Gear up to play Rugby

Rugby is a high-action, fast-paced game. Many call it the greatest and most intense team sport played worldwide with only two 40 minute halves and very few moments for rest. Being unprepared on the field could jeopardize your safety, the safety of your teammates, and the game. There are specific rules and regulations for rugby attire and the proper attire and fit will give you the edge you need for solid rucks, scrums, and tackles. 

• Rugby Boots
• Knee High Socks
• Compression Shorts
• Rugby Shorts
• Performance Shirt
• Rugby Jersey
• Scrum Cap
• Mouth Piece
• Rugby Mitts
  

In rugby, cleats are referred to as boots.  It is likely that the referee will do a team "boot check" prior to the game to assure both boots from each player abide by the league or union regulations.

What is NOT allowed:  Toe spikes on cleats are not allowed.  If you have screw on football cleats, it is likely that there is a front toe spike.  The cleats will be legal if this spike is removed.  Some molded cleats also have a toe spike.  You will need to either break or saw it off if you want to use these cleats.  Flat metal spikes, like those on many baseball cleats, are not allowed as well for safety purposes.

What IS allowed: A safe bet would simply be to get rugby boots.  Some prefer molded boots as they may feel lighter and more flexible, some may prefer those with screw on spikes.  I like screw on spikes because you can interchange the spikes depending whether you are playing on soft ground (in which you would want long metal spikes), or hard ground (in which you would want plastic shorter spikes).  The spike placements also provide plenty of grip, especially on grass or mud, and are easier to get mud and deposits off.

How to pick which boots are for you:  If you are a forward (one of the bigger guys that work in the scrum), you'll probably prefer a higher-ankle rugby boot to provide support and may have 2 to 4 spikes in the heel, and 4 to 6 spikes in the forefoot for increase grip in rucks and scrums.  If you are a back, you'll probably want lower cut ankle rugby boots for speed with 2 spikes in the heel and 4 to 6 spikes in the forefoot.  Canterbury, Gilbert, and Adidas are some brands that make excellent leather rugby boots that are built to take a beating.

Most teams have their own matching socks with different designs, usually striped or a solid color to match the team colors.  They are knee high socks that protect your legs.  Some provide extra cushioning.  Knee high socks may also be required as part of the uniform and league regulations.

Rugby shorts.  There is no substitute for rugby shorts.  They are very tough and very durable to withstand being pulled and gripped throughout the match.  Many teams lift their jumpers by their shorts.  In scrums, the shorts are a point of grip by teammates. In rucks, another player, whether on your team or not, may decide to pull you out by your shorts.  Also, you'll want your shorts to fit properly which is at the waist.  The length of the shorts are very short and fit for a reason.  If they are too big, they will be baggy and won't provide a sturdy and stable gripping point and may even be pulled right off.

Also, because the shorts are so short, you will definitely want a pair of compression shorts to keep your junk in place and for compression of the muscles in your butt and legs.

Rugby jerseys, like rugby shorts, are built to endure the rough pulling and gripping throughout the match.  Underneath the jersey, it is a good idea to wear a compression shirt that wicks away seat as a base layer to wick away sweat.

Many rugby companies sell performance shirts with shoulder pads built in.  Others may include sternum pads, rib pads, and arm pads.  The shoulder pads are helpful if you are a forward in the scrum, in a ruck, or even just tackling.

Head gear: Scrum caps are not just for forwards in the scrum to protect their head and their ears from cauliflower ear.  Rugby is an intense contact sport and all players should wear scrum caps, including the backs.  You're not a sissy for wearing a scrum cap, you are smart.  Many professionals wear scrum caps to protect themselves from cuts, bruises, and concussions, a very serious brain injury that could effect whether you even play rugby at all.  Get the right size so that the scrum cap fits tight with the ability to tighten even more.  You don't want it too big or too small.

Mouth piece: Another invaluable piece of equipment that can save your teeth and prevent you from getting knocked out if hit in the jaw.  Dental reconstruction or just plain visits could cost hundreds and even thousands of dollars.  A mouth piece costs about $2.  Do the math, get a mouthpiece. Also, be sure to mold it to your teeth for effectiveness and a comfortable fit.

Gloves:  Rain, sweat, dirt, and other things can hinder your ability to pass or catch the ball.  Rugby mitts are fingerless, stretchable gloves with grips at the palms for increased grip passing and catching. They also provide support for your wrist and hands, and protect your hands in a tackle or fall.  A simple cut across your palm or finger would really get in the way of your game.  Other gloves, such as football gloves are not allowed as they are not regulated for contact in rugby where very few pads and protection are used. They don't cont much and can really improve your game, especially in slippery conditions.