What are the best rugby shorts for men?

For matchday, Canterbury Advantage shorts are the most widely worn at club level in the UK - durable, well-cut and available in a range of colours. For training, a lightweight synthetic short from Canterbury or Macron gives you freedom of movement without the weight of a match short. For gym work and conditioning, a rugby gym short with a short inseam is the right call.

What are rugby gym shorts?

Rugby gym shorts are lighter, more flexible shorts designed for gym and conditioning use rather than match play. They work well for pre-season training, gym sessions, and general fitness work. Several of the options in this range cross over between pitch and gym use - check individual product pages for fabric and fit details.

How Should Rugby Shorts Fit for Playing and Training?

Here’s how to choose the correct fit for your needs: Playing: Choose a close thigh fit. Rugby shorts should fit mid-thigh to reduce grabbing and allow full movement. Training and leisure: A roomier cut with more length and stretch provides comfort for gym work or casual wear.

How Do I Pick the Right Size for Rugby Shorts?

Men’s rugby shorts in the UK are sized by waist measurement, usually in inches (28-44) or by name (XS, XL, and up to 6-XL). For the perfect fit: Check the size guide on each product page Choose a snug fit for playing Opt for a looser style for training

What’s the Difference between Match, Training and Gym Shorts?

Here are the key differences between our types of rugby shorts: Match rugby shorts are engineered for contact play, with reinforced stitching and minimal features. Training rugby shorts often use lighter fabrics and may include extras like pockets. Gym shorts typically offer a looser fit and are also suitable for everyday wear.

Do You Supply Rugby Shorts for All Ages and Genders?

Yes, we offer a wide selection of rugby shorts suitable for all players and fans: Women's rugby shorts: Our selection includes stylish and functional options designed to meet the specific needs of female athletes. Kid's rugby shorts: We stock junior rugby shorts designed for younger players, with appropriate sizing and durable materials for school or club use.

Do you stock NRL rugby shorts?

Yes. We stock NRL team shorts for several clubs including training and gym shorts. Rugby league gym shorts are popular with both league and union players for conditioning work. Browse the NRL section of this collection for current availability.

Can I Customise Rugby Shorts with Logos or Numbers?

Some styles are suitable for customisation with initials, sold at an additional cost. You'll find the option on applicable products.

Men's Rugby Shorts

Q: Do rugby shorts have pockets?

It depends on the style. Synthetic match shorts typically have no pockets. Training and gym shorts often have side or zip pockets. Cotton or Poly Drill shorts usually do have pockets. Check the individual product description for pocket details - it varies between brands and styles.

Q: Do you stock international rugby shorts?

Yes. We stock official replica shorts for several international teams including Scotland, England, Ireland, Wales, France and the All Blacks. These are available alongside the match shirts in the individual team collection pages.

Rugby shorts for training, matchday and the gym, all in one place. We stock training shorts, gym shorts, cotton match shorts, international replica shorts and NRL team sh

Match Shorts, Training Shorts and Gym Shorts - What's the Difference?

Rugby shorts broadly split into three categories. Match shorts are the shorts worn on the pitch - typically a heavier fabric, reinforced seams, and built to withstand contact and laundering through a full season. Training shorts are lighter and looser, designed for movement in drills and gym sessions without restricting you. Rugby gym shorts are the lightest of the three - minimal fabric, a short inseam, and built for weight training, sprint work and conditioning rather than contact on the pitch.
Most players own at least two pairs - a match short for Saturdays and a training or gym short for the rest of the week.

Cotton Rugby Shorts vs Synthetic

Traditional rugby shorts are made from cotton drill - a heavy woven cotton that has been used in the game for over a century. Cotton drill shorts are heavier than modern synthetics, hold their shape over years of washing, and have a look and feel that many players prefer for casual use. They're not as quick-drying as synthetic shorts, but that's not so important for day to day wear.
Modern synthetic shorts use lightweight polyester or nylon blends that dry quickly, stretch slightly for movement, and are significantly lighter than cotton. Most training and gym shorts are synthetic.

Do Rugby Shorts Have Pockets?

It depends on the style. Match shorts typically have no pockets or a single small mouthguard pocket. Training and gym shorts often have side pockets, and some have zip pockets for secure storage during sessions. If pockets are important to you, check the individual product description - it varies between styles and brands.

International and Replica Rugby Shorts

We stock international rugby shorts alongside the match shirts for several nations, including Scotland, England, Ireland, Wales, France and the All Blacks. These are the official replica shorts that match the home and away kits. If you're buying to complete a kit, browse the individual team collection pages to find the shorts that go with your shirt.

NRL and Rugby League Shorts

We stock a range of NRL and rugby league shorts including team-specific shorts for several clubs. If you follow the NRL and want replica training or gym shorts in your team's colours, browse the NRL section of this collection. Rugby league gym shorts are a popular training option for union players too - the cut and fit work just as well on the training ground regardless of which code you play.

Rugby Gym Shorts

Rugby gym shorts sit alongside match and training shorts in this range - lighter, more flexible cuts designed for the gym, pre-season conditioning, and off-pitch training. If you're after something specifically for lifting or gym work rather than pitch use then browse the collection above.

Rugby Shorts by Brand

Canterbury produce the most widely used match and training shorts at club level in the UK. Their cotton drill shorts are a staple across amateur rugby, and their training shorts range is used by clubs and individual players alike. Macron supply kit shorts for several international teams and clubs, making their replica and training options a natural choice for fans of Macron-kitted nations. For NRL-specific shorts, Classic Sportwear and other official NRL suppliers are stocked within the range.