The apparel worn by FC Barcelona during their away matches in the 2017 season featured a distinct color scheme. Predominantly turquoise, it provided a contrast to the club’s traditional home colors, offering a visually striking alternative on the field. This particular design encompassed the jersey, shorts, and socks, forming a complete uniform for the players when competing outside of their home stadium.
The significance of this uniform extends beyond mere aesthetics. It represented the club on the road, becoming a symbol of Barcelona’s global presence. Moreover, the specific design, colors, and detailing reflected the club’s identity and branding efforts during that period. It became a sought-after item for fans and collectors, illustrating its appeal and connection to the team’s history. Its release and subsequent popularity impacted merchandising revenue for the club and its apparel partner.
The following discussion will explore the design elements, manufacturing specifics, and cultural impact associated with this distinctive sporting attire. Further analysis will consider its place within the broader context of FC Barcelona’s kit history and the evolution of sportswear design.
1. Turquoise Colorway
The selection of the turquoise colorway for the 2017 Barcelona away kit was far from arbitrary. It represented a calculated decision intended to differentiate the team on the field and resonate with a global audience. In previous seasons, the club had experimented with various shades for their change strips, yet the introduction of turquoise marked a definitive departure. This choice was not simply aesthetic; it reflected market research, brand strategy, and a desire to capture attention. The vibrant hue aimed to stand out against the greens and whites frequently encountered on away pitches, providing a visual edge for players and fans alike.
The introduction of this particular colorway had ramifications that extended beyond the playing field. Commercially, it triggered a surge in merchandise sales, appealing to a broader demographic, including those who might not typically purchase football apparel. Examples could be found in the global reach of sales figures, particularly in markets where Barcelona sought to expand its influence. Moreover, the turquoise hue became synonymous with the 2017 season, forever linking the kit to the achievements and memories of that particular year. On the field, it provided immediate recognition, allowing fans to quickly identify the team even in low-visibility conditions.
In retrospect, the turquoise colorway serves as a case study in the power of visual branding. Its impact extended beyond mere aesthetics, influencing commercial success and solidifying a place in the team’s history. The choice was bold and effective, demonstrating the calculated approach clubs take in designing kits that embody more than just team colors. It serves as a testament to the strategic alignment between marketing, performance, and fan engagement in the modern era of football.
2. Nike Design
The association between Nike and FC Barcelona is a long and lucrative partnership, one where innovation in athletic apparel meets sporting prowess. The 2017 away kit, draped in its distinctive turquoise, bore the hallmarks of Nike’s design philosophy. Every thread, every panel, every placement of the swoosh was a deliberate decision, meticulously engineered to provide a performance advantage while adhering to the club’s aesthetic identity. Nike didn’t merely stitch together fabric; it wove together technology, tradition, and marketability.
Consider the Dri-FIT technology integrated within the kits fabric. This wasn’t mere marketing jargon; it was a practical solution to managing perspiration, keeping players cool and dry during grueling matches. Observe the strategic placement of mesh panels, maximizing ventilation in key areas. Notice the streamlined fit, designed to reduce drag and enhance freedom of movement. These weren’t accidental features; they were the result of extensive research, athlete feedback, and iterative design processes. Furthermore, the construction of the kit itself mirrored Nike’s commitment to sustainability. Recycled polyester, sourced from plastic bottles, became a silent testament to the brand’s evolving environmental consciousness. Each kit was more than a uniform; it was a statement of intent.
Ultimately, the “Nike Design” component of the 2017 Barcelona away kit represents a confluence of performance, aesthetics, and ethical considerations. Its a story of how a global sportswear giant leveraged its expertise to elevate a football club’s identity on and off the pitch. The kit serves as a tangible reminder of the power of design to influence not only athletic performance but also brand perception and consumer behavior. Challenges remain, of course, in balancing innovation with tradition, but the 2017 away kit stands as a noteworthy chapter in the ongoing narrative of Nike’s enduring partnership with FC Barcelona.
3. Global Sales
The distribution and sales figures of a football club’s kit reveal a story far beyond simple commerce. With the 2017 Barcelona away kit, the tale is one of brand power, international reach, and the evolving landscape of sports merchandising. This wasn’t just about selling a piece of clothing; it was about exporting an identity.
-
Regional Market Penetration
Consider the varying success of the kit across different global regions. In established European markets, sales represented a reinforcement of existing fandom. However, in emerging football markets like Southeast Asia and parts of Africa, each purchase represented a potential conversion of a casual observer into a dedicated supporter. Analysis of sales data likely revealed pockets of unexpected popularity, highlighting the areas where Barcelona’s brand resonated most strongly. Each transaction, therefore, carried a weight beyond its monetary value; it signified the growing global footprint of the club.
