Rugby Lifting Blocks and Lineout Tape

Lifting Blocks, Lifting Pads, Chocks - What's the Difference?

Nothing - they're all the same product described differently depending on club, coach or brand preference. Lifting blocks, lifting pads, lifting chocks and jumping blocks all refer to the foam pads worn by locks and jumpers in the lineout to give the lifters a stable, consistent grip point. The pads typically sit on the outside of the thighs and are secured with tape. Lifting sleeves are a slightly different format - a fitted sleeve that wraps around the thigh with integrated grip panels rather than separate pads. Both work to the same end.

Lifting Blocks vs Lifting Sleeves

Lifting blocks are the traditional format - foam pads taped to the outside of the jumper's thighs before the game. They're the most widely used option at club level because they're simple, affordable and replaceable. The downside is that taping takes time before a game and the blocks can shift if not applied properly.

Lifting sleeves are a fitted alternative - a compression sleeve worn on the thigh with grip panels built in. No taping required, more consistent positioning, and reusable without any preparation. They're increasingly popular at club and school level for the convenience and saving money on tape!

How to Tape Lifting Blocks

You need two lifting blocks, a roll of 7.5cm EAB and a roll of sock tape - all available on this page from Sporttape.

• Place the first block on the outside of your thigh, slightly above the knee - roughly where the lifters' hands will grip during the lineout.
• Take your EAB and stretch it slightly as you apply it directly over the block, wrapping the thigh two or three times to hold it firmly in position.
• Once the block is covered, add a layer of sock tape just above and just below the block to lock it in place and stop the EAB rolling or shifting during the game.
• Repeat on the other leg.
• The whole process takes two or three minutes once you've done it a few times. If blocks are consistently shifting during a game, the usual cause is insufficient tension on the EAB or sock tape applied too loosely.

On regulations: Lifting blocks should be made of foam and sit close to the thigh - broadly no more than 2-3cm proud of the surface. There's no specific World Rugby regulation governing lifting block dimensions in detail, but referees are looking for anything that creates an unfair or dangerous grip surface. Standard foam blocks from reputable brands are used without issue at all levels of the game.

Rugby Lifting Blocks and Sleeves by Brand

Sporttape

Sporttape produce lifting blocks designed for taping on, alongside the EAB and sock tape needed to secure them. If you're buying blocks and tape together, Sporttape cover both in one place. Their blocks are a popular choice at club level for their straightforward size and grip profile.

Gilbert

Gilbert produce traditional foam lifting blocks for taping on. A reliable, well-priced option for clubs who want a solid block from a brand their players already know.

Lifting Giants

Lifting Giants are a specialist lineout brand focused specifically on lifting equipment. Their blocks are designed with both jumper and lifter in mind - optimised grip shape, consistent dimensions, and used at serious club and academy level. If you're looking for something beyond the standard club option, Lifting Giants are worth a look.

Body Armour

Body Armour produce lineout lifting sleeves - the fitted thigh sleeve alternative to taped-on blocks. No tape required, consistent positioning, and reusable without any pre-match preparation.

Rhino

Rhino also produce lineout lifting sleeves alongside their broader rugby equipment range. A solid option for players or clubs looking for the sleeve format at a competitive price.

Lineout Tape

Lineout tape is used to secure lifting blocks to the jumper's shorts. It needs to be strong enough to hold through repeated contact but not so adhesive that it damages the kit or causes discomfort when removed. Sporttape produce both the EAB for primary coverage and sock tape for securing the edges - both are available alongside the blocks on this page.