Rugby Compression Tights
Rugby compression tights are close-fitting and designed to support the legs during play and training. They sit comfortably under match shorts and are cut to stay in place through contact and movement. Canterbury is the dominant brand in this category at club level. A practical choice year-round, particularly for anyone who wants leg support during high-intensity sessions.
Thermal Rugby Leggings
Thermal rugby leggings add insulation alongside compression, making them the better option for winter training and cold-weather match days. If you're standing around between drills or warming up on a cold morning, a thermal tight makes a noticeable difference. They work equally well as a base layer under shorts during a game or as a standalone layer at training.
Rugby Leggings and the World Rugby Law Change
World Rugby updated their laws to permit players to wear leggings during matches, a change that's been welcomed at grassroots level in particular. The driving factor is the growth of 3G artificial pitches - leggings provide meaningful protection against skin abrasion on the knees and legs when going to ground on synthetic surfaces. If you're playing regularly on 3G, leggings are worth considering well beyond just the warmth benefit.