It's a thriving business that continues building from year to year, isn't it? Premier League shirt collecting is not for the weak and there are thousands – if not millions – of supporters who tend to burn a hole in their wallet/purse come the summer when new kits are released. And there is something intriguing surrounding how clubs play their third strips. Do teams go bold? Do they play it on the safe side? And, more importantly, what makes them so interesting?
Although it is seldom used, that is exactly the reason why fans – who tend to prefer it when chances are taken and boundaries are pushed – like to add them to their collections.
In a series of articles for GIVEMESPORT, we've taken a look at what all 20 clubs in England's top flight – from reigning champions Liverpool to new boys Leeds United – have to offer in terms of kits. Chelsea's home kit took home the cake when we analysed all 20; while Sunderland and Nottingham Forest both ranked well in terms of away kits. Now, we're taking a look at the mysterious third kits, some that you won't even remember being worn.
2025/26 Premier League Third Kits: 20-16
Well, Manchester City's third strip is certainly a head turner. It's up to you whether you think that's a good or a bad thing, but we're opting for the latter. No doubt it offers a unique look, thanks to the graphic print mimicking water droplets, but it's visually striking for all the wrong reasons. Back to the drawing board, City.
Everton's is a slight improvement. Buoyed by the opening of the Hill Dickinson Stadium, the blue and yellow zigzags across the chest are inspired by their new arena. The Prince Rupert Tower crest is a nice touch, yes, but does it really work? Elsewhere, in 18th, Burnley are looking to make a splash in the Premier League.
Their third kit has certainly done that. Scott Parker's Clarets sported their new strip for the first time in a 1-0 pre-season loss against Lazio and the golden geometric honeycomb design certainly stands out. Also looking to remain in the big time are Daniel Farke-led Leeds United, whose third strip is neat.
Set to be donned at Elland Road this season, it may not strike you as a Leeds shirt at first glance, but the abstract graphic, depicting the sea and swirling scarves raised by fans, is cool. Wolverhampton Wanderers, in 16th, and kit manufacturer SUDU, have gone bold in colour, but there's not much to scream and shout about their third kit.
2025/26 Premier League Third Kits: 15-11
It's pink. Bournemouth's history with strips of that colour holds a special part in the hearts of those associated with the Cherries. Last worn during 2015/16 when they secured another year in the Premier League, the south coast outfit have paid homage to some club greats. The slightly dark sleeves offer a fresh take on a classic.
Next up are rivals Crystal Palace and Brighton & Hove Albion in 14th and 13th, respectively. The former, on a high after their FA Cup success, have gone rather safe by sticking to their typical club colours, but you can't really fault it, can you? Brighton, for sustanability reasons, have traditionally re-used a season's second kit for the following campaign's third strip. This time around, the yellow and black combination is simple but effective.
There's nothing too outlandish about Nottingham Forest and their 2025/26 third kit design, but it's very sleek. Largely black in colour, the solar red detailing on the collar, sleeves and signature Three Stipes of adidas make it pop. Tottenham Hotspur, last season's Europa League winners, have gone... loud? Incorporating the club's crest from 1999–2006, which is centralised nicely, provides fans with a belter.
2025/26 Premier League Third Kits:10-6
Now into the upper echelon of this season's collection of third kits and Sunderland are kicking things off. Summer acquisitions Granit Xhaka, Lutsharel Geertruida and Brian Brobbey are among the stars to don this Hummel-designed cracker, which features a monochrome black cat logo. A subtle detail that shouldn't go under the radar is the collar includes a graphic referencing how Sunderland adopted their 'Black Cats' moniker.
While Fulham's away kit was confusing to say the least, the London club have made sure to right their wrongs with their third kit, which will be worn far less than their second strip you'd assume. Sure, you could argue that it's basic. But it's done right. West Ham United, too, have gone down the easier route – but it's hard to dispute the finished article. Umbro have smashed it out of the park.
Brenftord's (albeit slightly unusual) third kit is also a bona fide winner. Not least because they're the only top flight outfit that collaborates with Joma, they'll be serving the post-Thomas Frank era in style with its unique blend of colours – a sky blue base, a claret and salmon chest band and a maroon collar with salmon accents.
Incredibly unfortunate to miss out on the top five, Aston Villa's third kit may sit on a simple white base, which could be argued to be a bit on the safe side, but its marble pattern is something to marvel at. Not in your face at all, the soft pastel hues of lilac, rose and sky blue work well against the blank canvas. Kudos, adidas!
2025/26 Premier League Third Kits: 5-1
An absolute triumph, Manchester United's recent poor fortunes are not reflected in this masterpiece, which is a tribute to the iconic 1993-95 away kit. Donned by the likes of Bryan Robson and Eric Cantona back in the day, the mix of black, yellow and blue is sublime and Ruben Amorim and his entourage will be looking to emulate the success seen in the club's glory days.
Another instant classic is courtesy of Arsenal. With every look, it just gets better. Featuring a white base with maroon logos and gold detailing – sprinkled with a special nod to the 20th anniversary of their final season at Highbury – it's hard to pick a flaw, isn't it? Where it will be remembered for being worn in a season of success is the next question.
Who saw this coming? Loved by the Stamford Bridge faithful for good reason, Chelsea's T90-inspired third kit is a winner in all departments. The black base, the unusual-but-smart collar, the centralising of the badge and the subtle details are all a big yes. Please, just please, don't Google it with the Club World Cup badge on it.
It took Liverpool until Tuesday 9 September to unveil this work of art. Well, it was worth it. If Arne Slot can be successful, this shirt – which instantly catches your eye thanks to its soothing colout, Sea Green – could be an all-timer. The modernised version of their club crest ties it all together well. You just have to applaud.