From the electric atmosphere of Brazil in 1970 to the sharp looks of more recent tournaments, the World Cup has given us more than football: it has given us shirts that tell stories. Choosing the coolest World Cup jersey is never easy, but it is a tradition in every pub debate and on every away trip it is about much more than the result on the pitch.

Some shirts are cherished for the legends who wore them, while others stand as snapshots of an era, reminding us of classic sponsors, cutting edge design, or terrace culture that shaped the game’s look. Today we look at the main contenders for the coolest World Cup shirt, why they matter, and what makes a football kit truly stand out.

Why the Coolest World Cup Jersey Matters

World Cup kits are not just strips to play in, they become symbolic of moments burnt into collective memory. Supporters remember the roar of a famous win, the heartbreak of a penalty, or even the anthem before a decisive match, and the shirt worn becomes an instant icon. The coolest World Cup jersey is not only about design, but about which shirt captures the spirit and culture of its time.

Football shirts have also become everyday wear on British streets, with retro examples seen on packed trains from London to Manchester. A classic kit brings back memories of kickabouts in the park and family rituals of watching matches together.

What We Look For in the Coolest World Cup Jersey

The best shirts stand out for a reason:

Defining performances and trophy lifts, especially in key years like 1970, 1982, 1998, or 2014
How the shirt matches the culture or fashion of the time
Memorable players and unforgettable moments tied to the kit
How supporters used the kit in the terraces or city life think bucket hats, three stripe socks, or bold collars

Top Picks for the Coolest World Cup Jersey

1970 Brazil Home

Why it matters: Many call the Brazil shirt from Mexico 1970 the gold standard quite literally.
Key achievements: Worn as Brazil won a third world title, beating Italy 4 1 in the final on 21 June 1970
Star players, manager: Pelé, Carlos Alberto, Jairzinho, managed by Mário Zagallo
Cultural context: This kit, canary yellow with green trim, became the football shirt everyone recognises. Unlike most prior kits, this was made to shine on colour television, then a novelty. The world saw Pelé exchange shirts with Italian captain Facchetti after full time, creating an image that is still shared widely. Seen on the streets of São Paulo to Hackney alike when Brazil play, it set the tone for Brazil’s identity as football’s artists.
Who will love it: Perfect for any supporter who cares about the roots and glamour of world football.
Sizing note: Old style fit is quite loose compared to today’s athletic sizes.
Provenance snapshot:
- Manufacturer: Athleta
- Sponsor: None
- Worn in: 1970 World Cup Final, 21 June, Mexico City

1990 West Germany Home

Why it matters: The geometric pattern, black red gold chevron, and sharp V neckline defined this era on and off the pitch.
Key achievements: West Germany lifted a third title with a 1 0 win over Argentina on 8 July 1990
Star players, manager: Lothar Matthäus, Jürgen Klinsmann, led by Franz Beckenbauer
Cultural context: Streetwise, bold, and unmistakable, this kit borrowed from city fashion in Berlin and Munich at the time. It became a terrace favourite not only in Germany but across Europe, symbolising a nation about to reunite. Many credit this kit with the rise of football shirts as casual day wear across the UK.
Who will love it: Ideal for supporters who love bold graphics and European nostalgia.
Sizing note: The pattern is all over use a gentle wash to protect the print.
Provenance snapshot:
- Manufacturer: Adidas
- Sponsor: None
- Worn in: 1990 World Cup Final, Italy, 8 July 1990

1998 France Home

Why it matters: This blue with red and white details shirt saw France win at home for the first time.
Key achievements: France 3 0 Brazil in the final, 12 July 1998
Star players, manager: Zidane, Deschamps, managed by Aimé Jacquet
Cultural context: Celebrated for its clean horizontal stripes, this is one of the most beloved French shirts ever. It captured the fashion shift of the late nineties, with its neat collar and simple lines later inspiring streetwear brands. The celebrations in Paris, with Zidane mobbed by fans at the Champs Elysées, made this shirt a staple of flashback photos and beloved by a new generation.
Who will love it: For those who want classic elegance and a national story that shaped modern football.
Sizing note: Slightly cropped by late nineties standards. Order one size up for relaxed fit.
Provenance snapshot:
- Manufacturer: Adidas
- Sponsor: Adidas (sleeve only)
- Worn in: 1998 Final, Stade de France, 12 July

2014 Nigeria Away

Why it matters: This electric green kit became a style statement far beyond Africa.
Key achievements: Nigeria reached the knockout stage, their lively approach catching the world’s eye
Star players, manager: Victor Moses, John Obi Mikel, Stephen Keshi
Cultural context: Nigeria’s 2014 shirt blends bold, modern patterns with heritage green. It flew off the shelves in Lagos and London alike, adopted by fashion fans and second generation supporters in the diaspora. It is now a streetwear classic, often paired with denim jackets or caps living proof of football’s influence on everyday style.
Who will love it: Anyone after a standout look and the story of global supporter pride.
Sizing note: Modern athletic fit, check size guide for broad shoulders.
Provenance snapshot:
- Manufacturer: Adidas
- Sponsor: None
- Worn in: 2014 Group Games, Brazil

1986 Argentina Home

Why it matters: Linked forever to the Hand of God and Goal of the Century, both by Maradona.
Key achievements: Argentina beat England 2 1 in the quarterfinal (22 June 1986) and went on to lift the cup
Star players, manager: Diego Maradona, Jorge Valdano, Carlos Bilardo
Cultural context: This blue and white striped top with subtle V cut became an emblem of Argentine pride. Kids across Britain remember seeing Maradona dribble past England defenders, sparking playground arguments and imitations. For supporters everywhere, it is a reminder of the World Cup’s ability to shape history and fuel legend.
Who will love it: Supporters who honour maverick icons and dramatic matches.
Sizing note: Classic cut, not slim wear with pride.
Provenance snapshot:
- Manufacturer: Le Coq Sportif
- Sponsor: None
- Worn in: Argentina England, Azteca, 22 June 1986

Explore more classic shirts in every price bracket in the World Cup kits section at cheapfootballshirts.com.

FAQs

What makes a World Cup shirt ‘cool’?
A mix of design, historic moments, iconic players who wore it, and how supporters made it part of culture. The coolest World Cup jersey is always about more than style.
How do I find my size in retro shirts?
Check measurements against a modern shirt you own. Vintage fits usually run looser or boxier than today’s cuts.
Which World Cup shirt is most popular for collectors?
The 1970 Brazil and 1990 West Germany shirts are always in demand. Some rare Argentina away and Nigeria kits have become hot properties in recent years.
Why do prices vary for classic World Cup kits?
Release runs, club reputation, and key match links all matter. Some shirts made for a single match are almost impossible to find.
Where can I see more World Cup and Euro shirts online?
See the full collection, including limited runs and modern favourites, in the dedicated World Cup kits section at cheapfootballshirts.com.

Conclusion

When supporters search for the coolest World Cup jersey, they are really looking for a story to wear: a design, a player, a final, a feeling that sticks with them. The best shirts stay with you for a lifetime, from Pelé’s yellow gold to Zidane’s tricolore blue, each one linked to a match day moment or street scene. For anyone thinking of starting or growing their collection, plenty of unforgettable World Cup shirts are waiting for you in our selection. Just remember, it is not only about how good a shirt looks but what it means every time you pull it on.