The Gilbert GTR4000 Rugby Training Ball was launched late 2016 to replace the popular Gilbert Zenon ball. It retains many of the values and strengths related to the Zenon ball but has an improved grip configuration. The ball is available in 3 colours red, blue and black in size 5.
The new TRI grip technology claims to give the player a better grip as more of the surface area is in contact with the hand. The pattern is now more defined and is harder wearing than the Zenon ball
Tri Grip Technology Hydratec for waterproofed laminated layers Available in 3 colours red, black and blue Available in size 5 Ideal for use in clubs and school rugby. Hand stitched, durable rubber surface.
The Gilbert GTR4000 rugby training ball is available in sizes 3 and 4 and a choice of 3 colourways - red, navy and black. The GTR4000 training ball replaces the Gilbert Zenon ball which has proven popular within club and schools rugby.
The GTR4000 ball has a newly designed grip which uses the latest TRI grip technology. This is designed to give a larger surface area of grip which should make handling better for the player. The grip has a triangular pattern which is designed to be harder wearing.
TRI grip technology 3 ply poly-cotton and cotton laminate hand stitched Durable rubber surface with Hydratec layers. Available in 3 colours- Red, Navy and Black and in 2 sizes - sizes 3 and 4
The Gilbert Omega Match rugby ball replaces the biggest selling match ball - the Gilbert Dimension. As with the popular Dimension ball, the Omega is designed for and used by clubs and schools, the functional rubber surface with the Gilbert standard grip, makes it a great ball to handle in all weather conditions.
The Omega ball is available in 3 sizes and is entirely hand stitched. It has a 3 ply polycotton and cotton laminate construction, giving a superior feel and is blue/black in colour.
It continues to use the Gilbert Truflight valve and remains a great ball at a great price.
Many of the clubs and schools we supply, insist on ball packs to include 10 balls and a bag. If you need a different quantity please do let us know. The Rhino Cyclone rugby training ball pack includes 10 Rhino Cyclone rugby balls and a heavy duty Lusum breathable ball bag. The Cyclone balls have an impressive 3 dimensional grip (3D) which adds to the durability of the ball and gives it a longer life.
The Cyclone rugby ball is a RUGBY UNION ball and has a 3 ply laminated construction which isn't often available at this price point. The outer layer is constructed from a mix of natural and synthetic rubber, making this one of the best training balls available.
The ball is hand stitched and is available in sizes 3, 4 and 5.
Pack includes : 10 x Rhino Cyclone training rugby balls in size 3, 4 or 5 1 x Lusum breathable ball bag
The best quality rugby training ball from Gilbert is the GTR4000 ball and is now available in a handy pack of 10 balls and a heavy duty breathable ball bag. The balls are available in sizes 3, 4 or 5 and in a choice of colours - Navy, Red or Black. The GTR4000 training ball has the latest TRI Grip technology which is designed to give a greater surface area by producing more grip.
The balls have 3 ply poly-cotton and cotton laminate and is hand stitched. The outer surface also has a durable rubber surface with hydratec layers making this suitable for use in all conditions.
Pack contains:
10 x GTR4000 rugby balls 1 x Lusum Breathable ball bag
This training ball from Gilbert is the GTR3000 ball and is now available in a handy pack of 10 balls and a heavy duty breathable ball bag. The balls are available in sizes 3, 4 or 5. Each size, has its own designated colour, to help coaches differentiate between sizes.
The balls have 2 ply polycotton outer with a durable butyl bladder. Durable rubber surface
Pack contains:
10 x GTR3000 rugby balls 1 x Lusum Breathable ball bag
The Rhino Reflex Rugby Training Ball is a great training ball to practice skills at home or if you are on your own. All you need is a Rhino Reflex Rugby Ball and a wall. I have tried this and it is a great way to improve your passing and catching technique. You pass the ball onto a wall and the ball rebounds to the passer.
This Rhino Reflex ball is half a rugby ball and you pass with the flat end towards the wall. The ball then comes back for you to catch. This training aid gives you hours of fun and helps you improve your rugby passing skills so quickly. You can make the degree of difficulty harder by moving further away from the wall, as you then need to pass the ball harder so it rebounds back far enough to catch.
The Rhino Cyclone rugby balls is a great quality training balls suitable for use in clubs and schools in RUGBY UNION, across the world. Rhino have an amazing reputation for producing rugby balls to a high specification and the Cyclone is no different. The ball has a durable 3 dimensional grip which makes the ball last longer and is suitable for use in all weather conditions.We have the Cyclone rugby ball in sizes 3 , 4 and 5. The balls are hand stitched which is a good sign of quality as any imperfections are spotted at an early stage. The ball is constructed with a blend of natural and synthetic rubber which is combined and then a 3 ply laminate is heat sealed to the rubber outer to form a great bond and a truly balanced rugby ball
Gilbert have now produced a new high quality, entry level training rugby ball, the GTR3000. Available to buy in bulk in boxes of 30 or in smaller quantities, if preferred.
