Rugby is undoubtedly one of the most physical and dynamic sports on the planet, with matches often being decided by one moment of magic or an unfortunate slip.

BEST RUGBY BOOTS

• ADIDAS PREDATOR MALICE CONTROL
• MIZUNO MORELIA NEO II SI
• NIKE TIEMPO LEGEND VII ELITE
• CANTERBURY STAMPEDE 2.0

As a result, it has never been more important to find the right pair of boots to support your game, no matter what position on the field in which you play.

Backs will generally favour lightweight boots in order to aid the speed of their play, while forwards should be on the lookout for something more supportive and durable.

I have put together a list of some of the best rugby boots on the market today, having taken into consideration factors such as comfort, support and technology.

Or if you play as a back, check out our best rugby boots for backs.

Best Rugby Boots

back to menu ↑

ADIDAS PREDATOR MALICE CONTROL

Adidas bring their lightest rugby boots yet in the form of the Adidas KAKARI X KEVLAR SOFT GROUND, which is made for backs who love nothing better than sidestepping their opponent and flying towards the try line.

I found that the elasticated sock, which is found on many Adidas products today, only aids both agility and stability when on the pitch, while the sole is both lightweight and durable.

These boots also provide a mixture of plastic and metal studs, which I found helped my speed over short distances when testing them. As well as this, the stud configuration helps to ensure that minimal mud gets stuck between them, which will help my grip on the field.

The Adizero Adidas KAKARI X KEVLAR SOFT GROUND also offers an increased surface area on the instep, perfect for those in the back line who regularly put boot to ball in order to clear their lines or put the opposition under pressure.

It is worth keeping in mind that forwards are unlikely to find this model of much use, with it having been designed with backs in mind.

These boots from Adidas are both affordable and high in quality, offering a tech-savvy update on an old classic.

[content-egg module=Offer template=custom/compact next=1]
back to menu ↑

Mizuno Morelia Neo II SI

It is now time to look at something more for those who enjoy getting up close and personal with their opponents, with the Mizuno Morelia Neo II having been designed in order to accommodate both back rowers and centres in particular.

I found these boots to be one of the most comfortable during testing, with a kangaroo leather upper also helping to offer added durability.

A graded pebax sole plate offers flexibility at all times, while six metal studs help to increase traction in all conditions. As more and more rugby boots are seemingly slimming down in shape over the years, the Morelia Neo II is a good option for those players with a wider foot.

Available in a range of colours, the Morelia is one of the more expensive options on the market. But, you will not be let down by the quality and I found the comfort also to be excellent during testing.

back to menu ↑

Nike Tiempo Legend VII Elite

The Tiempo series from Nike may be better known from the world of football, however more and more rugby players are taking advantage of these excellent boots. England fly-half Owen Farrell is one of the high-profile Tiempo wearers, however, they are suitable for those in both the backs and forwards due to their durability and comfort.

The boots are available in a range of sole plates, but I found that a mix of both plastic and metal stubs provided excellent traction and stability when I took to the pitch in them.

Nike has introduced flyknit to the upper of the boot in order to create additional lockdown of the feet, with an anti-clog feature on the sole also helping to reduce mud build-up.

Despite having changed somewhat over recent years, the Tiempo is undoubtedly one of Nike’s best rugby boots. This no-nonsense option is definitely worth the investment, regardless if you are a flying full-back or a monstrous loosehead.

[content-egg module=Offer template=custom/compact next=1]
back to menu ↑

Canterbury Stampede 2.0

Canterbury is a name that is synonymous with the world of rugby and their Stampede 2.0 boots definitely one of the most traditional on the market today.

The boots have a very old-school feel to them, with their durability perhaps being the standout feature. Despite being made from a synthetic rather than a natural leather, I found that they still offer excellent comfort when on the field.

As well as this, Canterbury has added extra heel protection, which will support your feet at all times during a rigorous 80 minutes of action. The Stampede 2.0 is perhaps more suited to forwards, as I found that its increased weight does make reaching your maximum speed more difficult than with other models.

The Canterbury Stampede 2.0 is one of the best-priced boots available too, meaning that it caters well for those playing rugby on an intermittent basis or if you are looking to get into the sport. These boots also have a mixture of metal and plastic studs, making them suitable for all weather conditions.

[content-egg module=Amazon template=custom/compact]
back to menu ↑

Buyers Guide

I have put forward a range of some of the best rugby boots on the market, which cater for both players in different positions and for use on different surfaces. However, there are some important factors that must be considered before making your purchase.

Surfaces

Even though rugby is generally played on natural grass, some players may be required to test their skills on an artificial surface from time to time.

As a result, it is worth considering such a fact before making your purchase, whether it be buying two pairs of boots or a firm ground option that can be used on a variety of surfaces.

Firm ground boots generally come with shorter moulded or plastic studs, while soft ground options come with a combination of metal and plastic studs, or solely metal studs.

Boot Shape

With so many different designs of boot being produced today, it can be difficult to decide between a traditional low-cut option or a boot coming with a sock-like ankle feature.

Low cut boots tend to be better options for players whose game is based on speed and agility, while high-cut boots help to keep your ankle in place, catering to those in the scrum.

Technology

One of the first factors to consider when looking for a new pair of rugby boots is to decide as to whether you are looking for something traditional or more modern. Many manufacturers are now utilising new technologies and materials when creating their products, which are likely to have an impact on their comfort and durability.

Going for a boot made from real leather or a combination of leather and other materials should mean that you are purchasing a product that will last for a significant period of time.

Sizing

Sizes are likely to differ slightly from brand to brand; however, it is important to know that rugby boots should not be too tight from the outset, due to the fact that they are likely to give somewhat after use. As well as this, buying boots that are too big will mean that your comfort and performance could well be negatively affected.