All the equipment you need to be a rugby player

 So, you're thinking about becoming a rugby player? Before you hit the field, let's talk about the gear you'll need. Here's a rundown of all the equipment that will set you up for success:

1. Rugby ball: This is the heart and soul of the game. It's oval-shaped, slightly larger and heavier than a football. Get yourself a leather or synthetic rugby ball, and you're good to go.

2. Rugby boots: You can't play rugby without the right footwear. Rugby boots are specially designed with a hard sole for excellent traction on the field. They also have reinforced toes to protect your feet during intense scrums.

3. Mouthguard: Safety first! A mouthguard is a must to protect your teeth and jaws during those bone-crushing tackles.

4. Shoulder pads: Protect those shoulders! Shoulder pads (or base layers that incorporate them) can help with absorbing impact and minimising injuries during tackles and collisions

5. Scrum cap: Some players opt to wear a scrum cap for added head and ear protection during scrummaging. It's not mandatory, but it's there if you want it.

6. Water bottles and hydration packs: Stay hydrated! Bring along water bottles or a hydration pack to quench your thirst during the game. Hydration is key to keep you performing at your best.

Remember, not all players need every piece of equipment listed here. It varies from player to player, and some may prefer additional gear for extra protection. But this should cover the basics you'll need to get started.

Gilbert and Canterbury: Rugby Brand History

Let's take a quick trip down rugby brand memory lane. Two iconic brands in the rugby world are Gilbert and Canterbury. Here's a bit about their history:

Gilbert: Back in 1823, in the town of Rugby, England (where rugby was born), William Gilbert started manufacturing and selling rugby balls. Fast forward to today, and Gilbert is one of the leading brands worldwide, offering a wide range of rugby equipment and apparel. Their products include balls, clothing, boots, and protective gear. Gilbert is known for producing top-notch, durable products that players and teams at all levels trust. And guess what? They're still based in Rugby!

Canterbury: In 1904, Canterbury had humble beginnings in New Zealand as a small manufacturer of woollen garments. Over the years, they've become one of the leading brands for rugby equipment and apparel globally. Canterbury has been the official kit supplier for renowned teams like the New Zealand All Blacks, England Rugby, and South Africa Springboks. Their product lineup includes clothing, boots, and protective gear. Canterbury is known for its innovative designs and high-quality products, and they've built a strong presence in rugby-playing countries around the world.

Both Gilbert and Canterbury have deep-rooted histories in rugby and have earned the trust of players and teams over many decades. Their commitment to producing top-quality, durable gear has made them beloved brands among rugby enthusiasts worldwide.

Safejawz: Revolutionizing Mouthguards for Contact Sports 

Developed in the UK, the SAFEJAWZ mouthguard is a truly revolutionary mouthguard. Our brand has a long history of making custom mouthguards for dentists and all this knowledge has been put into developing what we believe is the best-fitting range of mouthguards in the world.

Here are some of the revolutionary technologies we have developed with our mouthguards:

• Fluid Fit™ Technology means that SAFEJAWZ® guards feature a super-slim profile and great retentive qualities. The guard will essentially clip onto the teeth & fit comfortably so that breathing, talking and drinking will not be a problem.
  
  
• Jaw Secure™ also offers protection to the jaw and lower teeth. The pre-occluded base and raised impact pads on the bottom of the product act as a buffer to prevent damage from impact to the lower jaw.
  
  
• Remodel Tech™ ensures you can have multiple attempts to achieve the game-changing fit that we as so proud of.

Our founders, two athletes who were sick and tired of the lack of quality, mouthguards out there, had the vision to create something amazing—mouthguards that were super comfy, let you breathe like a boss, and offered unrivalled protection. Plus, we've also got all kinds of fantastic designs and colours, so you can rock your own style while dominating the field.

 It's no surprise that Safejawz quickly became the go-to brand for rugby, boxing, and other contact sports. We're a name you can trust, and we are still constantly researching and developing new technologies to make our mouthguards even more awesome. 

How to play rugby safely

Playing rugby safely is essential to minimize the risk of injuries and ensure a positive and enjoyable experience on the field. Here are some key guidelines to help you play rugby safely:

1. Warm-Up and Stretching: Before engaging in any physical activity, it's crucial to warm up your body and perform stretching exercises. This helps increase blood flow, loosen muscles, and reduce the risk of strains or pulls during the game.

2. Follow Proper Technique and Rules: Understanding and following the rules of rugby is vital to ensure a safe playing environment. Familiarize yourself with the laws of the game, including tackling techniques, scrummaging, rucking, and mauling. Always play within the boundaries of the rules and avoid dangerous or reckless actions that may endanger yourself or others.

3. Wear Protective Gear: Wearing appropriate protective gear can significantly reduce the risk of injuries. This includes a well-fitted gum shield (mouthguard) to protect your teeth and jaw, headgear to minimize head injuries, and shoulder pads to provide extra protection. It is also recommended to wear proper footwear with adequate grip and ankle support.

4. Maintain Physical Fitness: Maintaining good physical fitness is crucial for safe rugby play. Regular conditioning exercises and strength training can help improve your endurance, agility, and overall fitness level, reducing the risk of fatigue-related injuries.

5. Respect Your Opponents and Teammates: Rugby is a contact sport that requires mutual respect and sportsmanship. Treat your opponents and teammates with respect, both on and off the field. Avoid dangerous play, unnecessary aggression, or foul language that can lead to injuries or conflict.

6. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential to prevent dehydration and maintain optimal performance. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after the game, especially during hot weather conditions or intense physical exertion.

7. Communicate on the Field: Effective communication with your teammates is crucial for safe rugby play. Use clear and concise verbal or non-verbal cues to communicate during tackles, passes, and set pieces. This helps avoid collisions or misunderstandings that can lead to injuries.

8. Play at an Appropriate Level: Choose the appropriate level of rugby that matches your skills, experience, and physical condition. Engaging in a level that is too challenging or beyond your capabilities can increase the risk of injuries. Gradually progress and seek proper coaching and training to improve your skills safely.

9. Seek Proper Coaching and Training: Working with experienced coaches and trainers can provide valuable guidance on proper techniques, skills development, and injury prevention strategies. They can help you understand the game better and improve your performance while minimizing the risk of injuries.

10. Listen to Your Body: Finally, listen to your body and recognize signs of fatigue, pain, or injury. If you experience any discomfort or suspect an injury, take the necessary time to rest, recover, and seek appropriate medical attention if needed. Pushing through pain or playing while injured can lead to more severe injuries and prolonged recovery periods.