When it comes to kitting yourself out for rugby, there are a few key elements required.
You need a mouthguard to protect your pearly whites, rugby boots which you choose based on your position and a scrum cap for those in the huddle, especially if you want to avoid the dreaded ‘cauliflower ears’ à la Martin Johnson. But before you get to invest in these all-important add-ons, though, you’ll need to get the fundamentals right – namely a jersey and shorts.
Though rugby shirts are a menswear favourite right now, the tops players wear on the pitch today are far from the preppy posh boy staple. Where everyday designs are usually crafted from cotton, those worn to play are usually made with a technical fabric that is sweat-wicking and quick-drying when the weather’s not on your side (which is more often than not during rugby season).
Another key difference is the lack of button-up polo collar. Most sports-appropriate designs now feature a classic crew neck instead which improves both freedom of movement and comfort – not to mention limiting the amount of touch points the opposition can use to take you down.
Once you’ve decided what you’re wearing on top, it’s time to think about shorts. Yet again, most styles nowadays have advanced beyond traditional cotton drill shorts you may have worn at school. Now, you can expect flexible designs which are constructed with stretch panels that allow you to move as much as you want but without making you vulnerable in tackle and scrum situations. The best styles will be crafted using a breathable and lightweight textile so they’ll stay comfortable even when they’re wet.
So, whether you’d rather have a kit from the rugger experts like Gilbert and Canterbury, would prefer to stick to the sportswear giants Nike and Adidas or even invest in a team kit, there are plenty of options to choose from. Our top tip? If you want to feel the part, make sure your kit matches from head to toe.
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Gilbert XACT V2 Match Shirt and Virtuo Match Shorts
When there’s a break in play, outpacing your opponent is essential – and Gilbert’s shorts are designed for just that. They’re designed to naturally move with your body so nothing gets in your way when you’re sprinting across the pitch, and the elasticated waist means they’ll stay in place too. Even better, the top has a mandarin collar to enhance strength and flat-lock seams to limit any distractions. Perfect for beginners and elite players alike.
Buy now £63.98, Gilbert
Castore Harlequins Men’s 23/24 Home Shirt and Shorts
A brand whose logo you may have spotted on Andy Murray’s tennis kit or the England Cricket Team’s whites, Castore’s wings are a badge of honour when it comes to sportswear. Though they design kits for four rugby teams, our favourite, by far, is the Harlequins. From the bold colour-blocked shirt to classic black shorts, the precision fabric to the advanced design details, it’s a kit you’ll wear with pride.
Buy now £100.00, Castore
Canterbury Men’s Club Dry Tee Red And Advantage Shorts
It’s famously said that wearing red can give you an advantage when playing sports – so why not put the theory to the test in Canterbury’s kit? Not only could it help you win, but the top’s forward-facing seams and breathable fabric will keep you comfortable during training while the short’s stretch panels mean your movement won’t be restricted. It’s all finished off with the brand’s triple C logo, naturally.
Buy now £51.00, Canterbury
Adidas 3 Stripe Jersey and Rugby Shorts
From Sambas to track pants, anything adorned with Adidas’ triple stripe gets a yes from us – including this rugby kit. The top is cut to a slim fit for streamlined movement while the shorts are made using an almost weightless polyester so nothing will stand between you and the game. In a classic black from head to toe, bar a smattering of Adidas’ well-respected logo, it’s the most stylish option in this edit. Who doesn’t want to look good when they’re playing sports, after all?
Buy now £38.99, Sports Direct
England Rugby Home Replica Jersey and Shorts 2023/24
When you’re having a kickabout with mates, your country’s team kit is a great option. If you’re an England supporter, the good news is that the team’s current replica home set is half-price – just make sure you get it before it’s gone. Or, if the idea of washing the white post-match fills you with dread, perhaps the navy alternate kit is more your speed.
Buy now £65.00, England Rugby
KooGa Vortec Training Tee & Shorts
As we’re all aware, Australians know a thing or two about rugby. It makes sense, then, to take a look at brands founded down under when choosing your kit. Enter KooGa, which was established in 2000 in Queensland, and still remains one of the leading rugby labels today. A budget-friendly option, this set offers great performance for a fraction of the price.
Buy now £20.50, Sports Direct
Macron Sceptrum Jersey And Skara Shorts
Every avid sports fan will be familiar with Macron. Since its foundation in Bologna in 1971, it’s supplied kits for UEFA Referees, sponsored Bologna FC and more recently partnered with World Rugby. And, when it comes to rugby kits, the brand’s varied range is unrivalled on the market. With a range of hues available in block-colour or striped designs, all in technically advanced fabrics, you’re sure to find a set that hits the mark both aesthetically and functionally.
Buy now £52.45, Macron
