Atlanta United's 2017 Away Kit: A Deep Dive

Hey soccer fans, let's talk about the Atlanta United 2017 away kit! For the inaugural season of Atlanta United FC in Major League Soccer, the club unveiled an away jersey that really captured the spirit of the city and the team's brand. When a club enters a new league, especially in its very first year, the kit design becomes a huge talking point. It's the first visual representation of the team's identity that fans will wear and associate with their heroes on the pitch. For Atlanta United, this wasn't just any jersey; it was a statement. The club aimed to connect with the diverse and passionate fanbase in Atlanta, and the away kit played a significant role in that. The design team had the challenge of creating something fresh and exciting, while also staying true to the club's core colors and symbols. They definitely didn't shy away from bold choices, and the result was a kit that quickly became recognizable and, for many, a beloved piece of memorabilia. This away kit was more than just fabric and stitching; it was a symbol of a new era in Atlanta soccer, representing ambition, unity, and a fierce competitive spirit. The buzz around its release was palpable, with fans eagerly discussing every detail, from the shade of the primary color to the placement of the club crest. It was the uniform that represented the team on the road, facing opponents in stadiums across the country, carrying the hopes and dreams of the Atlanta faithful with every pass, tackle, and goal. Let's break down what made this particular jersey so special and why it still resonates with fans today. It’s a fantastic starting point for any discussion about Atlanta United’s early days and their visual identity.

Unpacking the Design Elements of the 2017 Away Kit

The Atlanta United 2017 away kit was a masterclass in blending modern aesthetics with meaningful symbolism. The primary color chosen for this away jersey was a striking, vibrant 'Victory Red'. This wasn't just any red; it was a deep, powerful hue that stood out, signifying passion, energy, and the fighting spirit the team intended to bring to every match. Unlike many away kits that opt for more subdued colors, Atlanta United embraced a bold statement, mirroring the confidence and ambition of a brand-new franchise. Complementing the Victory Red were accents of 'Glory Gold'. This metallic gold wasn't just for show; it represented triumph, excellence, and the aspiration to be the best in the league from day one. The gold detailing was strategically placed, often seen in the adidas stripes on the sleeves and shoulders, as well as trim around the collar and cuffs. This contrast between the rich red and the shimmering gold created a visually arresting combination that was both elegant and sporty. The club's crest, featuring the prominent 'A' and the five stars representing the five pillars of the club (Unity, Ambition, Diversity, Excellence, Community), was rendered in its traditional colors, usually with a gold outline to tie it into the overall theme. The manufacturer's logo, adidas, was also present, typically in gold or white, further enhancing the kit's premium feel. What really set this kit apart, however, was the subtle yet significant graphic element. Often, a subtle pattern or texture is woven into the fabric to add depth. For the 2017 away kit, there were often subtle tonal patterns that hinted at the city's skyline or perhaps the dynamic energy of its fanbase. These details, though not immediately obvious, added a layer of sophistication and local pride to the design. The overall silhouette of the jersey followed the modern, athletic cut typical of adidas kits from that era, designed for performance and comfort. It was a jersey that looked good on the pitch, in the stands, and off the field, making it incredibly versatile. The thoughtful integration of color, symbolism, and modern design principles made the Atlanta United 2017 away kit a standout piece in MLS.

The Significance of 'Victory Red' and 'Glory Gold'

When we delve deeper into the Atlanta United 2017 away kit, the choice of 'Victory Red' and 'Glory Gold' wasn't accidental. These colors were meticulously selected to embody the club's ethos and connect with the Atlanta spirit. Victory Red, as the main color, was chosen to represent the passion and fire that the team aimed to ignite in its supporters and display on the field. It's a color that speaks of courage, determination, and the relentless pursuit of success. In sports, red is often associated with energy, strength, and a fighting spirit, all qualities that a new expansion team desperately needs to establish itself. It's a color that demands attention and signifies that the team is here to compete and win. This bold choice for an away kit was a clear message: Atlanta United was not going to be a team that faded into the background. They wanted to be noticed, remembered, and respected. This vibrant red served as a visual anchor, uniting the players on the pitch and the fans in the stands. Then there's the 'Glory Gold'. Gold, universally, is the color of achievement, prestige, and ultimate success. By incorporating 'Glory Gold' into the away kit, Atlanta United was planting a flag of aspiration. It was a clear declaration that the club's ambitions reached for the highest honors, aiming for championships and legendary status from its inception. The gold accents provided a touch of elegance and sophistication, elevating the jersey beyond a simple sportswear item. It symbolized the potential glory that awaited the team and its fans. The interplay between the aggressive 'Victory Red' and the aspirational 'Glory Gold' created a powerful narrative. It told a story of a team driven by passion and a fierce desire to achieve greatness, all while representing a city known for its dynamism and forward-thinking spirit. It was a color palette that resonated deeply with the Atlanta fanbase, reflecting the city's own blend of vibrant culture and ambition. This combination wasn't just aesthetically pleasing; it was strategically designed to forge a strong emotional connection between the club and its supporters, making the 2017 away kit an instant icon.