The 2 ply rugby ball is constructed from polycotton and cotton, with a durable rubber surface.
Each size, has its own designated colour, to assist all coaches to sort out which balls they should be using quickly.
Size 5 is in blue, for club use. Size 4 is in green, for use in schools or Midi rugby. Size 3 comes in red and is for mini and junior rugby.
An ideal rugby ball for schools and clubs.
These Rugby Ball lamps are the ideal gift for any rugby enthusiast. Suitable for male and female rugby fans. We have a choice of lamps for England, Wales and Scottish fans. The rugby ball light is designed to be used at work or at home and they are all CE approved. 12w lightbulb required
The lamps are Official RFU, WRFU, Scottish Rugby and Gilbert Rugby Licensed products and the design of the ball is based on the Gilbert ball as used in elite rugby. The lamp has a 4 piece construction so it truly replicates the panels of a rugby ball. The ellipse trim are striking when view through the lit lamp. The ball itself is a high quality injection moulded Polypropylene Copolymer material and the lamp measures 316mm x 210mm x 230mm.
3 models are available as follows: England Wales Scotland
The lamp has an inline on/off switch, which is part of the cable flex.
New designs now available
Over the last few years Lusum have manufactured reliable, high quality rugby training balls with pink graphics. They were like Marmite - You loved or hated the colour. As such many of our customers have requested we update the colours to appeal to all ages of both sex. The guys at Lusum have done this and more as they launch their new Lusum Munifex ball.
The new Munifex training rugby balls are constructed using the very best materials and the latest technologies. The ball has a new colour coded system for each size so you can tell each size apart on busy training days.
Size 3 - Red/Navy Size 4 - Green/Navy Size 5 - Blue/Navy
This is ideal if all ages train on the same day. With a standard grip which is suitable for training in all weather conditions.
The bladder also gets an upgrade and uses the latest HAR technology, which gives all training balls the High Air Retention bladder, so the balls stay inflated for longer. The Lusum rugby training balls are the very best training ball available for less than £10. Check out other brands and you will find they are constructed with a less reliable 2 ply outer, Lusum balls are all minimum 3 ply. This Munifex rugby ball needs to be seen and played with, to appreciate the quality.
You may question how Lusum can produce rugby balls of this quality for such a low price. But if you remember that Lusum, unlike other brands, choose not to sponsor teams, leagues or players, which saves huge amounts of money. This money is then invested in producing improved technology, better designs and materials, meaning you get better quality balls for less money. Don't be fooled by inflated prices, this doesn't define the balls quality, it may just mean you are contributing more towards the manufacturers marketing spend.
Colour coded designs for each size rugby ball 3 Ply construction Using the latest HAR technology with a High Air Retention bladder 3 Ply Polyester and Cotton outer layer Striking graphics which stand out from the rest Available in size 3, 4 and 5
Free Ball Adaptor All Lusum rugby balls come with a free ball adaptor to ensure, you do not need to hunt through your garage or cupboards, to find the one you bought years ago. This ensures you are only minutes away, from being able to use, the Lusum Munifex rugby ball
Rugby-Ball-Buying-Guide.html What Size Ball Do I Need to Buy
One of the best selling match rugby balls that is used in rugby matches of a good standard. It is used extensively across the UK in adult club matches and senior school and college games. The NEW Gilbert Barbarian 2.0 rugby ball has had an upgrade and is now similar in quality to the Revolution X ball and is a high quality ball that uses the latest technology and uses the Truflight in seam valve.
As with most top quality rugby balls the grip is important and the Barbarian uses the popular standard formation grip
The ball is hand stitched and is available in size 5.
This pack contains 3 x Size 5 Gilbert Barbarian 2.0 rugby balls.
The Gilbert Atom ball is a replacement to the very popular Gilbert Photon ball. This ball is made to the same exacting standards required to be a match ball used in good standard rugby matches in clubs and schools. This high quality match rugby ball from Gilbert, is available in size 5.
This hand stitched rugby ball, uses a standard designed grip with a highly functional rubber surface.
The ball is constructed with a 3 ply polycotton and cotton laminate outer. It uses the Truflight valve and as with most Gilbert rugby balls is hand stitched.
The Gilbert Kinetica Match rugby ball has replace the iconic Gilbert Revolution X rugby ball and is a great improvement. The Gilbert Kinetica is an elite quality rugby ball at an affordable price. The Kinetica uses the very latest technology to produce a rugby ball of the highest standard and conforms to World Rugby specifications.
