First Day of School NFL Outfits Every Kid Will Want to Wear

There’s something about the first day of school that feels like the Super Bowl of fashion for kids. New backpacks, fresh kicks, and, if your kid’s anything like mine, the perfect outfit that makes them feel confident walking through those school doors. And if your family happens to be full of football fans, there’s no better way to show school spirit and team pride than with NFL gear.

From kindergarteners who can’t tie their shoes yet to high schoolers with serious opinions on drip, I’m breaking down the best NFL outfits for that all important first day. These aren’t just logo tees either. We’re talking outfits that actually look cool, feel comfortable, and still scream “I’m a fan.”

Whether you’re shopping last minute or planning ahead, this guide has you covered.

Why NFL Outfits Work for the First Day of School

Let’s be real. School can be nerve wracking. For a lot of kids, especially younger ones, wearing something that feels familiar gives them confidence. NFL gear taps into that. It’s not just a shirt with a logo, it’s an identity. It tells classmates who you cheer for on Sundays, maybe even who your family roots for together.

In my house, my son wore a Buffalo Bills hoodie on his first day of second grade. It wasn’t part of some big plan. He picked it out himself. I later realized it gave him something to talk about with his classmates, a conversation starter without even trying.

That’s the power of team gear. It turns fashion into connection.

Plus, NFL outfits are designed to move. Whether it’s a cotton tee layered with a zip up or a pair of joggers with a team stripe, most gear is built for comfort, which is crucial when you’re spending eight hours bouncing from math to recess to art class.

Kindergarten to 2nd Grade

For the little ones just starting their school journey, comfort is everything. I’ve found that the best NFL outfits for this age group mix soft materials, bright team colors, and playful design details.

My go to picks:

• Team themed graphic tees with cartoon mascots or helmet designs
• Elastic waist shorts or joggers with their team’s name down the leg
• Lightweight hoodies or pullovers for those chilly classroom A/Cs
• Velcro team sneakers or slip ons with NFL patterns

For example, a Dallas Cowboys shirt with a friendly star mascot and matching navy shorts is easy to throw on and totally school appropriate. Bonus points if the backpack has their team logo too. I once found a Pittsburgh Steelers lunchbox that my nephew refused to put down, even at dinner.

One tip? Keep backup outfits in the car. Messes happen fast at this age. Having a second NFL outfit handy means they won’t have to change into a boring spare if ketchup strikes.

Grades 3 to 5

By the time kids hit 3rd to 5th grade, they’re starting to develop a style. They want to be noticed, but not too much. NFL fashion for this age should be bold without feeling like a costume.

Outfit ideas that always work:

• A Las Vegas Raiders black tee tucked into camo joggers
• A Kansas City Chiefs red long sleeve under denim overalls
• Green Bay Packers hoodie over basketball shorts and high top sneakers

This is also a fun age for layering. I’ve seen my niece wear a Philadelphia Eagles tee under a flannel shirt, tied at the waist. She looked like she stepped straight off Pinterest, and she’s only ten.

NFL hats also come into play here. Snapbacks or beanies with your team’s logo are easy accessories that work on the playground and in the classroom.

And for parents trying to make mornings easier: let them help pick their outfit the night before. I usually lay out two options, both team themed, and let my kid pick. It avoids morning chaos and gives them some control.

Middle School

Middle school is when style starts to matter. Kids this age are watching TikTok, noticing what’s trending, and becoming more self aware about their outfits. The challenge is blending team gear with personal style.

Here’s what I’ve seen actually get worn:

• Oversized NFL crewnecks with biker shorts and platform sneakers
• Layered looks, like a Bengals tee under an open plaid button down
• NFL zip hoodies over graphic tees and jeans or cargos
• Team socks worn over leggings or under ripped jeans

I remember last year, my neighbor’s daughter wore a New York Giants hoodie over a pleated skirt and Air Force 1s. She looked confident, stylish, and still totally herself.

At this age, quality matters more. Look for well stitched designs, breathable fabrics, and fits that feel more like real clothes than novelty gear. You want something that can pass the hallway vibe check and still hold up through gym class.

High School

By high school, your kid probably has a signature look and opinions. The best NFL outfits here lean more streetwear than school spirit. Think vintage washes, minimalist designs, and cool layering.

Some winning looks I’ve seen:

• A retro Miami Dolphins hoodie with distressed jeans and white sneaks
• Chicago Bears polo half tucked into khaki joggers
• A cropped 49ers tee paired with a leather jacket and flared pants
• NFL bomber jackets or varsity styles over neutral basics

This is also where accessories shine. Chain necklaces, rings, clear bags with team patches, and even nail polish in team colors are subtle nods that don’t feel forced.

My high schooler layered a Ravens long sleeve under a denim vest and called it a “soft grunge NFL vibe.” I don’t question it. As long as they feel good and represent their team, that’s a win.

Game Day Meets Picture Day

Here’s a fun idea if your school has a “Favorite Team Friday” during the first week or even picture day close to kickoff weekend. Match the theme.

Some schools let students wear jerseys or team shirts instead of uniforms or dress codes, even more reason to bring out the gear. Coordinated sibling outfits? I’ve seen families nail it with matching Chargers Hawaiian shirts or Patriots polos.

If you’re going for a cleaner look for yearbook photos but still want a subtle NFL nod, try:

• A Bills blue collared shirt with team socks
• A Falcons tee under a structured jacket
• A small lapel pin or bracelet in your team’s colors

It’s those little details that make the outfit memorable.

Let’s be honest, shipping delays are real. Especially when school is around the corner. Here’s where I’ve had the best luck finding NFL back to school outfits for kids:

• Fanatics – Huge selection of official gear for every team
• NFLShop.com – Direct from the league, lots of youth sizing
• Amazon NFL Kids Apparel – Good for last minute orders
• SunflowersHill.com – Unique NFL themed Hawaiian shirts, comfortable tees, and matching gear in youth and adult sizes (FREE shipping and 10% OFF).

If you’re ordering online, aim for at least two weeks before school starts. I also recommend keeping sizing consistent with what they wore last spring. Kids grow fast, but between May and August, the jump isn’t huge.

Tips to Make It Easy on Busy Parents

Back to school is hectic. Here’s how I keep NFL fashion simple for my household:

1. Pick a theme – Choose one team per kid and build around it. Keeps mornings fast.
2. Buy in sets – Tee, hoodie, shorts or joggers from the same team equals mix and match options.
3. Stock up on accessories – Socks, hats, scrunchies, and patches are affordable ways to stretch an outfit.
4. Go unisex – Hawaiian shirts and hoodies work across all ages and genders. Great for siblings.
5. Let kids lead – Even if it’s not your team, let them wear what feels right. It builds confidence.

Final Thoughts

The first day of school should feel exciting, not stressful. And when your kid walks in wearing their favorite NFL team’s gear, it adds a layer of comfort and pride to the mix.

Whether it’s a soft Broncos hoodie, a Panthers tee under a jean jacket, or matching Chiefs shirts for a set of cousins, these outfits are more than just clothes. They’re confidence boosters, conversation starters, and little reminders that even in a new grade, your kid belongs.

Ready to start the season strong? Give your kid a look that scores on and off the field.

Want outfit ideas with fast shipping and family friendly options? Browse our Sport Gifts collection.