The Ryder Cup team uniforms have always played a significant role in the fierce rivalry between the USA and Europe. These outfits not only add to the overall vibe of the tournament but also serve as a symbol of national pride for each team. Over the years, the uniforms have seen various styles, with the Americans often favoring argyle sweater vests, patriotic polos, and even plaid trousers on occasion.
On the other hand, the European team has had its fair share of plaid moments as well. However, their uniforms for this year’s Ryder Cup in Rome are quite different. The Europeans will be taking the course in understated white polos, adorned with a reddish-brown stripe that signifies a subtle yet significant flex in the world of menswear. This signature shade of Italian hyper-luxury brand Loro Piana is instantly recognizable to hardcore cashmere aficionados worldwide.
Loro Piana is renowned for its exceptionally elevated casualwear and its relentless pursuit of the rarest natural fibers in the world. The brand is often associated with high-profile individuals, including the Succession character Kendall Roy, played by Jeremy Strong. Even professional golfers like Rory McIlroy have developed a taste for Loro Piana, leading to the brand providing uniforms for the European team since 2016.
The Ryder Cup uniforms by Loro Piana are a combination of technical material and superfine wool. Each member of Team Europe receives polo shirts, quarter-zips, sweater vests, tailored trousers made with Rain System®-treated stretch wool, waterproof jackets and vests, as well as socks and belts. In addition, the brand supplies the team with dark navy suits and loafers for official events, along with sweatsuits for relaxation at their hotel. This means the European golfers are sporting what might be the most expensive athletic uniforms in history.
For those who are not part of the team, Loro Piana has also released a special capsule collection of golf gear, including white windbreakers and a beige leather golf bag. The collection is exclusively available at the Loro Piana boutique in Rome and ranges in price from $520 to $3,450. Undoubtedly, this gear is a testament to the brand’s commitment to luxury and quality.
As it turns out, the European team’s choice of Loro Piana uniforms might be paying off. On the first day of the tournament, the Europeans dominated the Americans, winning every match. This marked the first time in history that the American team failed to win a single match on the opening day. While the Americans looked great in their Polo Ralph Lauren USA trucker hats, it seems that the European team’s luxurious attire may be giving them an extra boost on the course.
In a promotional video for the partnership with Loro Piana, first-time Team Europe member Robert MacIntyre expressed his excitement about wearing the Ryder Cup uniform. He described it as the most special feeling in golf for a European player. When his Loro Piana wardrobe arrived, he couldn’t help but express his admiration, calling it “lovely stuff.”
The Ryder Cup team uniforms have certainly come a long way, from argyle sweater vests to Loro Piana luxury. While these outfits may not directly impact a player’s performance, they undoubtedly add an extra layer of confidence and style to the European team. With such refined and expensive attire, it’s no wonder the Europeans are aiming for victory in Rome.