Anna 
Rugby is a physically demanding sport that requires players to be well-equipped for safety, performance, and comfort. While the outer jersey is visible to spectators, many might wonder what players wear underneath. This article delves into the various garments and equipment rugby players wear beneath their jerseys, highlighting their purposes and importance.
Base Layers
Compression Shirts
Compression shirts are tight-fitting garments made from elastic materials like spandex. They serve multiple purposes:
- Muscle Support: They provide support to muscles, reducing fatigue and the risk of injury.
- Moisture Management: These shirts wick sweat away from the body, keeping players dry.
- Temperature Regulation: They help maintain body temperature, keeping players warm in cold conditions and cool in heat.
Padded Undershirts
Some players opt for undershirts with light padding on the shoulders and chest. These are designed to absorb minor impacts and reduce bruising. However, the padding must comply with World Rugby regulations, ensuring it’s thin and compressible.
Protective Gear
Mouthguards
Mouthguards are essential for protecting the teeth and reducing the risk of concussions. They are custom-fitted to each player’s mouth and are worn during all matches and training sessions.
Scrum Caps
Scrum caps are soft, padded headgear worn to protect the ears and head during scrums and tackles. While not mandatory, many players choose to wear them to prevent injuries like cauliflower ear. It’s important to note that while they offer some protection, they are not designed to prevent concussions.
Shoulder Pads
Shoulder pads are worn under the jersey to provide additional protection to the shoulders and upper chest. They are made from soft, flexible materials and must adhere to regulations regarding thickness and density.
Chest and Rib Protection
Some players, especially forwards, wear additional padding to protect the chest and ribs. These pads are designed to absorb impacts during tackles and scrums.
Elbow and Knee Pads
To protect joints from abrasions and impacts, players may wear padded sleeves on their elbows and knees. These are particularly useful on hard or abrasive playing surfaces.
Performance Monitoring Devices
GPS Trackers
Modern rugby has embraced technology to monitor player performance. Players often wear GPS trackers housed in a small pouch between the shoulder blades or in a vest-like garment. These devices track metrics like distance covered, speed, and positioning, providing valuable data to coaches and analysts.
Heart Rate Monitors
Integrated with GPS trackers or worn separately, heart rate monitors help in assessing a player’s exertion levels, ensuring they are training and playing within safe limits.
Undergarments
Compression Shorts
Similar to compression shirts, these shorts support the thigh and groin muscles, reducing fatigue and the risk of strains. They also help in moisture management.
Protective Cups
While not universally worn, some players choose to wear protective cups to shield the groin area. These are held in place by compression shorts or jockstraps. The decision to wear a cup is personal, balancing protection with comfort and mobility.
Socks and Footwear
Rugby Socks
Rugby socks are long, reaching up to the knees, and are designed to stay in place during intense activity. They provide support to the calves and protect the lower legs from abrasions.
Boots
Rugby boots are equipped with studs to provide traction on the field. The type and arrangement of studs can vary based on position and playing conditions. Forwards often prefer boots with more studs for stability, while backs might choose lighter boots for speed.
Conclusion
Underneath their jerseys, rugby players wear a combination of garments and equipment designed to enhance performance, ensure safety, and provide comfort. From compression gear and protective padding to performance monitoring devices, each item plays a crucial role in preparing players for the physical demands of the game.
Related Topics: