Starting rugby and not sure what to buy? This page covers exactly what you need as a beginner — nothing more, nothing less. Everything links to Amazon UK so you can get sorted quickly.
The Beginner’s Rugby Kit List
There are only three things you genuinely need to start playing rugby:
- A mouthguard — mandatory at most clubs; buy this first
- Rugby boots — the most important purchase
- Training kit — shorts and a top
Everything else — headguards, shoulder pads, base layers, specialist training gear — can be added later once you know you enjoy the sport and want to invest further.
1. Mouthguard — Buy This First
Opro Bronze or Gold (Adults)
The Opro range is the most recommended in UK club rugby. For a beginner, the Bronze is a perfectly good starting point at under £10. If you progress and play regularly, upgrade to the Gold — it provides better protection and fits more securely.
Opro Bronze on Amazon →
Opro Gold on Amazon →
Opro Power-Fit Junior (Under 16s)
The best junior mouthguard — mandatory at most junior clubs. Boil-and-bite fitting, reliable protection and available in bright colours.
2. Rugby Boots
Canterbury Speed Infinite (Best Budget Adult Boot)
If you’re not sure how much you’ll enjoy rugby, start here. Solid build quality, decent grip and a well-known brand — without spending heavily on your first pair. Available in moulded (good for most pitches) and soft ground (for very muddy winter conditions).
Price range: £30–£50
Adidas Predator Malice (Best If You’re Committed)
If you know you’ll be playing regularly, the Predator Malice is worth the extra spend. Better comfort, better traction, better durability — it’ll last multiple seasons and suit any position.
Price range: £45–£90
Canterbury Phoenix Junior (Best Budget Junior Boot)
For children just starting at mini or junior rugby. Moulded studs, decent durability, sensible price for a child who will grow out of them quickly.
Price range: £20–£35
3. Training Kit
Canterbury Club Training Short + Vapodri Top
The most widely worn training kit at UK clubs. Lightweight, quick-drying and built to handle contact sessions. Canterbury’s Club Short and Vapodri top are available together or separately and come in a good range of colours.
Canterbury Vapodri Top →
Canterbury Club Short →
Useful Additions (When You’re Ready)
Gilbert Quartz Training Ball
For practising passing, catching and kicking at home. The most popular training ball in club rugby — durable and available in size 3, 4 or 5.
Under Armour ColdGear Base Layer
Once you’re training through autumn and winter, a base layer makes a huge difference. The UA ColdGear is the standard choice at club level — warm, moisture-wicking and fits under a match shirt without bunching.
Total Cost Estimate
| Item | Budget option | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Mouthguard | Opro Bronze (£8) | Opro Gold (£20) |
| Boots (adult) | Canterbury Speed (£35) | Adidas Predator (£60) |
| Training top | Any sports top (£10) | Canterbury Vapodri (£28) |
| Training shorts | Any sports shorts (£10) | Canterbury Club Short (£20) |
| Total | ~£63 | ~£128 |
Ready to learn the game? Start with the Rugby for Beginners guide and the rules explained page. For a full rundown of all kit options, see the Rugby Clothing & Kit section.