Is 70 Too Old to Wear Shorts in Ireland? What Locals Actually Think

In Ireland, the weather loves to keep you guessing. Most people talk as much about the rain as they do about their families. So when the sun does show up, spotting someone in shorts—no matter their age—is as common as the first pint of the weekend. And yes, plenty of folks over 70 are part of that crowd, especially during festival season or along the beaches in Bundoran or the pier at Dun Laoghaire.

The truth is, there's no written rule about what you can or can't wear at any age here. What matters most is how you feel wearing it and the reason you're reaching for those shorts. Are you heading to the local SuperValu for the Sunday shop, or is it a coastal walk near Lahinch? Regardless, comfort should top the list. Jeans shorts, especially with a bit of stretch, stay a favourite because they're sturdy, easy to pair, and don't scream 'tourist' even in a rural Kerry market.

• Weather and Wearing Shorts in Ireland
• Breaking Age Stereotypes
• Finding the Right Shorts for Older Skin
• Irish Brands, Shops, and Real People
• Practical Tips for Wearing Shorts at 70+

Weather and Wearing Shorts in Ireland

Irish weather is all over the place, which makes picking clothes tricky. One minute you’re roasting after a walk in Phoenix Park, the next you get ambushed by sideways rain in Galway. That’s the real challenge when you’re wondering if shorts are a good idea, especially if you’re over 70. Honestly, when the sun does make a proper appearance (usually between May and September), everyone goes mad for shorts because it feels like summer could end at any second.

Here’s a quick look at the average daytime temperatures around Ireland during the months when people are most likely to wear shorts:

As you can see, our summers aren’t exactly tropical. But locals know how to make the most of the mild, sunny spurts. It’s normal to pair shorts with a light jumper or keep a rain jacket handy just in case. Lots of people in Ireland—regardless of age—keep an eye on the Met Éireann app and dress for ‘four seasons in one day’ just to be safe.

If you’re thinking about wearing shorts around Ireland as someone over 70, keep it practical. Choose slightly longer jeans shorts to dodge those random breezes and avoid thin fabrics that don’t hold up if you need to sit on a damp bench in Kilkenny. There’s no shame in layering—most locals do it, so why not mix your favourite shorts with comfy trainers and a reliable windbreaker?

• Pick shorts that cover your thighs if the wind is up.
• Always throw a lightweight rainproof layer in your bag.
• Stick to denim or heavier cotton—these handle Irish weather better than linen or super thin materials.

And don’t forget, when the sunshine does show up, Irish people make the most of it, no matter what year is on your passport. If you’re comfortable, it works.

The big thing: Ireland isn’t about fashion rules. It’s about feeling good, making the most of whatever weather you get, and not being afraid to show your legs—even if the summer is short.

Breaking Age Stereotypes

When it comes to dressing in Ireland, plenty of ideas about "what suits your age" are slowly going out the window. The sight of someone over 70 in shorts is no longer a talking point—it's just a sign that people want to feel comfortable and make the most of our rare sunny days. There’s this outdated thinking that shorts, especially jeans shorts, are a young person’s thing. That old idea doesn't hold up in places like Grafton Street or Galway’s Latin Quarter anymore.

Research by Age Action Ireland shows that 69% of Irish adults over 65 say they feel ignored by the fashion industry, but more than half of them are keen to shop for trends that make them feel fresh and relaxed. In fact, if you stroll through the weekend market in Skibbereen, you're likely to see stylish folks over 70 choosing what makes them happy, not what a magazine told them.

Breaking the age myth is also on display in local events. At the Cork Harbour Festival or when the sun comes out for 99s on Bray promenade, you’ll spot keen walkers and cyclists in shorts—no matter when their birthday falls. The emphasis is shifting towards health, movement, and joining in the fun rather than worrying about looking a certain way.

• Dún Laoghaire Active Retirement Group even has summer walks where shorts are practically the uniform.
• Cork’s UCC holds summer yoga on the quad, where comfort and mobility matter most—age takes a back seat.
• Irish social media is full of over-70s showing their everyday looks, shorts included.

If you want local proof, have a look at this snapshot:

What’s clear? Irish people past 70 aren’t waiting for someone to give them permission to wear shorts. They decide for themselves, choosing Ireland for inspiration, not restriction.

Finding the Right Shorts for Older Skin

Skin changes. The older you get, the more likely you’ll notice things like thinner skin, sun spots, or veins that weren’t there before. That doesn’t mean you should give up on shorts—especially not in Ireland, where summer days deserve to be enjoyed. But not all jeans shorts are made equal, and comfort definitely shifts up the priority list once you’re in your seventies.

Look for denim shorts with a bit of stretch. A good mix is 98% cotton and 2% elastane—flexibility means less rubbing and easier movement, which makes a big difference for older skin. Avoid really rough denim or stiff seams, as they can cause irritation or even pressure marks. Longer-length jeans shorts (think just above the knee) help if you prefer a little more coverage. Irish retailers like Dunnes Stores, M&S, and even Penneys usually stock an option or two that's cut a bit longer and designed not to dig in.

