There are two basic types of rugby balls, match balls and practice balls. The type of material and quality of the ball determines whether it is a match or practice ball. Rugby balls vary in size, materials, construction and overall quality. Size 5 rugby balls are used in adult leagues and by high school teams. Rugby players ages 8 to 12 generally use a size 4 ball and the few 3- to 7-year-olds playing rugby work with size 3 rugby balls. Rugby balls can be simple and generic in appearance, or brightly colored with team logos or a custom design. Many teams issue a take-home practice ball to each player to increase familiarity with the ball and frequent ball handling. When in use, rugby balls need to be inflated 9 to 10.5 psi (pounds per square inch) for the best grip and bounce. After a game, match balls should be slightly deflated to avoid undue stress on the stitches.
What to Look for
Match balls have better flight characteristics than practice balls. Match balls, usually made of higher quality materials and more precise symmetry, allow better grip than practice balls. Some of the best ones are hand stitched and pre-kicked to ensure quality. Practice balls are more durable, though, and the best fro practice matches, drills and throwing around. They are designed to endure rough treatment and frequent contact with all field types. They also retain air better than match balls. Rugby balls are made from four panels. They are synthetic for top quality, polyurethane for good practice balls and PVC for the cheapest practice balls, often used by youth teams and casual rugby players.
Common Pitfalls
For rugby balls, it's important to buy a quality brand well known in the rugby circle. Cheaper balls are not worth buying because they do not afford a high quality of play and will need to be replaced more frequently. Make sure to clearly differentiate between match balls and practice balls, with match balls being reserved for games. Avoid over-inflating balls and thus damaging them through too much pressure. Do not allow rugby balls to stay wet or dirty after use; be sure they are cleaned promptly.
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