The “Men In Black” Are Back: Stormers Revive Iconic 1999 Jersey
The DHL Stormers have officially ushered in a new era for the 2026/27 season, unveiling a striking new home and away kit collection that pays homage to some of the franchise’s most iconic chapters.
The launch, held in Cape Town on Tuesday, placed heritage at the heart of the new campaign. The kits reflect the deep connection between the Stormers, their supporters and the rich rugby culture of the Western Cape.
The new collection continues the Stormers’ renewed partnership with adidas, bringing together the Cape side’s famous blue and white hoops with the brand’s iconic three stripes.
The theme for the 2026/27 season is “Roots Run Deep”, with both jerseys designed to celebrate the team’s history while looking towards the future.
The home jersey retains the unmistakable blue and white hoops that have become synonymous with the Stormers and Western Province rugby. A new white collar adds a traditional touch, further strengthening the connection with the classic jerseys of the past.
The home jersey actually made its on-field debut during the Stormers’ historic clash with New Zealand at DHL Stadium, where the hosts went toe-to-toe with the All Blacks before eventually falling 38-21.
However, it was the away jersey that provided perhaps the biggest talking point at the official launch.
The Stormers have brought back the famous “Men in Black” look, inspired by the black jersey worn during the early Super Rugby era.
The original black kit was introduced in 1999 and became synonymous with the Stormers before the team returned to its traditional blue colours in 2006. The 2026/27 version reimagines that iconic identity for a modern generation.
DHL Stormers Director of Rugby John Dobson believes both jerseys carry significant meaning for supporters.
“The home jersey with the white collar, which we played in against New Zealand, is the closest to our traditional colours there has ever been and the away jersey is something special that looks incredible whether you are old enough to remember the Men in Black era or not,” Dobson said.
The jerseys are designed not only to celebrate the team’s history but also to give supporters something they can proudly wear away from the rugby field.
Both kits have been developed with modern performance technology, combining lightweight construction and freedom of movement while maintaining the traditional aesthetic associated with the Stormers.
With the blue and white hoops representing the Stormers’ enduring identity and the black away jersey reviving one of the club’s most recognisable eras, the Stormers are sending a clear message: they embrace the future without forgetting their origins.
Their roots run deep — and now, they will be worn with pride once again.
