Bulls launch camouflage-inspired rugby kit for 2014

The Bulls are going to declare war against their opposition in the SuperRugby season in 2014 if their new jersey is any indication of their strategy. The management of the Bulls and their clothing sponsor, Puma, managed to evoke a fierce debate again when the team’s new jersey for next year’s SuperRugby series was launched this week.

The new jerseys have a camouflage motif, which gives them a look that reminds one of military uniforms. Two years ago when Puma was named as the Bulls’ new clothing sponsor, they had tongues wagging with their trendy new design in terms of the team’s kit for away games. With this outfit, players were completely dressed in pink. Even the pants and socks were pink and for traditional Bulls fans, it was a bitter pill to swallow.

The new camouflage motif on the jerseys has once again gotten strong responses from supporters and opponents of the Bulls. Some believe the khaki, green and brown colours of the outfit are an improvement on the pink, but others hate it just as much.

Brett Bellinger, marketing director of Puma South Africa, said both the home and away kits have been launched in advance of the December period to give Bulls fans a chance to get their hands on a jersey before their first match in February 2014.

With camouflage being a major seasonal fashion trend across the globe, Puma believes the fan-wear has a cool, fun appeal. Blue Bulls company CEO, Barend van Graan, said Puma have certainly transformed the pace since their arrival at the Bulls and the team felt that the new away khaki green and brown jersey, a complete contrast from the old kit, was a bold statement towards distinctiveness.

“We wish Frans, Pierre and the rest of the Vodacom Bulls team and management all the best in the coming season. We hope that the players and fans are inspired by the kit and that it brings with it a good dose of Puma luck,” said Bellinger.