Parent guide
What does my child need to start playing rugby?
Short answer
Rugby boots, a mouthguard, a jersey, shorts, and socks. Rugby has no hard pads or helmets in most youth programs, but a well-fitting mouthguard is standard. The must-have items on this page add up to about $110–$315. Younger age groups often play tag rugby, which has no contact, so confirm your league's format before buying protective gear.
By Parent Sideline · Published October 25, 2026
How youth rugby is set up
Rugby is a continuous team sport where players carry the ball and pass it sideways or backward. Younger programs often play tag rugby or small-sided games with a smaller ball and a smaller field, and full-contact rules usually apply at older ages.
Union rugby has 15 players per side and sevens has seven per side. Formats, field sizes, and contact rules vary by league, so ask your coach what your child will play.
Passing, tackles, and rucks, explained simply
You can run with the ball anywhere, but you can only pass it sideways or backward. A forward pass results in a scrum restart for the other team.
After a tackle, the tackled player must let go of the ball. Players from both teams then form a ruck over the ball and push for it with their feet, and hands are not allowed. An invisible line through the ruck marks where teammates must stay behind to avoid being offside.
Safety basics
Rugby is a contact sport at older ages. Ask your club how it teaches tackling, how it manages contact in practice, and what its concussion protocol is.
A well-fitting mouthguard helps protect teeth. If your child has a head injury, stop play and follow your league's protocol and your doctor's advice. See our injury basics guide for general guidance.
By age and level
- Under 12
- Often tag or touch rugby with no tackling. A smaller ball (size 3 or 4) and a mouthguard are usually enough.
- Ages 12–14
- Contact usually begins, with coaching on tackling safety. Size 4 balls are common, and boots and mouthguards matter more.
- Ages 15 and up
- Full contact and size 5 ball. Confirm any additional protective equipment rules with your league.
Equipment and estimated cost
Checklist: first rugby season · must-haves about $110–$315
- Rugby Boots$40 – $120
- Mouthguard$5 – $30
- Rugby Jersey$30 – $80
- Rugby ShortsDark colors hide grass and mud stains better than white or light colors.$25 – $60
- Rugby Socks$10 – $25
Also helpful
- Shoulder Pads$40 – $100
- Scrum Cap / Headgear$30 – $80
- Rugby Ball$20 – $60
- Ranges are Parent Sideline estimates for entry-level to mid-range gear at major U.S. retailers. They are not live prices.
- The total adds the low and high of each must-have item's range. It matches the must-have estimate on the gear guide.
- Club fees, team kit supplied by the club, and tournament or travel costs are not included.
Some gear links on this site are affiliate links, which may earn us a commission at no cost to you. Details.
Common mistakes
- Buying protective gear before knowing whether the age group plays tag or contact.
- Skipping the mouthguard fitting. A properly fitted mouthguard works better than a one-size model.
- Expecting a forward pass to be legal. The ball must go sideways or backward.
- Wearing metal-tipped boots. Check the league rules for studs.
- Standing in front of the ruck line. It results in an offside penalty.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between rugby union and sevens?
Union has 15 players per side and a longer game. Sevens has seven per side and much shorter matches, often seven minutes per half.
What is a line-out?
It is a restart after the ball goes out of bounds, where players form lines and a teammate throws the ball in between them.
What is a scrum?
It is a restart after a forward pass or knock-on, where forwards from each team bind together and push for the ball.
Is rugby safe for kids?
It is a contact sport at older ages, so ask your club about tackle coaching and concussion protocols. Younger kids often play non-contact versions.
Sources
- World Rugby — International laws, including youth and tag formats.
- USA Rugby — National governing body for U.S. youth clubs. The site rate-limits automated checks; verify in your browser.
- CDC HEADS UP: concussion information for youth sports — Concussion signs and what to do. Verify the page in your browser; the CDC site blocks automated checks.
- HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics) — Pediatrician-reviewed guidance on kids, sports, and safety.
Rules and requirements differ by league. When a source and your league disagree, follow your league.
Ready to find a club?
Search rugby programs near you and ask what gear they require.
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