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FAQ
Rugby balls are made in 4 different sizes and designed for varying age groups:
- Size 3: Mini rugby for age groups under 7’s, 8’s and 9’s.
- Size 4: Junior rugby for age groups under 10’s, 11’s, 12’s, 13’s and 14’s.
- Size 4.5: A transitional size for players changing from size 4 to size 5.
- Size 5: For senior rugby and for 15’s and older.
Rugby balls come in a number of designs, weights and sizes. The most common way to group them is for recreational use, training balls and match balls. There are all-weather variations of each type of ball. Normally, the design of the ball is only a cosmetic choice, but the material of the ball affects the quality and weight.
The construction of a rugby ball affects its shape retention and weight. When talking about a ball’s ‘ply’ it refers to the number of layers between the outer layer and the bladder in the centre of the ball. Match balls are generally 3 ply and training balls are a mixture of 2 ply and 3 ply. A 3 ply ball will be heavier than a 2 ply ball, which means it will be less affected by wind, but harder to kick or throw long distances. If you’re trying out rugby for the first time a 2 ply ball will allow you to figure out your technique and then work your way up to a 3 ply ball, but keep in mind there is no right or wrong way, just do you.
The standard air pressure for a rugby ball is 9.5 psi. It’s important not to overinflate your ball as that can alter its shape, and once a ball has been overinflated, it won’t return to its original and optimal shape.
It’s great to get in the habit of cleaning your rugby ball after every game, practice or throw about. It keeps the grip at its best, the shape as it should be, all in all, a longer life. So after some fun your should:
Wipe it down with a wet or damp cloth. Use a small amount of soap or detergent to wipe it off again. Wipe off the detergent with a damp cloth. Pat the ball dry and leave it to dry.