Dallas Cowboys Nike Uniforms: Grading New Home and Away 2012 Jerseys

The Dallas Cowboys are one of the most storied franchises in the NFL, so it's important for their jerseys to match that history. Nike's new uniforms, which were released today, do exactly that by incorporating a fresh design with the vintage look.

Even though the company has gained recognition for designing some crazy uniforms for college teams, the Cowboys are one team that continues to look best by keeping things simple. After all of their success, there was no reason for a radical change.

Let's take a look at some of the different looks Dallas will be sporting next season, including the accessories that will be used. The alternate uniforms haven't been released yet, but will be updated once they are shown to the public.

Home Jersey

There aren't many noticeable changes to the Cowboys main jersey. It's a more sleek, new-age look as you would expect, but all of the usual elements are there. From the double stripes on each arm to the big star on their helmet, the Cowboys look exactly like they should.

The uniform has always had a simple theme. The team has never tried to incorporate an exorbitant number of colors or over-the-top design ideas. Jerry Jones probably figures if it isn't broke, there's really no reason to fix it.

This is a case where a lack of surprises isn't a bad thing. Credit to Nike for sticking with tradition.

Grade: A-

Gloves

An underrated part of the new Nike uniforms are the gloves. The team-oriented style provides another layer of creativity to the mix. Putting the logo on them was an awesome idea and I was glad to see that get carried over from college.

The lines all converging on the star is a nice touch so that they weren't only bland, but yet they continue to give off the same vintage look as the jersey. They should stand out nicely, especially with Miles Austin and Dez Bryant a boatload of passes.

All told, it's a nice fit that will often be overlooked but completes the look.

Grade: B+

Cleats

The Cowboys' colors flow perfectly together on the new cleats. A contrast between dark and light give them an old look and the Nike swoosh fills in the open space nicely. Dallas players should really enjoy lacing these up every Sunday.

Even more impressive is the amount of detail. The cleats are lighter, which should improve everyone's speed and agility, while also having a good look. Even people who only play in the backyard with some friends are going to want a pair of the cleats.

Not much to complain about here. A job well done.

Grade: A-

Overall Grade

I really like the Cowboys' new uniforms. Although the changes were limited, they are noticeable and should give Dallas a fresh look heading into next season. The fans are hoping they don't turn out to be the most impressive thing on the field, however.

The color combinations are spot on, and enough components were left intact so anybody can take a quick glance at the jersey and immediate know it belongs to the Cowboys. That's the entire point of keeping the same style for so long.

Nike passes this test with flying colors.

Grade: A-