Going To The Football – What To Wear
For many, cheering for your favourite team in the stands is a time-honoured tradition for families across the UK. For me, however, it is a bit of a chore; I must be honest, whilst I don’t hate football, I am not a big fan either. I go for Ben, though, as he enjoys it, and other than when it is bitterly cold, I mostly enjoy it.
Football often brings families together, whether it’s the excitement of a Premier League match or the community spirit at a local game. But with the UK’s unpredictable weather, particularly the cold and wet conditions, choosing the right clothing is vital to enjoying the match in comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned football family or going to your first match, here’s how to dress comfortably for the occasion.
This article includes items I was sent free of charge as PR samples to try out and share with you.

Layer Up against the Chill
The key to maintaining comfort during a chilly match day is layering! Ensure you have enough warm clothes under a waterproof coat because inevitably it will rain. A hood on your coat is pretty essential too, as there is often no space for an umbrella.
For the kids, consider fleece-lined joggers that offer warmth without the bulk, and ensure that everyone wears warm, comfortable socks. Don’t forget a cosy hat, scarf and gloves – these can be in team colours to show your support while staying toasty!

Sturdy and Warm Footwear
Fields and stands can get muddy at grassroots football, so choose waterproof boots or sturdy trainers. If rain is on the forecast, wellies might just be your best friend – and many come in playful designs the kids will love.
For higher league games, you are likely to be in tiered stands which don’t get muddy but can have puddles and also can be bitterly cold so ensure you are wearing shoes which are sturdy for climbing all the steps and warm for your time outside.

Don’t Forget Waterproofs
Invariably, rain will be a factor to consider. Pack compact umbrellas are good for the walk to and from the ground or for grassroots football. For larger games, ensure your waterproof jackets have hoods to shield you from sudden downpours.
For extra precaution, you could take along ponchos; these can be lifesavers and are easy to throw over your clothes and remove when the rain subsides.
The coat or jacket below is from Lighthouse Clothing and is their Long Beachcomber Jacket in the colour biscuit.

Wrap up warm
Never underestimate the need for gloves, a scarf and a hat. Remember you will be outside for around 2 hours in most cases, possibly longer if you have a long walk to the ground or the game goes into extra time. Whether you choose the club’s colours or your own choices, comfort and warmth should definitely come above style here, or in my opinion, you will regret it when you shiver!
The two warm hats I have included images of in this article are both from Lighthouse and so warm!

The Importance of Team Colours
Finally, the best part about dressing up for football is wearing those team colours. Look for official team merchandise like shirts, jackets, scarves, and hats that showcase your team and make you feel like one of the crowd.

Choosing brands for your football clothing
If you are looking for items that are waterproof, comfortable and not necessarily in the team colours, then I highly recommend Lighthouse Clothing. The coats and jackets from there are classic in style, so they can be worn for other events too, and as such, will never go out of fashion.
What do you wear to the football? Are you wrapped up warm in your team colours or wearing the warmest clothes you can, whatever the colour? Let me know in the comments below.