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If you play rugby, coach a youth team, or train for track and field, finding the right gear can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. You want durable rugby balls, snug-fit jerseys, cleats that bite into the turf, and training tools that last season after season. This guide walks you through the top stores—both specialty rugby shops and large athletics retailers—so you can make smart buys without wasting time or money.
Not all shops are created equal. Specialty rugby stores focus on specific items like scrum caps, international jerseys, and match-grade balls, while big-box athletic retailers offer variety, competitive prices, and easy returns. I’ll break down the strengths of each kind so you can choose a store based on what matters to you: performance, price, or convenience.
Rugby Imports is a specialist retailer known for a wide selection of rugby balls, boots, protective gear, and team equipment. If you’re hunting for match-grade leather balls, classic striped jerseys, or scrum caps, this shop tends to carry authentic international brands and gear designed specifically for rugby’s physical demands.
Clubs love Rugby Imports because the inventory is curated for rugby’s unique needs—think reinforced stitching on training balls and shorts built to withstand tackles. If you want gear that’s built for contact and repeated use, a specialist like this often offers better long-term value than generic athletic shops.
Dick’s is a nationwide chain that stocks everything from cleats and athletic apparel to training aids and strength equipment. For rugby players and track athletes, it’s a convenient place to pick up cross-training shoes, compression gear, mouthguards, and even team orders for local clubs.
Choose Dick’s when you want fast fulfillment, in-store try-on for shoe fit, and a broad selection of mainstream brands like Nike, adidas, and Under Armour. It’s especially useful for coaches placing bulk equipment orders or athletes who want reliable return policies and frequent promotions.
Eastbay has long been associated with team sports and athletic footwear, making it a smart stop for cleats, spikes, performance socks, and team uniforms. Their catalog often includes specialized models of cleats for both grass and turf as well as lightweight track spikes for sprinting and field events.
If you’re outfitting an entire squad or need competition-ready spikes, Eastbay’s team services and bulk ordering options simplify the process. They also tend to have in-depth product filters so you can zero in on cleat type, shaft height, and intended surface without wandering through endless pages.
REI might not sell match-grade rugby balls, but it’s a terrific place to buy training equipment: sleds, resistance bands, kettlebells, recovery tools, and outdoor running gear. For athletes who condition outdoors—think hill sprints, sand runs, and circuit work—REI’s durable clothing and footwear options are reliable.
Grab your cross-training shoes, weather-resistant training layers, and recovery tools at REI if your focus is conditioning and longevity. Their gear tends to be built for rugged outdoor use, which is perfect if you practice in rain or cold and want items that hold up season after season.
International retailers like the official World Rugby Shop or Europe-based rugby specialists stock national team jerseys, tournament merchandise, and niche gear you might not find at US chains. If you’re after a specific country kit or a retro jersey from a past tournament, these shops can be a treasure trove.
Ordering internationally means checking size charts carefully—look for US sizing equivalents in inches and US shoe sizes. Factor in shipping time and customs, and consider ordering early if you need a kit for a season or tour.
Match balls are designed for best flight and grip and usually cost more. Training balls are more durable and affordable for repeated practice. If you train several times a week, pick a training ball for practice and reserve a match ball for game day to extend the life of both.
Rugby balls come in sizes 3, 4, and 5. Size 5 is the standard for adult men and competitions, while size 4 works well for younger teens, and size 3 is for kids. When in doubt, choose size 5 for adult play and size 4 if the player is under about 12 years old or noticeably smaller in stature. Feel the ball in your hands—good grip and the right weight in ounces ensure confident passing and kicking.
Cleat choice depends a lot on the playing surface. For natural grass, opt for molded studs or removable studs that provide traction without sticking. On synthetic turf, look for shorter, multi-stud patterns or turf shoes with a dense rubber sole. For track events, choose spikes that match your distance—sprint spikes for short sprints and distance spikes for middle- and long-distance events.
