Fun Back To School Activities for Kids

Posted on May 18, 2023 at 7:58 am.

Back to school creeps up on us all very quick during the summer, so being prepared so activities for your kids will help you in the long run.

Time flies when kids are having fun and summertime is the quickest season of the year!

And while that return to school is always mixed emotions for parents and kids alike, with out help you can make it as fun and seamless as possible.

In this blog we’ll explore some really fun back to school activities for your kids that will help ease the transition.

And hey, you might have some fun yourself!

Back to School Activities for Kids

School Items Hunt

Think Easter Egg hunt, but your kids will be finding school supplies instead!

This is one of the best back to school activities for kids because they can keep fit and active, as well as having loads of fun collecting shiny new things.

You’ll need to make a list of all the things a student needs for school – like pencils, erasers, notebooks, and markers, then hide them around the house.

Give your children hints, then let them explore, look for, and collect the objects.

And, why not hide some bigger prizes or a grand prize like a new schoolbag or backpack to finish the game out?

We got you covered HERE with some great options for unbeatable prices.

Meet up with your classmates

Whether your kid or kids are returning for another year or going to school for the first time, the first few days will be much easier if they are familiar with their classmates.

Of course they might have kept in touch with some of them throughout the summer, but sometimes that isn’t possible.

Children starting a new school year need to develop friendships and a sense of belonging.

So before the school year starts, encourage your children to get to know their classmates.

Plan a meetup or playdate at a nearby park or GAA pitch so that you may play games and do activities with them there.

By doing this, you may reduce any fear you may have about making new friends and establish a good social atmosphere straight away.

The key is all about planning – this blog on how to keep your kids active will tell you how.

Go Shopping!

We all love new things – whether you’re a kid or an adult!

So take your kids shopping for new school clothes and shoes on a special outing.

Include them in the decision-making process and let them select their preferred goods within the available budget.

We’ve an unbelievable Kids range at very competitive prices so why not check it out?

In addition to making sure they are dressed comfortably; this exercise instils a sense of pride and pleasure in them towards their new clothes.

If you want to find your local Intersport Elverys, check out our Store Locator Here.

Get Personalised Items

Remember how cool it was to have your name printed on your jersey, backpack or hoodie back in the day?

That hasn’t changed!

Embrace your child’s ingenuity by having them customise their backpack.

You can encourage kids to personalise their bags with their names, favourite designs, or motivational sayings by giving them fabric markers, iron-on patches, or even embroidery supplies.

This exercise gives their possessions a unique touch and fosters a sense of pride too.

Check out our Embroidery service which might help.

And, if there’s a backpack your child has a special attachment too but it might have seen better days, this blog on how to fix a broken backpack strap could be useful.

Make a Memory Jar

The beginning of a new school year is an occasion to celebrate.

By decorating a glass jar together, you can assist your youngster in creating a memory jar. Encourage students to record special moments on tiny slips of paper and put them in the jar during the academic year.

Open the jar at the end of the year and reflect on the memorable experiences they experienced.

This activity makes a memento and offers a chance to consider one’s own personal development.

Here is a really good guide on How to create a DIY memory jar.

Conclusion

Back to school can be a busy time. That’s why we’ve created this other blog on how you can Balance Sports and School for your kids.

You may make the change from summer vacation to school days fun for your kids by including these back-to-school activities into your daily routine.

Keep in mind that fostering a happy and stimulating environment encourages students to embrace learning, form friendships, and look forward to the following school year.

Be prepared for fun, fun and more fun!

A how-to Guide to Keeping your Kids Active During the School Year

Posted on May 18, 2023 at 7:57 am.

Written by Ger Flanagan

All parents want their kids to happy, healthy and active, especially during busy times like the school year. But we know that keeping them active can be difficult.

At school, they could be sitting at a desk for most of the day, followed by busy evenings and homework to complete, makes finding time for physical activity a challenge.

Not to mention kids’ love of gaming!