-
Counterfeit Market Impact
The popularity of the kit inevitably spawned a thriving counterfeit market. The existence of widespread knockoffs serves as a paradoxical indicator of the kit’s desirability. While detrimental to official revenue streams, the prevalence of imitation merchandise demonstrated the demand for the product, even among those unwilling or unable to pay the premium price. Tracking the distribution of these counterfeit items offered insights into the supply chains and regions where the official product struggled to compete, underscoring the challenges of protecting intellectual property in a globalized marketplace.
-
Retail Partnerships and Distribution Channels
The success of global sales hinged on strategic partnerships with retailers and the establishment of efficient distribution channels. Exclusive deals with major sporting goods chains, online platforms, and club-owned stores were crucial in maximizing reach. The ability to seamlessly deliver the kit to fans across continents required a sophisticated logistical network, capable of navigating customs regulations, currency fluctuations, and varying consumer preferences. The effectiveness of these partnerships directly impacted sales figures and determined the overall success of the kit’s global rollout.
-
Impact of Player Endorsements
Undoubtedly, the marketability of individual players significantly amplified global sales. When Lionel Messi or other prominent figures were seen wearing the kit in promotional campaigns or during matches, it triggered a surge in demand. Fans aspired to emulate their heroes, viewing the kit as a symbol of belonging and a tangible connection to their idols. This endorsement effect wasn’t limited to the starting eleven; even squad players who featured prominently in marketing materials contributed to the kit’s overall appeal and sales performance. The interplay between player popularity and kit sales created a powerful synergistic effect, driving revenue and reinforcing the club’s global brand image.
These facets, woven together, illustrate that global sales of the 2017 Barcelona away kit were more than a simple financial transaction. The “turquoise” garment, worn on pitches from Bilbao to Beijing, became a visual ambassador for FC Barcelona, a tangible representation of its global aspirations, and a testament to the enduring power of football fandom.
4. Player Worn
The 2017 Barcelona away kit, resplendent in its turquoise hue, held a different significance when donned by the players themselves. These weren’t simply mass-produced garments; they were the uniforms of gladiators, imbued with the sweat, passion, and triumphs of a season. Each blade of grass stained upon the fabric, each strategic tear, told a story inaccessible to the pristine replicas hanging in stores. These “Player Worn” kits transcended mere apparel; they became relics, imbued with a unique history.
Consider the kit worn by Lionel Messi during the El Clsico at the Bernabu in April 2017. In the dying seconds, Messi, clad in the now-iconic turquoise, curled a left-footed shot past Keylor Navas, securing a dramatic 3-2 victory. That shirt, stained with the mud and emotions of the encounter, became an instant legend. Its value soared, not simply because it was associated with Messi, but because it was a tangible piece of a pivotal moment in football history. Each imperfection the slight discoloration around the collar, the faint smell of victory whispered of the intensity of that match, an intensity no commercially available shirt could replicate. Similarly, a kit worn by Andrs Iniesta during his final season with the club would carry a different weight, marking the twilight of a career defined by elegance and unparalleled vision.
The distinction between a replica and a “Player Worn” 2017 away kit lies in its authenticity. It’s a connection to a specific time, place, and individual, imbued with memories and emotions. While mass-produced versions offer a symbol of support, the genuine article offers something more: a piece of the game, a tangible link to the legends who wore it. The value, therefore, extends beyond monetary considerations, resonating with collectors and fans who understand the profound connection between the garment and the history it represents. It remains, in essence, a fragment of footballing immortality, preserved within the threads of a simple turquoise shirt.
5. Brand Association
The intersection of a renowned football club and a global sportswear giant creates a powerful synergy. The 2017 Barcelona away kit, beyond its turquoise fabric, serves as a potent symbol of this “Brand Association,” representing not merely a team’s attire but a carefully constructed narrative of performance, style, and global appeal. This partnership extends far beyond a simple licensing agreement; it’s a carefully orchestrated dance of mutual benefit, where each entity amplifies the other’s reach and influence.
-
Nike’s Technological Integration
Nike’s reputation hinges on innovation. The 2017 away kit became a canvas for demonstrating this expertise. Features like Dri-FIT technology, strategically placed ventilation panels, and ergonomic tailoring weren’t mere embellishments; they represented a tangible investment in player performance. This technological integration directly enhanced Nike’s credibility within the sporting world. Each match where Barcelona players exhibited peak athleticism while wearing the kit reinforced Nike’s image as a purveyor of cutting-edge performance apparel. It was a silent endorsement, spoken through action on the pitch.
