Honest answers, no waffle.
The questions lads ask before they sign up. Asked by real people, answered straight.
Do I have to drink alcohol?
Not at all. Half the lads on here are off the drink, driving, on a health kick or just don't fancy one that night. Order a coffee, a Coke, a 0.0, a tea — nobody bats an eye. The pint is just an excuse to sit down for an hour.
I'm a bit nervous about meeting a stranger. Is that normal?
Completely normal. Everyone feels it the first time. Pick a busy pub you know, tell someone where you're going, and keep the first meet to an hour. If it clicks, grand. If it doesn't, you've still got out of the house.
What if I'm rubbish at small talk?
You're not the only one. Most fellas on here aren't natural talkers either. Ask him about his job, his team, where he's from. People love being asked. The chat tends to find itself once you're sat down.
Do I need to be in my 20s? My 50s?
No. Lads of every age use it — early 20s up to retired. Set your preferences, see who's about, sort it out yourself.
Is it only for pubs?
It's where most people start because it's easy. But a coffee, a walk, a match in the pub, a gig, a five-a-side — anything you'd do with a mate is fair game. Suggest what suits you.
Is my exact location shared?
No. Locations on the map are fuzzed by about a kilometre. Nobody can see your front door, your job, or where your kids go to school.
What if someone's a creep or makes me uncomfortable?
Block him and report him. We read every report. The Lads' Code is short and we're strict about it — anyone making this place feel unsafe is gone.
I'm going through a rough patch. Can I just say that?
Yeah. A lot of lads on here are. You don't have to lead with it, but you don't have to hide it either. An hour talking to another fella who gets it can shift the day.
Is it only for straight lads? Only for Irish lads?
No and no. It's for any fella looking for a mate to head out with. Gay, straight, born here, just landed — all welcome. The only rule is you treat people decently.
Does it cost anything?
No. Free to join, free to use. You only pay for your own pint (or coffee, or tea).
I'm worried about my mental health. Where do I go?
If you're really struggling, please talk to someone trained. In Ireland: Samaritans 116 123 (free, 24/7), Pieta 1800 247 247, or text HELLO to 50808. This app is a way to get out of the house and meet a fella for an hour. It's not a replacement for proper help when you need it.