What Equipment Is Needed to Play Rugby?

Rugby is a contact sport that requires various skills. The game is virtually nonstop from the starting whistle to the end of the game. The essential items that the players require are listed here.

  1. Rugby Ball

    • The rugby ball is similar to the American football, only much larger. The rugby ball is generally the brown leather color except for night games where it is colored white.

    Rugby Shorts

    • Rugby shorts are lightweight shorts which come to mid-thigh or higher. This allows for ease of movement and running.

    Rugby Jersey

    • The rugby jersey is made of thick and tough woolen material and is in the colors of each respective team. Jerseys can be long or short sleeved but mostly nowadays jerseys have sleeves that stop at mid-forearm.

    Rugby Shoulder Pads

    • Rugby shoulder pads are not worn by the whole team but they are advisable for the forward pack, comprising Lock, Second Row and Front Row.

    Rugby Headgear

    • Rugby headgear is generally not worn as there are strict rules preventing head-high tackles; however in positions such as in the Scrum the "Hooker" or "Rake" may choose to wear a leather head protector.

    Rugby Boots

    • Rugby boots must be worn by all players and these are fairly standard across all codes. The boots should have blunt studs on their soles to prevent slippage when running but usually the referees will check them before the game to ensure they are not too sharp.

    Rugby Socks

    • Rugby woolen socks are worn in the colors of the teams and they are worn pulled up to the knees and folded back on themselves.