-
FC Barcelona’s Global Image
FC Barcelona, with its iconic status and legion of international fans, provided Nike with access to a vast and loyal audience. The 2017 away kit, worn by players such as Lionel Messi and Andrs Iniesta, became a symbol of the club’s global reach. Its presence in international markets, from Europe to Asia and the Americas, amplified Nike’s brand visibility and solidified its position as a dominant player in the sportswear industry. The kit served as a walking billboard, reaching demographics that might not otherwise be exposed to Nike’s marketing campaigns. The value of this exposure was immeasurable, contributing to increased sales and enhanced brand recognition worldwide.
-
Synergistic Marketing Campaigns
The launch of the 2017 away kit wasn’t a standalone event; it was integrated into a broader marketing strategy that leveraged the strengths of both brands. Advertising campaigns featured Barcelona players prominently, showcasing the kit’s design and technological features. These campaigns targeted both football enthusiasts and general consumers, emphasizing the kit’s style and performance benefits. The use of social media, television commercials, and print advertisements created a cohesive message that reinforced the association between Nike and FC Barcelona, driving sales and enhancing brand loyalty. Each marketing initiative served to amplify the other’s message, creating a powerful synergistic effect.
-
Cultural Impact and Fashion Trends
The influence of football kits extends beyond the sporting arena, often shaping fashion trends and influencing popular culture. The 2017 Barcelona away kit, with its distinctive turquoise colorway, contributed to this cultural phenomenon. Its unique design resonated with fashion-conscious consumers, transforming the kit into a streetwear staple. Its visibility in music videos, celebrity endorsements, and everyday fashion choices demonstrated its cultural impact. This spillover effect further enhanced the “Brand Association,” associating both Nike and FC Barcelona with style, innovation, and cultural relevance. The kit became more than just a uniform; it was a statement of identity, a symbol of belonging, and a reflection of contemporary fashion trends.
The 2017 Barcelona away kit exemplifies the power of “Brand Association.” It represents a carefully cultivated partnership where design, technology, marketing, and cultural relevance converge to create a product that transcends its functional purpose. It is not simply a kit; it is a symbol of two iconic brands uniting to create a product greater than the sum of their parts.
6. Season Performance
The turquoise fabric of the 2017 Barcelona away kit absorbed more than just sweat and grass stains; it became imbued with the narrative of the season itself. The victories, the draws, the rare defeats all became indelibly linked to the garment. The kit was not merely worn during matches; it became a silent witness, a tangible embodiment of the team’s triumphs and struggles. To consider the kit is to consider the context in which it was used, a canvas upon which the story of the season was painted.
The kit’s initial reception was one of cautious optimism. Its vibrant colorway offered a stark contrast to the traditional blaugrana, a visual statement of intent for a season marked by new challenges and renewed ambition. As the season progressed, the kit became synonymous with particular moments of brilliance. Messi’s late winner against Real Madrid at the Bernabu, a goal celebrated with an iconic shirt-held-aloft pose, transformed the kit from a mere article of clothing into a symbol of defiance and victory. Conversely, disappointing results in crucial away matches cast a shadow upon the kit, associating it with frustration and missed opportunities. The kit became a barometer of the team’s fortunes, its perceived value rising and falling with each positive or negative result.
Ultimately, the lasting legacy of the 2017 Barcelona away kit is inextricably linked to the team’s overall performance. It serves as a reminder that the true significance of any sporting garment lies not only in its design or technology but also in the memories it evokes. The kit is a piece of history, a tangible connection to a specific era in the club’s illustrious past. Whether viewed as a symbol of triumph or a reminder of unfulfilled potential, the kit’s significance is forever etched in the annals of FC Barcelona, a testament to the enduring power of sport to capture hearts and minds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Delving into the specifics of a particular season’s football kit often unearths a wealth of information beyond the superficial. The following questions address common inquiries surrounding the 2017 FC Barcelona away kit, providing clarity and context.
Question 1: Why the shift to turquoise for the 2017 away kit?
The departure from traditional colors stemmed from a strategic branding decision. Clubs often seek to differentiate their away kits to appeal to a broader market and provide a distinct visual identity on the field, preventing clashes with home teams. Turquoise offered a unique, eye-catching alternative.
