The 2026 Hurricanes Retro Supporters Jersey looks back to the very beginning of the club, revisiting the original 1996 training jersey worn during the pre-season matches ahead of the Hurricanes' first Super Rugby season. Its bold yellow, black and white design, collared construction and classic Hurricanes branding capture the look of the club's formative years.

The jersey was released as part of the Hurricanes' 30th anniversary celebrations, connecting the 2026 season with the club's inaugural year. The 1996 season marked the beginning of Hurricanes rugby and the start of a history that would go on to span three decades.

A familiar sight throughout 2026

The Retro jersey was produced as a supporters' jersey rather than an official match jersey, so it was not worn by the players on the field. However, it became a particularly recognisable part of the Hurricanes' 2026 season, with members of the coaching staff regularly wearing it around the team.

The players were also frequently seen wearing the Retro jersey away from the field, particularly while travelling. Its relaxed, comfortable fit and distinctive vintage design made it a natural choice for team travel, and photographs from throughout the season captured players wearing the jersey on their journeys with the team.

This gave the jersey a unique place in the 2026 season. Although it wasn't part of the official playing kit, it became closely associated with the team itself — worn by coaches and players as part of the Hurricanes' travel and off-field look.

For the RYOS Archive, the jersey captures the connection between the beginning and the present day: taking a distinctive piece of the Hurricanes' 1996 history and bringing it back into the spotlight during the club's 30th anniversary season.