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Six things to buy the US sports fan in your life this Christmas

We’ve got y’all covered in this list.

WITH THE CHRISTMAS holidays drawing near, quick and drastic solutions to your gift-buying crises are needed to get you through the holidays.

For the important people in your life with a keen interest in American sports, we’ve compiled a list of gift ideas that will help you knock one name off that Christmas list.

Happy shopping.

American football/ American football helmet

Minnesota Vikings v Cleveland Browns - NFL - Twickenham Simon Cooper Simon Cooper

There are pockets of American football enthusiasts in Ireland who play the sport competitively. And if your loved one is part of that community, this is an ideal gift suggestion for them.

Even if they don’t have the good fortune of living close to an American football club, a helmet can still be desirable gift that has more of a decorative use for the recipient.

And if you’re going to get them the helmet for playing purposes, you should probably consider looking for an American football to add to the overall gift that you’ll present under the tree.

Other American football protective wear

Vikings training camp Jerry Holt Jerry Holt

In addition to the helmet, an American football player will need other protective items when playing the game, including pads for the shoulders, knees and thighs.

These essentials cushion the impact when players inevitably collide during phases of play, and minimise the risk of injury.

Baseball mitt and ball

Roy Halladay 1977 - 2017 MLB Pitcher Steven M. Falk Steven M. Falk

Similar to the American football scene, baseball also a certain presence in Ireland.

A baseball mitt and ball combo is the automatic gift choice for that person in your life, but even beyond that, this present can also appeal to the casual or even non-baseball fans.

A simple game of catch is a pastime everyone can enjoy, so don’t hesitate to take a risk when buying this gift.

Basketball/Basketball Hoop

NBA: Memphis Grizzlies at Houston Rockets SIPA USA / PA Images SIPA USA / PA Images / PA Images

This sport has a much bigger volume of participation in Ireland, so you can afford (both figuratively and literally) to expand your range of gift ideas for that basketball fan in your life.

Irish sports shops stock almost every basketball item, making them an accessible buy in the run up to Christmas.

You can purchase a decent basketball for less than €20, while hoops and rims are equally affordable as well as being easy to install.

Jerseys

NBA: Philadelphia 76ers at Cleveland Cavaliers SIPA USA / PA Images SIPA USA / PA Images / PA Images

This is easy option to consider and it incorporates all of the US sports. For the passionate supporter, you should also think about getting their favourite athlete’s name on the back of the shirt.

Anyone who enjoys wearing comfortable and non-restrictive clothing will appreciate a jersey.

They’re also useful to have in the wardrobe for when they are exercising or just chilling out at home.

Sneakers/Runners

NBA: Cleveland Cavaliers at New York Knicks SIPA USA / PA Images SIPA USA / PA Images / PA Images

Another solid gift idea, and we’ve even gone the extra mile of referring to this footwear with the American terminology, just to add a bit of authenticity.

Along with choosing sneakers that are within your budget, the only other decision you have to make is the kind of shoe that would be most appropriate for your loved one.

If you’re buying for a regular gym goer or keen runner, they need sneakers that allow for comfortable movements and have good ankle support. Basketball players will need a different model, much like the one photographed above.

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