Basic Rugby Equipment

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The sport of rugby is on a level with football when it comes to physical strength, prowess and the resulting injuries, but the equipment is somewhat more "manly", if you will. For example, no plastic, rubber or other padding is allowed. Shoulder pads are only allowed to be made of cloth and a fabric head covering is allowed, but may not be padded. A sport-approved helmet is authorized, but not always worn and the only other piece of gear besides the ball is the shoes. Cleats are used so that players can plant their feet and gain traction, but great care is taken as cleats can also injure other players. Fingerless gloves can also be worn, as well as shin guards and protective mouth gear. Women players are allowed chest pads. Limitations prevent the use of any rugby clothing that is contaminated by blood or that has jewelry, sharp or abrasive items attached.


Rugby shirts, shorts and pants are usually made of fabrics that provide temperature control for hot or cold situations and are made of fabrics that compress the musculature in such a way as to aid in the protection of the body. The most common fabric combination is nylon, polyester and Lycra in varying percentages, with Elastane being used instead of Lycra for hot-weather gear, often eliminating the nylon as well. It's interesting to note that all rugby shirts must be collared and that if a jersey is torn, game play is not halted while a uniform change occurs.

Rugby shoes, commonly called "boots" are cleated, as mentioned above, but with strict regulation. The cleats, or "studs", must be circular and securely fastened to the sole. They cannot be longer than 18mm (0.708661417") with the base diameter being no more than 13mm (0.511811024"). It is also illegal to wear a single stud on the toe of the boot. They are manufactured to strict specifications and once laced, must have a tongue strap in order to secure the tongue. On field regulations require stiff penalties or expulsion for players purposely using the cleats to injure another player.

The rugby ball completes the rugby equipment list. The ball is oval in shape, similar to that of a football and has four panels. It does not have to be made of leather, but can be specially treated in order to make it mud- and moisture-resistant and to make it easier to grasp. The rugby ball cannot be more than 300 mm (11.8110236") long or more than 790 mm (31.1023622") in circumference from end to end. The weight must be between 400 and 440 grams (14.1095848 and 15.5205433 ounces). The ball should have an air pressure of 10lbs per square inch when measured at sea level. The rugby ball dimensions can only be reduced for young players in order to accommodate hand size and strength.