How to Dress to Play Rugby

Rugby Shirts and Shorts

• 1

  Consult with the rugby coach about what uniform they prefer if you are playing competitively. You will certainly be issued or be asked to purchase rugby shirts and shorts. Rugby shirts are generally lightweight, comfortable and strong enough to take a lot of tugging and pulling. Many of today's players wear shirts made of lightweight, water-resistant, synthetic fibers.

• 2

  Expect that the back of your rugby jersey will have your position number and sometimes your last name printed above it if you're playing for a team. The team logo is usually placed on one side of the upper chest.

• 3

  Get rugby shorts that are made of cotton and designed to take the strains of the game, including falls, lifts and lots of running.

Rugby Shoes and Socks

• 4

  Discuss with your coach or other players what kind of shoes you should purchase for rugby. More casual games require little more than sneakers or shoes similar to soccer cleats. Competitive rugby usually requires the purchase of "boots" that are similar to soccer cleats, with a low cut that gives the player maximum flexibility with minimum weight.

• 5

  Be sure to talk to your coach about shoe regulations for your position on the field. For example, if you're playing forward, you want rugby shoes with studs or cleats. In real competitive play, you will likely be told exactly what kinds of studs are allowed on your shoes and what dimensions they must be.

• 6

  Expect the referees to check all players' studs before a game to ensure that they have no sharp edges.

• 7

  Purchase a pair or two of rugby socks, which usually are knee-high to protect your legs.

Rugby Protective Gear

• 8

  Ask whether you should wear padding, since shoulder padding and protective vests are now commonly worn by players. Padding is usually limited to protection for the shoulder and collarbone area only. Women players can usually wear thin chest pads as well.

• 9

  Purchase fingerless gloves to better grip the ball. Non-rigid shin guards are often a good idea for wearing under your socks. In competitive rugby, no form of metal is allowed in any body protection, except for the cleats on your shoes.

• 10

  Purchase a mouth guard, a key element of the safety equipment needed for rugby. A mouth guard protects the teeth, gums and tongue of a player and can reduce damage around the jaw and the chances of a concussion.

• 11

  Remember that in rugby, as in many contact sports, you are not allowed to wear jewelry or eyeglasses to further prevent injury. Players who normally wear eyeglasses are permitted to wear contact lenses during play.