Sports
Where to Buy a Mike Ditka Sweater Vest When the Free Headband Runs Out
Oct
The Chicago Bears are turning Thursday Night Football against the Patriots into a tribute to Mike Ditka, who died on Oct. 9 at age 86. According to reports from Patrick Finley shared in an NFL on DAZN post, every fan at Soldier Field gets a fake mustache, the first 10,000 fans get a Bears knit headband inspired by Ditka’s famous sweater vest, and the team will hold a moment of silence before the game. The headband is limited, so here’s where to find the real look if you didn’t get one.
How the Bears Are Honoring Da Coach
The Thursday, Oct. 22 game is the latest in a week-by-week tribute. The Bears flew the flag at Halas Hall at half-staff, posted a sketch of Ditka on what would have been his 87th birthday, and moved their helmet tribute to the chest, with a football-shaped No. 89 patch over the heart. Fans have joined in too, including those who dressed like him at Lambeau Field in Green Bay. The Patriots matchup carries extra meaning: Ditka’s biggest win came against New England in Super Bowl XX.
Why the Sweater Vest Is the Symbol
Ditka coached the Bears from 1982 to 1992, and the sweater vest followed him long after he left the sideline. The dark blue vest he wore in Super Bowl XX, with “BEARS” across the front, later sold through Goldin for $183,000, per Cllct. That is why a headband “inspired by” the vest is a big deal to fans. The sweater vest is the first thing most people picture when they think of Ditka.
Where to Buy a Ditka Sweater Vest
If you missed out on the headband, or want something you can wear for the rest of the season, Fremont Clothing has two options. The Mike Ditka Bears Sweater Vest is the classic sideline look. For something more relaxed, the Mike Ditka Bears Sweater Vest Costume Sweatshirt gives you the vest look in sweatshirt form, which suits game day or a Ditka-style Halloween costume. You can also browse the full Mike Ditka merchandise collection. Pair any of them with a mustache and you’re ready for Soldier Field, or just the couch.
