RIYADH, 26 January 2006 — PUMA Middle East yesterday unveiled its new 2006 Saudi Arabia national football team playing kit. Designed to get the players to the ball faster, the state-of-the-art Saudi Arabia shirt introduces a revolutionary lightweight proposition with an out and out focus on aerodynamic advantages and comfort.
“It’s a very exciting time for PUMA Middle East as we have all been eagerly waiting to catch the first glimpse of the new playing kit of the Saudi Arabian national team. PUMA’s v1.06 products have been meticulously designed to complement the skills of the player and we at PUMA Middle East are particularly proud to see them on the Saudi Arabian national team in action,” said Oliver Wirth, general manager of PUMA Middle East.
In line with its ”gets you there faster” design objective, the v1.06 Saudi Arabia shirt uses a brand new tear resistant woven fabric developed in collaboration with Manchester Metropolitan University, resulting in an extreme lightweight solution irrespective of weather or body condition. The Saudi Arabian Federation badge included, the shirt weighs as little as 100g, still providing the required moisture wicking properties demanded by players in the top flight.
The v1.06 shirt utilizes the Kold Fusion technology providing a stitch-less alternative to traditional cut and sewn shirts by welding together the fabric to form an incredible strong, light and durable molecular bond.
The new v1.06 shirt is engineered to support players in their stride. A slim fit cut with very limited stretch prevents shirt grabbing while an ergonomically placed mesh insert across the back boosts freedom of movement. A raised front collar prevents wind from entering the shirt reducing drag.
The progressive minimalist design results in a modern and unique silhouette. As a complement, a country specific graphic print, a distinctive PUMA Pace font for lettering and numbering as well as a specially developed heat-transfer federation badge have been incorporated to evoke a striking presence on the field.
In an effort to honor and stress the individuality of each contracted national team, PUMA has designed a new graphic treatment iconic to each country. The Saudi Arabian shirt features a tonal print revealing the national emblem and a palm tree with crossed swords. The new Saudi Arabian v1.06 licensed apparel training line and equipment offering further supports the playing kit.
The new Saudi Arabian kit was to be worn for the first time yesterday for the team’s friendly match at home to Greece. Saudi shirt replicas will be available for sale in April.
