The Indianapolis Colts, a franchise steeped in rich history and tradition, have set their sights on a bold new endeavor, taking advantage of the league's alternate helmet rule. With the announcement of their latest alternate uniform, affectionately dubbed "Indiana Nights," the Colts are poised to make a striking statement on the field. Unveiling a fresh look that includes a black helmet for the first time in franchise history, the Colts are gearing up to make their debut in Week 7, adding a new chapter to their storied legacy.
On a first glance, the "Indiana Nights" alternate uniform may appear reminiscent of the classic all-blue color rush uniforms from previous years. However, upon closer examination, the details within unveil a deeper story. The Colts' iconic blue still graces the jersey and pants, but now it is infused with a subtle "Heather" material that adds depth and texture to the overall design.
Notable additions to the uniform include two horizontal stripes across the shoulder pads, elegantly matching the team's customary piping down the pants. Another eye-catching feature is the Colts' secondary logo, which was introduced during the 2020 season, proudly situated on the front shoulder of the new uniform.
While the Colts have preserved their classic number font, they've added a touch of sophistication with black piping surrounding it, creating a visually striking effect.
The standout element of the "Indiana Nights" alternate uniform is the introduction of the black helmet, a departure from the team's longstanding tradition of sporting a white shell. The helmet's overall design remains faithful to the Colts' legacy, featuring the legendary blue horseshoe logo at its center. However, a white trim now surrounds the logo, and a bold blue stripe down the middle clearly separates the black background from the rest of the design. Completing the contemporary look from the neck up is a sleek black facemask, adding an extra touch of modernity to the ensemble.
In preparation for the 2022 season, the NFL approved the return of alternate helmets, opening the door for teams to explore fresh uniform possibilities. More than half of the league's 32 teams have already embraced this opportunity, utilizing the rule to bring back beloved helmets and uniforms from their storied past.
As the Colts prepare to debut "Indiana Nights" in a Week 7 home game against the Cleveland Browns on October 22nd, anticipation is building among fans and players alike. With a blend of tradition and modernity, the Colts' alternate uniform represents not only a daring fashion choice but also a step forward in embracing change while remaining deeply rooted in their storied history.