Why Do Footballers Use Snus?

Snus has quietly become part of modern football culture, and once you notice it, you can’t unsee it.

From dressing rooms to post-match celebrations, more professional footballers are using snus or nicotine pouches. But why would elite athletes, people whose careers depend on peak physical performance, turn to a nicotine product?

In this article, we explain why footballers use snus, how common it really is, whether it’s safer than smoking, and why many players are now switching to tobacco-free nicotine pouches instead.

What is Snus?

Snus is a popular smokeless tobacco product that comes from Sweden. It comes in small pouches that are placed under the lip. Instead of sparking up a cigarette and inhaling the smoke, snus pouches gradually release nicotine and tobacco through the gums.

It's important to know that it's illegal to buy or sell snus in the UK, but there are some loopholes around personal usage.

Despite bans in the UK and most EU nations, snus is legal in around 77 countries worldwide, including the US, Canada, Norway, and Mexico (GSTHR).

Snus use is particularly common among footballers who play for international teams where it's legal to purchase. While it's not banned in sports, some football teams might have internal rules that limit snus usage.

Are Snus and Nicotine Pouches the Same?

You might hear people refer to nicotine pouches as snus, but they're not the same thing. While snus contains tobacco leaves mixed with flavourings, water, and salt, nicotine pouches are tobacco-free.

Both are placed under the top lip and absorbed by the gums, but when you use nicotine pouches, you can satisfy your cravings without needing to worry about the chemicals found in traditional tobacco.

Why Do Professional Footballers Use Snus?

According to a 2024 study by the Professional Footballers Association and Loughborough University, around one in five professional footballers use snus or nicotine pouches.

The big question is, why? Well, professional football players - especially those playing in top-tier leagues like the Premier League - deal with a lot of stress.

They're expected to perform at high intensity levels and can struggle with anxiety. Here are some of the most common reasons why footballers use snus.

Smoke-Free Nicotine

We all know that smoking is a big no-no for professional athletes. It can impact lung capacity, increase the risks of cardiovascular disease, and limit endurance. However, because snus is smoke-free, it's seen as a positive and healthier alternative to traditional smoking.

Many players feel that they can get their nicotine fix without looking unprofessional.

Focus and stimulation

As a stimulant, nicotine can enhance reaction times and make people feel more alert. Professional footballers have multiple training sessions each week and one to two games.

No matter the position, mental sharpness is essential for responding to changes in tempo, scoring or defending goals, and goalkeeping.

Dealing with high-pressure situations

As with all careers, footballers deal with a lot of pressure. When their performance drops, everyone sees it - including fans and the media.

From negative media coverage to disgruntled fans and worrying about job security, many athletes use nicotine because it has a short-term calming effect. Nicotine-containing products become a coping mechanism.

Cultural Influences

Snus is a part of Scandinavian sports culture. It's prevalent in countries like Norway and Sweden. Football is more international than ever before, with teams featuring players from multiple nationalities.

Snus use might be more normalised in the dressing room and shared between teammates. In many ways, it becomes a social activity.

Is Traditional Snus Safer Than Smoking?

When it comes to snus vs smoking, using snus is definitely safer. The tobacco doesn't burn, so there's no carbon monoxide, making it less harmful to the lungs. However, it's not completely risk-free.

Aside from nicotine dependence, evidence suggests snus can carry the following risk factors:

• Oral Health: Long-term snus use can result in oral health issues, including receding gums, mouth lesions, and tooth decay.

• Cancer Risks: While tobacco-based snus isn't associated with lung cancer, some studies suggest that there may be an increased risk of oral, oesophagus and pancreatic cancer (NIH).

• Cardiovascular Risks: High amounts of nicotine can increase the risk of cardiovascular symptoms.

So, yes, snus is the safer alternative to smoking...but it's not risk-free.

Are Tobacco-Free Nicotine Pouches Safer Than Snus?

Nicotine pouches are a safer option than traditional snus because they don't contain any tobacco. These pouches are placed under the upper lip, and they gradually release nicotine, which is absorbed through the gums.

For people quitting smoking, nicotine pouches are affordable and often more enjoyable than tobacco snus products. They're available in a range of nicotine strengths and flavours.

For example, the 88Nic collection offers Cool Mint, Citrus, and Mixed Berry flavours, while VELO Pouches include Cherry Ice and Tropical Mango.

Should Professional Football Players Switch to Nic Pouches?

Whether female and male players should use nicotine pouches depends on their situation. While tobacco-free nicotine pouches are significantly safer than snus or smoking, they can have addictive qualities due to the nicotine content.

Non-smokers should avoid using nicotine products, as they prevent poor sleep quality and reduce cardiovascular risks. However, if you need to satisfy your cravings, nicotine pouches are a safer option.

Final Thoughts on Snus Use in Footballers

Swedish snus remains a controversial topic due to its potential health implications. While the oral tobacco product is safer than smoking, ground tobacco still comes with possible health risks. Both male and female players can benefit from choosing nic pouches, as they're the healthier option.

It's important to remember that consuming nicotine in high amounts can have a negative impact on your health. If you're interested in exploring nicotine pouches, please select the right strength based on your previous smoking or snus use:

• 20 Cigarettes Daily: 18mg Nic Pouches

• 10 Cigarettes Daily: 6-12mg

• Three or Four Cigarettes Daily: 3-6mg

88Vape offers a variety of nic pouches, with free UK delivery on orders over £15. If you need help choosing the right strength for your needs or have any questions, please get in touch with our experts today.