Tackle Bags & Hit Shields

Rugby Tackle Bags

A tackle bag is the most basic contact training tool in rugby - a freestanding cylindrical bag that a player holds while a tackler practises technique. Gilbert produce the most widely used tackle bags in UK club rugby, available in junior and senior sizes. Rhino also produce tackle bags that are a staple at club and school level, and Precision Training offer a range of sizes from junior through to senior in a durable PVC construction with high-density foam.

For junior players learning technique, a junior tackle bag is the right starting point - lighter and shorter than the senior version, designed to be held comfortably by a smaller holder and tackled by a junior player without the impact of a full-size senior bag.

Hit Shields and Tackle Pads

Hit shields are the flat, padded shields held by a player or coach while another player drives into them - used for working on contact, body position, and driving technique. Rhino's hit shields are the ones you'll see most often at UK club training sessions. Gilbert and Precision Training also produce shields in wedge and flat configurations.

Choosing Between a Tackle Bag and a Hit Shield

Tackle bags are better for working on a full tackle technique - the tackler approaches at pace and wraps. Hit shields are better for contact and driving work - body position, leg drive, and getting off the line. Most clubs use both. If you're buying for a single player doing individual practice, a tackle bag is the more versatile choice. If you're equipping a session for a group, a set of hit shields covers more ground.