MLS Third Kit Designs Revealed in Major Leak Before Official Launch
Securing a third jersey requires something extraordinary for an MLS franchise.
Unlike most global leagues where clubs collaborate directly with kit manufacturers, MLS maintains an exclusive partnership with Adidas. While this arrangement ensures visual consistency throughout the league, it also presents obstacles, such as the disappointing white jersey trend from earlier this decade or the recent scarcity of third kits.
During 2024, merely five teams were chosen to receive a third uniform, but 2025 witnesses a significant expansion, with 13 clubs anticipated to showcase fresh designs, many incorporating throwback elements from their history or drawing from retro aesthetics.
This week, Footy Headlines revealed the newest designs from Minnesota United, the Seattle Sounders, Nashville SC, and New England Revolution, joining the previously disclosed or vintage-inspired kits from the San Jose Earthquakes, FC Dallas, and Columbus Crew.
Additional third kits scheduled for release include Toronto FC, Charlotte FC, the Colorado Rapids, Real Salt Lake, and D.C. United.
Here's an examination of the recent reveals.
Columbus Crew
The Columbus Crew hasn't formally revealed their new third uniform yet, but folk musician Noah Kahan showcased it during a concert this spring. It represents a complete throwback design to previous Columbus Crew eras, reviving the blocked stripe pattern and the classic three-figure Columbus Crew emblem.
It's appropriate that Kahan unveiled it, considering his support for both Chelsea in the Premier League and American semi-professional team, Vermont Green FC.
FC Dallas
FC Dallas stands among MLS's most established clubs, yet remains one of the few to have completely rebranded since their inception. Through their throwback third uniform, they're returning to the simpler Dallas Burn era, their former identity, while also restoring the hooped design and color scheme.
This summer, USMNT defender Chris Richards was seen wearing it in the stands, despite the club not yet making an official announcement.
Minnesota United
Minnesota United introduced some of the most striking colors to their new third design, featuring a brilliant shimmering blue highlighted by white and orange elements throughout the uniform. The blue incorporates multiple layers with its interwoven diamond pattern, all serving as the backdrop for "Loons" displayed on the front instead of the sponsor.
Nashville SC
Nashville SC lacks the extensive American soccer heritage of teams like the Seattle Sounders and New England Revolution, but has embraced the retro aesthetic in their third uniform, through the typography and styling.
While the jersey's front appears relatively simple, with the club name replacing the sponsor, the sleeves distinguish the uniform, showcasing a dotted pattern that mimics denim, an iconic element of Tennessee's culture.
New England Revolution
The New England Revolution's new third design references their 1990s styling but doesn't restore the original logo. In fact, there appears to be no crest visible anywhere on the jersey, which is quite unusual for any club.
The sash and stripe create a somewhat puzzling appearance, with the team name "Revolution" displayed prominently across the front.
San Jose Earthquakes
Drawing from the 1996 San Jose Clash jersey, the San Jose Earthquakes revealed their newest third uniform with assistance from former NFL star Jerry Rice, who wore the kit during a recent Earthquakes match.
Featuring the vintage logo and "San Jose Clash" text across the front alongside the original colors and design, the jersey represents a complete tribute to MLS's early years.
Seattle Sounders
The Seattle Sounders honor their 1994 uniform with their third kit, displaying a purple design enhanced by vibrant blue and teal accents. The kit also substitutes the primary sponsor logo on the front with a club wordmark and the orca emblem, influenced by their logo from 1994 to 2002.