Shoe fit is personal. For cleats, leave about a thumb’s width (roughly one inch) of space in front of your longest toe to avoid black toenails from sprints or impacts. Test fit with the same socks you’ll wear in competition; compression or thin technical socks change the perceived fit. If you have wide feet, seek models labeled “wide” or try a half-size up and use a targeted insole for arch support.
Mouthguards vary from boil-and-bite to custom-fit. Boil-and-bite models give decent protection and are affordable; custom-fit is best for comfort and long-term wear. When fitting a boil-and-bite mouthguard, follow instructions carefully and test it in the mouth to ensure it doesn’t restrict breathing during heavy exertion.
Scrum caps protect ears and reduce cuts but don’t prevent concussions. Pick a cap with breathable material and adjustable straps for a snug fit. For shoulder padding, thin, flexible pads that fit under jerseys offer protection without blocking movement. Prioritize mobility—if the gear limits your range of motion, it could hinder performance more than it helps.
When ordering for a team, always confirm sizes in advance—collect players’ chest measurements in inches and shoe sizes in US sizing to reduce errors. Request a sample jersey or size run if possible so players can try before the full order goes in. Also, check printing options for numbers and sponsors and ask about minimum order quantities.
Bulk orders usually lower the per-unit cost, but consider staggering purchases: buy core items like jerseys and shorts in one order and gradually add less-essential gear. Look for off-season sales or clearance sections at major retailers to kit out younger teams without breaking the bank.
Resistance bands, sleds, medicine balls, and agility ladders are staples for rugby conditioning and track training. Pick durable bands with multiple resistance levels so a whole team can use them. For sleds, a simple 45-pound plate plus a heavy-duty harness can create great on-field conditioning without fancy equipment.
Recovery matters—foam rollers, massage guns, compression sleeves, and quality sleep systems can speed recovery and prevent injuries. A small investment in a reliable massage gun or a high-density foam roller pays off over a season by reducing downtime from muscle soreness.
When trying cleats, walk, jog, and cut inside the store if allowed to feel how they respond. For jerseys and pads, mimic the movement you’ll do in games—reach, twist, and squat—to ensure the fit won’t hinder your range. Always test mouthguards and scrum caps for comfort and breathing ease before committing.
Take advantage of stores that allow brief on-field demos or returns—this reduces risk. When buying online, read return windows carefully and inspect items as soon as they arrive. If something doesn’t fit right, exchange sooner rather than later to avoid practice interruptions.
Always use the retailer’s size chart and measure in inches. For jersey chest size, measure the widest part of your chest while standing naturally. For shoes, measure foot length in inches while standing and compare to the US shoe size chart offered by the brand—not all brands size the same.
Buy from authorized retailers, brand stores, or reputable specialty shops. Check for consistent logos, stitched labels, and reviews. Beware of deals that look too good to be true—counterfeit items can lack the durability and safety features of authentic products.
Shop cleats and spikes late in the season for clearance savings, and get jerseys before major tournaments when selection is still strong. Off-season is a great time to buy training equipment and recovery tools since retailers often clear out inventory to make room for new models.
Many stores offer student-athlete discounts, coach discounts, or team program rates. Sign up for newsletters from specialty rugby shops and big retailers to catch flash sales. Loyalty programs at chains like Dick’s can add up to meaningful savings over multiple purchases.
Choosing where to buy rugby and athletics gear comes down to what you value most: specialized performance and authenticity, broad selection and convenience, or durable training and recovery tools. Specialist shops like Rugby Imports offer rugby-specific gear, while big-box retailers such as Dick’s and Eastbay provide accessibility, team ordering, and a wide brand selection. REI is perfect for conditioning and durable outdoor training equipment, and international retailers can help you find rare team kits. Measure in inches, pick the right cleat for your surface, and invest in protective gear that balances safety with mobility. With informed choices, you’ll build a kit that supports peak performance and keeps you on the pitch or track with confidence.
