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Feel like you could benefit from stepping up your training regime? At The Full 80, we’re on hand with a checklist of the must have accessories and equipment to have you playing at your best!
#1. Rugby Boots
Let’s face it your boots are a crucial part of your kit.
The grip, stability, and comfort they provide can make a big difference during training and matches. When it comes to rugby, having the right boots for different surfaces is essential.
That’s why it’s best to carry both Soft-Ground and Firm-Ground options.
Soft-Ground Boots:
Designed for wet and muddy pitches, these boots come with longer studs to help dig into the ground, ensuring better traction in tough conditions. Soft-ground boots are particularly useful during the wetter months when the grass is slick and you need more stability during phases of play like scrums and rucks.
Firm-Ground Boots
For firmer pitches—typically during dry spells or on well-maintained grass fields—firm-ground boots are essential. Their shorter, bladed studs offer a solid grip, ensuring explosive acceleration and agile footwork. These boots keep you grounded on hard pitches, so you maintain control without slipping.
#2. Base Layers
Cold weather training is tough, but it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. Base layers are designed to trap body heat while wicking away sweat, helping you maintain your core temperature during intense sessions.
Upper-Body Base Layers
Upper-body base layers, like the Nike Pro Core Long Sleeve T-Shirt, keep your chest and arms warm while staying breathable, so you can focus on your technique during lineouts or scrums.
Lower Body Base Layers
Lower-body base layers help prevent muscle cramps and improve circulation, keeping your legs fresh during long scrimmages and drills.
#3. Head Guards
Safety on the pitch is paramount, and a quality headguard is essential for reducing the risk of head and ear injuries.
Whether you’re engaging in scrums or making hard tackles, a headguard should be lightweight yet durable, with optimal ventilation to keep you cool under pressure.
One top recommendation is the Canterbury Raze Headguard, trusted by Ireland’s Mack Hansen. However, there are plenty of other great options available for different levels of protection.
#4. Grip Socks
Gaining traction on the pitch isn’t always easy, especially when your feet slip inside your boots. That’s where Grip Socks come in!
Engineered with elite rugby players in mind, these socks reduce ankle and knee injuries by increasing the grip of your foot within the boot.
The TapeDesign Classic Grip Socks for instance, with their unique combination of Polyester, Spandex, and Nylon, adapt ergonomically to your foot for ultimate comfort, while trategically placed rubber knobs on the sole widen the surface area and improve your grip.
Must-Have Training Equipment
#5. Rugby Ball
The most essential piece of rugby gear? The ball, of course!
But not all rugby balls are the same. It’s important to choose the right ball for your needs, whether you’re training or playing in a match.
Training Balls
Training balls, like the Gilbert G-TR 4000, are built to withstand the rigours of repeated use, thanks to their high synthetic rubber content. They’re perfect for practice sessions, offering durability while helping you hone your skills.
Match Balls
For serious players, Match Balls are designed for top-level performance, with a higher ratio of natural rubber to synthetic rubber.
The Gilbert Atom Match Ball meets World Rugby specifications, making it a solid choice for any competitive player.
#6 Tackle Bags & Pads
Looking to sharpen your tackling technique without risking injury? Tackle Bags are a great addition to any training regime. These bags allow you to practice tackling and jackaling techniques while reducing the risk of upper-body injuries.
Our top pick is the Kooga Adult Roller Tackle Bag, which features a moving target for dynamic practice, perfect for honing your skills.
#7. Kicking Tee
Place-kicking is a skill that can enhance your game, and the right kicking tee can make all the difference. Rugby Bricks tees are known for their precision, and they’re trusted by top players like All Blacks’ Josh Ioane and Wallabies’ Christian Leilafano.
#8. Agility Training Pack
Agility is essential for any rugby player, and the Sondico Coaches Agility Training Pack is the perfect tool to enhance flexibility, speed, balance, and control.
With speed ladders, marker cones, and hurdles, this kit strengthens your body and sharpens your movements.
Off-Pitch Essentials
#9. Boot Buddy
Keep your boots in top shape with the award-winning Boot Buddy. Its 3-in-1 design makes cleaning your boots quick and easy, even after the toughest of games.
#10. Rugby Tape
Essential for lineouts and wrist support, Rugby Tape is a must-have for any serious player. The GG Lab Lab Tape sticks to itself rather than skin, making it ideal for players with sensitive skin.
#11. Studs
Soft-ground boots need regular stud replacements to keep you at the top of your game. Smart Power Studs come in various lengths, from 11mm to 21mm, offering the versatility you need for different positions.
#12. Water Bottle!
Don’t forget to hydrate! Reebok’s United By Fitness Water Bottle is a great choice, featuring a screwcap design that makes it perfect for intense training sessions.
Like What You See?
There’s plenty more where that came from! Browse our wide range of Training Wear and Equipment at Lovell Rugby now!