Question 2: Was the 2017 away kit design a departure from previous Nike designs for Barcelona?
Yes, while maintaining Nike’s performance technology, the turquoise color represented a significant aesthetic shift. Past away kits had explored various colors, but the 2017 design was bolder, intending to make a statement both on and off the pitch.
Question 3: How did the performance of FC Barcelona in the 2017 season impact the kit’s perceived value?
The team’s achievements, particularly victories in high-profile matches while wearing the kit, undeniably boosted its popularity and collectibility. Conversely, losses may have negatively impacted perceptions, though the kit’s overall design remained a key factor in its long-term appeal.
Question 4: Where were official 2017 Barcelona away kits available for purchase?
Official kits were sold through authorized retailers, including Nike stores, official FC Barcelona stores, and reputable online retailers. Purchasing from these sources ensured authenticity and helped support the club directly.
Question 5: How does one distinguish between a genuine 2017 Barcelona away kit and a counterfeit?
Authentic kits feature high-quality materials, precise stitching, and official branding. Counterfeit versions often exhibit inferior fabric, misaligned logos, and a lack of detailed finishing. Examining the tags, labels, and overall construction is crucial for verification.
Question 6: Are “player worn” 2017 Barcelona away kits significantly more valuable than replica versions?
Yes, kits worn by prominent players during significant matches hold considerably higher value due to their unique provenance and association with specific moments in football history. These items are highly sought after by collectors.
The 2017 Barcelona away kit, therefore, holds a unique place in the club’s history, blending design, performance, and the ever-evolving landscape of sports merchandising. It is far more than just a shirt; it’s a tangible artifact of a specific time and place.
Further exploration of the kit’s impact on fan culture and its place within the broader context of footballing fashion awaits.
Insights Gleaned from the Turquoise Tide
The 2017 Barcelona away kit, more than just an article of sporting apparel, offers valuable lessons in branding, design, and the enduring power of fan engagement. Examining its story provides insights applicable beyond the realm of football.
Tip 1: Embrace Boldness in Design. The turquoise colorway challenged tradition. Such daring choices can capture attention and differentiate a brand in a crowded market, but must align with core values to avoid alienating loyalists.
Tip 2: Leverage Strategic Partnerships. The Nike-Barcelona association amplified both brands’ reach. Carefully selected partnerships offer access to new markets and expertise, provided synergies are genuinely beneficial.
Tip 3: Integrate Technology Seamlessly. Nike’s Dri-FIT technology improved player performance. Product innovation should directly address user needs, enhancing functionality and creating tangible value.
Tip 4: Understand the Power of Association. Player performances shaped the kit’s legacy. Positive associations victories, iconic moments can elevate a product’s status, forging emotional connections with consumers.
Tip 5: Cultivate a Global Mindset. The kit’s international sales demonstrate the reach of football. Brands should tailor strategies to resonate with diverse cultural contexts, expanding their global footprint.
Tip 6: Address the Counterfeit Challenge. The kit’s popularity led to widespread counterfeiting. Protecting intellectual property is crucial; brands must invest in anti-counterfeiting measures and robust supply chain management.
These insights, gleaned from the story of the 2017 Barcelona away kit, underscore the importance of innovation, strategic alliances, and a deep understanding of consumer behavior. Success lies not just in creating a product, but in crafting a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences worldwide.
The following concluding remarks will synthesize the key elements of this exploration, solidifying the “turquoise tide’s” place in the annals of sports marketing and design.
A Final Glance at Turquoise
The journey through the annals of the 2017 Barcelona away kit reveals a story far more complex than mere fabric and thread. The exploration unearthed calculated design choices, strategic brand partnerships, and the undeniable influence of on-field performance. Global sales figures hinted at the club’s expanding reach, while the presence of counterfeit merchandise served as a stark reminder of the challenges inherent in protecting intellectual property. Player-worn jerseys, imbued with the sweat and emotion of pivotal matches, attained a near-mythical status, commanding attention from collectors and fans alike.
The turquoise tide of 2017 has long since receded, yet its ripples continue to resonate. It stands as a case study in the power of branding, the delicate balance between tradition and innovation, and the enduring allure of football’s captivating narrative. It serves as a reminder that even the most seemingly simple artifacts can hold profound meaning, reflecting not only the triumphs and tribulations of a single season but also the ever-evolving relationship between sport, culture, and commerce. The threads of the 2017 Barcelona away kit continue to weave a tapestry of memories, reminding us of the beautiful game’s indelible mark on the world.