But at Intersport Elverys we believe that nothing beats play time outdoors and in this blog we’re going to share some practical tips on how to ensure you are keeping your kids active this year.

Sounds fun?

Challenges of Keeping Kids Active During the School Year

Life is busy for parents and there are so many distractions for kids these days too.

We all struggle to keep as active as we should be for the same reasons.

A survey conducted by the Irish Heart Foundation in 2020 found that four out of five kids are not getting the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity they need per-day, with factors such as lack of time and access to facilities as a barrier.

We’re not here to point out what you are doing wrong either by the way, just to inform you of the reasons why it might be happening.

Here some of the most common.

Busy Schedules

Finding time for physical activity can be challenging with school, extracurricular activities, and homework.

Particularly when the evenings get shorter and the window to get outside decreases.

Here are some tips on how you can better balance school and sports.

Bad weather

It’s Ireland, after all!

It would be a great little country if only we could roof it, but unfortunately we can’t.

The weather is unpredictable and that makes outdoor activities difficult and hard to plan.

Screen Time

With so many digital gadgets and displays available, youngsters may be more prone to spending their leisure time on their devices rather than engaging in physical activity.

Trying to get them off their screen often leads to arguments and tantrums and we all want to avoid that too.

No Motivation

After a long day at school, children may be exhausted and unmotivated to engage in physical activity.

Parents can be the same with work.

No Facilities

Depending on where you reside, you may not have easy access to sports facilities or children’s programs.

If you’re living in a rural area, transport may be an issue. Or if you’re urban, there might not be sufficient space for your kids.

Each pose their own difficulties.

These challenges make it hard for parents trying so hard in keeping their kids active. But with some creative thinking and planning, it is possible to overcome it.

Tips and Tricks in Keeping your kids Active

Being creative and being prepared are great ways to ensure you are keeping your kids active this summer and during the school year.

Thankfully, Ireland has an abundance of hidden gems and ideas.

Check out our Ultimate Guide to Watersports Blog for an idea of some of our best water sport resources across the country.

Or below are some other ideas to consider.

Schedule Activity Time

Schedule time for physical activity just as you do for academics and extracurricular activities.

This might be anything as simple as a family walk after dinner or a dance party before night.

Here are some fun activities that you can do to make going back to school fun.

Make it Fun!

Children are more likely to participate in physical activity if it is enjoyable.

Consider swimming, biking, or even taking dancing classes.

SUP Boarding is all the new trend too – check out our Guide to SUP Boards in Ireland.

Embrace the Outdoors

Ireland has some of the most beautiful nature in the whole world!

And we don’t say that lightly.

Despite the fact that the weather in Ireland can be unpredictable, there are several options for outdoor physical activity.

Try hiking, playing soccer, or even taking a walk at a nearby park.

This blog on the Best Trail Runs in Ireland will show you where some of these beautiful nature walks can be done.

Ways to Encourage a healthy lifestyle

As well as coming up with ways to keep your kids active, it’s equally important to encourage a healthy lifestyle too.

Sport is a great way of doing that, and our blog on the Health Benefits of Sports for Kids will share more on the how and why.

Lead the way with healthy habits

Healthy habits should be modelled for children, so make sure you’re adopting healthy habits yourself.

This could involve eating a well-balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting adequate sleep.

Limit Screen Time

While screens may be a tremendous source of entertainment and education, they should be used in moderation.

Encourage your youngster to participate in other activities such as reading, playing outside, or socialising with friends.

Make healthy choices simple

Make sure your youngster has easy access to water and healthy snacks.

Packing nutritious lunches and snacks for school can help ensure your child gets the nourishment they require.

Often, access to healthy foods can hard to get, so if you make this available at all times, it’s amazing the impact it can have.

You can help your child stay active, healthy, and happy throughout the school year by taking a holistic approach to their health and well-being.

Set Realistic Goals and Expectations

While encouraging your child to be active is crucial, it is equally important to set reasonable goals and expectations.

Don’t expect your youngster to become a superstar athlete overnight.

