Ranking Bayern Munich's Most Iconic Home Jerseys: The Ultimate Top 10 That Defined Bavarian Glory
A Bayern Munich jersey—or even matching shorts—used to represent a childhood milestone during family vacations. Perhaps it was inherited from an older brother or sister, oversized and slightly worn, but that didn't matter—you appeared professional.
Throughout the decades, Bayern have created an extraordinary array of home uniforms, many becoming as legendary as the championships they helped secure. Sleek designs, vibrant reds and gradual changes have all contributed to establishing Bayern's reputation as one of soccer's most successful clubs worldwide.
Here, Sports Illustrated evaluates the greatest Bayern Munich home jerseys in history.
10. Minimalist Approach (2003-2004)
It's unfortunate this campaign yielded no trophies—because picture a young Michael Ballack hoisting silverware in this adidas uniform.
Seeking simplicity and refined elegance combined? You likely won't find anything better than this design.
9. Horizontal Bands (2007-2009)
You might call it typical adidas from that period, but the bold horizontal stripes simply clicked with Bayern—particularly when worn by Franck Ribéry in motion.
Beyond aesthetics, this uniform represented a pivotal moment for the organization. Bayern secured both the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal while wearing it, which alone places it among the elite designs.
8. Shade Variation (2002-03)
Let's avoid arguments about precise tones or why the home uniform departed from traditional Bayern red—simply appreciate its qualities. This marked the first jersey in years to completely abandon the customary red.
We frequently idealize the 90s, but certain early-2000s creations—including this one—might actually surpass them.
7. The Golden Era (1965-1970)
Behold, Bayern Munich's inaugural golden period—Bundesliga championship, three DFB-Pokals, and a UEFA Cup Winners' Cup all within five seasons. But perhaps the greatest achievement? The uniform itself.
White jerseys featuring red collar and red sleeves, combined with red shorts and socks. No sponsorships, likely waterlogged in wet conditions—yet it remains stunning.
6. Azure Accents (2014-2015)
Bayern supporters notably demanded the club avoid blue on home uniforms after arch-rivals 1860 Munich adopted it.
Nevertheless, the aesthetic appeal of contrasting hues is undeniable. Complementary colors create attraction, correct? The collar design achieves perfection—neither restrictive nor loose—ideal proportions.
5. Stars, Stripes & Freedom (1992-93)
Featuring oversized adidas branding on jersey and shorts, loose fitting, and red-white-blue palette, this uniform could easily be mistaken for a USA national team kit instead of Bayern Munich.
Nevertheless, it somehow succeeds—go Bayern, go!
4. The Anniversary Design (1999-2001)
Indeed, we're revisiting blue sleeves once more. Please forgive us, Bayern supporters, but adidas executed this centenary design flawlessly.
An era when long sleeves and tucked jerseys were standard, and those red-and-blue striped socks? Absolute excellence—the type of authentic football hosiery you recall.
3. Honoring Heritage (2017-18)
Annually, various clubs attempt to reference their historic achievements. Sometimes it disappoints—but this design? This is perfection.
A homage to the 1973-74 European Cup-winning strip, adidas perfected every element. So pristine, so crisp—it could potentially surpass the original.
2. The Kuffour Influence (2005-2006)
Sammy Kuffour's outburst—"Wir brauchen rot-weiße Trikots" ("We need red and white jerseys!")—resonated with Bayern's design team, prompting adidas to create an early-80s collar-inspired appearance.
The club badge was positioned within the same metallic background famously featured on the 1996 UEFA Cup-winning white uniform, plus intermittently during the 1970s and '80s.
1. Retro Gaming (1986-87)
How do you describe this masterpiece? 80's adidas, combined with groundbreaking gaming console sponsorship, brief shorts, long sleeves featuring clean white cuffs—absolutely spectacular.
Modern jerseys don't compare to this, and likely never will again. Bayern have worn numerous excellent uniforms, but this one reigns supreme.