Everton’s 2025/26 third kit, designed by Castore, is inspired by the River Mersey and features a bold, abstract design. The kit replaces the traditional club crest with a white pentagon symbolizing Prince Rupert’s Tower, sparking debate among fans about tradition versus innovation. Its success hinges on the team’s performance while wearing it.
Everton Football Club has just dropped its third kit for the 2025/26 season, and it's already making waves – or perhaps, we should say, ripples. Designed by Castore, this kit isn't just another piece of sportswear; it's a statement, a tribute to the city's lifeblood: the River Mersey.
The design is the brainchild of local graphic artist Neil Keating, who reimagined the river's currents in a vibrant, abstract pattern. Forget traditional blues and whites; this kit dives deep into a palette of black, blue, and yellow, creating a visually striking representation of the Mersey's flow. The black shirt features a crew-neck collar and an intricate blue-and-yellow design across the body, mirroring the river's journey past Everton's soon-to-be new stadium. Completing the look are black shorts and socks, accented with blue-and-yellow stripes on the fold-over. It’s a modern, artistic take on a football kit, aiming to connect with the club's geographical roots.
But here’s where things get interesting – and divisive. In a bold move, Everton has opted to forgo the traditional club crest on this third kit. Instead, a simple white pentagon adorns the chest, representing Prince Rupert’s Tower. This historic village lock-up has been a symbol of Everton for years, featuring prominently in the club’s badge. By using only this element, the designers have created a minimalist look that speaks to the club’s heritage while pushing the boundaries of kit design.
The decision to omit the full crest has sparked a significant debate among Everton fans. Some laud the design as forward-thinking and innovative, praising its artistic merit and connection to the city. They see it as a fresh take on club identity, a way to stand out from the crowd and make a statement on the pitch. These supporters appreciate the subtle nod to tradition through the inclusion of Prince Rupert’s Tower, viewing it as a clever and respectful homage to the club’s history.
However, not everyone is on board with the change. Critics argue that the absence of the crest dilutes the club’s identity and heritage. For many fans, the crest is more than just a logo; it’s a symbol of pride, tradition, and belonging. They feel that removing it from the kit diminishes its connection to the club’s history and undermines the sense of unity among supporters. These fans argue that while innovation is welcome, it shouldn't come at the expense of the club’s core identity.
Regardless of where you stand on the crest debate, one thing is undeniable: this kit is a conversation starter. It challenges the norms of football kit design, prompting fans to reconsider what a club's visual identity can represent. Whether this experiment pays off remains to be seen, but it's clear that Everton is willing to take risks and push creative boundaries.
Ultimately, the success of this kit will likely depend on the team's performance while wearing it. As the saying goes, winning makes everything look better. If Everton can secure victories and memorable moments in this kit, it may well become a cult classic, fondly remembered for its unique design and the triumphs it witnessed. On the other hand, if the team struggles, the kit may fade into obscurity, remembered only as a bold but ultimately unsuccessful experiment.
The 2025/26 third kit represents a pivotal moment for Everton. It's a chance to showcase their commitment to innovation, honor their city's heritage, and connect with fans in new and meaningful ways. Whether it's a resounding success or a controversial misstep remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: this kit will leave a lasting impression.