From Blackthorn to Nike in every colour: the evolution of GAA boots in the modern era

Historically, the footwear colour of choice in Gaelic games was strictly black. Anyone who dared to experiment with a different hue was met with suspicion and derision. A far cry from the eclectic shades on display now, writes Adam Moynihan

Have boots, will travel, will stand out. From left, Cork's Colin Corkery, Mayo legend Ciarán McDonald and his son, (right) Kobe. Graphic: Adam Moynihan

During RTÉ’s coverage of Tyrone v Mayo in the football championship a couple of weeks ago, ex-Tyrone player Seán Cavanagh commented on Mayo youngster Kobe McDonald’s choice of footwear.

“He’s a brave man coming to Omagh with a pair of pink boots… He’s gonna have to back it up.”