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Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a club captain, or shopping for a kid who just discovered the joy of a ruck, knowing where to buy rugby kit in the UK makes life easier. Some retailers specialise in rugby-specific gear, others carry solid basics and bargains, and a few sell novelty items that double as great gifts. I’ll walk you through the best places to shop, what to look for, and how to pick gear that lasts through mud, tackles, and extra time.
If you want kit that’s designed for the game rather than designed to look like the game, specialist retailers are the place to start. They tend to stock specific brands, offer expert advice, and carry sizes and styles that general sports shops sometimes miss.
Menkind isn’t a traditional rugby outfitter, but if you’re hunting for novelty rugby gifts or branded items that stand out on the sidelines, they’re worth a look. They stock quirky products like branded rugby balls — for example, themed Guinness rugby balls — and unusual accessories that make great presents for fans. If you want something a bit different to hang above the mantle or to throw around in the garden, Menkind can be a source of conversation-starting pieces.
Gilbert has been synonymous with rugby for decades. If you want match-quality balls, durable training balls, or classic rugby backpacks, Gilbert is usually the go-to. They specialise in items designed for the rigours of rugby: balls with consistent grip, boots made to handle scrums and rucks, and headgear that aims to protect without restricting play. Buying from a brand like Gilbert is a safe bet if authenticity and performance matter.
For teams and clubs looking to order custom match kits, training wear, or bulk equipment, Kitlocker is a specialist that many clubs trust. They make it straightforward to get a club badge, sponsor logo, and numbers printed on shirts and they support a wide range of sizes and materials. If you’re organising a team strip or ordering kit for a season, a specialist like Kitlocker will save you time and get you something that feels professional.
Not everyone needs bespoke kit. If you want quick access to boots, basic training gear, or a mid-range rugby ball, big retailers combine convenience with value and frequent promotions.
Decathlon is known for affordable, solid-quality sporting goods, and their rugby range is no exception. They’re a smart option for beginners or families equipping several kids without a huge bill. You’ll find training balls, entry-level boots, and protective gear that won’t break the bank. They also offer helpful guides and easy returns, which is handy when you’re buying boots sight unseen.
Sports Direct often runs big sales and carries a wide variety of brands, so if you’re after a discount on boots or a branded training top, it’s worth checking. You can pick up last season’s kit or find a deal on household-name brands. It’s a practical choice when you want decent gear at a lower price point and you don’t need the absolute latest tech available from specialist retailers.
JD Sports and other large chains sometimes stock popular rugby brands, especially boots and training wear. They’re convenient if you want to try equipment on in person or pick up a pair of boots between training sessions. These retailers focus more on popular ranges and lifestyle crossover items, so they’re best for players who want trustworthy kit without specialist customisation.
Shopping online opens up the full UK market and beyond. You’ll find everything from match-grade balls to rare retro shirts — but the key is knowing where to trust quality and accurate sizing.
Pro:Direct Sport (including its rugby-focused sections) is an online hub for performance footwear and rugby gear. They cater to players who want club-level or pro-level boots, performance socks, and technical training wear. Their product pages usually list technical specs and customer reviews, which help when you’re choosing a boot for wet grounds or a ball with a specific grip pattern.
Amazon and other marketplaces are excellent for convenience and variety. You can compare dozens of rugby balls, read user reviews, and often get next-day delivery. The trade-off is picking the right seller and checking for authenticity — especially if you’re buying branded items. When buying from a marketplace, look at seller ratings, product images, and return options before clicking buy.
Rugby kit can be simple or elaborate. At a minimum, most players need a ball, boots, shorts, a jersey, and basic protective gear. Here’s a quick checklist so you don’t miss anything essential.
Choose a match ball for games and a slightly tougher training ball for daily drills. Match balls generally have the best grip and flight characteristics, while training balls are built to endure repetitive use. If it’s for kids, pick a junior size; for adults, a standard size 5 is the usual choice. Brands like Gilbert offer both premium match balls and rugged training balls to suit every budget.
Boots are about traction and fit. Soft-ground studs are ideal for muddy winter pitches, while moulded studs suit harder surfaces and summer conditions. Try boots on later in the day when your feet are at their largest, and consider adding gel insoles if you’re on your feet a lot. Specialist retailers and larger stores both offer solid options; if you buy online, check the size guide and reviews for fit information.
