Start with the age grade and format set by the player's union, then choose the ball and clothing for that group. World Rugby Law 4 recommends a mouthguard for every player and requires clothing to comply with Regulation 12. Measure boots and headgear using the exact maker's chart, since children grow and product sizing varies.
Mini rugby equipment should follow the player’s age grade and format, not a generic youth bundle. Start with the club’s current rules, then match each item to the child and the specific product chart.
Buy the basics in this order
| Item | What to check | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Ball | The size assigned by the player’s union and format | Youth age charts vary between competitions; a familiar size label is not an age rule |
| Boots | A secure fit and studs suited to the actual playing surface | Players change size, and footwear has to suit both foot and field |
| Mouthguard | A fit method and size that match the maker’s directions | World Rugby recommends a mouthguard or dental protector for every player |
| Match kit | The competition’s current clothing requirements and weather | Clothing remains subject to World Rugby Regulation 12 and local rules |
| Headgear or padding | Exact model approval, fit instructions and current rules | Extra protective items must meet their applicable equipment requirements |
World Rugby’s Laws say each union should determine the age and content of its youth pathway for its playing environment. The USA Rugby age-grade policy, for example, sets national guidance for youth and high-school play. Ask the club or school for its current competition, contact format, ball size and clothing rules before ordering a full set of kit.
Use the ball size by age guide for the size decision, then choose boots from the rugby boots by position and pitch guide. For mouthguard fit, compare the rugby mouthguard guide; for headgear sizing and World Rugby’s equipment rules, see the headguard fit guide. Browse youth rugby, coaching and referee gear.
Recheck fit and rules as the player grows
Measure the player’s foot and head using the maker’s instructions rather than carrying an old size forward. If a team is ordering in bulk, collect each player’s current measurements and let families know which size chart applies to each item. Do not treat a soft headguard as concussion protection; it does not prevent concussion.
World Rugby says playing equipment should be appropriate to each player’s age and experience. For age-grade specifics, use the union that governs the competition. The World Rugby Laws also recommend mouthguards, while headgear, body padding and other permitted clothing are covered by Law 4 and Regulation 12. Equipment labels and general youth advice do not replace the rulebook for a particular league or school.
Sources
Common questions
What gear does a child need for mini rugby?
Start with the club's age-grade and format rules, then choose the assigned ball size, suitable boots, match kit and a correctly fitted mouthguard. Ask the club which protective items its competition permits.
What size rugby ball should a young player use?
The size depends on the union's age-grade rules and format. Check with the club before buying; the [rugby ball size guide](/guides/rugby-ball-sizes-by-age) explains why one age chart does not apply everywhere.
Do young rugby players need a mouthguard?
World Rugby recommends that all players wear a mouthguard or dental protector. Use the maker's fit instructions and see the [rugby mouthguard guide](/guides/rugby-mouthguard-guide) for the choice between common styles.
Can children use adult rugby gear?
Choose clothing and equipment for the player's age, experience and assigned competition rules. World Rugby says playing equipment should be appropriate to the age and experience of the players.