Today, Canterbury and Leinster unveiled the new 2014/15 European shirt to the media at University College Dublin.
The ‘Test’ shirt is influenced by key insights from professional players. Consequently, the shirt is designed to be worn tight whilst allowing flexibility, movement and comfort. The side seams have been brought to the back to reduce the stress point of seam breakage and the cuffs are constructed from a Nylon/Spandex blend which ensures a streamlined fit around the biceps.
The aesthetic elements of the shirt are a modern take on a classic hoop jersey. Two staggered hoops in the centre create four gold bands, which put the four strings of the gold harp of Leinster at the heart of the shirt. Two gold bands on each sock also call out the four strings of the harp. Adorning the chest are the embroidered logos of both the Canterbury and the Leinster crests.
Canterbury continues to push the boundaries of innovation in rugby; the new Leinster shirt is engineered using Canterbury’s latest high performance fabric, which delivers optimum strength and moisture management for a lightweight and comfortable feel. The fabric also delivers significant stretch capabilities, which allows a tight fit to help players evade tackles without restricting movement. The Loop 21.3 collar, is an evolution of Canterbury’s signature Loop 21 neckline, which has been developed for enhanced durability. Triple-bar tacks are configured to increase the strength of the shirt at the usual vulnerable areas, vastly reducing the risk of rips and tears.
The new European jersey will be worn for the first time by Leinster in a pre-season friendly with Ulster at the Tallaght Stadium on August 30th 2014.