Aston Villa Football Shirts: The Best Third Kits

Aston Villa is a club with a rich history, and over the years, its football shirts have become symbols of pride for fans. While home and away kits often take center stage, Aston Villa’s third kits have produced some of the most unique and memorable designs. These third kits allow for creativity, offering a departure from the traditional claret and blue that Villa is known for. Here’s a look at some of the best third kits in Aston Villa's history.

1. 2020/21 Third Kit: Black with Subtle Gold Trim

The 2020/21 third kit stands out as one of Aston Villa football shirts most stylish and elegant designs. The shirt featured a predominantly black design with gold accents, providing a classy, understated look that was popular with both fans and players alike. The Kappa logo and club crest were also highlighted in gold, adding to the premium feel of the shirt. The design allowed Villa to maintain a sleek and modern aesthetic while still keeping a subtle nod to the club’s tradition.

Why it’s one of the best: The combination of black and gold offers a sophisticated look that makes this kit stand out from the usual claret and blue.

2. 2013/14 Third Kit: Flashy Yellow and Black Stripes

In the 2013/14 season, Aston Villa’s third kit featured a bold yellow and black striped design. While this kit deviated significantly from the club’s usual colors, it became a fan favorite due to its eye-catching design. The bright yellow base with contrasting black stripes made for a memorable shirt that still gets recognition among supporters.

Why it’s one of the best: Its bold design made it a standout among traditional kits and showcased Villa’s willingness to take creative risks.

3. 2008/09 Third Kit: Classic White and Claret Trim

Aston Villa’s 2008/09 third kit offered a clean, classic look with a predominantly white design. The claret trim around the collar and sleeves gave the shirt a traditional Villa feel, while the simplicity of the design was a hit among fans. This kit was worn during a successful period in the club’s history, which has only added to its popularity over time.

Why it’s one of the best: The minimalist design with subtle Villa colors makes this one a classic that resonates with fans who appreciate tradition.

4. 1993/94 Third Kit: Bold Sky Blue and Black Hoops

One of the more adventurous designs in Villa’s history came in the 1993/94 season, when the club introduced a sky blue and black hooped third kit. This shirt was bold and unique, breaking away from the club's traditional colors while still maintaining a sense of style. Though not universally loved at the time, the kit has since become a cult favorite among collectors and retro shirt enthusiasts.

Why it’s one of the best: Its unconventional design set it apart from the norm, and it has grown in popularity among retro kit fans.

5. 2019/20 Third Kit: Striking Sky Blue with Maroon Trim

The 2019/20 third kit saw Villa return to a sky blue base with maroon detailing. This color combination was a nod to some of the club's earlier kits but with a modern twist. The sleek design was a hit with fans and was particularly memorable for being worn during Villa’s return to the Premier League after winning promotion.

Why it’s one of the best: The modern take on a classic color scheme made it a fan favorite during a pivotal season in the club’s history.

6. 1995/96 Third Kit: Retro Yellow with Green Trim

Another standout third kit from Aston Villa’s history came in the 1995/96 season. The shirt featured a bright yellow design with green trim, reminiscent of the bold kits of the 90s era. Though a departure from the traditional Villa colors, this kit was striking and memorable, particularly for fans who remember the players of that era.

Why it’s one of the best: Its nostalgic value, combined with a bold color scheme, makes this kit a favorite among those who love 90s football fashion.

7. 2021/22 Third Kit: Unique Blue with Burgundy Accents

The 2021/22 third kit showcased an entirely different color palette, featuring a light blue base with burgundy accents. The abstract design across the chest made the kit stand out and was well-received by fans for its fresh take on a third kit. The unique design was a welcome change from more traditional approaches, highlighting the creativity behind third kits.

Why it’s one of the best: Its fresh and unique design was embraced by fans looking for something different from the usual claret and blue.

The Importance of Third Kits

Third kits allow clubs like Aston Villa to break away from traditional designs and explore new colors and styles. While home and away kits tend to adhere to the club’s established identity, third kits give designers more creative freedom. For fans, third kits can often become cult classics, as they offer a refreshing alternative to the usual color schemes associated with the club.

Conclusion

Aston Villa’s third kits have varied greatly in design and color over the years, but they all share a common trait: they allow for creativity and uniqueness. Whether it’s the classic black and gold of 2020/21 or the bold stripes of 2013/14, these kits have become part of the club’s identity. For collectors and fans alike, Aston Villa’s third kits offer a rich history of bold and memorable designs.