Gilbert Headguards and Scrum Caps

The current Gilbert headguard range

Gilbert builds headguards across several distinct price and feature tiers, and the right pick depends on how often you train, what level you play at and how much you value ventilation versus impact protection.

The Gilbert Air is the bestselling cap in the range. Ventilation zones makes it the most breathable option Gilbert produce, which matters for forwards in summer training and for anyone who runs hot under contact. Lightweight, low profile and the most popular Gilbert scrum cap on the site. Worn by Springboks winger and two-time Rugby World Cup winner Cheslin Kolbe.

The Gilbert Fusion 3-32 sits in the mid to upper range. A closer-cut fit and stronger foam construction than the Air, built for regular senior club rugby where you're taking weekly contact and want more impact-absorption without moving to a bulky cap. Worn by Scotland and Edinburgh winger Darcy Graham.

The Gilbert Vapour is built around weight reduction and breathability across an updated panel layout. Suits players who like the lightweight feel of the Air but want a more modern construction and fit.

The Gilbert Ignite sits alongside the Fusion in the mid-range, with its own panel and padding configuration. A solid all-round option for club players who want Gilbert build quality at a sensible price point.

The Gilbert XP250 rounds out the range at the club and recreational tier. The right pick for older juniors moving into adult rugby, occasional players and anyone who wants Gilbert protection without paying for the higher-spec models.

For junior players, Gilbert produce dedicated junior versions of selected models sized for younger heads with the same build principles as the senior range scaled down.

Picking the right Gilbert scrum cap for your position

A few practical notes based on what each position actually needs.

Front row. Props and hookers take the most direct contact in the scrum and at ruck-time, which makes the Fusion 3-32 or Ignite the sensible picks. Going lighter saves weight but doesn't help when your head is being driven into a hooker's shoulder on every scrum engagement.

Second row and back row. Lineout jumpers benefit from the lighter, lower-profile options - the Air or Vapour - because ear protection in the scrum matters. Back row players who hit a lot of rucks tend to land somewhere between the Air and the Fusion 3-32.

Backs. Lighter is generally better. The Air and Vapour suit backs well - enough ear and impact protection for the rucks they hit, without the heat and bulk of the heavier models. Springboks winger Cheslin Kolbe wears the Air, which says a lot about how it performs at the highest level. That said, some backs go heavier when they want more protection - Scotland winger Darcy Graham wears the Fusion 3-32, a closer-cut, higher-foam option than the Air.

Sizing and fit

Gilbert headguards run in standard rugby sizing - small, medium, large and extra-large for the senior range, with junior sizes calibrated to youth head measurements. The fit should be snug enough that the cap doesn't shift when you shake your head, but not so tight it gives you a headache after twenty minutes. The chin strap takes most of the load - it should be firm but not pinching.
A common mistake is sizing up to "leave room" - a loose scrum cap moves around and can roll up over the eyes in contact. Better to size to the head measurement Gilbert specify rather than guessing.