Instead, concentrate on establishing attainable goals that will help you gain confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

This could be striving for 30 minutes of physical activity every day or practicing a specific skill, such as basketball dribbling or bike riding.

Celebrate your child’s accomplishments, no matter how minor, and view setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow.

The American Academy of Paediatrics recommends that parents help their kids set “SMART” goals – goals that are:

Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Relevant
Time-bound.

For example, instead of saying ‘I want to get in shape’, a SMART goal might be ‘I want to run a 5K in 3 months’.

Give your kids plenty of options and support

There are numerous tools and support systems available to assist kids in remaining active during the school year and summer.

Encourage your child to join sports teams or after-school activities that are related to their interests.

There is a GAA club in nearly every parish in Ireland, or why not consider rugby, soccer or athletics.

You can ever consider youth gym classes or youth programs. Make exercise a family event by going for walks or bike rides together.

You can also assist your child in tracking their progress and remaining motivated by providing them with a fitness tracker or app that allows them to establish and track objectives.

It is critical to remember that physical activity does not need to be structured or formal in order to be effective.

Encourage your child to participate in active play with their buddies, such as tag, kicking a ball around, jumping rope or a game of frisbee.

The goal is to choose activities that your child will enjoy and that will work with their schedule and lifestyle.

Conclusion

Sport and play time can be so much fun for your kids and has so many benefits.

By knowing the challenges and acknowledging them, you can help your kids develop lifelong healthy habits.

And you might even enjoy and develop a better lifestyle yourself.

We’re here to help you on every step of the way too, so check out our amazing kids category below.

Tips for Balancing School and Sports for your Kids

Posted on May 18, 2023 at 7:56 am.

Written by Ger Flanagan

As a parent, you want your child to be successful in both academics and sports.

But finding the perfect balance between schoolwork and sporting activities, on the other hand, might be difficult.

You may be wondering how you help your child in managing their time, prioritising their duties, and maintaining their health and well-being while following their interests.

In this blog, we’ll discuss some techniques for assisting your child as they balance the responsibilities of school and sports.

Whether your child is a seasoned athlete or just starting out, we hope you find some useful information in this post.

Plan and Prioritise for School and Sports

Fail to prepare; prepare to fail and all that!

This applies to parents and kids in balancing sports and school too you know.

Here are some important things to remember:

Assist your child in creating a timetable that includes periods for homework, studying, and sports practices or games.
Make certain that the timeline is both realistic and doable.
Divide larger activities into smaller, more doable steps.
Make sure your youngster has adequate time to finish each assignment without becoming overwhelmed.
Encourage your youngster to identify priorities and make good use of their time.
Teach kids important time-management skills that will serve them well in the future.

Remember, you don’t want to overload your or your kids schedules, so keep things realistic in what you can achieve.

Sports has so many benefits to your kids, check it out in on our blog.

Managing Time for school and sports

If only there were more hours in the day, right?

Well unfortunately there isn’t, or if there is, we certainly haven’t come across them yet!

Either way, time management is a skill, especially in busy households. And yes, we know some kids don’t do time management or schedules, but keeping it simple and consistent will help.

This blog on 5 Helpful Tips for Better Time management is interesting for sports families.

Here are some of our tips:

Encourage your child to use any free time throughout the school day, such as study hall or lunch breaks, to finish homework or study for tests.
Help them find ways to multitask, such as listening to study materials while driving to sports practices or completing stretching exercises while studying at home.
Use your time wisely to attain academic and athletic success.
Show your child how to balance their calendar without forsaking one activity for another.
Use apps and calendars to help your youngster plan their routine and stay on track.

Communicate with Coaches and Teachers

Remember, parents, that coaches and teachers want the best for your child and are frequently eager to collaborate with you to develop a strategy that benefits everyone.

By simply communicating with them, you can guarantee that your child receives the academic and athletic support they require by communicating consistently and openly.

