Best Rugby Shoulder Protectors of 2025

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Aug 29, 2023

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Rugby shoulder protectors are crucial for any rugby player looking to protect themselves from injuries. These protectors are designed to provide maximum protection to the shoulders, collarbone, and upper arm regions. They are made of high-quality materials that are durable and resistant to wear and tear. Rugby shoulder protectors come in different sizes and styles to fit different body types and personal preferences. They are also lightweight and comfortable to wear, allowing players to move freely on the field without any restrictions. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned rugby player, investing in a good quality shoulder protector is essential to prevent serious injuries and ensure a safe and enjoyable game.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Gilbert Kryten Xact 10 Rugby Shoulder Protector (Small) Cover #TOP 1
Gilbert Kryten Xact 10 Rugby Shoulder Protector (Small)
ftb score rating icon 9.8
blk TEK VI Rugby Protection Top Cover #TOP 2
blk TEK VI Rugby Protection Top
ftb score rating icon 9.7
BARNETT RSP-PRO 8 Rugby Shoulder pad pro, (XS) Cover #TOP 3
BARNETT RSP-PRO 8 Rugby Shoulder pad pro, (XS)
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 8 Rugby Shoulder Protectors

#TOP 1

Gilbert Kryten Xact 10 Rugby Shoulder Protector (Small)

GIL308-SM
Small
Gilbert Kryten Xact 10 Rugby Shoulder Protector (Small) Cover
Gilbert Kryten Xact 10 Rugby Shoulder Protector (Small)

The Gilbert Xact Rugby Protector is designed to provide maximum support while ensuring freedom of movement. Its Tri-flex Padding System consists of triangular closed cell foam padding that moves with your body, providing a second-skin feel. Its 13 strategically positioned pads provide total coverage, making sure you're protected in all the right places. The two-way stretch fabric combined with cross weave mesh inserts helps disperse heat and moisture, keeping you cool and dry. This protector is designed to be worn under a technical rugby jersey to provide the ultimate in performance, making it a must-have for any serious rugby player.

What We Like
Maximum support
Freedom of movement
13 strategically positioned pads
Disperses heat and moisture
#TOP 2

blk TEK VI Rugby Protection Top

blk
Small
blk TEK VI Rugby Protection Top Cover
blk TEK VI Rugby Protection Top, Small

This Rugby Protection Top has contoured shoulder and bicep padding, internal gel gripper waistband, silicon gel BLK logo, 80% Nylon, 20 % Elastane, and 100% EVA padding. It is designed to protect your shoulders and biceps during rugby games. The contoured padding can help to absorb impact and reduce the risk of injuries. The internal gel gripper waistband can keep the top firmly in place while you move around. The silicon gel BLK logo adds a touch of style to the top.

What We Like
Contoured shoulder and bicep padding for protection
Internal gel gripper waistband for a secure fit
Silicon gel BLK logo for added style
#TOP 3

BARNETT RSP-PRO 8 Rugby Shoulder pad pro, (XS)

black
X-Small
BARNETT RSP-PRO 8 Rugby Shoulder pad pro, (XS) Cover
BARNETT RSP-PRO 8 Rugby Shoulder pad pro, (XS)

Features
100% Nylon And Spandex, Expanded And Thermoformed EVA Foam
Protection For Your Arms, Chest And Shoulders, 8 Components
Conceived To Be Used In Competiotions And Practice
Approved By CE IRB
#TOP 4

Rhino Rugby Body Protection Pro Adult Black Medium

Rhino
RHPROPRTECTOP
Black
Medium
Rhino Rugby Body Protection Pro Adult Black Medium Cover
Rhino Rugby Body Protection Pro Adult Black Medium

Features
Suitable For: Rugby.
Material: EVA.
Fabric Technology: Dual Expansion Foam, Lightweight.
Design: Logo, Patterned.
Contrast Collar, Contrast Stitching, Fitted Cuff, Padding On Shoulders, Biceps And Sternum.
#TOP 5

Empire Grind THT Eblow Pad Small

Empire
43237-2
Small
Empire Grind THT Eblow Pad Small Cover
Empire Grind THT Eblow Pad Small

Features
Thermal Molded And Padded Back Of Hand For Added Protection From Impacts And Dives.
Thumbhole Loops And Adjustable Wrist And Bicep Straps For A Truly Custom Fit.
Plenty Of Ventilation To Keep You Cool In The Hottest Conditions.
Memory Foam Padding Within EVA Foam Padding For The Ultimate Defense.
Adjustable, Compression Custom Fit To Lock Them In Place
#TOP 6

