Rugby has become the fastest-growing sport in the United States, yet many people don’t know its basic equipment.
If you or your child are interested in learning more, a rugby equipment checklist can put you on the right track. Without the right equipment, it will be difficult to try out for local and school teams. Take the time to discover how large of an investment rugby will be.
Read below to identify which rugby equipment is the most essential to start a rugby career!
Table of Contents
Rugby Ball
One of the most essential pieces of rugby equipment is a proper ball.
Rugby balls are similar to American footballs with a distinct oval shape. These balls were traditionally made from pig skin. Modern styles are made with leather, natural rubber, and synthetic materials.
Depending on the brand and quality of the ball, you may end up paying closer to $50, however, there are much more affordable options.
Mouthguard
Aside from the skull and brain, teeth are another area you want to protect.
Not only do mouthguards prevent painful bites or broken teeth, but they have many more benefits. These guards help protect the jaw and gums, they can even reduce the risk of getting a concussion!
It’s important to talk to your dentist or follow instructions to ensure you get the right-sized guard. Depending on the style you invest in, they can mold over your teeth to provide full support.
Cleats
If you don’t know what to wear when playing rugby, you can’t overlook the feet.
Rugby cleats are essential for planting yourself on the ground and holding your stance. There are plenty of cleat options on the market but you want them to provide excellent grip and ankle support. Quickly changing directions and speeds is common in rugby and you don’t want to slip on the field.
Lightweight cleats are recommended since they won’t add resistance while running. Some cleats even have a sand feature that improves footwork.
Head Guard
Unless a head guard is on your rugby gear list, you’re not going to be prepared for games.
When you shop for rugby head guards, they might also be called rugby scrum caps. This piece of headgear is meant to cover the entire skull and wrap below the chin. Although these caps are made with lightweight materials, they significantly increase your safety.
If you’re a front-row forward, these head guards are essential. You’ll be handling tackles and the gear can prevent cauliflower ears.
Is This Rugby Equipment in Your Bag?
Before you can start running for the ball, you need to wear gear that keeps you safe and improves your game.
With the right cleats, you can quickly move and plant yourself into the ground for a large hit. Rugby players must be tough and have a lot of stamina and endurance for success. Proper rugby equipment will help you focus on the moment instead of feeling unprepared.
Dive deeper into our blog to learn more about the most popular sports and how to increase athleticism.
