What Is the Difference Between Rugby Cleats & Football Cleats?

Cleats are sports shoes designed for football, soccer, rugby and other games played on grass, dirt or turf. The name derives from the studs on the bottom of the shoes, commonly referred to as cleats or boots.

  1. Styles

    • Cleats range in style from low-cut to high-top boots that protect the ankles. Studs provide traction. Shoes with longer studs are best for wet or soft ground. Shorter studs are best for tough, hard ground.

    Football Cleats

    • Football cleats have more studs, either 16 or 18. The studs are also smaller than those on rugby cleats and come in a wide variety of shapes.

    Rugby Cleats

    • Rugby cleats have six or eight large studs of metal or plastic and come in just a few shapes. Some shapes are banned because of the potential for serious injury to players.

    Weight Difference

    • Rugby cleats weigh more than football cleats and have heavier screw-in studs. Extra protective padding is built into rugby cleats to protect player's feet.

    Regulations

    • Before a match, rugby referees inspect cleats for violations such as an incorrect number of studs, sharp edges and extensive wear and tear. In the United Kingdom, rugby studs must have a British safety standards mark.