Youth rugby equipment checklist

Start simple

A young beginner does not need much to start rugby. Many clubs loan or sell kit, and some provide jerseys for games. Before buying anything, ask your coach or league what is required, because rules about equipment vary by league and age group. This checklist covers the usual items and safety points.

The must-haves

• Mouthguard: one of the most important pieces of safety gear in rugby. Many leagues require one for all contact play. A properly fitted guard helps protect teeth and lips, and a dentist can make a custom one. It is not a guarantee against concussion.
• Cleats (boots): rugby boots have studs for grip on grass. Check which stud types your league allows, because rules vary. Metal or sharp studs are often not permitted at youth level.
• Jersey and shorts: sturdy rugby jerseys are made to withstand grabbing and pulling. Shorts should have no hard buckles, zippers or pockets that could scrape another player.
• Socks: long socks keep the lower legs covered and comfortable.
• Water bottle: labeled with your child's name and refilled before every session.

Optional or league-specific gear

• Scrum cap or soft headgear: a thin padded cap that covers the head and ears. It can reduce cuts and scrapes on the ears and scalp. It does not make a player concussion-proof, so do not treat it as a reason to take chances. Some leagues require it and others make it optional.
• Padded vest or shoulder protection: governing-body rules allow only thin, approved padding, and not all leagues allow it. Ask before buying.
• Shin or ankle protection: sometimes allowed if it is soft and thin. Hard plastic is usually not permitted.
• Tape or wraps: only if a doctor or trainer recommends them.

Fit tips

1. Cleats: try them on with game socks, with room for a thumb's width at the toe, and check that heels do not slip. Children grow quickly, so check fit at the start of every season.
2. Jersey: snug enough that it cannot be grabbed easily, but loose enough to move and breathe in.
3. Mouthguard: should stay in place without biting down and should not make breathing or talking hard. Replace it if it is cracked, worn through or no longer fits. Rinse it after use and keep it in a ventilated case.
4. Headgear: should sit snugly, with straps comfortable and not pinching.

The ball

Rugby balls come in different sizes, and which size is used depends on the age group and the league. Do not guess. Ask your coach before buying one for home practice. A simple ball is enough for passing in the backyard.

What you can skip

• Expensive extras before your child knows whether they enjoy the sport.
• Jewelry, watches and hard hair accessories. Players generally cannot wear them in games, and they can cause injuries.
• Equipment that is not on your league's approved list.

Game-day bag checklist

• Mouthguard in its case
• Cleats and a spare pair of socks
• Jersey and shorts, plus a warm layer for before and after
• Towel and a change of clothes. Rugby gets muddy.
• Water bottle and a healthy snack
• A rain jacket in wet weather
• Any medications or inhalers your child needs, with your coach informed

A word on safety

Equipment helps, but technique, coaching and supervision matter more. Look for a program with qualified coaches and ask how they teach tackling and handle head injuries. Your child's doctor can answer questions about fitness for contact sport. For the basics of the game, see rugby rules for beginners, and for planning the season, see how to prepare for rugby season. The rugby hub has more.

Caring for gear

• Wash jerseys and shorts after each game, since mud and grass stains set quickly.
• Knock the mud off boots and let them dry at room temperature, away from direct heat, which can warp them.
• Check studs regularly and ask your club about replacing worn ones, as they can wear down or loosen.
• Label everything with your child's name. Rugby bags tend to look alike on a crowded sideline.