It's not so much sports clothing as green armour: the new Springbok rugby jersey that will be worn by Peter de Villiers's men at the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand later this year has been hailed by its maker as the strongest it has yet made, with the latest fabric technology and a new Loop 21 collar design.
The jersey has gold detailing and historic victory dates on the right arm, while its construction and fabric positioning “improve player's ability to evade tackles and provide position support to enhance movement”, says sportswear specialist Canterbury.
The Loop 21 neckline has been tested to destruction at Loughborough University's Progressive Sports Technologies institute, while temex and Lycra Sport fabric are combined to improve sweat evaporation and help the jersey keep its shape under tension.
Canterbury CEO Chris Stephenson commented: “The new kit is our most sophisticated to date; we had to make a tougher yet lighter jersey for the World Cup. It's our privilege to support the Springboks in the best way we can, with what we believe is the best jersey a player can wear. We look forward to seeing them in action in New Zealand later this year.”
SARU boss Jurie Roux said: “The Springboks were extensively involved in the design and testing of the jersey and they were more than happy with the outcome. A rugby jersey is one of the key tools of a player's trade and having one that works to give them that fractional advantage on the field is another way of maximising their ability to perform.”
Fans can buy the RWC 2011 Jersey from www.canterburysa.co.za as well as selected retailers from June 29.