Beyond the Soccer Pitch: How Scarves Became Global Symbols
Scarves have evolved from an accessory to wear at the soccer pitch to a worldwide indicator of unity. From handmade granny scarves for displaying loyalty to today’s intricate custom designs, soccer scarves are a global symbol.
Let’s explore the beginnings of the tradition of soccer scarves, and how the tradition has become essential to soccer culture all over the world decades later.
Where it all Began: The Soccer Pitch
Long before soccer scarves were a global phenomenon, they were simple and colorful displays of team loyalty. Around 100 years ago in the UK, these scarves were handknit by loved ones or soccer fans themselves.
Early soccer scarves served two purposes. First, they were an easy way to show allegiance before mass production. Second, they kept players warm in the often cold or rainy soccer pitches.
Fun fact: did you know that when the game of soccer (or football) was younger, players in the UK often had to share fields with cricket teams? In the game of cricket, players call the fields “pitches”. That’s how soccer pitches received their nickname.
As soccer scarves grew in popularity, football clubs realized the excellent marketing opportunity in front of them. Taking advantage of the fan-made tradition, football club owners started mass producing scarves. Soon clubs were selling soccer scarves with their team’s logo and the rest is history!
The Boom of International Soccer Scarves
From the cold and rainy soccer pitches of England to the humid heat of Brazil’s fields, soccer scarves are ubiquitous. No longer just an accessory, they are a phenomenon.
How did such a climate-specific accessory become the symbol for an entire sport? You should know that for soccer fans, scarves are all-weather accessories! However, we’ve also developed thinner models for hot weather.
As soccer scarf manufacturing took hold in the UK, the novelty spread to other parts of Europe and then made its way worldwide. Despite going in and out of style at various points in history, soccer scarves are no mere trend. Instead, they are a century-old part of sports culture and history.
Learn more about international soccer scarves and see our global scarf collection here!
Why Scarves are Popular in Soccer
Soccer fans wear scarves to symbolize their allegiance, to show unity, and to be part of a global tradition. The scarves are about the game and the culture, but they also grant the wearer access into a club of fans around the world.
Ruffneck is the official scarf provider for MLS, US Soccer, NHL, USL, NWSL, and several other leagues worldwide. In business for over 15 years, we pride ourselves on our exceptional quality, speed, and customer service. From traditional knits to thinner, printed scarves, we can complete any personalized challenge for your club or team. Order your custom scarf today!