Here are some things you should do:

Make an appointment with your child’s coaches and teachers to go over their schedule and schoolwork.
Ensure that coaches and teachers are aware of your child’s academic obligations and schedule.
Communicate with coaches and teachers on a regular basis to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Create a strategy for managing your child’s time and responsibilities with the help of coaches and teachers.
If your child is feeling overwhelmed or pressured, encourage them to talk with their coaches and teachers.

Mind you mental and physical health

It’s easy to get caught up in the pressures of school and sports but remember that your mental and physical health should always come first.

You may help your child flourish both on and off the field by encouraging them to prioritise self-care and manage stress in healthy ways.

Make sure your youngster gets adequate sleep, eats a nutritious diet, and stays hydrated.
Encourage your youngster to rest and take breaks as needed.
Keep an eye on your child’s stress levels and urge them to seek help from you or a mental health expert if they are feeling overwhelmed.
Encourage your child to develop good coping mechanisms for stress management, such as exercise, mindfulness, and talking with friends and family.
Encourage your child to emphasise self-care and mental health just as much as they do sports and academics.

Conclusion

Finally, juggling education and sports can be difficult for both parents and children.

It can, however, be successfully managed with time and patience.

Remember to plan and prioritise, to make good use of your time, to interact with coaches and teachers, and to look after your child’s emotional and physical health.

Keeping your kids active can be difficult, but we’re here to help with this blog.

Encourage your child to participate in sports because there are several benefits such as improved physical health, improved academic achievement, and improved social skills.

Check out our Kids category below if you want to be kitted out in the best gear.

The Benefits of Sports for Kids

Posted on May 18, 2023 at 7:55 am.

Written by Ger Flanagan

Sports, fun and summertime go hand-in-hand at Intersport Elverys and the benefits of all these for kids are humongous.

As well as sports being fun for your kids, it can also keep them active, allow them make new friends and learn important life skills.

But did you know that sports can also improve their physical and emotional health?

In this blog, we’ll look at some of the advantages of sports for children, such as how it can help them stay fit, healthy, and happy.

Physical Health Benefits of Sports for Kids

Regular physical activity is essential for kid’s health and development, and sports are an excellent method for them to obtain the exercise they require.

The following are some of the physical health benefits of sports for children:

Better Cardiovascular Health

Sporting activities can help children’s cardiovascular health by strengthening their heart and lungs.

This can help individuals increase their endurance, lower their risk of heart disease, and enhance their general fitness.

Improve coordination and motor skills

Sports require children to use multiple muscle groups while also developing coordination and motor skills.

This can assist children enhance their general physical ability, balance, and agility.

Reduce the risk of obesity

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), they estimated that over 38 million kids under the age of 5 were overweight or obese.

Regular exercise and sports is a brilliant method of your kids maintaining healthy weight and reducing the risk of becoming obese.

Obesity leads to a range of health problems, like diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease.

Maintain stronger bones and muscles

Weight-bearing sports such as running and leaping can help children develop stronger bones and muscles.

This can lower the chance of injury while also improving overall physical performance.

Yoga can be a fantastic option, so why not check out our Best Yoga Poses for Kids Guide with the O’Neill family?

Sports provide kids with a variety of physical health benefits that can help them live happier, healthier lives.

Mental Health Benefits of Sports for Kids

Along with the physical, sports for kids can have huge benefits on their mental health too.

A study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that participation in team sports can help improve kids self-esteem and positively impact both their mental health and social skills.

Here are some of the benefits:

Reduced stress and anxiety

Physical activity, such as sports, can help youngsters cope with stress and anxiety.

Endorphins are released during exercise, which can improve mood and reduce tension and anxiety.

Improve confidence

Participating in sports can help youngsters develop a sense of accomplishment while also improving their self-esteem and confidence.

This might boost their confidence in their abilities both on and off the field.

Better sleep

Regular activity, especially sports involvement, can help children sleep better.

This is significant since sleep is essential for both physical and mental wellbeing.

Better Attention span

Sports can help youngsters increase their focus and attention span, which can help them perform better in school.

