adidas RS15 - Which Version is Right for You?
The RS15 rugby boot range runs across four tiers, each built around the same core boot architecture but with different materials and construction. The RS15 SG is the entry point into the range. It uses a synthetic upper and includes the asymmetric lacing kicking zone, but doesn't have the grip elements found on the Pro and Ultimate
adidas RS15 Elite
The RS15 Elite uses a premium leather forefoot combined with a synthetic upper, giving a softer feel without the full weight of an all-leather boot. It includes the asymmetric lacing kicking zone but sits without the grip elements found on the Ultimate or Pro. A solid choice for regular club players who want a step up in materials without going to the top of the range.
adidas Adizero RS15 Ultimate
The adidas Adizero RS15 Ultimate is the third tier in the range, sitting just below the top-tier Pro. It uses a lightweight synthetic upper to keep weight down without sacrificing structure, with rigid stability wings and reinforced ripstop fabric locking the foot in during rapid changes of direction. The asymmetric lacing system creates a larger striking surface for kicking accuracy, with 3D-printed grip elements adding precision that the Elite doesn't carry. The Speedframe outsole delivers the soft ground traction the RS15 range is built around.
adidas Adizero RS15 Pro
The RS15 Pro is the top of the adidas RS15 range. It uses a Fusionskin leather forefoot that molds to the foot over time, giving a fit and touch that synthetic uppers don't replicate. Like the Ultimate it carries the asymmetric lacing kicking zone with 3D-printed grip elements, Speedframe outsole and cushioned heel pods - but the leather forefoot is what separates it from the tiers below. It's the boot worn by Finn Russell, Antoine Dupont and Romain Ntamack at the top of the international game. If you want the best adidas has in the RS15 range, this is it.
adidas RS15 Avaglide - Women's Specific
The RS15 Avaglide is the world's first women's specific rugby boot and sits alongside the RS15 range as adidas's dedicated option for female players. Rather than a scaled-down version of the men's boot, the Avaglide is built around the specific biomechanical needs of women's rugby - a Triangle Support System with TPU elements for lateral and medial stability, flex zones for natural foot movement, a waterfall heel construction for lockdown, and 3D printed kicking elements for striking accuracy. The synthetic leather forefoot keeps weight down while maintaining feel on the ball. If you're a woman looking for a boot built specifically for you rather than adapted from a men's last, the Avaglide is the one to look at.
Soft Ground vs Firm Ground RS15 - Which Outsole Do You Need?
The RS15 is available in both soft ground (SG) and firm ground (FG) versions. The SG outsole uses six metal screw-in studs designed for wet, heavy pitches where traction is at a premium. The FG outsole has moulded rubber studs suited to drier, harder surfaces. If you play on natural grass in the UK through winter, the SG is the default choice for most of the season. The FG comes into its own on artificial grass or during dry summer conditions. Replacement adidas RS15 studs are available separately here.
Who Wears the adidas RS15?
The RS15 is the boot of choice for some of the most recognisable backs in world rugby. Antoine Dupont, widely regarded as the best player in the game, wears adidas and is associated with the RS15 range. Finn Russell, Scotland and Bath fly-half, has worn adidas throughout his career. Beauden Barrett, two-time World Player of the Year and All Blacks fly-half, is another RS15 wearer. Siya Kolisi, the Springboks captain, also wears adidas at international level.
The All Blacks have a long-standing partnership with adidas and the RS15 is the boot seen across the New Zealand squad at international level. If you're searching for the boots the All Blacks wear, this is the page.
What Positions is the RS15 Suited To?
The RS15 is built for players who need speed and precise footwork. The lightweight construction, low-profile outsole and asymmetric lacing system make it the natural choice for fly-halves, scrum-halves, outside backs, wingers and fullbacks. Sevens players gravitate toward it for the same reasons. It's not exclusively a backs boot either - hookers who prioritise mobility and back row forwards who cover ground make up a solid portion of RS15 wearers at club and international level. Some mobile loose forwards wear the RS15, particularly openside flankers and hookers who prioritise pace over the additional stability of a heavier boot. If you're a prop or lock looking for an adidas option, the RS15 is not the right fit - you want a boot with more support and an 8-stud configuration like the Kakari.