The Baltimore Ravens are known for their iconic purple and black uniforms. Purple and black have been the Ravens’ primary colors since the franchise began in 1996. But the specific shades of purple and black, along with accents of gold and white, have evolved over the years as the team has updated its look.
Origins of the Ravens’ Colors
The Ravens were established in 1996 after the Cleveland Browns relocated to Baltimore. Team owner Art Modell decided to leave the Browns’ orange and brown colors in Cleveland and create a new identity for his Baltimore team. The Ravens’ name was inspired by the famous Edgar Allan Poe poem “The Raven.” Poe lived in Baltimore for several years, so naming the team after his famous work was a way to connect the Ravens to the city’s history and culture.
The color purple was chosen because it had not been used by any other NFL teams at the time. Purple is also associated with royalty, power, and mystery – traits Modell wanted linked to his new franchise. Black was selected as a secondary color because it provided a bold complement to the purple. Gold and white accents were added later to balance out the darker main colors.
Evolution of the Ravens’ Uniforms
The original Ravens uniforms from 1996-1998 featured a darker purple called Royal and a black that verged on a very dark purple. The white pants and white helmet featured black and purple accents. In 1999, the Ravens made their purple lighter and their black truly black. They also changed the gold accents to a brighter shade.
In 2002, the Ravens underwent a uniform redesign. The purple got even lighter, while the black remained dark and true. The gold was changed to a metallic gold. The number font was updated to make them bolder. Outlines were added around the numbers in black and white. Bold stripes were added to the sleeves and pants.
Another uniform refresh came in 2015. The purple got richer, while the metallic gold was swapped for a Vegas gold. The stripes on the sleeves and pants were enlarged. The black alternate jersey featured black pants for the first time. The Ravens updated their logo designs and wordmarks as well.
Most recently in 2020, the Ravens debuted a new uniform combo featuring white jerseys and white pants. This look provides high contrast with their bold purple and black colors.
Breakdown of the Ravens’ Current Uniform Colors
Here is a detailed look at the specific Pantone colors that make up the Ravens’ current uniforms:
| Color | Pantone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Purple | Pantone 268 C | Rich, deep purple |
| Black | Pantone Black C | True black |
| Vegas Gold | Pantone metallic 871 C | Shiny metallic gold |
| White | Pantone White C | Bright white |
The Ravens use this official palette of colors across all their uniforms and merchandise. The purple and black are always the base, with Vegas gold and white used for accents and highlights.
Primary Home Uniforms
The Ravens’ primary home uniforms feature a rich purple jersey with black numbers outlined in white. The sides of the jersey display black and white stripes over the shoulder. The sleeves have a wide black stripe on the bicep and a narrow white stripe at the wrist.
The front of the jersey has the word RAVENS written in block lettering. Beneath that is the player’s number. The nameplate on the upper back displays the player’s name in black. The helmet is black featuring a flying raven logo on each side in purple and gold.
The home pants are white with black and purple stripes down each side that match the arm stripes. The socks are black with matching stripes at the calf. Shoes are black with purple accents.
Primary Road Uniforms
On the road, the Ravens wear white jerseys with black numbers outlined in purple. The jersey stripes follow the same pattern but with the colors reversed – white and purple stripes on the sleeves and a solid black bicep stripe.
The nameplate is in purple and the word RAVENS across the chest is also purple. The pants for the road uniform are black with purple and white stripes. The socks are purple with black and white accents.
Alternate Black Uniforms
The Ravens’ alternate third jersey is solid black. This “Blackout” look was introduced in 2004 and has become a fan favorite. The numbers are in white with a purple outline. A metallic gold stripe highlights the black sleeves.
These jerseys are paired with black pants featuring contrasting white, purple, and gold stripes. Black socks with purple stripes complete the head-to-toe dark look. The black jerseys provide a menacing and intimidating style.
White on White Alternate Uniforms
Debuting in 2020, the Ravens became one of a handful of NFL teams to feature a white jersey paired with white pants. This bright look provides stark contrast against their usual darker purple hues.
The white jersey has purple numbers outlined in black. The pants and socks are solid white. The helmet remains black. While not worn often, the white on white provides a unique aesthetic for select games.
Conclusion
The Baltimore Ravens have sported an iconic look featuring purple, black, and gold since the franchise was established in 1996. While the exact shades and accents of the colors have evolved over the years, purple and black have remained the foundational hues for their uniforms.
The Ravens’ colors are a critical part of the team’s brand identity. Fans proudly wear their purple and black gear as symbols of loyalty. When the Ravens take the field clad in purple, opponents know they are in for a battle against a team with a hard-nosed, never-say-die attitude. The colors may have originated from ownership’s creative vision, but they have grown to represent the spirit of Baltimore football.