Sporting activities provide children with a variety of mental health benefits that can improve their general well-being and happiness.

Football is always a great option, this Guide to Football Training Equipment might come in useful to get started.

Social Benefits of Sports for kids

Sports can be a really effective and simple way of helping your kids develop all important life skills, such as social confidence, teamwork, communication and leadership.

It might also be one of the first times they get exposed to all these at once too.

Here we look into them a bit more.

Teamwork and leadership skills

Sporting activities need youngsters to operate as a team and learn how to lead and follow.

This can assist kids in developing key social skills and attributes of leadership that will serve them well in the future.

Studies have found that community sport participation helps improving kids shyness and significantly increasing anxiety over time.

Making friends

Sports can be an excellent method for youngsters to meet new people and develop new friends.

This can assist children in developing a sense of belonging and social skills, as well as having much more fun.

Learning to win and lose

Both are equally as important as the other.

Learning to handle triumph and failure with grace and sportsmanship: Sports can teach youngsters how to handle win and defeat with grace and sportsmanship.

This can aid in the development of crucial life skills and values, especially once they know that it is not all about winning.

Academic Benefits of Sports

As well as doing great in sports, it’s important that your kids academic side improves too.

And sports are a brilliant method of doing just that.

But don’t just take our word for it. We’ve pulled out of some great research to back up why sports and ‘the books’ go hand in hand.

Research published in the Journal of School Health discovered that middle school pupils who participated in sports performed better academically than those who did not.
In the USA, Student-athletes have higher grade point averages (GPAs) and lower dropout rates than non-athletes, according to the National Federation of State High School Associations.
According to a review of data published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health, physical activity, especially sports involvement, can improve cognitive function and academic achievement in children and adolescents.

Conclusion

We hope at this stage you are beginning to see how beneficial sports can be for your little bundles of joy.

If your thinking of sending your kids to camp this year, this Essential Guide to Summer Camps blog is a must read.

Otherwise, we hope we’ve laid out all the benefits to you and this might encourage you to get your kids involved in sports.

Intersport Elverys are experts in sport and have an incredible of kids categories and items to help you along. Check it out below.

How Long is a GAA Match? A Guide to Gaelic Games Duration

Posted on May 16, 2023 at 9:32 am.

Written by Ger Flanagan

If you’re new to Gaelic football or hurling and want to know how long is a GAA match, then look no further.

To the untrained, the GAA can look like pure chaos with no rules at all!

But we assure you that there is indeed rules – quite a lot of them actually – and knowing how long a GAA match is should be one of the first things you know.

GAA matches, in short, last 60 minutes at club level and 70 minutes for inter-county games.

But that’s only scratching the surface.

This blog post will examine the normal length of several Gaelic games as well as the variables that may affect the length of a match.

Let’s go.

How long is a GAA Match

Ok, so at this stage we presume you know what the GAA is right? Well if you don’t, check out our bog on What does the GAA stand for.

But back to this, and in short, the duration of a GAA hurling or football match is generally 60 minutes long.

That is for most adult club games, as well as minor, under-20 and underage games. It is divided into two halves of 30 minutes each.

However, senior inter-county football games last for 70 minutes long with two halves of 35 minutes each.

You then have to factor in additional time, which is time added on to the end of each half that takes into account time that may have been lost on the field due to injuries, substitutions or just some old-fashioned time-wasting!

If the two teams are level at the end of the 60 or 70 minutes, then the option of playing two 10 minute halves of extra time can be played, followed by a penalty shootout.

Or if it’s an All-Ireland Final, then a replay will be played after full time.

Teams also get 10 minutes for a half time break.

Want to know more about GAA? Here is the length of a GAA pitch – and it’s quite big!

How long is a GAA Match: Football v Hurling

Both Gaelic football and hurling are scheduled to last 60 minutes and 70 minutes respectively, as stated above.

However, in recent times the GAA has seen inter-county games last well over 80 minutes when added time is taken into account.

