What Is the difference between backs and forwards rugby boots?

Forwards boots are built for stability, grip and durability through contact phases — scrums, rucks and driving play. They typically use an 8-stud configuration, have a wider fit and use tougher upper materials that can handle repeated physical pressure. Backs boots prioritise speed and agility, use a lighter 6-stud configuration, and have a lower-profile, more flexible upper to support quick changes of direction and ball-handling. If you play in the front five or back row, a forwards boot is the right starting point.

Do forwards rugby boots need to be 8-stud?

Most forwards, particularly props and second rows, benefit from 8 studs because the additional studs provide more grip and a more stable base in scrums and heavy contact. Loose forwards - flankers and number 8s - often prefer 6-stud boots for the extra mobility they provide in open play. Both options are available in this range and the right choice depends on your position and playing style.

What rugby boots are best for props and hookers?

Props and hookers have different needs despite both being in the front row. Props need a boot that provides a stable, powerful platform through scrums - an 8-stud SG boot with a wider fit and reinforced upper is the standard choice, and the Canterbury Stampede is built specifically with this in mind. Hookers tend to prefer something lighter that still handles scrum engagement but also allows them to move around the park - boots like the Canterbury Phoenix, Mizuno Morelia Neo and adidas RS15 are popular choices at hooker. A firm heel fit matters for both positions - boots that slip or flex underfoot will cost you drive and stability in contact.

What rugby boots are best for second rows?

Second rows need a boot that handles the physical demands of scrums and lineouts while still allowing them to move effectively in open play. An 8-stud SG configuration is the standard choice for most second rows - the extra contact points give you the grip and stability you need in tight phases. Beyond that, look for a boot with a secure heel fit and a durable upper that can take the punishment of regular contact. The Canterbury Stampede and adidas Kakari are both solid choices at lock.

What rugby boots are best for flankers and number 8s?

Loose forwards cover more ground than any other forward position and need a boot that handles contact phases without sacrificing mobility. Many flankers and number 8s choose 6-stud boots for the extra freedom of movement, though a lightweight 8-stud options work well for players whose game is more physicality-focused. Lightweight construction and a secure heel fit are the key things to look for.

Should forwards wear soft ground or firm ground boots?

Soft ground (SG) boots have longer screw-in metal studs designed for wet, heavy pitches where grip is the priority. For props, hookers and second rows, SG is the only real option regardless of conditions - the demands of scrummaging mean you need maximum purchase underfoot, and the consequences of losing your footing in a scrum are significant. Loose forwards have a bit more flexibility. On artificial pitches or very firm natural ground, a flanker or number 8 can get away with a firm ground (FG) boot, which has shorter moulded studs and offers slightly more freedom of movement. For the majority of the UK club season, SG boots are the standard choice across the whole pack.

What rugby gear is best for forwards?

For forwards, the boot is the most important kit decision. Props and locks need an 8-stud boot with a wide, stable fit and a reinforced heel for scrum engagement - the Canterbury Stampede and adidas Kakari are the go-to options at club level. Hookers can wear either a forward boot or a hybrid, depending on how much loose play they cover. Back row forwards have more flexibility - many wear a hybrid or even a backs boot if they prioritise mobility over scrum stability.

Forwards Rugby Boots

Rugby boots for forwards are designed to provide superior stability, reliable traction and durability during rucks and scrums. The right boots typically feature a wider f

Find The Perfect Forwards Rugby Boots for You

As the team's engine, stability and grip are essential. When choosing rugby boots for forwards, a few general features are worth considering:

Feature	What it means for players
Stud configuration	Most front-five forwards prefer 8-stud rugby boots for improved grip and stability during contact situations.
Durable construction	Boots with durable construction and reinforced materials are built to withstand repeated impacts and the physical demands of forward play.
Support & fit	A secure fit with reinforced support helps maintain balance and control during scrums, driving play and other contact phases of the game.
Soft ground (SG)	Soft ground boots provide deeper traction for wet pitches, helping players maintain stability and control in heavy contact situations.
Firm ground (FG)	Firm ground boots are suited to harder surfaces where players still need traction but may also benefit from slightly more mobility and speed.

Prop Rugby Boots

Props need an 8-stud boot. The extra studs provide the platform and grip required for scrums - you're pushing against significant force through a fixed body position, and a 6-stud outsole simply doesn't give you the same anchorage. Props typically have wider feet than backs and need a boot that accommodates that without pinching. The Canterbury Stampede and Mizuno Waitangi are both built with a wider fit as standard, which is a big part of why they've become the default choice for front row players at club level.

Hooker Rugby Boots

Hookers have more flexibility than props when it comes to stud configuration. An 8-stud boot is a solid choice if you're a traditional, scrummaging-focused hooker, but many hookers get away with a 6-stud hybrid boot without any loss of performance - particularly those who cover a lot of ground in the loose and want more mobility around the field. The Canterbury Phoenix is a popular option for mobile hookers. If you're unsure, lean toward the 8-stud if scrummaging is a priority, or the 6-stud if you're operating more like a back row.

Second Row Rugby Boots

Locks spend time in the lineout, the scrum and at the breakdown. The 8-stud outsole is the right call for most second rows for the same reasons as props - scrum stability and grip under load. Where a lock differs from a prop is in the lineout: locks need to be able to jump cleanly and land well, so a boot that doesn't restrict natural foot movement matters. The Canterbury Stampede and adidas Kakari both work well at second row. Some mobile locks who cover significant ground as ball carriers opt for a hybrid boot like the Oxen Metasock, though the majority of club second rows stay in a forward boot.

Back Row Rugby Boots

Back row forwards need a dynamic 6-stud boot - enough grip for scrummaging and breakdown work, but light enough to get around the pitch. It's the most flexible position group when it comes to boot choice, and most back row players end up in a hybrid. Blindside flankers and number 8s who are heavily involved at scrum and breakdown can go with a forward boot if they want more stability, but the majority of opensides and athletic number 8s who carry the ball and cover ground like a seventh back are better served by something like the Canterbury Phoenix or adidas RS15 - boots built for players who need to do everything.

Our Range of Rugby Boots for Forwards

At Rugbystuff.com, we understand the demands of being on the front line, which is why we offer a high-performance range of rugby boots for forwards, starting from kids' sizes. We’re official vendors of major brands. Explore our products below.

Canterbury Rugby Boots for Forwards

One of sport’s most trusted brands, Canterbury rugby boots for forwards are up there with the best money can buy. The Stampede range is wide-fitting with reinforced support, ideal for the pack. For loose forwards, the Phoenix range combines grip, agility and comfort.

adidas Forwards Rugby Boots

Lightweight without sacrificing power and stability, the adidas Kakari RS is constructed for the front five. A specialist 8-stud outsole delivers grip through scrums, rucks and driving play.

Mizuno Rugby Boots for Forwards

Mizuno has been making rugby boots since the 1990s and remains a great choice for forwards at every level. Known for outstanding comfort, their Morelia range offers a stud pattern engineered for scrum traction and lateral stability.

Gilbert Forwards Rugby Boots

Gilbert's forward-specific line is designed around a BioFrame 8-stud outsole that provides a wide, secure base through scrums and rucks. Replaceable aluminium studs across the range are an added benefit.

Oxen Boots for Forwards

Oxen is a UK brand that understands what forwards need. Their forward range features a wider fit, calf-leather uppers, and a heel lift designed to reduce strain on the Achilles, knees and hips. Oxen rugby boots offer strong traction, secure footing, honest pricing, and are built to last.

If you’d like more detailed advice on choosing the right pair, please get in touch.