The All Blacks will tomorrow wear their new jersey, shorts and socks for the first time in a test. All three items of clothing are made of high-tech fabric designed by manufacturers adidas to give them an advantage over their opponents.
Coach Steve Hansen's players had a hand in the design of the clothing which will be worn in next year's World Cup.
The socks are made of a compression material, which is said to aid blood flow and muscle recovery in the lower legs, however the company yesterday said it had no view about how the players wore the new kit, including the socks.
"We don't mind if the jersey is tucked into the shorts, or whether the socks are down," said Quentin Bleakley, the country manager of adidas New Zealand. "Whatever makes them feel comfortable is important."
Bleakley, who was part of the new jersey launch at the team's London hotel during the week, agreed the socks would not exert the compressive qualities if they were worn around the ankles.