That is due to new rules like the black card, teams making tactical substitutions to run down the clock and of course injuries, due to the added physicality and pace of the game.

Back in the 1970s, the GAA trialled playing 80 minute games before settling on the current format.

Time keeping is becoming more of an issue in recent years and it has been suggested that the GAA bring in a time clock, like you see in basketball, to try and counteract it.

However, nothing has been done just yet.

Conclusion

So, now you know how long is a GAA match.

If you’re interested in learning more, why not check out our Ultimate Guide to Gaelic Football Positions?

Or maybe you’ll be interested in the history of hurling?

We love our GAA at Intersport Elverys, and if you’re looking for some of the top gear, check out our county by county range on our website below.

Ultimate Guide to Water Sports in Ireland

Posted on April 18, 2023 at 3:29 pm.

Written by Ger Flanagan

When the sun shines, water sports in Ireland are an unbelievably fun past time!

And with our wide variety of beaches, coastlines and beautiful lakes, there is no shortage of options.

So if you’re a pro or a beginner, there is something for everyone.

In this definitive guide to water sports in Ireland, we’ll look at the many activities available, the best places to attempt them, and everything else you need to know to get started.

Let’s dive in and experience the thrilling world of water sports in Ireland, from surfing the waves in County Clare to kayaking on the peaceful lakes of County Kerry.

Types of Water Sports in Ireland

Water sports fans will find a variety of interesting activities around Ireland’s magnificent shores and rivers.

Here are a few of the most popular sorts of water sports in Ireland:

Surfing

Ireland’s west coast is known for its world-class surf breaks, with some of the best waves found in counties such as Clare, Sligo, and Donegal.

There are plenty of places to catch a wave and ride the surge, whether you’re a novice or an expert surfer.

Kayaking

With its quiet lakes and rivers, Ireland is a perfect kayaking vacation.

There are many areas to explore by kayak in Ireland, from the breath-taking beauty of the Lakes of Killarney in County Kerry to the crystal-clear waters of Lough Corrib in County Galway.

We’ve done a full review on our Inflatable Kayaks here.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP Boarding)

For good cause, SUP has grown in popularity in recent years.

This low-impact activity is a terrific way to get in shape while also seeing Ireland’s waterways.

There are numerous ways to enjoy this enjoyable pastime, ranging from SUP yoga in Dublin to picturesque paddles along the Wild Atlantic Way.

For more information, check out our Ultimate Guide to SUP Boarding.

Windsurfing

Ireland is a popular location for windsurfers due to its strong winds and large waves.

County Cork, County Kerry, and County Waterford have some of the best windsurfing sites.

Bodyboarding

Bodyboarding is a fun and easy water activity in which you ride waves on a small, buoyant board.

This activity is popular among people of all ages and abilities, and it can be done on many of Ireland’s beaches.

County Clare has some of the best bodyboarding areas, where Atlantic swells provide excellent waves for riders to carve and ride.

Wakeboarding

Wakeboarding is an exciting water activity in which you are pushed along by a boat while riding a board.

This activity is popular on Ireland’s various lakes and waterways, with some of the greatest sites in County Cavan and County Monaghan.

Kitesurfing

This adrenaline-pumping sport combines aspects of surfing, windsurfing, and paragliding.

The windy coastline and shallow waters of Ireland make it an ideal site for kitesurfing, with some of the best spots being in County Wexford and County Sligo.

Diving/Snorkelling/Open Water Swimming

Divers will find a diverse assortment of marine life in Ireland’s seas, including colourful fish, seals, and even basking sharks.

Divers can explore a magnificent underwater terrain comprising rocky reefs, sea caves, and kelp forests at the Skellig Islands off the southwest coast.

Malin Head, Donegal Bay, and the Blasket Islands are other famous diving spots.

With a variety of diving schools and operators across the country, it’s simple to select a diving experience that matches your level of expertise.

Snorkelling is an excellent method to discover Ireland’s underwater life without requiring any training or equipment.

