While many rugby players eschew rugby body armor as unnecessary and not authentic to the sport, other teams use all types of rugby body armor for physical protection against injury as well as to look beefier and more threatening in order to intimidate other teams. Rugby body armor refers in general to all elements of rugby protective gear and more specifically to the padded upper body rugby vests and shirts worn under the team jersey. Other types of rugby body armor include shoulder pads, head gear, rugby gloves or mitts, mouth guards, shin guards and arm pads. Since rugby is a very physical sport, some coaches prefer for their teams to suit up accordingly. Other teams, from high school to adult league, wear little more than their uniform and cleats. The amount of rugby body armor worn depends on the team and league.
What to Look for
Make sure any gear you buy is approved for use in rugby. Thin shoulder pads may be incorporated into an undergarment or the jersey itself, to cover the shoulders and collarbone, but not the chest area. Head gear, which can help guard against the condition known as cauliflower ear, does not aid in preventing concussions. Look for headgear, known as scrum caps, to cover the ears. Many have laces in the back to ensure a proper fit. Also shop for rugby gloves or mitts, mouth guards, shin guards and arm pads as needed. Mouth guard are a very basic essential and can protect against mouth and teeth injuries. Some have shock absorption and breathing panels for improved performance.
Common Pitfalls
Wearing rugby body armor under long sleeve jerseys can lead to overheating, or feeling too hot while playing as the body warms up from exertion. Furthermore, according to one study, rugby body armor is unlikely to prevent injury. Don't buy football gear for use in rugby, as hard or rigid body armor is not allowed. According to the International Rugby Board, which sets the rules and regulations for rugby games, body armor is regulated in this way: "A player may wear shoulder pads, made of soft and thin materials--provided that the pads cover the shoulder and collar bone only. No part of the pads may be thicker than 1 cm when uncompressed." Avoid buying any rugby body armor that does not comply with these standards, as it will not be allowed for game use.
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