8 Nike Outfit Essentials to Wear to an American Football Game

Whether you're heading to a local school scrimmage or professional play-offs, American football games are an opportunity to dress in sporty, casual outfits that show off team pride.

Depending on where the American football game takes place—and what stage of the season it is—your game-day outfit can range from a team jersey and shorts to a heavily layered look with a parka, hat and gloves.

When you're deciding what to wear to an American football game, the key is balancing team spirit with all-day comfort. Check out this guide for tips on what to wear to a game—and shop Nike American football fan gear to get ready for game day.

(Related: 7 Outfit Ideas to Wear to a Basketball Game)

When deciding what to wear to an American football game, you can't go wrong with a team-branded American football jersey or T-shirt. Nike offers loads of styles adorned with NFL, college and university team logos. For those who don't want to pledge loyalty to a particular team, opt for seasonal American football-themed gear.

When it comes to jerseys, choose from home and away colours, as well as a wide selection of styles that display players' names and numbers. If you'd rather not commit to purchasing a team jersey, which tends to come at a higher price point than normal tees, go with a team-branded polo or Nike American football T-shirt.

If you're attending an early-season game when it's hot outside, consider picking a top that features sweat-wicking Nike Dri-FIT material, so you can keep cool and dry while you cheer on your team in the heat.

For American football games taking place in brisk, autumn weather, it's a good idea to layer a cosy sweatshirt over your game day jersey or T-shirt. In the Nike American football collection, you'll find hundreds of college and NFL team-branded hoodies, crew necks and half-zip sweatshirts. Wear one of these with joggers or jeans for an evening game or early morning tailgate in mild weather.

If you're already sporting your favourite American football jersey or T-shirt and don't need more team gear, consider layering a subtle Nike fleece zip-up on top—like a Tech Fleece hoodie—to show off your team spirit underneath.

A lightweight Nike bomber jacket is roomy without feeling bulky. These casual jackets are ideal for layering over a Nike American football hoodie or T-shirt.

If you prefer a super-sporty look, the Nike Sideline Coach Lockup Jackets are another lightweight pick for mild temperatures. These well-ventilated, water-repellent jackets are often worn by coaches and other team staff on the sidelines, so go with one of these if you want to channel your inner coach.

For American football fans who don't let late-season, cold weather get in the way of attending a game, plan to wear an insulating parka or puffer jacket to keep warm in the stands. Longer, knee-length Nike parkas are a great choice for cold, snowy games where you may want extra leg coverage.

For ample insulation and protection against the elements, opt for hooded jacket styles with Nike Therma-FIT Technology, which helps trap heat, or with Nike Storm-FIT technology, which makes cold, wet weather more bearable, thanks to windproof and waterproof fabric.

A laid-back, comfy look is the way to go on game day. Opt for a pair of Nike joggers or tracksuit bottoms to keep your lower body cosy and warm—especially if you'll be sitting on hard benches or stadium seats.

Within the assortment of Nike tracksuit bottoms, Nike Tech Fleece joggers provide the most polished, tailored look. They feature a tapered design at the calf, plus zip leg pockets for stashing your stuff, so you can stay hands-free while watching the game. For fans who prefer a roomier, cosier feel, opt for a pair of Nike Club Fleece tracksuit bottoms.

For warm-weather games, go with a pair of casual Nike Sportswear shorts to pair with an American football jersey or T-shirt. The Nike Sportswear collection is inspired by sport but crafted for everyday life so they'll fit right in on game day.

On the women's side, you'll find options like ribbed jersey shorts or high-waisted woven shorts with a roomy fit and pockets. For men, the Nike Sportswear shorts collection includes fleece cargo shorts, printed woven shorts and French terry shorts, among others.

If you tend to jump to your feet often when cheering on your team, be sure to wear sneakers with high-quality support and cushioning. Nike Air Force 1s are a solid choice for game day because they're classic, iconic sneakers that go with almost anything—and the Nike Air cushioning will help keep your feet comfortable.

Choose from low-, mid- or high-top AF-1 styles, as well as winterized boot styles for cold-weather games.

(Related: The Best Air Force 1s to Buy Right Now)

From caps and bucket hats that keep the sun out of your eyes to knit beanies that keep your head warm, there's a Nike hat you can accessorise with your game day outfit, whatever the weather. Some styles feature team branding, while others are printed with a simple Nike American football logo and an iconic Swoosh.

Words by Emily DiNuzzo