Buying the right rugby kit can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the sport. This guide covers everything — from match day shirts and boots to training wear, protective gear and cold weather layers — with honest recommendations at every price point.

Whether you’re kitting out a junior player for their first season or upgrading your own match day equipment, use the sections below to find exactly what you need.

Browse by Category

Rugby Shirts

Match shirts, training tops and replica jerseys. Covers the best brands, what to look for, and recommendations for junior and adult players.

Training Wear

Shorts, tops, hoodies and training kits. What to wear for pre-season, winter training and gym sessions alongside your rugby.

Match Day Kit

What you actually need to wear on match day — from the shirt and shorts to socks and the rules around what referees allow.

Boots & Studs

Rugby boots explained — metal versus rubber studs, the best boots by position, and buying advice for all budgets from beginner to serious club player.

Protective Gear

Mouthguards, headguards, shoulder pads and body armour. What the laws allow, what is actually worth buying, and the best options for junior and adult players.

Kids Rugby Clothing

Everything a junior player needs — shirts, shorts, boots and protection. Size guides and recommendations for every age group from mini rugby upwards.

Cold Weather Gear

Base layers, thermal tops, gloves and neck warmers for winter training and matches. How to stay warm without restricting movement on the pitch.

What Kit Do You Actually Need?

For most junior and adult club players, the essential kit list is shorter than you might think:

• Match shirt and shorts — usually provided by your club or purchased to match club colours
• Rugby socks — long socks that cover shinpads if worn
• Rugby boots — the most important purchase; the right boots for the position and pitch surface matter
• Mouthguard — essential and mandatory in most leagues; boil-and-bite is fine to start
• Training kit — shorts and a top for training sessions; cold weather layers for winter

Everything else — headguards, shoulder pads, gloves, base layers — is optional but can make a real difference as you play more regularly.

Kit Rules in Rugby

Rugby has specific laws about what players can wear. The key points:

• Shoulder pads and headguards must meet World Rugby specification and carry an approval mark
• Studs must be of a legal size and shape — referees can inspect them before a match
• Jewellery is not permitted — rings, earrings and necklaces must be removed or taped over
• Coloured tape or bandaging on hands and wrists is allowed

If in doubt, check with your club or refer to the full rules guide.