'Oranje' and Nike Miss the Mark with Heavily Criticized Dutch National Team Kit

In a week where the Dutch national team players are engaged in two exhibition matches and numerous commercial commitments, the unveiling of the new 'Oranje' kits certainly stands out. Even before everyone had arrived at Zeist, the most brightly colored kit ever was presented. Nike has been the supplier since 1996, but it's time for a change. In recent years, Nike has been losing ground and is no longer producing the best possible kits for the Netherlands.

The concept of relocating the logo, which, by the way, reflects poorly, is a nice idea, but it's a copy of other kits. And that's a shame; there's little authentic about it. England's away kit now also features the logo in the center, while France's kits – also from the Nike stable – are far more exclusive.

So, it is possible, but for years, there's been a lack of inspiration for the 'Oranje' kits. Too many Nike kits follow a standard template; they are very similar. This year, there's a vague link to the 1994 World Cup with a white away kit, but that's about it.

This year, fans are also complaining about the price. Of course, the price of everything is rising, including kits. But people want value for their money. They're not getting that with this 160-euro 'Oranje' kit from Nike. Naturally, the brand is commercial and wants to make money from the kit, but then they should produce a kit that appeals to the public.

In that regard, Nike has a lot to learn from competitor Adidas. Adidas has launched kits that are popular worldwide. People who have absolutely no connection to countries like Curaçao, Mexico, or Colombia are still clamoring for their kits. Adidas has tapped into the current trend in football kits: modern jerseys with a classic, historical touch.

Consider the Italian home kit with laurel leaves referencing Roman times and the historic Adidas logo. Or the Curaçao away kit that quickly went viral. The kit is based on the brightly colored houses in Willemstad. With this, Adidas, a former partner of 'Oranje', is capitalizing on current trends. Kits are flying off the shelves, something 'Oranje' would also like to see. 30 years with Nike is a long time; this is a good moment to switch. It's time for a fresh, new perspective.