Best Rugby Shoes for Men of 2026

William Weston Avatar
William Weston
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2026

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Rugby shoes are designed specifically for the sport of rugby, catering to the unique demands and challenges of the game. These shoes offer excellent traction and grip on the field, ensuring stability and preventing slips during fast-paced movements. They are typically made with durable materials to withstand the intense physicality of rugby, providing both comfort and protection. With their specialized design and construction, rugby shoes are an essential piece of equipment for any serious rugby player, offering the necessary support and performance needed to excel on the field.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

adidas RS-15 Rugby Sneakers Cover #TOP 1
adidas RS-15 Rugby Sneakers
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Canterbury CCC Phoenix 2.0 Rugby Boots Cover #TOP 2
Canterbury CCC Phoenix 2.0 Rugby Boots
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Canterbury Unisex Rugby Boots Cover #TOP 3
Canterbury Unisex Rugby Boots
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Rugby Shoes for Men

#TOP 1

adidas RS-15 Rugby Sneakers

JQ2354
Green
adidas RS-15 Rugby Sneakers Cover
adidas Mens Rs-15 Rugby Sneakers Shoes - Green - Size 10 M

The adidas RS-15 Sneakers offer a comfortable fit with their regular sizing, making them easy for you to wear all game long without discomfort. Their lace-up design ensures a secure hold, so your feet stay stable during quick moves on the field. The soft synthetic upper provides a smooth, flexible feel, allowing your feet to move naturally while offering durability. Plus, the soft ground outsole is specially designed to give you better grip and traction on wet or muddy surfaces, helping you stay balanced and agile during play.

What We Like
Comfortable regular fit
Secure lace closure
Flexible synthetic upper
Soft ground traction sole
#TOP 2

Canterbury CCC Phoenix 2.0 Rugby Boots

Q-B000182
Black
11.5
Canterbury CCC Phoenix 2.0 Rugby Boots Cover
Canterbury Unisex's CCC Phoenix 2.0 Team Soft Ground Rugby Boots, Black, 11.5

The Canterbury Phoenix Rugby Boots offer a stable and responsive experience, thanks to their lightweight outsole designed to support quick moves and changes in direction on soft ground. The synthetic leather on the forefoot keeps the boots both light and durable, so you can trust them during intense play. The upper part of the boots features a knitted design reinforced with a strong TPU layer, ensuring they last through a full season. These boots are made to help you perform confidently with comfort and durability on the pitch.

What We Like
Lightweight outsole
Synthetic leather forefoot
Durable TPU-reinforced upper
Enhanced stability and traction
#TOP 3

Canterbury Unisex Rugby Boots

Q-E22A002
Black White
Canterbury Unisex Rugby Boots Cover
Canterbury Unisex Phoenix Raze Soft Ground Rugby Boots

The Canterbury Rugby Boots are a top choice for rugby players looking for both comfort and performance on the field. These boots feature a lightweight outsole that provides stability and energy response, allowing you to accelerate and change direction with ease. The durable upper material and cushioned collar offer protection and support during intense gameplay. With rugby-approved 6 metal studs and rhombus-shaped molded studs, these boots provide unrivaled traction, ensuring you stay firmly planted on the ground. The standard fit and regular thread size of the studs allow for customization, allowing you to swap them for different lengths if needed. Whether you're a professional or amateur player, the Canterbury Rugby Boots will enhance your performance and give you the confidence to dominate the game.

What We Like
Lightweight and stable
Durable and protective
Unrivaled traction
#TOP 4

Canterbury Mens Stampede 2025 Rugby Boots

Q-B000174
Canterbury Mens Stampede 2025 Rugby Boots Cover
Canterbury Mens Stampede Team 2025 Soft Ground Rugby Boots (13) (Black/Silver)

The Canterbury Stampede Rugby Boots provide a sturdy synthetic upper that offers durability and support during intense games. Inside, a breathable mesh lining helps keep your feet cool and comfortable, reducing sweat and improving ventilation. The EVA insole adds cushioning to absorb impact, making each step feel softer on your feet. On the outside, the cleated outsole with aluminum studs is designed for soft ground, giving you excellent grip and stability on wet or muddy fields. These boots combine comfort and performance to help you play your best.

