The new Irish Rugby home and alternate jerseys that will be worn at the World Cup in France this autumn, have been revealed for the (almost) first time this morning and can be seen modeled by Iain Henderson, Ross Byrne and Peter O’Mahony in Dan Sheridan’s image above.
The jerseys, as well as a diverse and extensive range of training and supporter clothing, are available via Intersports Elverys, in-store and on Elverys.ie, and on Canterbury.com.
The science bit is that they boast “VaopDri+ adaptive and quick-drying technology, a bonded, elastic and flatlocked collar for strength, laser-cut holes for breathability, silicone logos and curved form for comfort and are made from 100 percent recycled polyester.
The jersey is billed as the most technologically advanced ever produced by Canterbury.
It is also one of the most expensive with the adult test shirts retailing at €105, and the regular in both men’s and women’s fit at €83 The junior shirts are selling at €62. Cost-conscious fans though will be able to buy the Grand Slam shirts worn earlier this year at a reduced price with the alternative on the Canterbury site this morning for €27.50.
Because of World Cup regulations, the jersey comes without the Vodafone or Aon branding that appears on the shirt for all games outside the tournament and which we assume will be on for the warm-up games against Italy and England at the Aviva Stadium next month.
This morning you see it for the first time officially though dedicated followers of fashion will have picked up on designer Jonathan Anderson having worn it at his Milan Fashion Show last month.
The jersey is launched alongside Canterbury’s ‘We Go Together’ campaign, which calls on Irish fans around the world to unite in support of the Ireland team during the tournament.
Going beyond just the 80 minutes, the campaign looks at rugby’s connections to Irish culture and the power of the sport in creating unity, promoting self-expression and inspiring generations of fans.
Up-and-coming Irish music artists and Ireland rugby supporters, Galway rapper Celaviedmai and Belfast singer-songwriter Winnie Ama will share how their two great passions, rugby, and music, have collided in a content series to be released on Canterbury’s social channels.
Canterbury recently announced Irish Rugby stars Mack Hansen and Maeve Óg O’Leary as brand ambassadors, reaffirming the brand’s commitment to Irish Rugby.
This is important with Castore having entered the market in style so far in 2023 snapping up the Irish Men’s and Women’s Football contract and that of Leinster Rugby.
“This is a huge year for the squad as we travel to France to represent the four provinces,” said Hansen.
“The team has been training hard and we can’t wait to get back out onto the field in this new Canterbury jersey, with thousands of Irish fans behind us.”
“Canterbury prides itself on creating cutting-edge performance jerseys and this kit is a testament to the expertise the brand has built with over a century in the game,” added Simon Rowe, VP of Global Sports Marketing, Pentland Brands.
“What makes rugby special is its ability to bring people together from all walks of life. This new campaign looks to capture the magic that happens as teams, nations and cultures collide.”
“As preparations build towards France 2023, this new jersey marks the start of Ireland’s journey,” said IRFU Chief Commercial Officer Padraig Power.
“We’ve enjoyed a successful partnership with Canterbury over the past decade and this year will be our most important yet, as we prepare to celebrate the coming together of thousands of Irish fans around the world.”
