Republic of Ireland and Castore Launch 1994-Inspired Hype Third Kit Collection
Kevin Jenkins
The Republic of Ireland national team and Castore have unveiled a special edition third kit for the 2024/25 season, named the 'Hype Kit.' This release marks 30 years since Ireland’s historic victory over Italy in the 1994 World Cup, with Ray Houghton’s iconic winning goal etched into the nation’s footballing history. Revealed on the team’s official Instagram, the Hype collection extends beyond the new third kit, offering fans a full range of merchandise, including a training sweater, a casual fan tee, and a baseball cap, all designed to celebrate this memorable milestone.
At the heart of the collection is the Hype Kit, Ireland’s new third kit. With a white base and green raglan sleeves embossed with an abstract pattern reminiscent of American soccer designs, the kit draws on both past and present. The team badge sits proudly at the centre of the chest, flanked by the Castore logo and sponsor emblem, all in a vibrant green for contrast. The sleeve cuffs and collar are finished in the Irish tricolour of green, white, and orange, reflecting national pride.
What makes the Hype Third Kit truly special is the added detail celebrating Ireland’s 1994 triumph. An inscription reading "ÉIRE" is featured on the back of the neck, while the inside collar is printed with the date, time, and location of Houghton’s winning goal against Italy’s legendary line up featuring Roberto Baggio, Paolo Maldini and Franco Baresi This kit captures the spirit of Irish football’s golden moment, while introducing a modern, street-ready aesthetic.
Complementing the third kit is a full suite of apparel that expands the collection beyond the pitch. The training sweater and tee are standouts, each presented in Irish green and featuring the same embossed American-inspired pattern found on the third kit’s sleeves. Both pieces sport "ÉIRE" across the chest, with the team badge positioned on the left sleeve, lending a sense of unity across the collection.
For those looking to wear their support off the field, the collection offers a casual fan tee in a simpler design, along with an American-style baseball cap that ties the collection’s theme together. The cap, with its bold yet understated style, serves as a subtle nod to the tournament’s host country in 1994. It’s the perfect addition for any fan wanting to commemorate the event with a piece of classic, yet modern, Irish football heritage.
What makes this collection so distinct is its seamless blending of American influences with Irish pride. The 1994 World Cup was iconic not just for Ireland but for football in general, as the tournament showcased soccer on American soil in a way that had never been seen before. By integrating subtle design elements—like embossed patterns reminiscent of retro American kit designs and the baseball cap—Castore has created a unique visual homage that combines two cultures into one cohesive look.
The Hype Kit and its accompanying pieces are more than just apparel—they’re wearable history. They celebrate a landmark victory in Ireland’s football journey while connecting with fans through a style that’s as at home on the streets as it is in the stands. This collection is both a tribute to the past and a celebration of modern Irish football, perfect for fans looking to relive the glory of 1994 while supporting the team today.
The Hype Kit collection available now. Grab yours Here