GAA Clothing: What Irish Fans Actually Wear to Matches

When you think of GAA clothing, apparel worn by fans and players of Gaelic Athletic Association sports like hurling and Gaelic football in Ireland. Also known as GAA gear, it’s not just about team pride—it’s about surviving Irish weather while showing up for your club. Whether you’re in Croke Park or a village pitch in Kerry, GAA clothing has to handle rain, wind, and standing for hours on cold, wet ground. It’s not a fashion statement. It’s a necessity.

Most Irish fans don’t just buy any jersey. They look for GAA jerseys, officially licensed shirts made with breathable, moisture-wicking fabric that holds up through seasons of matches—often from brands like O’Neills or Kilkenny GAA. But the real secret? Layering. Underneath that jersey, you’ll find a thermal base layer, a waterproof hoodie, and maybe even thermal leggings. Why? Because the Irish climate doesn’t care if you’re wearing your county’s colors. It’s going to rain. And if you’re not dressed for it, you’ll be shivering by the second half.

It’s not just about the jersey, either. GAA apparel, includes everything from tracksuits worn to away games to caps, scarves, and even waterproof gloves designed for chilly Sunday mornings on the sideline. Fans in Dublin might pair their jersey with a classic Irish wool coat, while those in Cork often opt for a durable, windproof jacket from a local outdoor brand. The best GAA clothing doesn’t scream "I’m a fan"—it whispers it quietly, through fit, fabric, and function.

And let’s talk fit. Irish GAA jerseys aren’t cut like American NFL tees. They’re longer in the body, looser around the shoulders, and made to layer over thick sweaters. If you buy one online and it’s too tight, you’ll regret it when you’re trying to throw on a fleece underneath. The same goes for tracksuits—many Irish fans prefer the classic cut: slightly baggy, with ribbed cuffs that don’t ride up when you’re cheering.

There’s also a quiet pride in wearing gear that’s made locally. Brands like Kilkenny GAA and Tipperary Sportswear still produce in Ireland, using materials that stand up to the damp. You’ll see more imported jerseys at big games, sure—but the real fans? They’ve got the ones stitched with the county crest, bought from the local club shop, washed by hand, and worn for years.

What you won’t find much of? Sneakers on match day. Most Irish fans wear sturdy boots or waterproof trainers—because the pitch isn’t a runway, and the car park isn’t a mall. You’ll see more UGG-style slippers at home after the game than on the way there.

So if you’re new to GAA culture, don’t just grab the first jersey you see. Look for the ones that are built for Irish conditions—durable fabric, proper fit, and a little bit of local history stitched into the seams. The best GAA clothing doesn’t just look right. It feels right. And after a few hours on a cold, wet sideline, you’ll know why.

Below, you’ll find real-life guides on what Irish fans actually wear to games, how to care for their gear, and where to find authentic pieces that won’t fall apart after one rainy match.