Unveiled at an exclusive fan event in Galway and through graffiti street art in Dublin, Canterbury and the IRFU today unveiled the new Irish Rugby World Cup 2015 jersey, the most innovative and technically advanced rugby jersey ever worn by an Irish rugby team. Available in traditional green and a striking black and green alternate version, the new jersey will be worn for the first time in the Millennium Stadium on August 8th when Ireland take on Wales in the first of their Guinness Summer Series matches.

Charged with producing a kit that looks better, feels better and performs better, Canterbury’s innovation team, The Canterbury Lab, has worked closely with members of the Irish rugby team and management to identify and find solutions to the psychological, physical and environmental challenges that the Irish rugby team will face throughout the 2015 RWC.

On the pitch, players will benefit from a range of innovations, including reduced fabrication weight, minimising moisture absorption for Canterbury’s most lightweight kit ever.  Developed through position-specific 3D body-mapping the new jersey offers a super enhanced fit catering for the varied physiques of the modern rugby player. Adaptive fabrication with dynamic heat management properties ensures a constant temperature is maintained in any climate and Canterbury’s toughest 360° loop bound neckline with enhanced elasticity and shape retention has been designed to withstand every physicality of the game.

In a striking innovative twist the crest has been 3D injection moulded, developed through rapid prototyping technology to stand out in a way that merits the significance of the crest for players and fans alike. 

Supporters can choose from a range of jersey options including the “Pro” jersey which retains the look of the jersey that will be worn by the team, while offering a more comfortable fit as well as a “Classic” jersey that offers a contemporary design on the classic collared rugby jersey.

To cater to the needs of the most committed rugby collectors, Canterbury has produced a limited edition RWC “Commemorative” jersey designed for those looking to own a piece of Rugby World Cup history. Only 2,015 of these memorabilia pieces have been produced and are available online and through selected retailers.

The jersey launch signifies the start of Canterbury’s #CommittedToIreland campaign which brings to life the brands commitment to Irish rugby. Through a host of activities including a “Commitment Vending Machine”, Canterbury will seek out and reward the most committed Irish fans.

Canterbury CEO, Chris Stephenson, said: 

“Every thread and fabric in the new Irish RWC jersey has been single mindedly designed to meet the specific needs of the Irish rugby team, without compromise or distraction.

Our role as official kit supplier to the IRFU is to provide the team with the most technically advanced on pitch equipment and fans with a stylish range of replica wear ensuring that both players and fans alike are prepared for the biggest rugby tournament in the world.”

IRFU Director of Commercial & Marketing, Padraig Power said:

“Canterbury are synonymous with quality when it comes to rugby. The new Rugby World Cup jersey shows their commitment to the traditions of the game and to advancing our kit to a new level. We know that this jersey will be popular with players and supporters alike. There will be a sea of green at every Ireland match in the Rugby World Cup thanks to the commitment of our supporters and our sponsors as they stand shoulder to shoulder with the team”.

Canterbury, official sportswear supplier for the 2015 Rugby World Cup, has launched its global “Committed to the Game” campaign celebrating the commitment of the global rugby community whether they be players, fans or volunteers.

Since its establishment in 1904, Canterbury has expanded to become the world’s largest rugby apparel brand. It is the official kit supplier to a host of rugby nations including Ireland, England, Namibia and Japan.

The new Ireland Rugby World Cup 2015 range is available to pre order now from shop.irishrugby.ie and canterbury.com