What We Like
Durable synthetic upper
Breathable mesh lining
Cushioned EVA insole
Aluminum studded outsole
#TOP 5

Canterbury CCC Phoenix 2.0 Rugby Boots

Q-B000183
Black
Canterbury CCC Phoenix 2.0 Rugby Boots Cover
Canterbury Unisex's CCC Phoenix 2.0 Team Firm Ground Rugby Boots, Black, 11

The Canterbury Rugby Boots offer a comfortable and reliable fit with their standard sizing and lightweight sole made for firm ground. The synthetic leather on the front part of the shoe makes them both light and durable, so you can count on them to last through many games. The upper part is knitted and strengthened with a tough TPU layer called Vaposkin, ensuring these boots hold up well throughout the whole season. If you want boots that combine strength, comfort, and performance, the Canterbury Rugby Boots are a great choice.

What We Like
Lightweight outsole
Durable synthetic leather
Reinforced knitted upper
Firm-ground moulded studs
#TOP 6

Canterbury Stamped Grndbrk Pro Rugby Boots

Q-B000173
Metallic Silver
Canterbury Stamped Grndbrk Pro Rugby Boots Cover
Canterbury Unisex Stamped Grndbrk Pro Boots, Metallic silver, 11

The Canterbury Grndbrk Pro Boots offer excellent grip with eight 18 mm studs, helping you stay steady on the field. Designed with input from experienced players, these boots support powerful movements, making them ideal for strong athletes. The molded heel and wide toe design ensure a comfortable and secure fit, so you can focus on your game without distractions. Additionally, the neoprene wing tongue adds extra protection and support, keeping your foot safe and comfortable during intense play. These features combine to give you a reliable and comfortable rugby boot experience.

What We Like
Strong traction studs
Player-informed design
Molded heel fit
Wide toe comfort
Neoprene support tongue
#TOP 7

Gilbert Sidestep X20 PWR 8S Rugby Boot

873926
White/Red
9 Wide
Gilbert Sidestep X20 PWR 8S Rugby Boot Cover
Gilbert Sidestep X20 PWR 8S Rugby Boot - White/Red

The Gilbert Sidestep Rugby Boots are designed for players who need extra strength and control on the field. Their wide-fit design offers added comfort and stability, helping you stay steady during tough plays. The durable synthetic upper provides both power and long-lasting wear, so you can focus on your game without worrying about your boots. The BioFrame 8-stud outsole with a classic 6:2 stud layout ensures excellent traction on soft ground, giving you confidence in every step. Plus, the replaceable aluminum studs keep your grip reliable in various match conditions, so you can perform your best no matter the weather.

What We Like
Wide-fit comfort
Durable synthetic upper
Excellent soft-ground traction
Replaceable aluminum studs
#TOP 8

Gilbert Quantum Pace Pro 6S Rugby Boot

873877
Black
Gilbert Quantum Pace Pro 6S Rugby Boot Cover
Gilbert Quantum Pace Pro 6S Rugby Boot Black 11

The Gilbert Quantum Pace Rugby offers a specially designed knitted upper that fits like a sock, giving you great comfort and a snug feel during the game. Its asymmetrical lacing system helps you get an even better fit, so you can focus on playing. The ultra-lightweight ProWeld upper means you can move faster on the field without extra weight slowing you down. Plus, the boot features unique dimples that improve your grip on the ball, giving you more control and accuracy when kicking. These features work together to enhance your performance and comfort in every match.

What We Like
Knitted upper for comfort
Asymmetrical lacing fit
Ultra-lightweight design
Ball-contact dimples
#TOP 9

Canterbury Stamped Grndbrk Rugby Boots

Q-B000174
12 Women/9.5 Men
Canterbury Stamped Grndbrk Rugby Boots Cover
Canterbury Unisex Stamped Grndbrk Team Boots, Black Silver Metallic, 12 Women/9.5 Men

The Canterbury Grndbrk Boots are designed with input from players, ensuring they meet the needs of serious rugby athletes like you. They feature eight 18mm studs that give you excellent grip on the field, helping you stay stable during quick moves. The boots also have a molded heel and a wide toe box, offering a comfortable and secure fit that reduces foot fatigue. Additionally, the Flight Beam TPU technology improves power transfer and stability, so you can push off the ground with more strength and confidence. These boots combine comfort, support, and performance to enhance your game.

