Rugby boots are an essential piece of equipment for any rugby player, and they undergo a lot of wear and tear during games and training sessions. Proper care and maintenance can help to extend the life of your boots and keep them performing at their best. In this guide, we'll share some tips and tricks for cleaning, drying, waterproofing, and storing your rugby boots. We'll also provide some advice on selecting the right type of socks and knowing when it's time to replace your boots. Let's get started!
Before every use make sure your studs are firmly tightened, but ensure that you do not over-tighten and damage the boot.
Firm ground rugby boots are designed for playing rugby onartificialgrass surfaces that are dry or firm. These boots feature shorter studs or spikes on the sole to provide better traction and stability on hard, compact surfaces.
Soft ground rugby boots are specifically designed for playing rugby on natural grass surfaces that are wet, muddy or soft. These boots feature longer studs or spikes on the sole to provide extra traction and stability on soft, slippery surfaces.
Always undo your laces when you're not using your boots. It's best practice to remove the laces from your boots when cleaning too, this way you can make sure that your laces have dried fully and do not rot still on your boots.
The way you take off your boots is important; not only for your boots, but to avoid causing injury for yourself. Never kick off your boots by the heel, always undo the laces sufficiently and take them off by hand.
Clean your boots after everytime you use them. Use a soft bristle brush or a bootclaw to remove any excess dirt before wiping clean with a damp cloth or sponge. Never machine wash your boots.
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Clean your boots after each use.
Remove any dirt, grass or mud with a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth. Don't use any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials as these can damage the material of the boots.
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Allow your boots to dry naturally.
Don't expose them to direct heat sources like radiators, as this can damage the material and cause it to crack. Stuff your boots with newspaper to help them retain their shape as they dry.
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Protect your boots from water damage.
Apply a waterproofing spray or wax to your boots to help repel water and prevent them from getting soaked during wet games or training sessions. This can also help to prevent the material from deteriorating.
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Store your boots properly.
When not in use, keep your boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving them in a damp or humid environment, as this can cause mold or mildew to form on the boots.
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Use the right type of socks.
Wear socks that are specifically designed for rugby, as they can help to protect your feet and reduce the risk of blisters or other foot injuries. Avoid wearing cotton socks as they can retain moisture and cause your feet to feel uncomfortable during games or training sessions.
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Replace your boots when necessary.
Rugby boots are subjected to a lot of wear and tear, and may need to be replaced after a certain period of time. If you notice any signs of damage, such as holes or tears in the material, it's best to replace your boots as soon as possible.
