Major League Soccer unveiled 17 of its 2026 season kits today, sparking passionate debates about their designs. This 2026 MLS kits power ranking reflects subjective impressions since the remaining 13 kits are set to be revealed tomorrow, which will complete the list.
San Jose Earthquakes Lead with a Bold New Design
The San Jose Earthquakes surprised fans by delivering what many are calling the most imaginative kit released so far. Whether this influenced Timo Werner’s recent signing remains unknown. San Jose‘s creative uniform quickly captured attention as arguably the standout among today’s reveals.
Austin FC Refreshes Tradition with Vibrant Green
Austin FC‘s fresh approach to its classic kit features a lighter shade of green, complemented by a striking graphic badge and crisp white shorts. This update maintains team heritage while adding a modern vibrancy that appeals broadly.
New York City FC Breaks Monochrome with Bright Contrasts
While New York City FC’s shirt and shorts appear modest, their vivid orange socks create a powerful statement. This shift away from monochrome kits signals a trend toward high-contrast combinations across the league.
Orlando City Embraces Bold Color Inspirations
Orlando City leans into a palette reminiscent of the LA Lakers, blending purple and gold tones in a daring way. This unexpected color scheme has generated positive buzz among fans eager for more expressive team apparel.
Portland Timbers Celebrate History Through Design
Portland Timbers’ new kit takes on the challenging task of featuring a light color while honoring Providence Park’s centennial. An arch motif cleverly integrates heritage, making the jersey an elegant nod to their home stadium’s 100-year legacy.
San Diego FC Moves Toward a Cleaner look
San Diego FC upgraded from their simple 2025 all-white away kit to the “Unprecedented Unity” design. Though the new kit is a clear improvement, there is suggestion that San Diego could draw inspiration from their neighbors, the San Diego Wave, who have set a high bar with their uniforms at Snapdragon Stadium.
LA Galaxy Retains Classic Elements with Minor Changes
The LA Galaxy kit largely markets a familiar look, including the signature sash fondly associated with the David Beckham era. Although difficult to deem it fully “new,” the design’s enduring appeal continues to attract loyal fans.
Nashville SC Keeps It Traditional with Small Updates
Nashville SC’s kit remains close to its 2022 design, with the badge now centralized and subtle trim changes. This consistency reflects a preference for well-established aesthetics rather than radical redesigns.
LAFC Tackles Downtown Los Angeles Architecture in Design
LAFC aimed to reference the Art Deco architecture of downtown Los Angeles, but the pattern instead evokes imagery akin to decorative tiles found in trendy cafes. Additionally, the kit’s omission of player names raised questions among supporters.
New England Revolution’s Independence Day Kit Sparks Ambivalence
The Independence Day design from New England Revolution failed to inspire strong reactions, leaving fans divided. Since their badge change and rebranding, New England has struggled to reach the playoffs consistently, which may color perceptions of the kit.
Minnesota United Presents a Subtle, Non-Distinctive Option
Minnesota United’s “Decade Kit” lands in the middle ground—neither flashy nor breakthrough. The design employs a sash in negative space, a detail appreciated by enthusiasts who favor traditional soccer kit elements.
CF Montréal’s Uniform Evokes Upscale Packaging
The procured jersey from CF Montréal drew comparisons to the packaging of a high-end moisturizer, showing a sleek, premium aesthetic though perhaps lacking strong emotional connection for fans.
Red Bull New York’s Kit Leaves Questions About Identity
Dubbed the “Rooted Kit,” this uniform stirred debate, with some likening it to the “Vecna Kit.” There are calls for Red Bull to embrace more of their New Jersey roots and celebrate the Ironbound community’s industrial heritage. The appearance of two “Rooted” kits in this reveal adds to the confusion.
Charlotte FC Steps Back with Less Dynamic Look
The Carolina kit for Charlotte FC, while new, disappointed some supporters who preferred the previous year’s gradient blues. The fresh design is seen as a regression from the visual appeal generated by the 2024 version.
Columbus Crew’s New Design Questioned for Novelty
Columbus Crew unveiled what appears to be a new kit, though the level of innovation is uncertain. Fans remain cautious about how this latest design will be received on and off the pitch.
Philadelphia Union’s Complex Pattern Divides Opinion
The “1776 Kit” from Philadelphia Union features a busy print comparable to decorative adhesive art often seen in Airbnb rentals. Supporters continue to reminisce about the simpler elegance of the 2022 “For U” kit that many remember fondly.
Chicago Fire’s All-Red Uniform Stands Out for Monochrome Approach
Chicago Fire’s “Forever Red” kit has adopted an entirely monochrome look, sparking criticism for following a trend many believe is fading across the league. The design’s novelty is debated, and questions linger about the team’s design direction.
The full completion of the 2026 MLS kits power ranking awaits tomorrow’s release of the remaining uniforms. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the additional designs will shift opinions and influence emerging style trends. Meanwhile, this initial ranking highlights how club identities, heritage, and color schemes continue to shape the evolving visual landscape of Major League Soccer.
