A Beginners Guide To Rugby Balls

If you're in the market for a rugby ball, then this guide should steer you in the right direction of getting a better understanding of them. Not only will we talk about what makes them different, but we'll be talking about which ball types you should be after. 

What is a Rugby Ball Called and What Shape is It? 

A rugby ball is historically referred to as a "quiffe" or simply a rugby ball. Technically, its shape is defined as a prolate spheroid, an elongated oval with rounded, flattened ends. Unlike an American football, which has sharp pointed ends and raised laces, a rugby ball's prolate spheroid shape features smooth seams and flatter ends to allow for balanced lateral passing and predictable bounces during play.

Rugby Ball Sizes

Here is a complete guide to official rugby ball sizes, weights, and dimensions by age group:

As you can see with rugby balls, they're elongated balls that are similarly shaped to an egg. Most are made with brown leather, which is a good material for grip. However, natural rubber and artificial materials have been known to last longer in bad weather. Each ball is also coated with a wax to keep it alive and to give a better grip.

Rugby Ball Types to Consider

1. Regulation Rugby Ball - The regulation ball for Rugby is considered a Size 5. In other words, regulation balls are 27 cm around and bigger than any other type of ball. These balls are also considered match balls which are used in the actual rugby games. There are a lot of brands and types of match balls that exist, with brands such as Gilbert being very popular. There isn't much of a difference between regulation match balls and premium match balls. The only difference is that professional leagues usually use the premium balls to ensure that the players are playing with the best equipment possible.

1. Women's Rugby Ball - In official senior competition, women's rugby uses a standard regulation Size 5 ball, identical in weight and dimensions to the men's game. However, a Size 4 or 4.5 ball is frequently used in junior women's divisions (ages 10–14) and skills training to accommodate smaller hand spans during pass development.
2. Mini Rugby Ball - Mini rugby balls are just what the title states. These are typically used in young kids who aren't ready for the women's size, but they're also fun for people to buy and play with for recreational use. If you're interested in a promotional mini rugby ball, check these out! 
3. Training Rugby Ball - Training rugby balls are usually the same size as the regulation rugby balls. However, they're still a little bit different. These balls are typically weighted down. This is beneficial for the players to practice with because it lets their bodies get adjusted to a heavier ball. By the time gametime rolls around, the regulation ball almost feels like nothing. This is very similar to baseball and how the players sometimes train with weighted bats before they get up to the plate. The training rugby balls don't usually look any different from regulation rugby balls, so don't be fooled when you're looking for a regulation one to buy.  

What to Look for in a Rugby Ball

Here are some of the things you should consider when you're buying a rugby ball to help you make the best decision possible.

1. Size - As we just went over, size is important. Nothing is better than training with the same size ball that you're going to be playing with. If you're a woman or a minor, buy the women's size. If you're buying for your kid, get the mini size. This will allow you to get a ball in your size so you can dominate in your next match!
2. Brand - Stay away from brands that don't have a good reputation. The best balls you can get are made from manufacturers like Gilbert, Kooga, Lusum, and Puma. Obviously, there are many other good brands. Just be smart when buying so that you don't get a cheap, run-down version of a ball.
3. Bladder - The bladder in the ball, similarly to a soccer ball, keeps the ball inflated so that it maintains air. This, in a way, prolongs the life of your rugby ball dramatically. Look for high-quality bladders and pay attention to super if you can manage to find one in a low-cost ball. This will allow your ball to stay alive longer and get you more for your money's worth.
4. Weight & Construction: Official match balls weigh between 410 and 460 grams. When shopping for a durable ball, look for a 3-ply or 4-ply poly-cotton laminate construction, which helps the ball retain its structural shape after repeated kicking and high-impact play.

Outer surfaces made of natural rubber or 3D textured synthetic rubber provide optimal grip during wet weather conditions. Additionally, pay attention to the internal bladder: butyl bladders offer superior air retention over time, whereas latex bladders offer a softer feel but require frequent re-inflation.

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Frequently Asked Questions