SA Rugby and apparel partner Nike pay homage to history and a national emblem in the striking new 2025 Springbok kit collection, which was unveiled on Tuesday.
A newly designed playing kit and a retro jersey honouring the heritage of the 1995 Rugby World Cup winners were revealed for the first time, 30 years to the day that Nelson Mandela first presented the Webb Ellis Cup to a Springbok captain.
The release of a heritage jersey recreates the one worn by the Boks in the iconic 15-12 victory over New Zealand at Ellis Park, while the new team playing jersey incorporates elements of the King Protea in a striking collar design.
The playing kit remains firmly rooted in tradition in a clean and elegant design that honours the timeless green and gold, while the details include subtle nods to historic victories, uniting the past, present and future of the team into a single, cohesive design.
The unique, new neckline is inspired by the protea in a design that is rooted in green yet ‘crowned’ by the King Protea’s leaves. Inside the collar are four stars that feature as a nod to the team’s four Rugby World Cup victories, as well as #ForeverGreenForeverGold.
Cutting-edge materials ensure the kit is not only a celebration of heritage but also a testament to modern sportswear innovation, integrating state-of-the-art fabric technologies.
The materials enhance breathability, flexibility and endurance for the players while remaining lightweight and durable. The kit also features moisture-wicking properties, ensuring players stay cool and dry even during the most intense matches.
The alternate jersey is all-white with the Protea collar in traditional bottle green, while the playing range is supported by a training and off-field range for the passionate supporter.
The Protea theme is most graphically carried through into the pre-match warm-up jersey, which features a starburst of King Protea buds viewed from above.
The recreation of the 1995 jersey is in traditional cotton and features the iconic badge of the Springbok leaping over a wreath of proteas.
“Nike has done a superb job of producing a kit range that both honours the traditions of the Springboks while giving it a modern design edge,” said Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby.
“We also chose to honour the 30th anniversary of the 1995 victory that was such a watershed moment for rugby and for South Africa.
“We believe the replica kit and the wide range of lifestyle apparel and fan-centric accessories that go with it will allow supporters to wear their pride wherever they go, and especially on Bok Fridays.”
The home and alternative jerseys, as well as the lifestyle collection, will be available from Wednesday (25 June) from Nike stores, major retailers, and online.