The Dingle Peninsula, where you can swim with playful dolphins and seals, and Inisheer Island, where you can snorkel around the famed ‘Wreck of the MV Plassey’ – a sunken cargo ship that has become a popular diving and snorkelling site – are two popular snorkelling destinations.

Open water swimming is a terrific way to experience Ireland’s waters for people who prefer to stay closer to the surface.

The country is home to a number of attractive and demanding swimming spots, such as the famous ‘Forty Foot’ swimming place in Dublin Bay and the iconic ‘Lough Hyne’ lake in West Cork.

The annual ‘Liffey Swim’ in Dublin is another prominent open water swimming event that draws swimmers from all over the world.

There are also huge Benefits to Sea Swimming too!

See what we mean about having something for everyone?

Thrill seekers, explorers or relaxers, there is a water sport for you all.

Top Locations for Water Sports in Ireland

We’re lucky in Ireland to have some of the most beautiful and amazing waterways and coastlines for all your water sports.

And there’s no shortage of them too, no matter where in Ireland you live.

These locations are just a handful of places for you to check out.

Lahinch, Co Clare

Lahinch is one of Ireland’s premier surfing or bodyboarding venues, offering year-round decent waves.

This picturesque seaside town is a water sports mecca, with several chances for surfing, bodyboarding, and kitesurfing.

Killary Harbour, Co Galway

Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord, is a stunning location for kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding.

The calm seas and breath-taking surroundings make it a must-see destination for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts.

Dingle Peninsula, Co Kerry

The Dingle Peninsula is a popular windsurfing location, with high winds and gorgeous beaches making it ideal for this thrilling activity.

Brandon Bay is a very popular destination for windsurfers.

Lough Derg, Co Tipperary

Lough Derg, Ireland’s third-largest lake, is ideal for wakeboarding, waterskiing, and other towed water sports.

The lake’s clean waters and sheltered bays make it ideal for both novice and experienced riders.

Check them out HERE.

The River Shannon

The Shannon River is Ireland’s longest river, and its tranquil waters are ideal for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing.

The River Shannon is a must-see spot for water sports aficionados, with many access locations and magnificent scenery along the route.

Check the guys at River Shannon Adventure Centre out.

Westport, Co Mayo

Westport is the ‘adventure capital of Ireland’ and there is no shortage of water sports to do.

There are numerous beaches that stretch out to Murrisk and Louisburgh on the foot of Croagh Patrick to do surfing, SUP Boarding or body boarding.

The scenery around the cliffs at Old Head are stunning for kayaking too.

Check out Destination Westport for more information.

There are so much more. Feel free to let us know.

Weather and Ideal Conditions

It’s critical to consider the weather and water conditions while planning your water sports excursion in Ireland.

The weather in the country can be unpredictable, so be prepared for fluctuations in temperature, wind, and rain.

When planning your water sports activities, keep the following points in mind:

Water Temp

Don’t forget, Ireland can be cold!

That means the water is most likely to be cold too! And in particularly varies in terms of season and location.

During the summer, water temperatures can range from 14 to 18°C, while in the winter, temperatures can dip to as low as 8°C.

Wearing adequate wetsuits and other gear is essential for staying warm and comfortable while enjoying the water.

Waves and Wind

When planning your water sports activities, wind and waves are important aspects to consider in Ireland.

Strong winds can make certain water sports more difficult or even dangerous, such as kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding.

Waves can also vary based on location and season, so check surf reports and local conditions before heading out.

The Tide

Another important aspect to consider and check!

Tides and currents can have a substantial impact on water sports, especially those near the shore.

Strong tides and currents can make swimming, surfing, and other activities more difficult, so it’s critical to be aware of the local conditions as well as any warnings or advisories that may be in effect.

Visibility

Another key thing to consider is visibility, especially when diving or snorkelling or going on long kayak trips.

Water visibility in Ireland can be influenced by a variety of factors, including weather and water pollution.

Before you go diving or snorkelling, or kayaking, always verify the local circumstances and water quality reports.