The grip on the Kinetica ball is the new Multi Matric Grip which gives better handling in all weather conditions. The valve is the latest Ellipse Truflight valve which is only seen on top quality rugby balls. The covering is also an improved G-X rubber compound surface which gives better grip, control and handling.
The Kinetica is only available in size 5 and is hand stitched. Compared to the Revolution X it does retain the Copolymer 'Air-Loc' bladder and is constructed with a 3 ply polyester laminate.
NEW for 2020 and will become one of Gilberts most popular elite match rugby balls.
The Gilbert GTR3000 ball is a great training ball for club or recreational use. The 2 play rugby ball is now available to buy as a special 8 pack and offers the club player even better value.
This 2 play ball is constructed from polycotton and cotton outer and has a durable butyl bladder.
This pack is a size 5, look out for other 8 pack deals in sizes 3 and 4.
The old graphics have now sold out so please see the Lusum Optio ball as an alternative.
Incredible value high quality training balls for under £6.00 each, includes vat and delivery*. This ball is a great alternative to the Gilbert GTR4000 ball and is much more affordable.
This pack comes with 8 high quality Lusum Munifex training balls
We believe this to be the best training ball around today. It uses a simple design but the latest technology makes this ball anything but simple. Using the latest high grip 'virgin' grade rubber composition and a water repellent surface, ensuring the ball can be used in all weather conditions.
The Max Grain Grip gives a superior feel for players of all standards. The Munifex training ball is suitable for youth and adult players. 3 Ply Water resistant rubber compound technology Super bladder Highly visible training ball Max Grain grip Available in sizes 3, 4 and 5
Free Ball Adaptor with every Munifex ball
The Lusum Munifex rugby ball is a high quality training ball, with a simple alternate full panel design and highly visible colours. The ball is of sufficient quality to be used for training and/or matches
The Munifex is constructed using the very latest techniques. Improved grip is possible because Lusum have used a high grip 'virgin' grade rubber composition. The rubber surface is water repellent ensuring this ball can be used in all weather conditions. This ball is a great alternative to the Gilbert GTR4000 ball and is much more affordable.
The Balls are now colour coded as follows Sie 3 - Red/Navy Size 4 - Green/Navy Size 5 - Blue/Navy
This training rugby pack includes:- Highly durable Breathable Lusum bag 10 x Lusum Munifex Training Rugby Balls 10 x Ball needle adaptors
The Munifex ball consists of :- 3 Ply Water resistant rubber compound technology Super bladder Highly visible training ball Max Grain grip Available in sizes 3, 4 and 5
The NEW Gilbert Barbarian 2.0 rugby ball is probably one of the best value match balls available from Gilbert. As with all high end match balls from Gilbert, this ball uses the latest technology including the Truflight valve. The Barbarian rugby balls has been upgraded to be very similar to the Revolution X in quality and now has a G-X rubber compound surface for improved feel and control.
The ever popular grip comes as standard but, when used with the 3 ply core spun polyester and cotton laminate, rubber coated surface, the feel is superb.
The ball is hand stitched and is available in size 5. The colour is blue/green as shown above.
Very popular and is commonly used in adult club matches and senior school games. Conforms to all World Rugby specifications.
The GTR3000 is now available to buy in a pack of 8. The GTR3000 is an improved 2 ply polycotton and cotton ball with a durable butyl bladder.
This ball comes as a pack of 8 balls and is available in size 4 which are coloured green as shown.
The Gilbert GTR3000 is a great entry level ball and is designed for use at club, school or recreational level from under 10 through to under 14's.
The Lusum Optio Match rugby ball is now available to Pre-Order in as a 3 pack. Each ball has a top quality bladder and is pre-kicked to ensure the balls flight is true from the moment you use it.
The colour was chosen as players peripheral vision was improved and the Max Grain grip gave the best handling in all conditions. This ball is a great alternative to the Gilbert Omega ball and is much more affordable.
3 Ply Super Barbarian technology Silica Reinforced rubber surface Top quality in seam bladder Highly visible match ball Max Grain grip Pre-Kicked to ensure it is match ready Available in size 4 and 5
Each ball comes in its own personal cloth bag and a free ball adaptor.
The GTR3000 is available to buy in a pack of 8. The GTR3000 is an improved 2 ply polycotton and cotton ball with a durable butyl bladder.
This ball comes as a pack of 8 balls and is available in size 3.
The Gilbert GTR3000 is a great entry level ball and is designed for use at club, school or recreational level.
The Mitre Sabre rugby ball represents amazing value for money. This attractive rugby ball has a unique design and is suitable for rugby players of all ages and experience levels. The deep pimple emboss featured on this rugby ball is a fantastic addition, making handling significantly more comfortable.
The sabre ball uses a 3 ply vulcanised OTM lining for additional strength and is extremely popular with schools and clubs.
