Whether you’re a fan of the Eagles, the Chiefs, or your local team, wearing your NFL team’s jersey is a great way to take your game-day team spirit to the next level. For fans of all ages, wearing their team’s colors while cheering from the stands or watching at home isn’t enough – they’re looking for the best NFL jerseys to buy to show their team pride.

When browsing for different jersey types online, there are plenty of questions to ask. How will the jersey fit me? There have been various types of NFL jerseys over the years – how do I know which is the most recent replica? Should I learn how to style an NFL jersey? Here’s our NFL jersey-buying guide to help you get the best one.

Nike’s Official NFL Jersey Categories

Although there are many different jersey types and sellers online, the best NFL jerseys to buy are from Nike – the official manufacturer of NFL jerseys since 2012 – and their authorized sellers. However, they offer four different types, each with its own level of quality, comfort, and affordability. Use our NFL jersey-buying guide to help you determine which one is right for you:

Nike Elite Jerseys

Elite are the best NFL jerseys to buy for those who want the closest they can get to what NFL players wear. Designed for professional athletes, these feature the best of Nike’s advanced sportswear tech to improve players’ performance on the field. They are best for collectors and superfans who want the most authentic professional-grade apparel when cheering or playing their own game.

Nike Limited Jerseys

Nike Limited lacks the high-tech athletic features of the Elite version. However, it features Nike’s premium Dri-FIT technology, stitched graphics, and the premium look and feel of an authentic jersey. This makes Limited jerseys the popular choice for fans who want premium visual features without spending too much.

Nike Game Jerseys

For fans who want to prioritize comfort, Nike Game jerseys are more suitable. Instead of stitched details and a better fit, they feature screen-printed graphics and a looser fit. The result is a more casual jersey that’s suitable for everyday wear.

Nike Legend Jerseys

This is the lightest and most casual option among the different jersey types. Details like numbers and logos are printed directly onto the jersey. The material is breathable and similar to a standard T-shirt. It’s still stylish and comfortable – and at the most affordable price.

Specialty Jerseys

For fans looking to stand out among the current NFL jerseys, you may want to consider specialty and throwback editions. Although more expensive than standard NFL jerseys available to fans, these jerseys are the perfect choice for superfans, collectors, and long-time fans.

Throwback Jerseys

With many NFL teams changing their colors and logos over the decades, throwback jerseys pay tribute to old designs, including:

Vintage Designs: These jerseys feature old logos and colors from past decades.
Legendary Players: These are jerseys featuring the names and numbers of iconic players no longer active in the NFL.
Retro Styles: Although the shape and fit of football uniforms have changed over the years, these jerseys look similar to older styles.

Brands like Mitchell & Ness specialize in authentic throwback jerseys and are approved by the NFL. If you’re buying a Mitchell & Ness jersey, keep in mind that these are not exactly similar to the uniforms players wear now. They’re popular among long-time fans, but those who want the exact current design should look for Nike jerseys.

Limited Edition and Commemorative Jerseys

Limited edition and commemorative jerseys are must-haves for those who love exclusive memorabilia. You can find limited edition NFL jerseys released throughout the years, including:

Super Bowl victory jerseys
Team anniversaries
Milestone achievements
Exclusive merchandise sold by the NFL or teams

Keep in mind that these are extremely rare, making them highly sought after by collectors and dedicated fans looking for a one-of-a-kind piece.

Authentic vs. Replica Jerseys

Fans can purchase either authentic or replica NFL jerseys. While both options let you showcase your team pride, it’s important to consider the different factors that can impact the fit, accuracy, and price.

Authentic Jerseys

Authentic jerseys are identical to those worn by NFL players. They are made with premium materials and offer the same high-end sportswear tech that helps player performance. These are the types of NFL jerseys for collectors, die-hard fans, and those who want to invest in a quality, professional-grade jersey.

Nike and Mitchell & Ness are both authentic jerseys. However, Nike is the only brand licensed to produce the exact jerseys worn by players on the field. Nike Elite and Limited are considered authentic jerseys because they have the same or very similar features as players' jerseys.

On the other hand, Mitchell & Ness are officially licensed NFL jerseys that are authentic reproductions of vintage designs. They also feature premium features such as stitched designs and quality materials. Still, they aren’t similar to what NFL players are wearing today.

Replica Jerseys

Replicas have most of the visual features of jerseys, but the differences in construction make them more affordable. The materials are lighter, often without high-tech sportswear features, and the fit is looser. The details are screen-printed or heat-pressed, so they are not as durable. Overall, they’re best for more casual wear.

Although Nike’s jerseys are official, their Game and Legend jerseys are considered replicas. They are more affordable but have a looser fit, are more lightweight, and don’t have the stitched-on details found in Nike’s more premium jerseys.

