Ever felt that chill bite during a late-season match, or wished for just a little more sun protection on a bright afternoon? Long sleeve soccer jerseys are more than just a style choice; they are a vital piece of gear for players who take their game seriously, no matter the weather. But finding the perfect one can feel like a real game of defense. Do you choose breathability over warmth? Does the fabric bunch up when you run? These are the little frustrations that can distract you right when you need to focus on the ball.
Choosing the right long sleeve jersey means balancing comfort, performance, and protection. We know you want gear that moves with you, wicks away sweat, and keeps you feeling great from the opening whistle to the final whistle. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a great long sleeve soccer jersey so you can stop guessing and start dominating.
Keep reading to discover the key features, materials, and fit tips that separate a good jersey from a game-changing one. Let’s dive into how to select the ultimate long sleeve companion for your next match!
Top Long Sleeve Soccer Jerseys Recommendations
- Official Licensed Product
- COMFORT: dryCELL sweat-wicking technology designed to keep you dry and comfortable
- 100% polyester
- Regular fit
- Manchester City Crest on the left chest
- 100% Polyester
- Comes with matching Shorts
- #7 on the back
- Unbranded/Fan Version by CEKFAX
- #7 Black Gold Dragon Edition Long Sleeve
- Football shirt with Climacool for a cool, dry feel.
- Slim fit
- Crew neckline
- 100% polyester (100% recycled)
- Interlock fabric
- Lightweight quick wicking material for breathability, keeping you cool and dry during whole activities
- Pro quality & style w/o Logos, Two hook&loop pockets with pull tabs, Zippered collar for professional look, soft ribbed cuff for less chafe, full sleeve for coverage
- 3" diameter round adhesive hook&loop badge holder, side mesh panel for quick moisture wicking
- Reinforced, high quality stitching for durability, sleek design for comfortable fit
- New style and colors are available for your choices, please choose the soccer ref jersey according to our size chart in the description or on the left images
- Official Licensed Product
- COMFORT: dryCELL sweat-wicking technology designed to keep you dry and comfortable
- 100% polyester
- Regular fit
- Embroidered Manchester City Crest on the left chest
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Long Sleeve Soccer Jerseys
Choosing the right long sleeve soccer jersey can make a big difference in your comfort and performance on the field. Whether you are playing in chilly weather or just prefer extra coverage, this guide will help you pick the best one.
Key Features to Look For
Good long sleeve jerseys have features that help you play your best. Look closely at these important parts before you buy.
Fit and Cut
- Athletic Fit: Most modern jerseys offer an athletic cut. This means the jersey fits close to your body without being too tight. It stops extra fabric from flapping around while you run.
- Stretch: Check if the material has good stretch. Stretch allows you to move your arms freely for throwing, tackling, and shooting.
Ventilation and Breathability
- Mesh Panels: High-quality jerseys often include mesh panels, usually under the arms or on the back. These panels let hot air escape and cool air come in. This keeps you from overheating.
- Moisture-Wicking: This is crucial. The fabric must pull sweat away from your skin quickly. This keeps you dry and comfortable, even during intense matches.
Durability and Construction
- Seams: Look for flatlock stitching. Flatlock seams lie flat against the fabric. They prevent chafing and make the jersey last longer.
- Cuffs: Some long sleeve jerseys have snug cuffs. These keep the sleeves in place so they do not slide down over your hands.
Important Materials for Performance
The fabric of your jersey affects how it feels and performs. Soccer gear usually uses synthetic materials.
Polyester Blends
Most professional jerseys use 100% polyester or polyester blends. Polyester is lightweight. It also dries very fast. This makes it excellent for sports. Some jerseys mix in a small amount of spandex or elastane for extra stretch.
Avoid Cotton
Never choose cotton for a soccer jersey. Cotton absorbs sweat. It gets heavy and stays wet. Wet fabric makes you cold quickly when the weather cools down.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality varies greatly between brands and price points. A few details tell you if a jersey is built to last.
High Quality Indicators
- Dye Quality: Colors should be deep and vibrant. Cheap dyes fade quickly after just a few washes.
- Logo Application: Look at how the team crest or logos are attached. Heat-pressed vinyl logos are common, but embroidered logos often last longer, though they can sometimes feel heavier.
Low Quality Red Flags
- Thin Fabric: If you can easily see through the fabric when you hold it up, it probably will not last many seasons.
- Loose Threads: Excessive loose threads around the collar or cuffs suggest poor manufacturing.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about when and where you will wear your long sleeve jersey. This will guide your final decision.
Training vs. Match Play
- Training: For hard training sessions, prioritize maximum breathability and durability. You need a jersey that handles frequent washing and tough use.
- Match Play: For games, you want the lightest, most professional-looking material. Focus on a sharp fit that looks great under stadium lights.
Weather Considerations
Long sleeves are great for layering. In cooler weather, wear a thermal base layer underneath. The jersey acts as a protective, moisture-wicking outer shell. If it is only slightly cool, the long sleeves provide just enough warmth without causing overheating.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Long Sleeve Soccer Jerseys
Q: Do long sleeve jerseys make me hotter than short sleeves?
A: Not necessarily. If the long sleeve jersey uses modern, light, moisture-wicking fabric, it can actually keep you cooler by wicking sweat away efficiently. The main heat factor is the fabric thickness, not the sleeve length.
Q: Should I size up for a base layer?
A: Generally, no. Soccer jerseys are designed to fit snugly over a thin base layer. If you size up the jersey, it might look baggy when worn alone.
Q: Are long sleeve jerseys allowed in official games?
A: Yes, they are allowed. Players often wear them for warmth or personal preference. Just make sure the color matches the short sleeve version of the team uniform.
Q: How do I wash a long sleeve jersey without ruining the logos?
A: Always turn the jersey inside out before washing. Use cold water and a gentle cycle. Never put them in the dryer; hang them up to air dry.
Q: What is the difference between a replica and an authentic jersey?
A: Authentic (or player issue) jerseys use the highest-grade, lightest fabric, often with heat-bonded logos. Replica jerseys are built for fans; they use slightly heavier, more durable fabric and stitching.
Q: Are long sleeves better for goalkeepers?
A: Yes, goalkeepers often prefer long sleeves. They provide protection against scrapes and turf burns when diving on hard ground.
Q: How tight should the sleeve cuffs be?
A: The cuffs should be snug enough to stay put on your wrist or forearm. They should not be so tight that they cut off circulation.
Q: Can I wear a long sleeve jersey for running?
A: Absolutely. They function very well as running tops because they wick moisture and protect your skin from the sun or light wind.
Q: Are there specific long sleeve jerseys for cold weather?
A: Yes. Look for jerseys specifically labeled as “Winter” or “Training Tops.” These often feature thermal properties or slightly thicker material than standard match jerseys.
Q: How do I remove wrinkles from my long sleeve jersey?
A: Since they are synthetic, avoid high heat. Hang the jersey in a steamy bathroom for 15 minutes. The steam helps release most wrinkles without damaging the fabric.