You need very little equipment to play rugby. The essentials are a pair of rugby boots suited to your position and the pitch, a well-fitting mouthguard and basic kit, usually a club jersey, shorts and socks. Useful extras include soft headgear, a lightweight padded vest, your own rugby ball for practice and a kicking tee if you kick goals. Any protective equipment worn in matches must meet World Rugby standards, so look for approval labels. Beginners should start with the essentials, prioritizing a good mouthguard and comfortable boots, and add extras only as they need them. Buying sensibly, checking fit carefully and maintaining your gear will keep you safe and save money over the long run.
Rulebook note: Equipment rules referenced here follow World Rugby’s Laws of the Game and its equipment regulations for rugby union. National unions and competitions may add requirements, such as compulsory mouthguards, and rugby league and sevens can differ. Check the current rules for your competition.
Equipment list
| Item | Priority | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Boots | Essential | Choose studs for your position and pitch |
| Mouthguard | Essential | Custom-fitted gives the best fit and comfort |
| Kit | Essential | Club jersey, shorts, socks |
| Headgear | Optional | Must meet World Rugby standards |
| Padded vest | Optional | Thin approved padding only |
| Rugby ball | Recommended | Size 5 for adults, smaller sizes for juniors |
| Kicking tee | Optional | For goal kickers |
| Base layers | Optional | For cold weather |
Buying rugby boots
Boots are the most important purchase. Rugby boots come with screw-in soft ground studs, molded firm ground studs, hybrid soleplates or artificial grass designs. Forwards, especially front-row players and locks, often prefer sturdier boots with screw-in studs for grip in scrums and mauls. Backs often choose lighter boots built for speed and agility. Choose studs for the surfaces you play on most, and check that studs comply with World Rugby regulations. When trying boots, wear rugby socks, check for a snug fit with a little room at the toes, and walk and jog to test comfort. Break new boots in gradually before match day.
Choosing a mouthguard
A mouthguard protects the teeth, gums and jaw and is mandatory in many competitions. Custom-fitted mouthguards made by a dentist offer the best fit, comfort and ease of breathing. Boil-and-bite mouthguards are a more affordable option that can fit well if molded carefully. Stock mouthguards usually fit poorly and are less comfortable. Replace your mouthguard when it becomes damaged or loose, and store it in a ventilated case.
Kit and clothing
Most clubs provide or sell a team jersey, and players typically buy their own shorts and socks in club colors. Rugby shorts are designed to withstand pulling and contact. Base layers help in cold conditions, and a training top or rain jacket is useful for warm-ups. Choose durable, comfortable clothing, and check your club’s requirements for match kit.
Optional protective gear
Headgear: Soft scrum caps can protect the ears and scalp from cuts and abrasions, and many forwards wear them. They do not prevent concussion. Headgear worn in matches must meet World Rugby’s specifications.
Padded vests: Lightweight vests with thin padding over the shoulders and chest may reduce bruising. Padding must meet regulations on thickness and density, and approved garments usually carry a label.
Supports: Players with previous injuries may use soft supports or strapping as advised by a medical professional.
Training equipment for home
A rugby ball is the most useful item for practicing at home. Adults use a size 5 ball, while juniors use smaller sizes as specified by their union. Kickers benefit from their own kicking tee. Cones, an agility ladder and resistance bands can help with fitness and skills training outside club sessions.
Budgeting for rugby
Rugby can be an affordable sport, especially at community level. The biggest costs for most players are boots, a mouthguard and club membership. Mid-range boots from reputable brands usually offer good value, and top-end models are rarely necessary for beginners. A custom-fitted mouthguard costs more than a boil-and-bite version but often lasts longer and fits better. Many clubs run kit swaps or second-hand sales, especially for growing children, which can reduce costs significantly. Rather than buying everything at once, start with the essentials and add items as your commitment and needs grow.
Buying for children
Children’s equipment needs change as they grow, so buy for the current size rather than sizes to grow into, particularly for boots, since loose boots reduce control and cause blisters. Mouthguards for children should be refitted or replaced as teeth change. Many junior sections have specific rules on equipment, such as compulsory mouthguards or restrictions on studs for younger age groups, so check with the club before buying. Second-hand boots and kit from older players at the club can be a practical option, as long as they fit well and are in good condition.
Position-specific equipment
Some positions benefit from specific gear. Front-row forwards and locks often prefer sturdier boots with extra ankle support and screw-in studs. Forwards commonly use electrical tape to secure socks and protect their ears. Goal kickers need a kicking tee that suits their technique. Scrum halves and backs may choose lighter boots that suit speed and agility. Players who frequently field high kicks, such as fullbacks, may prefer boots with good grip for landing. Ask experienced teammates in your position for recommendations.
Where to buy
Rugby equipment is available from specialist rugby shops, general sports retailers and online. Specialist shops often provide expert advice on boot fit and stud types, which is especially helpful for beginners. Buying online can offer wider choice and lower prices, but check sizing guides carefully and make sure return policies allow exchanges if the fit is wrong. For protective equipment, buy from reputable sellers to ensure items meet World Rugby standards. If you are unsure what to buy, ask your coach or club captain, who will know what works well for your level and local conditions.
How to buy rugby equipment step by step
- Check club and competition requirements for kit and compulsory items.
- Buy a mouthguard first, ideally custom-fitted.
- Choose boots suited to your position and usual pitch.
- Get club kit in the correct colors.
- Add optional gear only if you need it, checking for approval labels.
- Buy a ball for home practice.
- Look after your equipment so it lasts longer.
Caring for your equipment
Clean boots after each use, remove mud and let them dry naturally away from direct heat. Check studs regularly and replace worn or damaged ones. Rinse your mouthguard after use and keep it in a case. Wash kit promptly, especially after muddy matches, and inspect headgear and padding for damage. Proper care keeps equipment safe and extends its life.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Buying boots that are too big or the wrong stud type.
- Skipping a mouthguard or using a poorly fitting one.
- Buying unapproved headgear or padding.
- Assuming headgear prevents concussion.
- Spending heavily on extras before mastering the basics.
Frequently asked questions
What equipment do rugby beginners need?
Boots, a mouthguard and training kit are enough to get started.
What size rugby ball do adults use?
Size 5.
Does rugby headgear prevent concussions?
No. It mainly protects the ears and scalp from cuts and abrasions.
