Baseball jerseys have always been a tradition for sports fans as well as being a staple in pop culture.
Today, they are as popular as ever and come in many different unique variations.
Below is a quick guide to all of the things worth knowing about MLB jerseys.
Jerseys are timeless even through all of MLB’s controversy
Major League Baseball has seen a great deal of controversy throughout the years ranging from the Houston Astros sign-stealing saga to Justin Turner not wearing a mask after his team won the World Series.
Then of course there was the steroid era that left a bad impression on the sport and has tarnished the reputations of what would be Hall of Famers.
Throughout all of this, however, jerseys have been a constant seller that fans always seem to seek out.
Types of jerseys
Authentic Baseball Jerseys
Authentic jerseys are the best ones one the market because they are as close to what the players actually wear as one can get.
These jerseys are made of polyester double-knit material and are generally more durable than replica type jerseys.
Furthermore, the items such as lettering, locker tags and patches on the jersey are all sewn directly on. They also include team-specific patches as well as sleeve patches.
There is an easy way to differentiate an authentic jersey with one that is a replica. This is done by looking at whether or not there is an MLB logo on the top-center below the neckline. If it does, then the jersey is authentic.
The newest MLB jerseys have what is called “Cool Base” technology. This gives players the ability to stay cool during those hot games throughout the season.
The material is slightly lighter with ventilation by the armpits and are also found on authentic jerseys.
These authentic jerseys can be had for around $175 via a number of licensed retailers, including MLBShop and Fanatics.com.
There are even deals to be had after a player changes teams when they are traded or move there via free agency.
These jerseys are also sized by numbers and can be broken down as follows:
M – 40
L – 44
XL – 48
XXL – 52
Knockoff jerseys do not have these tags and are not licensed by Major League Baseball. This is why they are cheaper and not as good overall quality.
Replica baseball jerseys
For those on a tighter budget, replica jerseys are still not a bad deal overall. They are also licensed by MLB but the quality isn’t as good.
The fabric is less durable and the patches and letters are not sewn on but are ironed on instead.
There is no MLB logo on the back of the jersey either and at first glance aren’t that different than their authentic counterparts. For these reasons, they are about half the price.
Batting practice jerseys
Batting practice jerseys are somewhat like authentic game jerseys in that they are fully licensed, consist of lightweight polyester, and have a team logo on the front.
They also have Cool Base features like authentic jerseys. These are used when players are in the batting cage practicing their hitting.
Throwback “Retro” Baseball Jerseys
Another popular type of jersey is the throwback jersey variety which focuses on what players used to wear.
This can date back to the beginning of baseball and are a fun nostalgic way to support a player or team.
They often include the old team designs and look of yesteryear. Each of these kinds of jerseys has a “Cooperstown Collection” tag on the front of them.
There is literally something for every baseball fan, young and old. Giving out a jersey as a gift is a great way to get anyone excited, especially a diehard sports fan.
Or having one in the closet for yourself is also a great way to show your true colors.
Just consider which type of jersey you want and check out these popular jersey stores now.