What We Like
Player-informed design
Optimized traction studs
Molded heel fit
Wide toe box
Flight Beam TPU stability
#TOP 10

Adidas TRX Soft Ground Studs

BP7976
Silver Aluminium
One Size
Adidas TRX Soft Ground Studs Cover
Adidas Unisex TRX Soft Ground Studs Long, Silver/Aluminium, One Size

The Adidas TRX Studs are designed to give you excellent traction on soft ground surfaces. With two stud sizes, 4 mm by 15 mm and 8 mm by 11 mm, these studs help you get better grip and quicker acceleration when playing. They are made from 100% aluminum, making them lightweight yet durable for intense games. These studs fit perfectly with several Adidas rugby boots, including models like Kakari Light and Predator Malice, so you can easily upgrade your gear for better performance on soft fields.

What We Like
Soft ground traction
Two stud sizes
Lightweight aluminum
Wide boot compatibility
Buying Guide Image

The Best Rugby Shoes for Men to Keep You Stylish

Rugby is a high-intensity contact sport that requires players to have the right gear to perform at their best. One essential piece of gear is a good pair of rugby shoes.

Choosing the Right Fit

When looking for a pair of rugby shoes, it's important to choose a size that fits well. The shoes should be snug and comfortable, with enough room for your toes to move freely. It's also important to ensure that the shoes provide enough support for your feet, as rugby can be a high-impact sport.

Features to Consider

Rugby shoes are designed to provide traction, stability, and support during the game. Some key features to consider when shopping for a pair of rugby shoes include:

  • Ankle support: Rugby shoes should provide ample support for the ankles, as they will be subjected to a lot of lateral movement and impact during the game.
  • Durability: Rugby shoes need to be able to withstand the rigors of the sport, so it's important to choose a pair that is built to last.
  • Traction: Good traction is essential for rugby players, as they need to be able to move quickly and make sharp cuts without slipping. Look for shoes with a high-quality outsole that provides excellent grip on the pitch.

Price

Rugby shoes can range in price from under $100 to over $200, depending on the brand and the features they offer. It's important to find a balance between quality and affordability when shopping for a pair of rugby shoes.

Conclusion

A good pair of rugby shoes is essential for any rugby player. When shopping for a pair, be sure to choose the right fit, consider the features that are important for the sport, and find a balance between quality and affordability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between rugby shoes and football boots?

Rugby shoes, also known as boots, are wider and better suited for the nature of the game. They provide players with enhanced traction, thanks to their larger surface area in the mid and forefoot. This design allows rugby players to maintain better grip and stability on the field.

2. Is there a difference between rugby and soccer boots?

Yes, there are subtle differences between rugby and soccer boots. Soccer cleats typically have shorter studs, around 10 to 16, to aid in quick movement on grass and turf. In contrast, rugby boots have a minimum of 8 longer studs, which provide more grip and stability for the physical demands of the game.

3. Can you wear American football boots for rugby?

Yes, football boots can be worn for rugby as long as the studs are legal. If using screw-in studs, they may need to be switched depending on the sport. However, it is important to note that rugby boots are usually more robust to handle the physical nature of the game, so they may be more suitable.

4. Can I use football boots for rugby?

Yes, you can use football boots for rugby, especially if you are a back. However, it is generally recommended for forwards to wear more robust rugby boots to handle the physicality of their game.

5. Can you play rugby in sneakers?

For your first rugby match, it is necessary to wear proper rugby cleats. However, for your first rugby practice, running shoes are acceptable. If you have old soccer or lacrosse cleats, they are a better option than regular sneakers.

6. Can I use baseball cleats for rugby?

No, baseball cleats are not appropriate for rugby. Instead, soccer cleats or rubber/plastic rugby cleats are permissible.

Editor's Notes

During our rugby shoes for men research, we found 48 rugby shoes for men products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,721 customer reviews through our big data system to write the rugby shoes for men list. We found that most customers choose rugby shoes for men with an average price of $113.38.

The rugby shoes for men are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of rugby shoes for men, including adidas, Canterbury, Gilbert. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 7,797 consumers with an average rating of 4.5.

Written by
William Weston Avatar

William Weston was born in America and is currently a fashion industry designer. He's always been fascinated with the idea of taking something old and making it new again, so he decided to go into fashion design. William loves working on his designs and creating clothing that will make people look good while feeling comfortable at the same time.