Dry January AF Beer Guide - Dave's Top Picks for 2025

My first proper Dry January back in 2025 was a bit of a shock to the system, to be honest. But it ended up being the best thing I ever did, kicking off my whole AF beer journey. Didn't know what I was missing, lad.

January's a long month, especially when everyone else is still on the pints. The biggest hurdle is finding something that actually feels like a proper beer, not just fizzy pop. You need variety to stay interested.

Dave's Top 5 for This Occasion

IMPOSSIBREW - Triple Hopped IPA (IPA, 0.0%)

When you're craving a proper, full-on beer experience but can't touch the booze, this is your saviour. It's got that big flavour hit to trick your brain into thinking it's the real deal, perfect for a Friday night in.

60 kcal cal 9/10 - Rivals Vocation, no messing about./10

Athletic Brewing - Run Wild IPA (IPA, 0.5%)

A solid, reliable IPA that's easy to get hold of. It's got enough hop character to satisfy the cravings without being too heavy, great for an everyday pint when you're just looking for something decent.

70 kcal cal 8/10 - A very respectable anytime AF IPA./10

Lucky Saint - Lager (Lager, 0.5%)

Sometimes, you just want a cold, crisp lager, especially if you're out with mates. Lucky Saint is brilliant for that. It pours well, tastes clean, and feels like a proper pub pint, making socialising much easier.

53 kcal cal 8/10 - The best AF lager for a pub session./10

Big Drop - Galactic Milk Stout (Stout, 0.5%)

If you're fed up with IPAs and lagers, this is a game-changer. It's got a lovely rich, creamy texture and dark chocolate notes that make it feel like a treat. Perfect for those colder January evenings when you want something comforting.

80 kcal cal 8.5/10 - A truly cracking stout, proper winter warmer./10

Guinness - 0.0 (Stout, 0.0%)

For those times when only a stout will do, Guinness 0.0 is surprisingly spot-on. It's got the iconic look and a decent, malty flavour that really scratches that particular itch. It feels substantial, which is what you need when you're missing a proper pint.

70 kcal cal 7.5/10 - It's Guinness, but without the headache./10

Dave's Guide to Smashing Dry January with AF Beer

Stock up your fridge properly before January even starts. Nothing worse than fancying a beer and only having water. Get a good mix of styles in. - I learned this the hard way. Staring at an empty fridge when the craving hits is a recipe for disaster, trust me.
Don't be afraid to try new brands and styles. Dry January is the perfect time to explore the huge range of AF beers out there and find your new favourites. - I found IMPOSSIBREW after trying about 30 different ones. You'll be surprised what you like.
Treat yourself to some decent glassware. Pouring an AF beer into a proper pint glass makes it feel much more like the real experience. - It's all about tricking your brain a bit, isn't it? A nice glass makes a big difference to the enjoyment.
Plan your social outings. If you're heading to the pub, check if they've got good AF options beforehand. No point rocking up to find only fizzy pop. - A quick Google or even a call saves a lot of faff. Don't be shy about asking the landlord.
Remember why you're doing it. Keep a note of how much better you feel, the money you're saving, or your parkrun times improving. It helps on tough days. - My improved parkrun PBs were a massive motivator. Plus, the missus was happier with less snoring.

Dry January has become a significant cultural phenomenon, with millions across the UK opting for a booze-free start to the year. Recent data from Alcohol Change UK suggests around 1 in 5 adults in the UK plan to participate in Dry January, highlighting its widespread appeal. For many, the challenge isn't just about abstaining, but finding enjoyable alternatives that truly scratch the 'beer itch'. The non-alcoholic beer market has exploded in recent years, offering an unprecedented variety of styles and flavours that simply weren't available a decade ago. A University of Sussex study found that 70% of Dry January participants continue to drink less six months later, suggesting that the month can be a genuine catalyst for long-term healthier habits. Embracing quality AF beers can significantly ease the transition, providing that familiar ritual and taste without the alcohol, making the month not just tolerable, but genuinely enjoyable.

Common Questions

Is AF beer actually good for you during Dry January?

Aye, absolutely it is, lad. Swapping out alcoholic pints for AF ones during Dry January is a massive win for your health. You're cutting out all the alcohol, which means your liver gets a proper break, your sleep usually improves a ton, and you're saving a fair few calories too. Most AF beers have far fewer calories than their boozy counterparts, and some even pack in electrolytes, which is handy. It's not just about what you're taking out, though; it's about finding a decent, grown-up alternative that still feels like a treat. It helps you stick to the challenge without feeling deprived, which is key to actually seeing the month through and feeling the benefits by February 1st. Think of it as hitting the reset button without having to give up the taste of a decent brew.

Can I still go to the pub if I'm doing Dry January with AF beer?

Course you can! That's half the point of decent AF beer, isn't it? It means you don't have to become a hermit for a month. Going to the pub is a social thing, and having a proper AF beer in your hand means you can still join in without feeling like you're missing out. Most pubs these days have at least one or two good AF options - Lucky Saint, Guinness 0.0, or even a decent AF IPA are becoming common. It lets you be part of the banter, hold a pint, and generally feel normal. Just make sure you know what they've got on tap or in the fridge before you go, so you're not stuck with a lukewarm cola. It makes a massive difference to your mental state when you realise you don't have to sacrifice your social life for Dry January.

What if I accidentally drink a regular beer during Dry January?

Right, first off, don't beat yourself up about it, lad. We're all human, and mistakes happen, especially if you're halfway through a conversation and someone hands you the wrong glass. The whole point of Dry January isn't to be perfect, it's about being mindful and making a positive change. If you have a slip-up, just acknowledge it, have a bit of a laugh about it if you can, and then get straight back on the AF wagon. Don't let one accidental pint derail the whole month. It's not a failure, it's a minor detour. Just remind yourself why you started, grab an IMPOSSIBREW or whatever your favourite AF is, and carry on. The benefits you're getting from the other 30 days still count for a lot, don't they?

So there you have it, me guide to making Dry January not just bearable, but actually enjoyable. I genuinely believe that swapping to AF beer was a game-changer for me back when I started, and it can be for you too. Give some of these a go, especially that IMPOSSIBREW Triple Hopped IPA - it's a proper belter, honestly. If you fancy trying IMPOSSIBREW, I've got a link that gets you ten quid off your first order. It's a no-brainer, really. You'll feel better, sleep better, and still get to enjoy a decent pint. What's not to like? Good luck, and stick with it - you'll thank yourself come February. (£10 off your first IMPOSSIBREW order)