How to Choose the Perfect Rugby Boots
Rugby is a sport that requires a lot of physical exertion and dynamic movements. It is a game that demands a great deal from its players, and having the right equipment is crucial to achieving success.
Here are a few pointers to help you choose the right boots from our extensive range...
- Know Your Position
The first thing to consider when selecting rugby boots is your position on the field. Different positions have different requirements in terms of the type of boot they need.
For example, forwards tend to choose 8-stud boots because they provide extra stability during scrums and give more support when under pressure. The upper of rugby boots for forwards tends to be of a tough leather, which is also flexible enough to bend when you're up on your toes pushing in the scrum.
On the other hand, backs tend to choose lightweight, foot-hugging 6-stud boots, which still offer excellent stability, but also allow for fast-paced changes of direction..
- Look for Durability
Rugby is a tough sport, and your boots need to be able to withstand the rigors of the game. Look for boots made from high-quality materials that will stand up to the wear and tear of rugby.
Leather is a popular material for rugby boots as it is durable and can mould to the shape of your foot over time.
- Consider the type of stud
The type of stud on your rugby boots is also an important factor to consider. There are two types of stud options: moulded and screw-in.
Moulded studs are fixed to the sole of the boot and are ideal for playing on firm ground.
Screw-in studs can be changed to suit the conditions of the pitch, making them ideal for playing on wet or soft ground.
- Get the correct fit
One of the most important things when it comes to rugby boots is getting the right fit. Your boots should fit snugly but not be too tight.
Make sure there is enough room in the toe box for your toes to move around comfortably, and that your heel is securely in place.
It's also a good idea to try on boots with the socks you will be wearing during games to ensure the perfect fit.
For length, we recommend between a thumbnail and half a thumbnail room at the toe. The picture on right represents the maximum amount of room that you should have at the toe.
For width, make sure you choose a boot that does not feel too tight or offer excessive movement. They should just feel right when you put them on, no excessive squeezing, no excessive side to side movement.
Take time making sure you've got it right, as boot design varies from brand to brand, especially in the width.
Be aware getting blisters can be part and parcel of breaking in boots, try a second sock, or an insole may just help the hot spots and reduce the amount the foot moves within the boot.
Hard ground is also a culprit for causing blisters, often combining with new boots at the beginning of the Northern Hemisphere season to give a skin-destroying double whammy. Shorter studs are definitely a good idea in this situation.
Make sure you tighten your studs before the first use, many manufactures don't use standard studs anymore (50 pence each!), in particular Adidas.
A set of studs could end up setting you back up to £18, a costly mistake for not taking two minutes to tighten the studs!
To make the most of your boots and increase their survival chances, remember to make sure and give your boots a good clean from time to time, just a bit of water to clear the excess dirt, letting them dry out naturally between uses is the key and then slapping on some beeswax will give real leather a proper feed.
We'll do our best to help and guide you into the correct boot, but ultimately it is your responsibility to make sure they fit correctly.
Give you boots a try out around the house if you can, as soon as they hit the turf the can not be returned unless they are faulty.
We do appreciate that boots can sometimes be found cheaper online, so if you have seen a price while we might not always be able to price match we will do our best to offer the best deal we can.
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