What pump do I need for a rugby ball?

Most rugby balls use a standard needle valve, so any sports pump with a compatible inflation needle will work. A double-action pump is the most efficient choice, as it inflates on both strokes.

What PSI should a rugby ball be inflated to?

World Rugby regulations specify that a size 5 match ball should be inflated to between 9.5 and 10 PSI. Training balls are generally inflated to a similar pressure. Check the specific guidance printed on your ball as it can vary slightly by model.

How do you deflate a rugby ball?

Insert an inflation needle into the valve without attaching a pump. The air will release slowly. To speed up the process, gently squeeze the ball while the needle is inserted. Some pump adaptors include a deflation setting. Deflating before long-term storage or transport is good practice as it reduces stress on the seams and bladder.

Why does my rugby ball keep going flat?

The most common causes are a worn or damaged valve, a punctured bladder, or a faulty seam. Check the valve first by applying soapy water around it while the ball is inflated - bubbles will indicate a leak. If the valve is intact, the issue is likely with the bladder and the ball may need replacing. A quality ball stored correctly and not over-inflated should hold pressure well between sessions.

Rugby Ball Pumps & Accessories

Keeping your rugby ball properly inflated makes a real difference to how it handles - for passing, kicking, and general feel. We stock rugby ball pumps, inflation needles

Rugby Ball Pumps and Inflation Equipment

A good rugby ball pump is one of those pieces of kit that tends to get ignored until it goes missing or gives up mid-session. Most rugby balls use a standard needle valve, and a basic pump with a needle will cover most players' needs. For clubs managing a bag of balls, a double-action or electric pump - which inflates on both the push and the pull stroke - is worth having as it significantly reduces the time spent inflating before training.

Gilbert pumps are the most common choice at club level. Replacement inflation needles are worth keeping in the kit bag - they're cheap and easy to lose, and a ball that won't inflate because the needle is missing is a frustrating problem to have five minutes before a session.

If you're looking for a new ball to go alongside your pump, the full rugby balls collection covers match balls, training balls, and size options from Gilbert and other brands.

Rugby Ball Bags

A decent ball bag makes a noticeable difference to how a club or school manages kit before and after training. Rather than bundling balls into a general bag or carrying them individually, a dedicated ball bag keeps everything together, protects the balls in transit, and makes counting stock quick at the start and end of a session.

Most rugby ball bags are designed to hold between 5 and 10 balls and feature a mesh or ventilated panel to allow the balls to air out after use - useful if they've been out in wet conditions. Gilbert & Rhino produce ball bags built specifically for rugby, with reinforced handles and shoulder straps for easy carrying to and from the pitch.