In 2024, Super Rugby Pacific brought back a real dose of nostalgia with the launch of a range of retro jerseys.

The move was all about reigniting fan passion by celebrating the rich history and iconic jersey designs from the golden years of the 1990s and early 2000s.
These retro jerseys weren’t just a visual throwback—they were made from 100% cotton, just like the originals. Each jersey features a traditional collar and old-school rubber buttons, giving them a proper heritage feel that sets them apart from today’s high-performance synthetics.

What Sparked the Retro Revival?

The main driver behind the 2024 retro jersey drop was a nod to the roots of Super Rugby, a time when the game was raw, passionate, and full of hard-hitting legends.
The idea was to give long-time fans a connection to their team’s legacy while introducing newer supporters to the colours and styles that once defined the competition.

These jerseys weren’t just about looking good, they were about storytelling.

Retro Looks for Each Kiwi Franchise

Blues (Auckland)
The Blues threw it back to their 1997 Super 12 championship-winning kit, rocking the iconic blue, red, and white combo. With nods to Auckland’s nautical identity, this jersey reminded fans of the powerhouse Blues side led by the likes of Carlos Spencer and Jonah Lomu.

Chiefs (Waikato)
The Chiefs revived their gritty 1999 jersey, black with bold red and yellow flashes, topped off with pixel-style shoulder graphics. It captured the raw energy of the side and reflected the proud, hard-nosed spirit of Waikato rugby.

Hurricanes (Wellington)
The Canes went full throttle with a throwback to their bold 1998 strip: a loud yellow and black design with swirling patterns that mirrored Wellington’s legendary winds. A fitting tribute to an electric team that included icons like Christian Cullen and Tana Umaga. It perfectly channelled the region’s chaotic yet beautiful rugby style.

Crusaders (Canterbury)
The Crusaders honoured the early 2000s with a retro look featuring deep red and black tones, and subtle motifs representing the Southern Alps. This jersey connected fans to the heart of Canterbury, where hard work, tradition, and championship success have long gone hand-in-hand.

Highlanders (Otago)
The Highlanders’ 1998-inspired kit brought back the deep blue base with sharp maroon and gold trims. A unique strip featured the Highlander warrior mark, representing mana, strength, and the southern grit that defines the franchise.

How the Fans Took It

From die-hard old-school fans to younger supporters keen to rep their team in something fresh, the response was overwhelmingly positive. The retro range wasn’t just merch, it was a celebration of local rugby pride.

These kits brought back memories of packed stadiums, pre-professional chaos, and the legends who wore them. Social media lit up with throwback photos, fans digging out their old gear, and stories of where they were when these jerseys first made their mark.

A Nod to the Past, A Statement for the Future

The 2024 retro jersey release wasn’t just a marketing play, it was a moment of connection between past and present.
At a time when rugby is evolving fast, going back to basics with cotton jerseys, collars, and rubber buttons reminded us why we fell in love with the game in the first place.

Throw it back in style — shop the Super Rugby retro range here!