Best Rugby Balls for Training of 2025

Luke Dobson Avatar
Luke Dobson
Last Updated: 6 Feb 2025

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For rugby players, having a reliable and high-quality ball is essential for training. These rugby balls are designed specifically for training purposes, with durable materials and excellent grip to ensure maximum performance on the field. They come in a variety of sizes and colours to suit different preferences and needs. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, these rugby balls are sure to help you improve your skills and take your game to the next level.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Optimum Rugby Bounce Back Solo Skills Ball Cover #TOP 1
Optimum Rugby Bounce Back Solo Skills Ball
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Gilbert Specialist Training Rebounder Match Ball Cover #TOP 2
Gilbert Specialist Training Rebounder Match Ball
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Gilbert G-TR4000 Sky Blue Rugby Training Ball Cover #TOP 3
Gilbert G-TR4000 Sky Blue Rugby Training Ball
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Rugby Balls for Training

Optimum Rugby Bounce Back Solo Skills Ball

White
Optimum Rugby Bounce Back Solo Skills Ball Cover
Optimum Rugby Bounce Back Solo Skills Ball - Balanced, Responsive, Accurate Handling & Kicking - Top-Performing Rebound Rugby Ball for Pro Training - 2-Ply, 410g (size 5)

The Optimum Bounce Back Ball is designed for enhancing your rugby skills through solo practice. You can throw it against a wall to improve your passing, throwing, and catching abilities. Its universal size caters to both beginners and seasoned players, ensuring everyone can benefit. With a weight similar to a match ball, you can practice accurately, preparing yourself for real game situations. Additionally, the durable design means it can withstand rigorous training sessions without damage, providing a reliable training partner.

What We Like
Improves passing and catching skills
Suitable for all ages
Realistic match ball weight
Durable and long-lasting
#TOP 2

Gilbert Specialist Training Rebounder Match Ball

42097405
Red / Black
Gilbert Specialist Training Rebounder Match Ball Cover
Gilbert 42097405 Specialist Training Rebounder Match Ball - White/Blue/Green, Size 5

The Gilbert Rebounder Match Ball is designed for solo training, featuring a half ball that allows you to practise passing without needing a partner. You can pass against a wall using either hand, helping you to refine your technique. The durable rubber surface ensures it withstands rigorous use, while the match ball weight and Truflight valve provide an authentic playing experience. This makes it an ideal training tool for anyone looking to improve their rugby skills.

What We Like
Solo training capability
Improves passing technique
Durable rubber surface
Match ball weight
Truflight valve included

Gilbert G-TR4000 Sky Blue Rugby Training Ball

G-TR4000
Dark Navy
Gilbert G-TR4000 Sky Blue Rugby Training Ball Cover
Gilbert G-TR4000 Rugby Training Ball, Sky Blue (5)

The Gilbert G-TR4000 Rugby Ball features a newly patented Triangular surface grip pattern, providing you with enhanced grip during training sessions. This design increases your surface area contact with the ball, improving your handling skills. Hand-stitched for quality, it ensures durability, while the Hydratec technical fabrics and waterproof laminations protect against the elements, extending the ball's lifespan. Additionally, the 3 ply poly-cotton and cotton laminate panel offers improved weight and performance for longer kicks and passes, making it an excellent choice for serious rugby players.

What We Like
Enhanced grip technology
Durable hand-stitched design
Waterproof for longer life
Better performance on kicks
Improved shape retention
#TOP 4

Hy-Pro Intercept Size 5 Rugby Ball

HP07874
Blue
Hy-Pro Intercept Size 5 Rugby Ball Cover
Hy-Pro Intercept Rugby Ball | Official Size 5 Training Ball, Blue

The Hy-Pro Intercept Rugby Ball is crafted from high-quality rubber, ensuring excellent flight and accuracy for both training and recreational play. Its pimpled outer surface provides extra grip, helping you maintain control during intense matches. The hand stitching enhances this grip even further, making it easier for you to catch and pass the ball. Designed for durability, this ball is built to withstand the rigours of regular use, whether you're playing in the garden, at school, or with a club.

What We Like
High-quality rubber construction
Excellent grip and control
Durable hand-stitched design
Stylish and eye-catching
#TOP 5

Ram Rugby Squad Trainer Ball for All Ages

2032
Red & Black
Ram Rugby Squad Trainer Ball for All Ages Cover
Ram Rugby Squad Trainer Rugby Ball (Size 5) Club Quality Rugby Training Ball. Hand stitched, 3 ply, 3-D Grip for ultimate Passing & Catching Control – Suitable for Adults, Kids & Children

The Ram Rugby Squad Trainer is an excellent choice for players of all ages looking to enhance their skills. This training ball is made from high-quality, hand-stitched materials, ensuring durability during intense practice sessions. Its unique 3D grip provides superior control, allowing you to handle the ball effectively in various weather conditions. Additionally, the ball is designed to maintain its shape and air pressure, so you can focus on perfecting your passing and catching techniques without interruptions.

