Home, Away and Third Football Shirts Explained
Discover the roles of home, away and third football jerseys, and why clubs use different colours and designs across their shirt collections.
Football clubs often release home, away and third shirts. Each belongs to the team’s identity, but the three designs can look very different.
The names describe their roles in the club’s collection. They do not mean that an away shirt must be worn in every away match.
Home shirts: a familiar identity
A home football shirt usually centres on the colours and visual features closely associated with the club.
That might mean a particular colour combination, stripes or a recognisable arrangement of panels. Designers can change the collar, texture and small details while keeping the shirt familiar to supporters.
For many fans, the home jersey is the clearest expression of their club.
Away shirts: an alternative look
Away shirts provide another option when teams need a different appearance.
They also give designers space to explore colours and patterns beyond the usual home design. Some draw on earlier club shirts, while others introduce a different visual direction.
An away jersey can become just as memorable as a home shirt, especially when supporters connect it with an important season.
Third shirts: another option
A third shirt gives the team an additional alternative. It can also offer room for a more unusual design.
Some third jerseys are understated; others use strong graphics or unexpected colour combinations. There is no single design formula.
Choosing a shirt as a supporter
You do not need to choose the home shirt simply because it is the main design.
Compare the versions you enjoy, check their fit and think about how you will wear them. A favourite colour, a memorable match or a personal connection can make any of the three your preferred football jersey.
