How to Choose Rugby Cleats
Step-by-step Instructions
Here is what you need to do...
Step 1
Finding your perfect cleat takes a lot of trial and error. My first pair was the cheapest pair of molded soccer cleats I could find. However, I quickly learned they weren't ideal for my position. An important factor in your decision making should be based on what position you play.
Step 2
If you play a tight forward position, that is, 1-5 (prop, hooker, or lock) then you're going to want a heavier boot with bigger metal studs like the Adidas Regulate. Nothing is worse in a rugby match when you have to scrummage in the mud and your cleats aren't giving you enough grip so you simply slide backwards. For those mud bowls having the right boot can really make a difference.
Step 3
Loose forwards and centers (6,7,8,12,13) are going to want something lightweight, and comfortable to run fast in. A simpler model is ideal for a lot of these positions. The Adidas Copa Mundial is a great cleat to try out if you don't know what you quite like yet.
Step 4
Halfbacks (9,10) and the back three (11,14,15) want a cleat that allows them to be fast and agile. They also need to be comfortable kicking in their boots. I'm mostly an Adidas fan when it comes to cleats, but several teammates of mine prefer light weight Nike models for their backline play.
Step 5
Right now I wear the Adidas Puntero. It is like the Copa Mundial but has triangular molded cleats instead of the cylindrical stud. I think this allows me to have faster line speed, but they definitely aren't as effective in a scrum. So, like I said earlier, cleat selection is a lot of trial and error and personal preference.
Special Attention
Difficulties people often experience or parts that need special attention to do it right.
Unless you know you're going to play prop or lock it's not worth investing in a big clunky pair of boots. The more you come to understand your style of play the easier it will be to make cleat selection. Although soccer cleats and rugby cleats are essentially interchangeable, American football cleats are typically not allowed because most of them have a toe cleat. Remember, no toe cleats in rugby!
Stuff You'll Need
| Brand | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| adidas Mens Regulate IV SG Rugby Cleat | $54.99 | |
| Adidas Puntero | $34.99 |
Suggested Further Reading
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Funny or interesting story about this topic...
Rugby cleats, or rugby boots, are really the only essential piece of gear for a rugby player. Aside from a ball a good pair of cleats is all you need to ball.
When did you first do this & how did you get started?
When I first joined OSURFC they sent out an email to all new players telling them to show up to the first practice with cleats and that if you didn't have cleats soccer cleats would work fine. Many rugby players use soccer cleats rather than rugby specific cleats. The type of cleat chosen comes down to the personal preference of the player. However, there are certain things you're going to want to consider when making a cleat selection.