2025 Gaelic Games Safety Equipment Best Practice Awareness
Jewellery in the GAA: What Players Need to Know
The rules governing jewellery in the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) differ based on the code being played. While some players may choose to wear little or discreet jewels, there are strict rules in place, particularly in the Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA) and the Camogie Association.
Hurling & Gaelic Football
Men's Gaelic football and hurling have no official ban on wearing jewellery. However, for safety reasons, referees may request that players remove specific objects prior to a match. This is especially important for anything that could cause injury to the wearer or an opponent, such as rings, chains, bracelets, or piercings. Players who leave their jewellery on risk being asked to remove it.
LGFA and Camogie
Unlike men's regulations, jewellery is strictly prohibited in LGFA and camogie. Players must remove all things before entering the field, and referees are responsible for ensuring compliance. This restriction is enforced to reduce the danger of damage, especially in high-contact circumstances.
Why the Concern?
The fundamental reason for limiting jewellery in sports is to ensure player safety. Loose or sharp objects can cause cuts, scrapes, or more serious injuries during tackles or collision. Even little studs or rings offer a concern because they can get entangled in clothing, hair, or equipment.
Enforcement and Best Practices
While there is no blanket prohibition on jewellery in all GAA games, it is recommended that players avoid wearing it during matches and training sessions. Even in hurling and Gaelic football, where it is not explicitly prohibited, officials may use their discretion to urge players to remove any things that may pose a risk.
For players who frequently wear jewellery, detachable alternatives or tape to hide piercings during practice can be a sensible solution. However, during formal matches, removing all jewellery is the safest option.
Wearing Glasses
The GAA’s Medical, Scientific, and Welfare Committee strongly recommends that players do not wear regular glasses while training or playing Gaelic football and hurling. Regular glasses are prone to shattering, which poses a significant safety risk to players.
To ensure safety, players who require vision correction should opt for safety glasses or goggles. These are designed with unbreakable polycarbonate lenses, which offer greater impact resistance and durability compared to standard glasses.
The Committee emphasizes that the need for vision correction should not hinder sports participation. Players should consult with an Optometrist or Optical Provider to determine the safest and most effective eyewear solution for their needs
Protection Cups
In GAA the use of protective cups is not mandatory but is often recommend, especially in hurling due to the risk of fast moving sliotars and swinging hurleys
It's very much advised for goalkeepers to wear protection cups, especially in hurling, where high-speed sliotars and hurleys can pose a serious risk
Metal Studs vs Firm Ground Studs
Metal Studs (Soft Ground-SG)
Best suited For
Wet, muddy and soft pitches (especially in winter)
Better grip in slippy conditions
More traction for sharp turns and sprints
Inconveniences
Heavier than FG studs
Not suited for use on harder pitches
Firm Ground (FG) Studs (Moulded)
Best suited for
Dry, firm or artificial pitches
Lighter and typically more comfortable than metal studs
Inconveniences
Less grip on wet grass and mud pitches
Can cause slipping in poor conditions
Not ideal for winter games
What Should you Choose?
Winter and Wet Conditions: Metal (SG) studs for better grip
Summer & Dry Conditions: Firm Ground (FG) studs for comfort and speed
All-Year Versatility: Some players use interchangeable studs for adaptability