Rugby Safety Equipment

Rugby is a sport most popular in the United Kingdom, northern European and Oceanic regions of the world. It is a sport that requires very little equipment. Because it is a full-contact sport that can be quite rough, safety equipment is allowed to protect the most vital parts of a player's body. All equipment used is regulated by the International Rugby Board.

  1. Headgear

    • A headgear is the most vital piece of safety equipment used in rugby. Headgear is required to include an attached chin strap to avoid falling or being knocked off during a game. The IRB sets specific requirements including thickness and weight of the headgear. No piece may be thicker than 1 centimeter when fully compressed and may not have a full density of more than 45 kilogram per cubic meter.

    Mouthguard

    • A mouthguard is not only useful to protect one's teeth during a game, but it can also aid in lessening the impact if a player happens to get hit in the face. There are multiple moutpieces available. Some use technology that injects air cells into the mold, therefore increasing cushion and ability to withstand a higher degree of impact.

    Shin Guards

    • Shin guards are not as common as headgear and mouthpieces but can be very useful. Shin guards can only be worn if they are completely covered by long socks and do not contain any rigid edges or metal pieces. In addition, no part of the padding may be thicker than 1/2 centimeter when fully compressed.

    Forearm Guards

    • Forearm guards are beneficial for defensive players attempting to make stops on attacking offensive players. Forearm guards must follow the same IRB requirements as shin guards in terms of thickness and density.

    Shoulder Pads

    • A player may wear shoulder pads as long as they are completely covered by clothing. Shoulder pads may only cover the shoulder and collarbone areas. No part of the padding may be thicker than 1 centimeter when fully compressed and may not have a full density measuring more than 45 kilograms per cubic meter.

    Mitts/Gloves

    • Mitts, or gloves, help maintain a better grip when a player is carrying the ball, and they provide support to the fingers and wrists. Mitts can't cover the fingertips or go past the wrists, and they cannot contain any metal buttons or clasps. No part of the padding may be thicker than 1 millimeter when fully compressed.