Best Rugby Gloves of 2026

Luke Dobson Avatar
Luke Dobson
Last Updated: 8 Feb 2026

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Rugby gloves are a type of sports accessory that are designed to provide grip and protection for rugby players during matches and training sessions. These gloves are made of high-quality materials and come in different sizes and styles to fit the needs of players of all ages and skill levels. They are designed to provide a secure grip on the ball, reduce the risk of hand injuries, and improve overall performance on the field. Rugby gloves are a popular choice among players and coaches alike, and are highly recommended for anyone looking to take their game to the next level.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Optimum Stik Mits Gloves for Sports Cover #TOP 1
Optimum Stik Mits Gloves for Sports
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Gilbert Mens Rugby Gloves - Black, Small Cover #TOP 2
Gilbert Mens Rugby Gloves - Black, Small
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Gilbert Boy's Black/Green Atomic Gloves Cover #TOP 3
Gilbert Boy's Black/Green Atomic Gloves
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 6 Rugby Gloves

#TOP 1

Optimum Stik Mits Gloves for Sports

SM001L
Black/White
L (Senior)
Optimum Stik Mits Gloves for Sports Cover
Optimum Stik Mits Gloves - Breathable and Moisture Wicking, Perfect for Football, Rugby and Athletic Performance - Slim Profile with Adjustable Wrist Strap - Multi Color Junior and Senior Sizes

The Optimum Stik Mits are designed for ultimate comfort and flexibility, ensuring you can move freely during your athletic activities. With their breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics, these gloves help you stay cool and dry, even in intense situations. The half-finger design maximises ventilation, preventing discomfort from overheating. Additionally, the textured non-slip palm gives you a secure grip, enhancing your control over the ball or equipment, whether you're playing rugby or football.

What We Like
Comfortable and lightweight
Breathable and moisture-wicking
Enhanced grip for better control
Adjustable wrist strap for support
Available in multiple colours
#TOP 2

Gilbert Mens Rugby Gloves - Black, Small

GIL270-SM
Black
Gilbert Mens Rugby Gloves - Black, Small Cover
Gilbert Mens International Generic Rugby Gloves - Black, Small

The Gilbert Rugby Gloves are designed to enhance your rugby experience. The X grip feature ensures you maintain a secure hold on the ball, making it easier to catch and pass. Side finger panels improve comfort and fit, allowing for greater flexibility during play. The polyester palm provides durability, while the lycra reverse offers breathability, keeping your hands cool and comfortable. With these gloves, you can focus on your game without distractions.

What We Like
Excellent grip for better handling
Comfortable and flexible fit
Durable polyester palm
Breathable lycra reverse
#TOP 3

Gilbert Boy's Black/Green Atomic Gloves

89115303
Black/Green
Gilbert Boy's Black/Green Atomic Gloves Cover
Gilbert Boy's Atomic Gloves - Black/Green, X-Small

The Gilbert Atomic Gloves are designed as full-length thermal gloves, perfect for keeping your hands warm during training sessions. The silicone pattern on the palm enhances grip, especially useful in wet conditions, allowing you to handle the ball confidently. Made from durable palm polyester and top lycra, these gloves offer comfort and flexibility. However, it's important to note that they are suitable for training only and not for match play, ensuring you have the right gear for practice without compromising on quality.

What We Like
Full-length thermal design
Enhanced grip for wet conditions
Comfortable materials used
Ideal for training sessions
#TOP 4

Gilbert Boy's Thermal Rugby Gloves - Black/Green

89115302
Black/Green
Gilbert Boy's Thermal Rugby Gloves - Black/Green Cover
Gilbert Boy's Atomic Gloves - Black/Green, 2X-Small

The Gilbert Boy's Gloves are designed for training, providing a full-length thermal feature that keeps your hands warm during practice. The silicone pattern on the palm enhances grip, especially in wet conditions, allowing you to handle the ball with confidence. Made with durable polyester and lycra, these gloves offer comfort and flexibility while you train. However, it’s important to note that these gloves are not suitable for match play, making them ideal for practice sessions.

What We Like
Warm thermal insulation
Enhanced grip in wet weather
Comfortable fit
Durable materials
Designed for training use
#TOP 5

Kooga Kids Textured Rugby Gloves Black

803054
Black
Kooga Kids Textured Rugby Gloves Black Cover
Kooga Kids Rugby Glove Gloves Textured Black Small Jnr

The Kooga Kids Rugby Gloves are designed to enhance your game. The textured palm provides excellent grip, ensuring you can catch and hold onto the ball with confidence. With a secure Velcro fastening, these gloves offer a snug fit, preventing any slippage during play. The mitt style allows for easy movement of your fingers, giving you better control on the field. Plus, the stylish KooGa branding adds a touch of flair to your rugby gear.

What We Like
Excellent grip for better control
Secure Velcro fastening
Comfortable mitt design
Stylish KooGa branding
#TOP 6

Gilbert New Atomic Rugby Gloves in Black/Green

unknown
Multi-coloured
Gilbert New Atomic Rugby Gloves in Black/Green Cover
Gilbert New Atomic Durable Rugby Gloves Size 2xs Black/green

The Gilbert Rugby Gloves are designed for optimal performance in rugby activities. Made with durable materials, these gloves provide excellent grip, helping you maintain control of the ball during intense matches. The multicoloured design adds a stylish touch, making them visually appealing. With a snug fit, these gloves ensure comfort and support, allowing you to focus on your game without any distractions. Overall, the Gilbert Rugby Gloves enhance your playing experience, providing the necessary support and grip for success on the pitch.

What We Like
Durable materials
Excellent grip
Comfortable fit
Stylish design
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you wear gloves in rugby?

Rugby players do wear gloves. There are even training mitts available which have a good grip and keep the hands warms. (e) A player must not wear gloves. A player may wear mitts (fingerless gloves) which must conform to World Rugby Specifications (Regulation 12).

2. Why do rugby players wear gloves?

One reason is the reason almost everyone wears gloves: to keep your hands warm. If your hands are warm they are more agile, more flexible, and stronger. This allows you to better grip, catch, and handle the ball. On a cold, dry day fingerless mitts might help with this, and some players think they do.

Editor's Notes

During our rugby gloves research, we found 30 rugby gloves products and shortlisted 6 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,152 customer reviews through our big data system to write the rugby gloves list. We found that most customers choose rugby gloves with an average price of £13.93.

The rugby gloves are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of rugby gloves, including Optimum, Gilbert, Kooga.

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.