You can assure a safe and pleasurable water sports trip in Ireland by keeping an eye on the weather and water conditions.

Don’t be hesitant to seek advice from locals or water sports professionals on the finest places to enjoy your preferred activities.

With the proper planning and care, you may enjoy Ireland’s lovely waterways and stunning coastline.

Water Sports Ireland: Equipment

The proper equipment and gear are required for a safe and pleasurable water sports activity in Ireland.

Thankfully, Intersport Elverys will make sure you’re kitted out with the very best.

Before you go doing any water sports, it’s handy to have the right apparel, so why not check out our Swimming range HERE?

Here are some of the needed items for various forms of water sports:

Kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding

Stand up Paddle boarding requires a kayak or paddleboard, a paddle, and a personal flotation device (PFD) for kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding.

Check out our full range of SUP Boards and Kayaks right HERE.

To keep comfortable and safe in the water, it’s also vital to wear appropriate clothes and footwear, such as a wetsuit or dry suit. Check them out HERE.

Read our Inflatable Paddle/SUP Board review guide here.

Surfing & Bodyboarding

A surfboard, a wetsuit, and a leash are required for surfing and bodyboarding.

The sort of board and wetsuit you choose will be determined by your level of experience and the conditions you will be surfing in. Check out our bodyboards HERE.

Wearing suitable surf wax and sunscreen will also protect your skin from the sun and surfboard.

Towed Water Sports

A boat, tow rope, and the proper gear for your chosen activity, such as a wakeboard or set of skis, are required for towed water sports such as wakeboarding or water-skiing.

Wear a PFD and make sure the boat driver and spotters are experienced and aware about water safety.

Diving and Snorkelling

A wetsuit or dry suit, fins, a mask, and a snorkel are required for diving and snorkelling or open water swimming too.

It’s also a good idea to have a dive computer or timer, as well as make sure your tank and regulator are in good working order.

It’s best to rent or buy equipment from a reliable dive shop and get certified through a trustworthy diving organization.

Aside from these precise goods, you should bring proper clothing, footwear, and other necessities for your water sports expedition.

Sunscreen, a hat, a waterproof phone case, and a dry bag to safeguard your valuables are all good ideas.

Before heading out on the lake, make sure to verify local legislation and guidelines for equipment and gear requirements, and that all gear is in good functioning order.

Safety Tips for Water Sports

While water activities in Ireland can be tremendously exciting and fun, it is critical to prioritize safety to avoid accidents or injuries.

Here are some important safety tips to remember:

Check the weather forecast and tidal times

Before going out on the water, always check the weather forecast and tide times.

Strong winds, big waves, and changing tides can make water activities dangerous, so it’s critical to keep informed and avoid going out in bad conditions.

Wear adequate safety equipment

In the event of an accident or emergency, wearing suitable safety equipment can make a significant difference.

Always use a personal flotation device (PFD) or life jacket that is appropriate for your chosen water sport.

A helmet, wetsuit or dry suit, and protective boots are examples of additional safety equipment.

Know your ability!

When participating in water sports, it is critical to be realistic about your skill level and physical attributes.

To avoid accidents or injuries, never undertake a water sport in which you are not experienced or comfortable, and always keep within your boundaries.

Check equipment and gear

Before venturing out on the lake, make sure all of your equipment and gear is in good working order.

Check that your equipment is the correct size and kind for your chosen water sport, and replace any worn or damaged items.

Stay hydrated

It is critical to stay hydrated when participating in water activities, especially in hot or sunny conditions.

Bring plenty of water and electrolyte drinks to prevent dehydration.

Follow local laws and regulations

Familiarize oneself with local water sports legislation and procedures in your area.

Speed limits, equipment requirements, and designated areas for specific activities are all examples of this.

Conclusion

We hope you found this guide helpful.

As the weather begins to improve, why not get out and enjoy some water sports in the beautiful country we call Ireland?

Keep safe and have fun.

And why not check out our full range of water sports gear to help you choose which one you want to do?