The All Blacks have unveiled what they're calling their most innovative jersey to date.
Launched at a press conference in Auckland this morning, designers Adidas claim it's also the strongest ever produced with a number of new features, including a 'ground-breaking chassis system' and a 'rugby specific collar.'
The jersey has been two years in the making, with feedback and testing provided by the likes of All Black captain Kieran Read and Malakai Fekitoa.
"We look for advantages in every part of the game," said Read.
"The Adidas team worked closely with us to design a new jersey that would help us maintain that edge and help our performance. We think it certainly does that."
The 'chassis system' involves a device which combines jersey and shorts to increase overall strength.
"In looking at the kinetic chain, which is the flow of energy through the body, we found an area we could improve to give the All Blacks a competitive advantage," said Director of Adidas Futures Deborah Yeomans.
"We identified the area of the spine known as ‘L5S1’ as the key point where energy transfers between the top and bottom parts of the body. The chassis system works with the jersey to improve posture, core stability and a player’s movement efficiency."
The jersey will make its on-field debut during the All Blacks Test match against the United States in Chicago on November 5th.
Newshub.