Canterbury Vapodri Raze Flex Vest - Black/Red/White

E211050-989-2XL
Black
XX-Large
Canterbury Vapodri Raze Flex Vest - Black/Red/White Cover
Canterbury Vapodri Raze Flex Vest - Black/Red/White

Features
Primarily Black In Colour. Closed Cell Foam Material.
Black Shoulder Pads Made By Canterbury
Canterbury Logo Applied. Suitable For Adults
#TOP 7

Optimum Men's Blitz Protective Shoulder Pad

Optimum
BLZTRLBB
Black / Blue
zzzz-s
Optimum Men's Blitz Protective Shoulder Pad Cover
Optimum Men's Blitz Protective Shoulder Pad - Black/Blue, Small

This rugby shoulder protector is designed to keep you safe during the game. The black and blue pads are made of synthetic material, while the long-sleeved pink t-shirt has the Optimum logo printed on it. It is suitable for kids and is a great choice for any rugby player looking for protection.

What We Like
Durable synthetic material
Long-sleeved pink t-shirt included
Suitable for kids
#TOP 8

Rhino Unisex-Youth Pro Body Protection

Rhino
Pro Body Protection
Fluo Yellow
Rhino Unisex-Youth Pro Body Protection Cover
Rhino Unisex-Youth Pro Body Protection, Fluo Yellow, LY

The Rhino Unisex-Youth Pro Body Protection is a rugby shoulder protector designed with strategically placed EVA padding on the shoulders, biceps, and sternum. It uses Dual Expansion Foam technology which gives more memory and is lightweight. The full torso length with a snug fit ensures the padding stays securely in place, providing the user with optimal protection during the game.

What We Like
Strategically placed EVA padding for maximum protection
Dual Expansion Foam technology for lightweight and comfortable wear
Full torso length and snug fit to keep padding securely in place
Buying Guide Image

Find Your Fit: How to Buy the Right Rugby Shoulder Protectors

Shoulder protectors are a great way to provide extra protection for the shoulders and upper body during matches or practices. When choosing shoulder protectors, it's important to consider fit, materials, padding, breathability and comfort.

Fit is one of the most important factors when buying shoulder protectors. The protector should be snug but not overly tight in order to provide maximum coverage without restricting movement. It should also have adjustable straps so you can loosen or tighten them as needed for a secure fit.

Materials are another key factor when selecting shoulder protectors. Look for products made with durable materials like nylon or polyester that will withstand impact and wear and tear. If you plan to play in wet conditions, look for materials with waterproof or water-resistant properties.

Padding is also an important consideration when choosing shoulder protectors. Thick padding will provide more protection from impact, while thinner padding may feel less restrictive but could offer less coverage. Look for pads that are lightweight yet still supportive, so they won't weigh you down during matches or practices.

Breathability is another factor to consider when selecting shoulder protectors. Look for products made with breathable fabrics that allow air to flow through the material and keep your body cool during exercise or intense physical activity. Moisture-wicking fabric can help draw sweat away from your skin and keep it out of your pads.

Finally, comfort should also be a top priority when selecting shoulder protectors. Look for products that fit well and are made with comfortable materials like cotton or spandex. Be sure to try on the protector before making a purchase to ensure it fits properly and is comfortable to wear.

With these factors in mind, you can find the perfect shoulder protector for you that provides the right amount of protection without sacrificing comfort or mobility. Keep these tips in mind while shopping and you'll be able to find the best shoulder protector for your rugby needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What do rugby players wear on their shoulders?

Shoulder pads are allowed in Rugby Union as long as they comply with the correct coverage and thickness laid out by World Rugby. They must: only cover the shoulder and collarbone. be made of soft material.

2. Do you need shoulder pads for rugby?

There is no conclusive research showing that shoulder pads reduce injury rates in rugby, however, a survey of over 661 rugby players conducted by Sheffield University found that 45.5% of players wore shoulder pads in the belief that they prevented injury.

3. Do rugby players wear body padding?

Rugby union players experience a combination of characteristic extrinsic forces through the acts of tackling and scrummaging. The laws which are part of the international regulation of rugby union only permit the wearing of certain, clearly delineated forms of padding.

Editor's Notes

During our rugby shoulder protector research, we found 9 rugby shoulder protector products and shortlisted 8 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,495 customer reviews through our big data system to write the rugby shoulder protectors list. We found that most customers choose rugby shoulder protectors with an average price of $35.20.

The rugby shoulder protectors are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of rugby shoulder protectors, including Gilbert, blk, BARNETT, Rhino, Empire. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 386 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.