Buying kit for a child starting rugby can feel daunting — especially when you’re not sure how long they’ll stick with it or how quickly they’ll grow. This guide covers everything a junior player needs, what to prioritise, and the best options at every budget.
The Junior Rugby Kit Essentials
For a child starting rugby, the non-negotiables are:
- Mouthguard — mandatory in most junior leagues from age 7 upwards
- Rugby boots — correct studs for the pitch surface
- Training shorts and top — comfortable, quick-drying kit for sessions
Club match shirts are usually purchased through the club or provided as part of a team kit. Check with your club before buying a shirt independently.
Junior Mouthguards (Start Here)
1. Opro Junior Power-Fit Mouthguard (Best for Ages 6–12)
The most recommended junior mouthguard in UK rugby. The boil-and-bite process works reliably for most ages from 6 upwards, it provides excellent protection and stays in place during play. Comes in a range of colours — an easy way to let younger players personalise their kit. Opro offer a money-back guarantee if you cannot achieve a good fit.
Price range: £8–£15
2. Shock Doctor Mouth Guard Junior (Best for Comfort)
A popular alternative for younger players who find standard mouthguards bulky or uncomfortable. The Shock Doctor design allows easier breathing which is particularly useful for children who are not used to wearing one. Good protection, simple fitting process and available in bright colours.
Price range: £8–£14
Junior Rugby Boots
3. Adidas Predator Accuracy Junior (Best Junior Boot)
The go-to junior rugby boot for most club coaches in the UK. Available in moulded and soft ground versions, sized from junior 3 upwards, the Predator offers noticeably better build quality than budget alternatives and the fit is consistent. Worth the slightly higher price if your child is playing regularly — cheaper boots often cause blisters and wear quickly.
Price range: £35–£65
4. Canterbury Phoenix Junior Rugby Boots (Best Budget)
For younger children at mini rugby who are trying the sport for the first time, the Canterbury Phoenix is a sensible budget option. Moulded studs, decent durability and Canterbury build quality at a price that does not sting when they grow out of them in six months.
Price range: £20–£35
Junior Rugby Shirts & Shorts
5. Canterbury Club Junior Rugby Jersey
The junior version of Canterbury’s most popular club shirt. Lightweight, quick-drying and available in a range of colours. A good choice for training sessions — check with your club before buying in a specific colour for matches.
Price range: £20–£30
6. Canterbury Junior Rugby Short
Durable, comfortable and a good match for the jersey above. Canterbury’s junior shorts are popular across UK junior clubs and available in most standard colours. Sized from age 6 upwards.
Price range: £14–£22
Junior Rugby Balls
7. Gilbert Pulse Training Ball (Best First Ball)
Every child who wants to practise at home needs a rugby ball. Gilbert’s Pulse is the most popular training ball for juniors — available in size 3 (ages 5–9) and size 4 (ages 10–14). Durable, good shape retention and easy to grip for smaller hands. The ideal gift for a child starting at a rugby club.
Price range: £12–£20
Which Rugby Ball Size Does My Child Need?
| Age group | Ball size |
|---|---|
| Under 7s / Under 8s | Size 3 |
| Under 9s to Under 12s | Size 4 |
| Under 13s and above | Size 5 (adult) |
Starter Kit Shopping List
If you’re buying for a child joining a club for the first time, here’s a practical shopping order:
- Mouthguard — buy this first, it’s mandatory
- Rugby boots — second most important purchase
- Training shorts and top — comfortable, quick-drying kit
- Club match shirt — check with the club first
- Rugby ball — great for practising at home
For more on what to expect as a new rugby parent, see the rugby for parents guide and the age group rules explained page.