For many grassroots teams, the person ordering the kit isn’t a full-time manager. You’re likely a volunteer balancing budgets and player preferences, with a squad made up of different shapes and sizes.
Many grassroots women’s football teams are still wearing women’s football kits designed for men.
The result?
Sleeves hanging past elbows, necklines that don’t sit right, jerseys that are too long, and shoulder seams that never quite line up.
For years, teams adapted to the kit. Now the kit should adapt to the team. As the women’s game grows, expectations around kit have changed; that’s where choice starts to matter.
Women’s vs unisex football kits: what’s the actual difference?
In simple terms, women’s football kits are designed to follow the natural shape of the body. Unisex kits are based on a straighter, men’s cut.
| Feature | What’s different in women’s fit | What that means on the pitch |
|---|---|---|
| Shoulders | Narrower cut | Less excess fabric through the arms |
| Body fit | Slightly more shaped | Less bunching when running or turning |
| Hips | Slightly wider cut | Helps the shirt sit properly without riding up |
| Jersey length | Proportionally shorter | No more jerseys that feel like dresses |
| Sleeves | Shorter | Prevents overlong sleeves |
| Shorts | Adjusted fit and length | A more comfortable fit during play |
Comfort and confidence matter
Fit isn’t just about performance. It also affects how players feel on the pitch. We’ve seen a shift across both the professional and grassroots game away from white shorts, helping players feel more comfortable during matches. The same applies to overall kit fit.
A “one-fit-fits-all” approach can quietly put some players off, even if they don’t say anything. Some prefer a shaped women’s cut, while others feel more at home in a looser, unisex style. Giving the players a choice removes that barrier and lets them focus entirely on the game rather than what they’re wearing. It’s not about forcing everyone into one style; it’s about getting the right fit for each individual.
You don’t have to choose one fit for the whole team
One of the biggest sticking points for clubs is the “all-or-nothing” order. Many suppliers still require teams to choose a single fit across the whole order, which often leads to compromises that don’t suit everyone.
The better approach is to keep one kit design while giving players a choice of fit within the same order. This allows players to choose what feels most comfortable while keeping a consistent team look. That way, the team still looks unified on the pitch, but each player is wearing the cut that feels right for them.
How to choose the right size for your football kit
Labels like “Medium” or “Large” can vary widely between brands, so it helps to use a more accurate way of getting the right size.
The “Pit-to-Pit” method is the best way to avoid guesswork:
- The Method: Ask players to take a shirt they already like, lay it flat, and measure the distance from armpit to armpit in centimetres.
- Match: Compare that measurement against the supplier’s size guide to find the closest fit.
What to expect when ordering your custom kit
With fit and design in place, the next step is making sure everything runs smoothly.
A few things give you confidence that your order is on track:
- Artwork checks: Your logos and designs are reviewed to make sure everything stays clear and sharp before production.
- Design preview: You see exactly how your kit will look, confirming colours, logos and placement before anything is made.
- Clear communication: Regular updates mean you always know how your order is progressing.
- Club Shop: Once your initial order is in place, a Club Shop allows players to reorder their own kit directly, reducing admin for the team and making it easier to manage different fits over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are women’s football kits different from unisex kits?
Yes. Women’s football kits are specifically designed with a different shape, including narrower shoulders, a more contoured body, and adjusted hip measurements so the garment sits more naturally.
Do all players need to wear the same fit?
No. Many teams now mix women’s and unisex fits within the same kit design. This allows players to choose what feels most comfortable while keeping a consistent team look.
How do we choose the right sizes?
The most reliable way is to measure. Compare the “pit-to-pit” measurement of a shirt that fits well against the supplier’s size guide.
Is a women’s fit always the better option?
Not necessarily. It comes down to personal preference. Some players prefer a shaped fit, while others are more comfortable in a looser, unisex style. Offering both is often the best approach.
Written by the Appin Sports Team
Appin Sports works with grassroots clubs, teams and events across the UK and beyond, supplying custom kit designed around real players and real teams. From first orders to repeat Club Shop reorders, we see first-hand how fit, comfort and choice affect confidence on the pitch.
We believe every player deserves a kit that fits and looks the part, so they can focus on the game, not the gear.
📷Image credits: Photography by Davie Henderson and Rachael Hatfield
