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MLS Rewind: Eight Clubs to Unveil “Archive” Throwback Kits in 2026
Sep
Major League Soccer is set to continue its popular “Archive Kit” initiative in 2026, with eight more clubs slated to receive special throwback-themed third jerseys. This exciting news, confirmed by reliable sources including Footy Headlines and an official adidas magazine, builds on the success of similar releases in 2024 and 2025, further integrating the rich history of the league into its modern identity.
A Growing Trend: Third Kits Make a Grand Return
The reintroduction of third kits has been a welcome development for MLS fans. After a brief hiatus in the mid-2010s, adidas and MLS began to re-embrace the concept, starting with a five-team release in 2024 featuring Inter Miami, LAFC, the LA Galaxy, Sporting Kansas City, and Portland Timbers. This was followed by an even larger rollout in 2025, where ten teams unveiled throwback or faux-throwback designs.
The “Archive Kit” collection specifically aims to tap into the historical roots of participating clubs, offering fans a nostalgic connection to their team’s past. While no specific images of the 2026 kits have been leaked yet, the anticipation is palpable, especially given the storied histories of some of the involved teams.
Who’s Getting a Throwback in 2026?
The eight clubs confirmed to receive “Archive Kits” in 2026 are:
- Austin FC
- Chicago Fire FC
- Houston Dynamo FC
- CF Montréal
- Orlando City SC
- Philadelphia Union
- Vancouver Whitecaps FC
An official adidas magazine further confirmed these selections, teasing designs that incorporate throwback MLS logos resembling the reported clubs’ colors. While direct throwbacks are not guaranteed, the historical significance of many of these teams provides ample inspiration.
Rich Histories to Inspire New Designs
Several of the selected clubs boast deep historical roots that could provide incredible inspiration for their “Archive Kits”:
- Chicago Fire FC: As an original MLS team, the Fire have a storied past dating back to the league’s inception in 1998.
- Houston Dynamo FC: Joining MLS in 2006, the Dynamo quickly established themselves as a force, winning back-to-back MLS Cups in 2006 and 2007.
- CF Montréal: The club’s lineage traces back to the Montreal Impact, founded in 1992, with a rich history in various North American leagues.
- Vancouver Whitecaps FC: The oldest Canadian soccer club, dating back to 1974, the Whitecaps have a legacy that spans decades and multiple leagues.
These authentic histories offer a treasure trove of design possibilities, from classic crests and color schemes to iconic jersey elements from past eras. While the exact nature of the throwbacks remains under wraps, the potential for truly unique and meaningful kits is immense.
The Business of Third Kits: A Strategic Move
Historically, third kits were a rarity in MLS, with adidas setting high sales benchmarks for primary and secondary jerseys before allowing teams to consider additional options. The renewed focus on these “Archive Kits” signifies a strategic shift, recognizing the demand from fans for unique merchandise that celebrates club heritage. This initiative not only boosts merchandise sales but also strengthens fan engagement and loyalty.
The 2026 MLS season is poised to be a landmark year for the league. With 30 clubs now participating, the league is set to capitalize on the massive global attention that will accompany the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The release of these special “Archive Kits” will undoubtedly add to the excitement, offering fans another compelling reason to connect with their favorite MLS teams.
As the 2026 season approaches, fans will be eagerly awaiting the official reveal of these “Archive Kits,” hoping to see their club’s history brought to life in a fresh and exciting way. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development in MLS merchandise.