Modern jerseys are made to be close-fitting to reduce the chance of opponents grabbing fabric in a tackle. Look for breathable materials and reinforced seams. Shorts should be tough and comfortable — not too loose, not too tight — with a waistband that stays put during contests for the ball. Many specialist suppliers sell reinforced shorts with padding where players commonly scrape or jam into contact.
Mouthguards are essential and inexpensive; get one that fits properly. Scrum caps and light shoulder padding can offer extra confidence for some players, particularly youth and forwards. Remember that protective gear should not replace good tackling technique, but it can help reduce cuts and surface impacts.
Not all rugby balls are created equal. Here’s how to pick one that suits your needs without overthinking it.
Rugby balls come in sizes for juniors and adults. For most adult players you’ll want the standard size 5. Junior balls are smaller and lighter, making them easier to handle and pass for younger players. Using the right size helps develop proper passing technique and confidence with the ball.
Look at the ball’s surface texture — a deeper grip pattern performs better in wet, muddy conditions. Synthetic materials are common and provide durability and consistent handling. If you play a lot in rain, choose a ball with good wet-weather performance to avoid hunting for the ball on the deck.
Boots are probably the most personal piece of kit you’ll buy. A great boot can improve comfort and traction; a poor fit can ruin a match — or a season.
Match your studs to the fields you play on. Soft-ground studs are longer and metal-tipped for muddy pitches, while moulded studs are shorter and fixed for firm or artificial surfaces. Many players keep two pairs and swap depending on the weather — it’s a small investment that pays dividends when the pitch turns.
Boots should feel snug but not painfully tight. Leather boots soften and mould to your foot over time, while synthetic boots often need less break-in. Wear the same type of socks you’ll use in games when trying boots on, and walk or jog around the shop if you can, so you get a feel for how they behave during quick movements.
If you’re organising a team strip, ordering for a school, or just want custom shirts with your name and number, some retailers specialise in bulk orders and personalization.
Suppliers like Kitlocker and some specialist rugby boutiques offer printing services and handle bulk orders with relative ease. Expect minimum order quantities for customised runs, but many suppliers have tiered pricing so club budgets can be managed. Ask about lead times and proofs — seeing a mock-up before the final run avoids surprises.
Durability matters for club gear. Heavier fabrics and reinforced stitching last long through repeated machine washing and intense play. Talk to suppliers about the best fabric for frequent use, and consider reinforced shorts for forward packs who see a lot of contact.
Rugby gear costs can add up, especially when you’re buying for a squad. A few timing tricks can shave pounds off your bill without compromising quality.
Buy boots and training wear at the end of season or during major sale periods like Black Friday when retailers clear stock. New-season colours and tech can arrive early, so last year’s models often drop substantially in price and still perform well.
Consider buying performance items like boots and balls from specialist suppliers or brands, while picking up basics like socks, tape, and training tops from value retailers. This hybrid approach balances budget and performance and keeps your kit cupboard full without overspending.
Want to stay eco-friendly or just stretch your budget? There are plenty of ways to find quality used kit that still has life left in it.
Platforms like eBay, speciality Facebook groups, and local club sales are great for sourcing used boots, older jerseys, and training equipment at lower prices. Some clubs run kit swaps or sales after a season ends; these are perfect for kids who rapidly outgrow sizes.
Simple repairs — replacing a ripped seam, re-cementing a sole, or swapping a worn lace-up — can extend the life of kit. Some specialist retailers and local cobblers offer boot repairs that are cheaper than a new pair and kinder to the planet.
Before you place an order, run through a quick checklist: do you have the right size? Is the item for match or training? Are studs suitable for your pitch? Does the retailer offer clear sizing and accurate product images? Answering these questions cuts down on returns and ensures you get gear that actually makes you play better.
Shopping for rugby kit in the UK is a mix of specialist knowledge and common sense. From Menkind’s novelty rugby balls to Gilbert’s match-grade equipment and Kitlocker’s club customisation, the market offers something for every player and budget. Combine specialist purchases for core items with value buys for basics, and use secondhand options when practical — you’ll end up kitted out, ready to tackle, and without a hole in your pocket.
Enjoy the hunt for the perfect kit. Whether you’re buying your first pair of boots or outfitting a whole team, there are plenty of great stores across the UK ready to help you get on the pitch with confidence.
Conclusion: Choose the right mix of specialist and general retailers depending on your needs, prioritise fit and function over looks, and don’t forget to shop smart during sales or look for quality secondhand items to save money.
| Rugby | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Guinness Rugby Ball Small | £ 5,- |