Fan Reception and Legacy of the 2017 Away Jersey

Oh man, the Atlanta United 2017 away kit was a hot topic among fans from the moment it dropped! For a brand-new club, you never really know how the jersey designs will land, but this one was a massive hit. Guys were lining up, clicking refresh on their browsers, and snagging these kits as fast as they could. The Victory Red was a bold choice, and most fans absolutely loved it. It was different from the more traditional white or black away kits you often see in MLS. This red jersey screamed confidence and made Atlanta United instantly recognizable on the road. People were stoked to wear it to away games, showing their pride and making their presence felt in enemy territory. The Glory Gold accents? Chef's kiss! They added that touch of class and made the whole kit pop. It felt premium, you know? Like something special. The combination just worked so well, and it really captured the excitement of the club's debut season. The legacy of this kit is pretty significant. It wasn't just a jersey; it was a symbol of that inaugural year, a year filled with so much hope, energy, and surprisingly good performances for a first-year team. It represents the very beginnings of what has become a massive soccer movement in Atlanta. Many fans consider it a collector's item because of its historical significance. It’s that first chapter, that foundational piece of Atlanta United’s visual identity. Even now, years later, when you see someone wearing that 2017 away kit, you know they're a true die-hard fan, someone who was there from the start. It’s a testament to good design and effective branding that a kit from over half a decade ago still holds such a special place in the hearts of the fanbase. It really set a high bar for future kits, showing that Atlanta United wasn't afraid to be bold and authentic in its design choices. It's more than just a shirt; it's a memory, a piece of history, and a badge of honor for those who bleed black, red, and gold (and in this case, a whole lot of red!).

Comparing the 2017 Away Kit to Other Atlanta United Jerseys

Let's be real, guys, comparing the Atlanta United 2017 away kit to their subsequent jersey releases is always interesting. Every kit tells a story, and the 2017 away jersey holds a special place as the inaugural away offering. While the home kits often feature the iconic 'blight', a dark grey with red and gold accents, the 2017 away jersey was a complete departure in its primary color. The 'Victory Red' was a much brighter, more aggressive statement than the subtle, yet striking, grey of the home kit. This contrast is key; the home jersey aimed for a sophisticated, urban feel representing Atlanta's concrete jungle, whereas the away kit was all about energy and passion for taking the show on the road. Subsequent away kits have explored different themes and colors. For example, the 2019 away kit was predominantly white with red and blue accents, referencing the club's primary colors but in a cleaner, more minimalist way. The 2021 away kit went back to a darker theme, a charcoal color with subtle red and gold details, again leaning into the 'blight' aesthetic but in a different execution. The 2017 kit's use of 'Victory Red' as the main color for an away jersey was particularly unique in MLS at the time. Many teams opt for safer choices like white, black, or a lighter shade of their primary color for away kits. Atlanta United, however, went bold. This decision immediately differentiated them and established a reputation for daring design choices. The 'Glory Gold' accents on the 2017 kit also had a specific prominence that perhaps wasn't replicated with the same intensity in later kits, where gold often served as a more subtle highlight rather than a co-starring accent color. The 2017 away kit was characterized by its vibrant, unapologetic use of red, making it stand out starkly against the more subdued or differently themed kits that followed. While other kits have been stylish and well-received, the 2017 away jersey carries the weight of being the first, the one that kicked off the road game aesthetic for the club. It symbolizes the raw energy and pioneering spirit of Atlanta United's debut season, something no other kit can replicate. It’s that foundational piece that fans often look back on with a mix of nostalgia and admiration for its bold design.

The Impact of Adidas and Kit Manufacturing

When we talk about the Atlanta United 2017 away kit, we absolutely have to give a shout-out to adidas. These guys are legends in the soccer apparel game, and their involvement really shaped the look and feel of that inaugural jersey. adidas is known for its quality and innovation, and you could see that reflected in the 2017 away kit. The fabric technology they used ensured the jersey was lightweight, breathable, and comfortable – crucial for players on the pitch and fans in the stands during those hot Atlanta summers. The fit was also classic adidas: athletic, modern, and designed to perform. Beyond the technical aspects, adidas's design team worked closely with Atlanta United to translate the club's identity into a tangible product. The precise application of the 'Victory Red' and the crispness of the 'Glory Gold' detailing are hallmarks of adidas's manufacturing standards. You don't get that kind of sharp, clean finish with just any brand. Their iconic three stripes down the sleeves were perfectly executed, adding to the kit's visual appeal and reinforcing the global sportswear giant's presence. Furthermore, adidas has a history of incorporating subtle design cues specific to the club or city into their kits. While the 2017 away kit's primary focus was on bold color, it’s highly probable that adidas and the club discussed elements that resonated with Atlanta's culture, even if subtly woven into the fabric patterns or the precise shade of red. The partnership between a major club like Atlanta United and a powerhouse like adidas isn't just about slapping a logo on a shirt; it's a collaborative process that aims to create apparel that is both aesthetically pleasing and performance-driven. The 2017 away kit is a prime example of this synergy. It benefited from adidas's extensive experience in designing for top-tier football clubs worldwide, ensuring that Atlanta United debuted in MLS with a kit that looked and felt professional, stylish, and authentically linked to the club's nascent identity. The quality of the materials and the meticulous construction meant that these jerseys weren't just for one season; they were built to last, becoming cherished items for fans who wanted to hold onto a piece of the club's history. The adidas touch undeniably elevated the Atlanta United 2017 away kit from a simple uniform to a statement piece.

Conclusion: A Memorable Debut for Atlanta United's Away Kit

So, there you have it, guys! The Atlanta United 2017 away kit wasn't just a jersey; it was a bold declaration of intent from a brand-new club entering the MLS scene. With its striking 'Victory Red' and elegant 'Glory Gold' accents, it immediately set Atlanta United apart. This kit represented more than just team colors; it embodied the passion, ambition, and pioneering spirit that defined the club's inaugural season. Fans embraced it wholeheartedly, recognizing it as a symbol of their burgeoning soccer culture and a tangible piece of history. Its unique design, coupled with the quality expected from adidas, ensured its place as a fan favorite and a memorable classic in the league's history. The Atlanta United 2017 away kit will always be remembered as the jersey that helped launch a phenomenon, a vibrant piece of the club's DNA that continues to resonate with supporters. It's a testament to thoughtful design and the power of a kit to connect a team with its city and its fans.