Enjoy the warmer months with a bit of competition at Barefoot Bowls!
When the warm summer months roll around, people start looking for fun, social, and active ways to enjoy the sunshine. One of the best ways to combine some light exercise, friendly competition and social interaction is by playing barefoot bowls. Whether you’re a seasoned lawn bowls player or a complete beginner, barefoot bowls is a laid-back, enjoyable version of the traditional sport that has gained popularity for its casual vibe. Perfect for a group outing, fun afternoon with friends, or even a staff Christmas party!
What is Barefoot Bowls?
Barefoot bowls is a more relaxed version of lawn bowls where players, as the name suggests, play without shoes. It’s usually played on the same greens as regular lawn bowls but with a more informal set of rules and a laid-back atmosphere. Often enjoyed in the evening or on a lazy weekend afternoon, barefoot bowls is a great way to spend time outdoors while participating in a light-hearted competition with friends or family.
And the best part – you don’t need any prior experience to participate! The basic rules are easy to learn, making it accessible to people of all ages and skill levels.
Why Barefoot Bowls is Perfect for Summer…
It’s relaxed and casual. One of the main reasons barefoot bowls is such a hit during the summer is its casual and fun nature. Unlike traditional lawn bowls, where there’s often a formal dress code, barefoot bowls throws the rulebook out the window. You can show up in your summer attire—shorts, T-shirts, and of course, no shoes. The focus is on having a good time rather than strict competition, making it a perfect activity for a casual activity.
Enjoy the outdoors. There’s something special about being outside in the summer, especially when you’re barefoot on fresh green grass. Barefoot bowls allows you to connect with nature, feeling the cool grass under your feet while soaking up the sunshine. Whether you’re playing in the early afternoon or during a summer sunset, it’s a great way to make the most of the beautiful weather.
Perfect for socialising. Barefoot bowls is inherently social! It’s typically played in teams or pairs, so it’s an excellent opportunity to chat and laugh with friends between turns. Whether you’re bonding with coworkers, hanging out with friends, or enjoying a family gathering, barefoot bowls offers the perfect backdrop for socialising.
Great for beginners! If you’ve never played lawn bowls before, barefoot bowls is the perfect introduction. It’s less formal, so there’s no pressure to be an expert, and the simplified rules make it easy to pick up. You’ll be rolling bowls down the green like a pro in no time, with plenty of time to perfect your aim while enjoying a laid-back game.
What are the health benefits to Barefoot Bowls?
While it’s all about fun, barefoot bowls also offers several health benefits that make it an excellent way to stay active during the summer months.
Barefoot bowls is a low-impact activity that involves walking, bending, and light stretching. It’s perfect for people of all ages and fitness levels, especially those who want to get moving without intense physical exertion. The moderate physical activity can help improve flexibility, balance, and coordination, all while having a good time with friends.
Playing barefoot bowls in a relaxed environment can have mental health benefits as well! Spending time outdoors, focusing on the game, and enjoying the company of others helps reduce stress levels and improve mood.
How to get involved!
You can get your team together and play your own game of Barefoot Bowls right here at The Westport Club! We will provide all the equipment you need, so there’s no need to buy your own bowls or other gear. See here to learn more and book.
Barefoot bowls is the ultimate summer activity—combining light physical activity, a relaxed social environment, and plenty of fun in the sun. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a complete novice, this casual, barefoot version of lawn bowls is a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors and make the most of summer. We hope to see you on the Greens soon!