What size scrum cap does my child need?

Junior scrum caps are sized by head circumference. Measure around the widest part of the head, just above the ears, and check the individual brand's size guide. Most junior ranges run from around 50cm at the smaller end to 58cm for older juniors. If your child is between sizes, go with the larger size for a more comfortable fit and room for growth.

Are scrum caps compulsory for junior rugby?

No. Scrum caps are optional at all levels of rugby, including junior and mini rugby. They're most commonly worn by forward players as ear protection against the friction and pressure of scrums, rucks and mauls. For younger players in non-contact or light-contact mini rugby, they're less critical. For juniors playing competitive rugby in the forwards, they're a sensible piece of kit.

What is the best junior rugby headguard?

The Body Armour Ventilator Junior is the most widely used junior headguard at club level - full ear coverage, good ventilation, available in a wide range of colours. The Canterbury Raze Junior is a close second, particularly for players who want a cleaner look and a good out-of-the-box fit. For younger or beginner players, the Gilbert XP250 Junior is a reliable entry-level option.

Do you stock adult scrum caps and headguards?

Yes - adult rugby headguards and scrum caps are on our main rugby headguards page. This page covers junior and kids sizing only.

Can girls wear the same scrum cap as boys?

Yes. Junior scrum caps are unisex and sized by head circumference rather than gender. All junior headguards in this range work equally well for both boys and girls.

At what age should a child start wearing a scrum cap?

There's no set age - it depends on when they start playing contact rugby and in which position. For forwards who are regularly involved in scrums, rucks and close-contact situations, it's worth considering from the point they start competitive age-group rugby. For backs or children in non-contact mini rugby formats, there's less urgency.

Where can I buy kids scrum caps in the UK?

Rugbystuff.com stocks junior scrum caps and rugby headguards from Body Armour, Canterbury and Gilbert in a full range of junior sizes. Free UK delivery on orders over £100, same-day dispatch on orders placed before 3pm.

Kids Scrum Caps & Junior Rugby Headguards

Junior Scrum Cap Sizing - Getting the Right Fit

A scrum cap that doesn't fit properly is worse than not wearing one. Too loose and it shifts around in contact, which is uncomfortable and less effective at protecting the ears. Too tight and it causes headaches before the second half. Junior scrum caps are sized by head circumference rather than age - measure around the widest part of the head, just above the ears, and use that measurement to find the right size.
Most junior ranges run from around 50cm for younger mini rugby players up to 58cm for older juniors. Some brands bridge the gap between junior and adult sizing at the top end, so if your child is on the larger side of the junior range, it's worth checking whether a small adult size might be a better fit.

Are Scrum Caps Mandatory for Junior Rugby?

No. Scrum caps are optional at all age groups in rugby, including junior and mini rugby. They're not mandatory equipment and some parents choose them, some don't. The main benefit for junior players is ear protection - forwards in particular are exposed to friction and pressure around the head during contact situations, and over time that can cause cauliflower ear. A scrum cap is the practical way to prevent that developing.
For younger mini rugby players who aren't yet in heavy contact situations, the case for a scrum cap is less urgent. For juniors playing competitive age-group rugby in forward positions, it's worth having one.

Junior Scrum Caps by Brand

Body Armour Junior Scrum Caps

Body Armour produce junior versions of their Ventilator headguard - the most popular adult scrum cap at club level in the UK. The junior Ventilator carries the same full ear coverage and ventilation design as the adult version in a cut sized for younger heads. Available in a wide range of colours.

Canterbury Junior Scrum Caps

Canterbury produce junior scrum caps in their Raze range alongside the adult version. Clean design, good fit straight out of the box, and available in colours that match most club kits. A solid all-round junior option.

Gilbert Junior Scrum Caps

Gilbert produce junior headguards in their XP250 range a straightforward, well-priced option for players just starting out who need solid protection without the outlay of a premium headguard.

Boys and Girls Junior Scrum Caps

Junior scrum caps are unisex in construction - there are no specific boys' or girls' designs. All junior headguards are sized by head circumference and work equally well regardless of gender. Girls playing rugby use the same junior scrum caps as boys in the same sizes.