What We Like
Great for all skill levels
Durable hand-stitched construction
Superior grip in all weather
Maintains shape and air pressure
#TOP 6

Gilbert Rugby Rebounder Half Ball Size 5

Multi-coloured
Gilbert Rugby Rebounder Half Ball Size 5 Cover
Gilbert Rugby Sports Training & Practice Rebounder Match Half Ball Size 5

The Gilbert Rugby Rebounder is an excellent training tool designed for those looking to improve their rugby skills independently. This half ball allows you to practice passing against a wall, helping you refine your technique using either hand. Its durable rubber surface ensures longevity, making it suitable for repeated use. Weighing the same as a match ball and featuring a Truflight valve, it provides a realistic feel, allowing you to train effectively and enhance your performance on the field.

What We Like
Ideal for solo practice
Durable rubber surface
Realistic match ball weight
Improves passing technique

Ram Rugby Solo Skills Practice Ball

2036
White & Red
Ram Rugby Solo Skills Practice Ball Cover
Ram Rugby Solo Skills Rugby Ball (size 5) – Practice Rugby Passing & Handling technique with this innovative Rebounder Half Rugby ball. Ideal for Solo Practice against a wall.

The Ram Rugby Solo Skills Ball is designed for independent rugby practice, making it perfect for honing your passing, catching, and throwing skills. Its unique flattened end allows you to train against flat walls, whether indoors or outdoors. The ball is crafted from high-quality, hand-stitched synthetic rubber, ensuring it retains its shape over time. With an enhanced 3D grip, you’ll enjoy superior control in all weather conditions, making it easier to handle during your training sessions.

What We Like
Ideal for solo practice
Durable and high-quality material
Enhanced grip for all conditions
Perfect for various age groups
#TOP 8

FORZA Size 4 Rugby Rebounder Ball

Black
FORZA Size 4 Rugby Rebounder Ball Cover
FORZA Rebounder Rugby Ball - Size 3, 4 & 5 Rugby Balls | Improve Reaction Times, Reflexes & Passing Accuracy | Half Rugby Ball | Rugby Training Equipment (Size 4)

The FORZA Rugby Rebounder Ball is an excellent training tool designed to enhance your reaction times, reflexes, and hand-eye coordination. This rugby ball allows you to practise individually, as you can simply throw it against a wall and catch it as it rebounds unpredictably. Its ultra-durable rubber exterior with a 3D grip simulates a match ball, making it ideal for improving your passing and catching skills. The half rugby ball shape means you can focus on passing without needing a partner, making it perfect for solo training sessions.

What We Like
Improves reaction times
Durable rubber exterior
Suitable for solo practice
Enhances passing skills
3D grip for better control
#TOP 9

Ram Rugby Pass Developer Weighted Training Ball

2035-4-2016
Yellow
Ram Rugby Pass Developer Weighted Training Ball Cover
Ram Rugby Pass Developer - Weighted Training Ball - Improve Strength & Distance - 3D Grip - Ultima Grade Synthetic Rubber - Available in Sizes 5 (1kg), 4 (800g), 3 (700g) (4)

The Ram Rugby Pass Developer is a weighted training ball designed to enhance your strength and distance in rugby. By practising with this heavy ball, you will improve your accuracy and power when switching back to a standard ball. Its high-quality construction ensures durability, while the 3D grip offers exceptional control in various weather conditions. This means you can train effectively, regardless of the environment, helping you to elevate your performance on the field.

What We Like
Improves strength and distance
Durable construction materials
Enhanced 3D grip for control
Suitable for all ages
#TOP 10

Gilbert G-TR4000 Trainer Rugby Ball Size 4

GTR4000 RED SZ4
Gilbert G-TR4000 Trainer Rugby Ball Size 4 Cover
Gilbert G-TR4000 Trainer Rugby Ball (Red, Size 4)

The Gilbert G-TR4000 Rugby Ball is an excellent choice for club, school, and junior rugby players. Its TRI grip technology ensures a secure hold, allowing you to catch and pass with confidence. The Hydratec feature provides water resistance, keeping the ball in great condition during wet weather. Made from a durable 3 ply poly-cotton and cotton laminate, this ball withstands the rigours of play. Lastly, the hand-stitched construction adds to its durability, making it perfect for frequent use.

What We Like
Great for school and club use
Excellent grip technology
Durable and water-resistant
Hand-stitched for longevity
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a training rugby ball?

A Rugby Training ball is a very cost effective option for practice and low level game play, as well as a great entry point for new players. Training balls are designed with cost and durability in mind, rather than maximum short term performance.

2. What is the difference between a match and training rugby ball?

Generally match balls will have a higher ratio of natural rubber to synthetic rubber to provide better grip. Conversely, training balls will generally have more synthetic rubber, to provide a more durable surface compound. A note on surface types and wet weather.

Editor's Notes

During our rugby ball for training research, we found 181 rugby ball for training products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 15,480 customer reviews through our big data system to write the rugby balls for training list. We found that most customers choose rugby balls for training with an average price of £15.06.

The rugby balls for training are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of rugby balls for training, including Optimum, Gilbert, Hy-Pro, Ram Rugby, Sportsgear US. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 371 consumers with an average rating of 4.4.

Written by
Luke Dobson Avatar

Luke is a runner, a climber, hiker, hunter, and a lot more. Luke Dobson is Celtic-born and has lived most of his life in Scotland. However, his sporting endeavours have taken him to several countries around Europe. He serves as a tour guide for countless companies and owns a couple of gyms and recreational centres in Scotland. Luke Dobson is proficient in 7 different languages. He maintains many sport article columns where he shares his wealth of experience in the sport industry.