	Authentic Jerseys	Replica Jerseys
Price	More expensive due to premium materials and construction	More affordable
Material	High-performance, water-resistant fabric	Standard polyester or lightweight fabric
Graphics & Logos	Stitched-on nameplates, numbers, and team logos	Screen-printed or heat-pressed graphics
Fit	Athletic fit (slimmer and snug)	More relaxed fit
Durability	Built for long-term wear with reinforced stitching	Less durable over time
Best For	Die-hard fans, collectors, and those seeking an authentic on-field look	Casual fans who want a stylish yet affordable option

Sizing and Fit Guide

Before purchasing, you should ensure that the size you pick suits your body size and the fit you want. Refer to Nike’s size charts for men, women, and children for authentic NFL jerseys.

Men’s Elite

Size	US Size	Chest (in.)	Back Length (in.)
40	M	44	31
44	L	47.25	31.63
48	XL	51	32.5
52	2XL	55	33.25
56	3XL	59	34
60	4XL	63	35

Men’s Game & Limited

Size	Chest (in.)	Back Length (in.)
S	41.34	30
M	44.88	30.25
L	48	31
XL	52	31.75
2XL	56	32.63
3XL	60	33.5
4XL	63.75	34.25

Women

Size	Chest (in.)	Waist (in.)	Hips (in.)	Back Length (in.)
XS	36.25	31.88	38.75	25.5
S	39	34.63	41.5	26
M	41.75	37.38	44.25	26.75
L	45.75	40.88	47.5	27.5
XL	49.5	44.25	50.63	28.375
2XL	53.5	47.75	53.75	29

Kids

Size	Chest and Waist (in.)	Back Length (in.)
S	33	23
M	36	25
L	39.5	27
XL	42.5	29

Additionally, keep in mind that different types of NFL jerseys have different fits. This can affect how to style your NFL jersey. For example, Nike’s Elite has a tighter, tailored fit than Legend jerseys. If you want the Elite jersey but a looser fit, go a size up.

Here are some more tips to get the best fit:

Look at the Size Charts: Always use the right size chart to get accurate fits. There are different size charts for men's, women's, and children's jerseys.
Measure Yourself: Use a tape measure around your chest, waist, and shoulders to find the right size.
Consider Your Layering: If you plan to style your NFL jersey with hoodies or other layers, go one size up.

Caring for Your NFL Jersey

Whether you’re a fan planning to wear your jersey or a collector who wants to display it, many fans see their NFL jersey as an investment for their team pride. Follow these tips to ensure you preserve the quality of your jersey for as long as possible:

Washing and Drying

Check the Label: Read the washing instructions carefully and follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
Wash Properly: Most jerseys require washing in cold water to prevent fading or shrinking. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as these can cause fading and prevent detergent from fully penetrating the fabric.
Turn Inside Out: Regardless of which jersey type you purchase, we recommend turning your jersey inside out before loading it into your washing machine. This helps protect the graphics.
Hang Dry Only: Avoid using a dryer, as excess heat can shrink the fabric and damage graphics. Instead, air-dry on a hanger or drying rack outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.

Storage Instructions

Use Padded or Wide Hangers: Football jerseys feature larger, more structured shoulders, so we recommend using wider hangers. Thin wire hangers can create stretch marks or deform the shoulders.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Keep your jersey away from direct sunlight, humidity, or excessive heat. Hang your jersey in a closet or cabinet to prevent fading and fabric deterioration.
Avoid Overcrowding: If you’re hanging your jersey in a closet, avoid hanging it in a crowded rack. Keeping your jersey cramped with other clothes can cause wrinkles and misshaping.
Fold Carefully: While hanging is recommended, you can store your jersey by folding it neatly. Store it in a breathable garment bag or plastic bin to minimize exposure.

Where To Purchase Official NFL Jerseys

Buying an official NFL jersey ensures you get quality, durability, and accuracy. If you want to guarantee you’re getting the real NFL jersey, you should limit your search to these stores:

NFL Shop: The league’s official store sells officially licensed merchandise, including jerseys. You can also find other clothes and collectibles to add to your collection.
Team Stores: Want to browse for specific NFL merchandise? Many NFL teams have their own official online and physical stores, including some exclusive jersey designs.
Nike: As the official jersey manufacturer, Nike has the exclusive license to produce on-field football uniforms and sells authentic game-day apparel online and in-store.
Mitchell & Ness: Mitchell & Ness is a good source for throwback and legacy jerseys.
Authorized Sellers: Many sellers are authorized dealers for brands like Nike and Mitchell & Ness. If you want to shop for Nike’s NFL jerseys, you can trust their accredited sellers to have authentic jerseys.

Find NFL Jerseys and Other Professional-Grade Sports Apparel at Midways Sports

No NFL fan’s collection is complete without their own NFL jersey. However, it’s important to consider the different options available to get the best value for your money. With our NFL jersey-buying guide, you can navigate through the different Nike NFL jersey options, consider the throwback jerseys of Mitchell & Ness, and choose the right one that matches your preferred style and budget.

At Midway Sports, you can find top-quality football jerseys and other professional-grade sportswear. Whether sporting your team pride or choosing the innovative tech of high-end jerseys, you can trust us to deliver authentic gear. Shop at Midway Sports today!

NFL Jersey Buying Tips and Fitting Guide