One of the most eagerly anticipated events of the GAA calendar is the release of the new inter-county jersey. In recent times these launches have been full-blooded affairs with a prolonged build-up and structured rituals.
Perhaps because of the challenge of getting the primary kit right, or just due to sheer infrequency of use, the alternative kit is often criminally overlooked and not given the attention it deserves. It is a difficult one to perfect, with the recent Kerry and Galway kits dividing opinion.
In that spirit, we've decided to take a closer look at the alternative kits throughout recent history, starting with Munster.
#10
When Kerry faced Meath in 2009, they were forced to abandon the traditional green and gold. Here Mike McCarthy sports the navy while Joe Sheridan gets a closer look at those stunning black/white boots.
#9
Last year Waterford togged out in this slick number for their clash with Derry.
#8 and #7
1993, Clare in blue. Tipperary in custard yellow. Back in the day of oversized jerseys and opened helmets, with additional openings to allow the fringe jut out. A simpler time.
#6
In 1982, Kerry were managed by Mick O'Dwyer. They had beaten Armagh in the semi-final in their traditional green and gold but with Offaly coming in the final, a change of kit was required. Rumour has it Adidas had designed an incredibly fashionable kit for the time but the GAA would not permit it due to sponsorship issues. Thus, a simpler design was put forward. In this era with a seemingly widespread anti-collar agenda, this effort deserves recognition.
#5
Kerry feature quite heavily on this list, which is, of course, purely down to the exceptional standard of historic jersey and absolutely not because of a woeful lack of photographs concerning other teams and their efforts. The blue is always a crowd pleaser unless mixed with the green and gold. There is a concerning lack of long-sleeve jerseys in the modern game but they unquestionably have their place.
#4
Tipperary and Longford met in 2014, where Tipp modeled an outstanding alternative kit. Conor Sweeney is clearly delighted with it.
#3
The white of Limerick has always been a strong effort, and this certainly ticks the box.
#2
A strong performance from Limerick sees them with two efforts in the top three. In 2014, Limerick played London and modeled a really gorgeous alternative jersey.
#1
Cork, 1994. Any jersey that has Barry's Tea on the front and a classy collar like this is an automatic winner.
Make sure to keep an eye out for the Ulster's ranking next week!
