10 Best Rugby Training Ball 2025 in the United States

The Gilbert WRS A-XV Training Rugby Ball in size 3 is an excellent choice for young rugby players aged 7-10. Its standout feature is the Hydratec barrier, a water-resistant lamination that repels dirt and water, ensuring the ball remains clean and functional even in adverse conditions. The ball is hand-stitched, which adds to its quality and durability, making it a reliable option for frequent use.

The grip is designed with standard rubber dimples that are evenly distributed, providing maximum comfort and control during play. Weighing 0.5 kilograms, it has a manageable weight for youth players, allowing them to practice effectively without feeling overwhelmed. The color scheme of green, black, and white is visually appealing, though this is a more subjective factor.

The primary drawback is that it is specifically size 3, limiting its use to younger children and not suitable for older youth or adult players who require size 4 or 5 balls. Additionally, while the Hydratec material offers benefits in terms of weather resistance, some may find it less traditional compared to standard rugby ball materials. This ball is ideal for young rugby enthusiasts looking for a durable and comfortable training ball, but might not meet the needs of older players or those seeking a more conventional material.

The Gilbert G-TR4000 Rugby Training Ball in size 5 is designed for adult players and comes in a striking red color. Its standout feature is the TRI grip technology, which offers excellent grip, making it easier to handle and pass during training sessions.

The ball is made with a polycotton and cotton laminate and has a durable rubber surface, ensuring robustness and longevity. Weighing 0.17 kilograms, it is lightweight enough for regular training but may feel a bit light for some users preferring heavier options. The Hydratec material repels water effectively, making it suitable for use in wet conditions. Hand stitching adds to its durability and quality.

The Gilbert G-TR4000 is ideal for adult rugby players looking for a reliable and well-gripped training ball. However, the relatively lower weight might not suit everyone, and the grip might feel too aggressive for some users initially.

The Gilbert G-TR3000 Pink Camo Rugby Training Ball is a solid choice for rugby enthusiasts looking for a reliable training partner. Its standout pink camo design adds a unique style to practice sessions. Sized at 5, it meets the standard for adult players or teams in training scenarios. The Hydratec surface is a notable feature, designed to repel water, which is beneficial for maintaining grip and performance in wet conditions. This makes it particularly useful for outdoor training in unpredictable weather.

The ball's construction includes a 2 Ply poly-cotton and cotton laminate, providing a good balance of strength and flexibility. Coupled with a durable rubber surface, it promises a long lifespan, even with frequent use. The fact that it's hand-stitched enhances its durability and quality, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of regular rugby practice.

Weighing in at 0.5 kilograms, it fits comfortably within the expected weight range for a training rugby ball, promoting ease of handling without sacrificing the feel of a real game ball. Despite its advantages, the unique pink color may not appeal to all players, especially those who prefer more traditional looks.

Its durability and water-repellent features are strong selling points, although it may not offer the same level of advanced features as higher-end models designed for professional training. Additionally, as it ranks #10 in Rugby Balls on a major retailer's best-seller list, it is a popular choice among customers, reinforced by positive reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5 stars from 75 ratings. This ball is well-suited for casual to intermediate players who value durability and style in their training gear.