What To Look For
As a type of sports apparel, rugby shorts basically tie the race with rugby jerseys in terms of the abuse sports clothing can take during a game. Yanked, pulled, grabbed, torn, smashed, grinded and smushed into anything and everything on a rugby field, rugby shorts need to withstand abuse and maintain integrity. Anything short of quality workmanship will simply get ripped apart.
Well-made shorts that can be purchased should have specific features that are visible to a buyer. First, the material should be 100% cotton twill or similar fabric that can withstand pulling or tugging.
Common Pitfalls
Many times new players to the sport will try to wear soccer or workout shorts in a rugby practice. This mistake will result in an embarrassing experience every time. Flimsy, stretchy material will just rip apart under use. Lightweight shorts used for soccer or jogging also won't withstand rugby game abuse.
Where To Buy
Traditional design rugby shorts cut off at the upper thigh with double or triple stitching. They also come with pockets so the player can hold onto his mouth protector when not needed. Canterbury and Gilbert both make quality traditional rugby shorts that have been game-tested over decades of production. Barbarian manufacturers a strong rugby short but these tend to shrink a bit in the wash. Adidas has pushed its climacool version of shorts, but as a new product the integrity of shorts are still going through trials before general acceptance. Kooga also produces a time-tested product with their shorts.
As a longer version of a rugby short, the New Zealand shorts have a longer length almost down to the mid thigh for coverage. The stitching is again double or triple-stitched for integrity. Side pockets are standard features.
Cost
As of 2010, Canterbury and Gilbert pricing ranges between $25 to $35 for one pair. Three-pack packages are the best purchase deals. Barbarian manufactures a strong rugby short retailing at approximately $20 a short. Kooga shorts range in price from $18 to $25.
Comparison Shopping
In the United States, a number of other rugby short producers have appeared as the sport has moved from grass roots to further acceptance. However, many of these providers tend to be shops that either direct outsourced production with their name on the clothes, or they are using shorts from a major provider with their own shop name stitched on. Pricing ranges from $18 to $30, depending on the shop, but quality can be hit or miss.
Accessories
Rugby shorts generally come with pockets as an accessory, but they can be purchased without them. The choice is mainly convenience as a place to put a mouth protector when not in use. However, pockets in theory could give a tackling player one more place to grab onto.
Insider Tips
When sizing rugby shorts, make sure to get a size that is comfortable for your weight, size and waistline. Due to the strong fabric and stitching, rugby shorts will not be as flexible and will bind in the wrong places if the size is too small.
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