabric from deterioration.
Tip 7: Document Every Detail: Meticulously document the kit’s history, provenance, and condition. Keep records of purchase receipts, authentication certificates, and any relevant correspondence. This documentation enhances the kit’s value and facilitates future transactions.
Acquiring the 2016/17 third kit requires diligence and a keen understanding of the collector’s market. Authenticity, condition, provenance, and preservation are paramount considerations. Careful research and strategic decision-making will ensure a rewarding investment.
Finally, concluding the story about the 2016/17 third kit, acknowledging its place in Real Madrid’s visual history.
Legacy in Black and Purple
The preceding exploration has dissected the Real Madrid third kit 2016/17, revealing its layers of meaning beyond mere fabric and color. From its deliberate design choices reflecting royal heritage and European ambition to its practical function in optimizing player performance, the kit embodied a specific moment in the club’s trajectory. It was a garment worn during a season of triumph, a visual marker of the team’s relentless pursuit of glory.
While time marches onward and new kits emerge, the Real Madrid third kit 2016/17 remains etched in memory. It serves as a reminder that clothing can be more than just apparel; it can be a symbol of victory, a reflection of identity, and a legacy for generations to come. Its story serves as a reminder of the power of design, and will always be remembered for its association with victory.