Pockets matter more than you’d expect. Deep, flat pockets won’t press tightly against your skin but are handy for a phone or keys if you don’t want to bring a bag. If you find yourself prone to chafing, consider shorts with smooth linings or even built-in shorts underneath—some brands offer these as 'anti-chafe' features, especially during sales in spring and early summer.

Many people in Ireland also look for lighter denim colours for summer, since darker washes tend to show heat and make you feel warmer faster, especially if you’re spending time in sunspots like St Stephen’s Green or Bray seafront. Light blue or faded grey is popular because it pairs well with just about anything and doesn’t overheat.

Choosing the right size is key. Loose-fitting shorts won’t cling, which means less stress for sensitive skin. Here’s a quick reference guide for features to look out for:

It’s a good idea to pop into a few shops and try different cuts on. Sizes aren’t the same between brands—what’s a comfy 16 in Dunnes might fit tighter somewhere else. Don’t ignore the men’s section, by the way; sometimes men’s jeans shorts have a roomier cut and deeper pockets. No one will know or care which rack they came from!

Irish Brands, Shops, and Real People

When it comes to finding shorts that work for people over 70 in Ireland, it's not about chasing trends. It's about comfort, quality, and supporting local. The big names like Dunnes Stores and Penneys (Primark everywhere else) have racks full of basic jeans shorts every summer. These shops know their customer base, so you can trust the waists aren't all skin-tight, and the fabric often has a little give—exactly what you need if you want something that doesn't dig in while you're walking the dog or picking up the post.

Some folks swear by Marks & Spencer for their pull-on shorts and elasticated options. They're gentle on older skin and easy to wash, which is handy for seaside breaks or messing in the garden. For those looking to spend a bit more, Avoca and Kilkenny Shop sometimes stock Irish-designed casual wear that fits well and lasts for years. And if you’re close to a town like Galway, the Saturday market bursts with stalls selling reworked vintage jeans, usually turned into sturdy, unique shorts. You’ll meet plenty of locals hunting for a bargain there.

It's not just about the shops, though. Real people, real street style. The folks who run the Malahide Active Retirement Group or turn up every Wednesday for the St. Anne's Park walking club will tell you they pull on shorts, regardless of the date on their birth cert. And there’s zero judgement from anyone else. Many older Irish people mix in longline cardigans or light cotton shirts to stay comfy—those who know about layering always win when the weather flips.

If you’re not a fan of shopping in-person, even Irish online options like Littlewoods Ireland or Life Style Sports list plenty of jeans shorts for all ages and shapes. Delivery is quick enough, too—no need to rely on a cousin from the UK to bring something over.

The big takeaway? There’s zero reason to worry about what anyone thinks if you’re over 70 and want to wear shorts. Hundreds do, from Clontarf to Killarney. Style is personal—just look around. When the sun's out in Ireland, it’s about making the most of it, shorts on, no apologies. Ireland is full of people wearing whatever makes them feel best, and you’re more likely to get a comment about the weather than your wardrobe.

Practical Tips for Wearing Shorts at 70+

If you’re wondering how to make shorts work in Ireland when you’re over 70, it’s best to keep things simple and comfortable. Ireland’s temperatures in summer can swing from 13°C to 22°C, so having a reliable pair of shorts on hand is just practical. Here’s how you can get the most out of them.

• Ireland is famous for its layered looks. Don’t be shy about throwing a light jacket, like a Regatta fleece, over your shorts. If the weather flips, you’re sorted.
• Choose jeans shorts with a bit of stretch in the fabric (look for 2-3% elastane on the label). Dunnes Stores and Marks & Spencer usually stock these, and they’re much kinder to ageing skin.
• Go for a mid-length cut. Shorts that stop just above the knee tend to flatter more and feel less exposed while you’re enjoying your walk along the Bray seafront or queuing up for a 99 in Galway.
• If you’re worried about paler legs (a real Irish thing), gradual tanning moisturisers like Dove DermaSpa work wonders and won’t stain clothes.
• Pick colours that match most of your wardrobe—navy, denim blue, or khaki are easy to team with polos or simple tees.
• Wear shoes that make sense for the pavement. Supportive trainers or simple slip-ons from Ecco or Clarks (both with shops around Dublin and Cork) give you grip and comfort for city or rural rambles.

Worried you’ll stand out? Here’s the thing: a quick stroll through Marlay Park on a sunny weekend or the Viking Triangle in Waterford will show people of all ages in shorts—especially at outdoor events like Bloom or Live at the Marquee.

Finally, think about what makes you comfortable. If you prefer shorts with an elasticated waist, there’s no shame—many Irish brands cater to a range of fits. Remember, nobody’s really keeping tabs. If you’re out enjoying yourself—festival, farmer’s market, a stroll on the prom in Salthill—that’s what matters most.