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| The International Series is still a great place to get what you want. |
While I was in the city centre a few weeks ago I noticed that Urban Outfitters were stocking some NFL gear, it equated to 3 Oakland Raiders tees and a Falcons jersey. Similarly, USC (it's a clothing store over here, not a university) holds a short selection of New Era caps/hats. This is the same as JD Sports, which occasionally gets its hands on a few jerseys, and more commonly caps and bobble hats. But that is the extent of it, there are no strong brick and mortar stores that carry any real amount of NFL gear regularly.
So with that we (as fans) have to turn our attention to the online retailers. The first option here is the NFLShop.com store, and this helpfully redirects to their European store. I say helpfully because at first it does appear that way. The store front looks good and has a similar level of quality to the full NFLShop store. As I noted earlier it's the depth that's lacking. As a Chicago Bears fan, on this site my jersey choices currently sit at: Julius Peppers (White Replica) and Devin Hester (Blue Replica - XL Only). And that's it, no more Bears jerseys.
This isn't true of every team, as the better sellers are supported more readily. It's just a shame that the NFL can't supply more than a basic line of jerseys to their own European store. I'm sure whoever runs that store feels the same pain as me, getting requests daily for items that they're unable to stock. I do however feel it to be my duty to suggest that as a group of fans we try to support the NFL Europe store, with hopes that increased sales translates into a better store for years to come.
This leaves me with a short list of the best places to pick up your NFL gear that hasn't just fallen off the back of a truck and magically made it's way to your local clothing store.
- NFLShop.com - This is the traditional choice. All your goods come from the USA, and thus are subject to rather healthy shipping amounts. In addition to this, there's the small case of VAT, which has to be paid on arrival of your goods. If you take these additional charges into account it isn't cheap, but it is the best place to get what you're looking for as they typically always have that niche item that nowhere else could even get hands on. In addition to this, there is an NFL.com promotion that allows you to get up to 15% off orders, which basically covers the shipping and some of the sales tax on larger orders. All things considered, it should be the last resort for UK based fans but due to it's extensive catalogue there can be no doubt that with a discount of 15% it's the best way to stock up.
- FootballFanatics.com - Rather unsurprisingly my second choice is also an american based site. While not boasting the same depth as the official NFL store, Football Fanatics does offer free shipping on orders over $100. This makes it a more reasonable choice for a smaller order, of say a jersey and a cap. You do still have the unforgiving import tax to pay, but as with NFL Shop, there's a way to soften the blow.
- Nike UK - Maybe a bit of a curve ball, but Nike now supply uniforms for the NFL so it's unsurprising that they can also supply the fans with what they want. Sure, the collection doesn't extend too far outside the Kaepernick/RG3 comfort zone but it does come with free shipping, no additional costs and a guarantee of authenticity. Also, Nike iD is really doing a number on our team allegiance with these styled Nike Airs!
- NFL Europe Shop - Another store lacking in depth, but as I noted with the Nike store, there are no hidden charges. There is free shipping on orders over £100 and although the selection is poor right now it's sure to improve through next season with a longer International Series.
Those are my top picks for reliable stores. None are perfect and it's certainly worth checking out alternatives, but depending on the specific situation these are the best options. If you have any other suggestions I invite you to comment with your recommendations.