Back to the College Football Uniforms
Subtle changes to a classic look is about all Nike is allowed to do in Norman, outfitting a Sooners program that’s worn the same crimson helmet with the traditional interlocking “OU” logo since 1966.
Prior to the 2000 season, Oklahoma’s crimson shells were updated with metallic paint and resulted in the school’s seventh national championship.
The Sooners have donned white helmets twice in the last decade, once in 2003 and most recently in 2009. A three-year period in the early 1960s was the last time Oklahoma had a white shell, and instead of the “OU” logo, players wore crimson numerals with a crimson stripe on their helmets. Oklahoma’s first modern white shell was introduced the year after World War II ended. The Sooners captured 11 conference championships donning the white helmet with a single crimson stripe and no numerals.
One of 11 schools chosen to participate in Nike’s Pro Combat campaign in 2009, Oklahoma sported a lightweight and dri-fit all-white with crimson accents get up at Texas Tech, an ode to Bud Wilkinson’s “fast break offense” in 1955 and 1956. The white pants featured aerodynamic crimson stripes that wrapped around the legs. A white shell and Nike Vapor Trail gloves were added to complete the look.
The Sooners have donned their current combinations for decades — crimson tops with white pants at home and white tops with white pants on the road. A “Sooners” wordmark is located just above the numerals on each set. The metallic crimson helmet is perfected by a white chinstrap and facemask.
In recent seasons during Nike’s “uniform era”, players have taken to social media to discuss their displeasure with the traditional look. Neighboring rival Oklahoma State has updated its look with black and anthracite gray combinations, but the Sooners have refused to stray from the classic crimson and white.
