Bringing focus to the blurred line between football and faith, Swedish side AIK have teamed up with Nike to produce the Smokinglirare Edition—a limited, sacred, tuxedo-inspired jersey that boasts some of the sleekest detailing around.
As almost all football fans will attest to, matchdays are more than just football—they’re sacred rituals. From weekend gatherings and shared hymns to symbols and traditions, they’re all present in their own form on a gameday, shared by the hundreds and thousands of fans in attnedance. It’s to such an extent for Swedish side AIK that the AIK-inspired organisation Vår Svartgula Sal has been officially recognised as a religious community by the Swedish government—making AIK the world’s only true football religion. All quite bizarre, isn’t it. But from the bizarre to the beautiful, to honour their new found status, AIK and Nike have unveiled the Smokinglirare Edition—a tuxedo-inspired jersey fit for a club with truly sacred style status.
Of course, this isn’t the first time that AIK have gone for a blackout look – they grabbed the attention of the jersey culture world with a similar effort back in 2019. But this new jersey takes it to a whole new level. The design has been developed by AIK in collaboration with Nike, with a focus on capturing the club’s cultural significance to Swedish football. Every detail on the jersey is handcrafted in unique 3D silicone with infused metallic particles. This creates a shimmering depth and contrast against the black velvet base on which each element rests. It’s the intricacy and level of detail in this one that truly sets it apart.
“For many, AIK is not just football – it’s a lifestyle and a faith. We want to highlight that dedication while also raising the question of where the line between sports fandom and traditional religion actually lies,” explained Tobias Larsson, Head of Communications at AIK Fotboll. “The club would like to thank all the sponsors who made this project possible by donating their space on the jersey. Thanks to them, the Smokinglirare Edition has become a tribute to our supporters and our shared faith in AIK – in a design that puts the message front and centre.”
Head to prodirectsport.com/soccer for your chance to get your hands on one of the 134 jerseys.
