What To Look For
For rugby union, the most common type of rugby played, a good quality rugby ball has to meet certain criteria. These include a length no longer than 300 millimeters, a middle circumference no bigger than 580 to 620 mm, stitching composed of four panels, and a weight no heavier than 460 grams.
Common Pitfalls
A bad rugby ball can ruin a game. If the stitching is off, the ball grip is slick, or the weight lopsided, a rugby game experience can be completely ruined. As a result, certain brands have become the standard for game play, with referees checking the ball used before a match can be started.
Where To Buy
Gilbert has been in the business of rugby ball production since the 1850s. As such, the science and years of ball production have given the company its name as the standard of rugby ball production. It also has placed Gilbert in the honored rank of being the ball of choice for international rugby matches as dictated by the International Rugby Board.
Long known as the king of soccer, or football in Europe and the rest of the world, Adidas has been attempting to make serious forays into rugby as well given that much of the equipment need is generally the same (i.e. cleats, uniforms, balls).
Kooga represents another name brand that has appeared more and more often in rugby these days. Well known for quality uniforms made from lighter materials rather than traditional heavy cotton jerseys, Kooga has also made forays into cleats and balls.
Cost
The top of the line Gilbert ball as of August, 2010 was the Synergie model retailing at $140. Lower level models can be purchased with the Revolution X at $73, the Barbarian at $60, and standard balls for amateur league play ranging from $30 to $35.
Adidas makes two rugby ball models, the standard ball retailing at $45 and the Torpedo line ranging from $28 to $55.
Kooga rugby balls have been accepted for match play from time to time. The Canberra retails at $35, the Otago at $45, and the Samoan at $30 per ball.
Comparison Shopping
Gilbert remains the king brand of rugby balls for good reason. Many knock-off brands may be decent for practice purposes or lower price, but Gilbert rugby balls come with sufficient quality to last for years of use and abuse. Cheaper brands use sub-standard materials that wear off or deteriorate, especially when exposed to rain and mud.
Accessories
Ball tees and hand pumps can be purchased as well through most rugby suppliers when purchasing a ball. Both are needed during a game since balls do deflate over time, and ball tees are needed for set kicking field goal attempts.
Insider Tips
To help train handling of a rugby ball, ball producers also produce weighted rugby balls. Using these training tools helps build up arm strength for handling and passing technique improvement.
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