The Perth Bears' much-anticipated inaugural home jersey, set to debut in their 2027 National Rugby League season, has ignited a passionate debate among fans regarding its design. The red-and-black hoop pattern, intended to honor the North Sydney Bears' heritage and Western Australian league history, has drawn comparisons to jerseys from other sporting codes and teams.
The club's slogan, 'Two histories, one future,' underpins the design, which features horizontal hoops inspired by the North Sydney Bears' 1908 foundation jersey. This strip is reportedly backed by a significant $6 million annual sponsorship, positioning it as one of the most lucrative club jerseys in Australian sport.
However, the visual similarities have led many fans to liken the design to that of the A-League's Western Sydney Wanderers. "So it's a Western Sydney Wanderers top," one commenter noted, while another added, "The Western Sydney Wanderers want their jersey back." Others pointed to the resemblance with New Zealand's Canterbury provincial rugby union team, citing "Crusaders vibes" and a close match to their National Provincial Championship side.
Some critics questioned the club's creative direction, suggesting a missed opportunity for a more distinctive identity for the NRL's newest franchise. "I understand the sentiment to the old Bears, but the creative minds who came up with this need talking to," one fan wrote. Another expressed, "It's not really the Bears though is it." There were also comments suggesting it looked like "an old rugby hoops jersey" and urging the club to "Build something special, go outside the norm."
The jersey prominently features Cash Converters as a sponsor, marking the brand's return to Western Australian rugby league sponsorship for the first time since the Western Reds folded in 1997. One fan's reaction tied this to the jersey's design, stating, "Put it this way, if I had one, I'd be taking it straight to Cash Converters and sell it straight away."
Despite the criticism, the design has garnered support from fans who appreciate its historical connections. "I personally like the Bears' red jersey with the black rings at the top. It has got a lot of heritage," one supporter commented. Another found it preferable to other club jerseys, noting, "Actually don't mind it, it is nicer than the Dolphins original jersey, as per usual though the sponsor logos take away from the jersey."
Perth Bears head coach Mal Meninga explained the symbolism behind the club's forward-facing bear emblem, stating it represents boldness and a proactive approach to challenges. "When they are confronted, they move forward. That's the attitude, that's that boldness that we love about the bear itself," Meninga said. The emblem's eight visible teeth also acknowledge North Sydney's foundation year of 1908 and its eight NSW Cup premierships.
The jersey was unveiled at Perth's WACA ground with notable attendees including ARL Commission executive chairman Peter V'landys and Premier of Western Australia Roger Cook. A concurrent event was held in North Sydney to connect with supporters across the country. 