A great chance to buy quality match rugby balls at a great price
The original Mid-Range Lusum Optio match ball is now on final clearance as we have launched our new graphic rugby balls. The Lusum Optio is a high quality match ball and is now available in size 5 only
The ball has a 3 ply super Barbarian outer layer and is a great alternative to the Gilbert omega match balls. This design is in pink which has been proven to focus the attention of your players for longer.
Top quality 'In-Seam' bladder with the max grain grip as standard. Pre-kicked to ensure the ball is match ready.
Limited stocks.
A needle adaptor is included with every ball Free Of Charge.
The Gilbert Kinetica match rugby ball has replaced the Revolution X match ball and we have it available in this easy to buy 3 ball pack. Gilbert have developed a great quality match ball using the latest technology, to produce a ball with incredible level of performance, suitable for serious club rugby players.
Using the durable standard grip formation, this is one of the best rugby balls available.
Pre-Kicked with a 3 ply polyester laminated cover and in seam valve.
This pack contains 3 x size 5 Gilbert Kinetica rugby balls.
The Mitre Sabre Rugby Ball offers excellent value for money and in this handy 10 ball pack it is ideal for schools and clubs.
The Sabre with its unique design and bright colour, it is suitable for use by rugby players of all ages and abilities. It has a deep pimple emboss which makes for excellent handling in all conditions.
The Sabre uses a 3 ply vulcanised OTM lining for additonal strength. Available in 3 different sizes
Red/White in size 3, 4 and 5
The Lusum Munifex rugby ball is a great training ball which is suitable for use by adults and juniors alike. The Munifex rugby balls have been made using the latest techniques, using a high grip 'virgin' grade rubber composition and is also water repellant which helps handling in wet conditions. The new design has each size in a diffferent colour so no more mixing the balls up after training.
Size 3 - Green/Navy Size 4 - Red/Navy Size 5 - Blue/Navy
3 Ply water resistant rubber compound technology Super bladder Highly visable design and colour Standard grain grip Available in size 3, 4 and 5
The Lusum Optio has a contemporary design and is a high class match ball. The vibrant colour and design ensures players are able to see the ball earlier and for longer.
Available in Red/Black.
The Optio utilises the Max Grain grip which is proven to perform well in wet or dry conditions. The ball is constructed using high quality materials and has a super bladder and 3 ply polycotton and cotton panels. These are covered with a silica reinforced rubber coating, to improve grip and handling. This ball is a great alternative to the Gilbert Omega ball and is much more affordable.
This pack comes with the following:- 10 x Lusum Optio Match rugby balls1 x Lusum Breathable Ball carry bag
The Optio Match rugby ball consists of:- 3 Ply Super Barbarian technology Silica Reinforced rubber surface Top quality in seam bladder Highly visible match ball Max Grain grip Pre-Kicked to ensure it is match ready Available in size 4 and 5
The Gilbert GTR3000 Rugby Ball Size 5 comes in blue. The ball has a great new style Tri Grip for improved handling. The new grip also gives the ball a longer use life.
The size 5 GTR3000 ball is only available in blue. It has a 2 ply construction and a durable rubber compound surface. The ball also uses the Hydratec technology and is hand stitched.
Due to popular demand, we have now created a great value club rugby ball pack containing 10 x size 3, 10 x size 4 and 10 x size 5 Lusum Munifex Rugby Training Balls and 3 x Mesh ball sacks. These balls are one of the highest specification training rugby balls available today and this combination ensures your club save even more. The balls are all 3 ply polyester and cotton design with a high air retention bladder. Most training balls in this price range are only 2 ply and will not last as long as the Lusum Munifex balls.
The outer has the durable Max Gain grip configuration and ensures the balls are just as good in wet or dry weather.
Each size is colour coded to allow the coach to easily identify their own age groups rugby balls.
Size 3 - Red/Navy Size 4 - Green/Navy Size 5 - Blue/Navy
Give them a try, you will not be disappointed with their durability and quality.
The Mitre Grid rugby ball is very similar to the Mitre Squad ball, but is available at a more affordable price. The Mitre grid rugby ball is designed specifically for training purposes and is suitable for use at all levels of rugby.
This impressive rugby ball is a fantastic resource for rugby clubs and can be purchased in sizes 3, 4 and 5. It features a strong 3 ply vulcanised lining for durability.
The Grid rugby ball is a 4 panel training ball with a rubber compound surface and a deep pimple emboss for great grip. It is a full weight ball and is suitable for all ages.
Get your hands on a great value rugby coaching pack with this size 5 pack of balls, cones and carry bag. Now you can choose to have the Gilbert GTR4000 in black, red or navy and the bag is colour co-ordinated to match
This kit will save you pounds, as opposed to purchasing individually.
The pack includes:- 1 x Gilbert Breathable ball bag 10 x Gilbert GTR4000 training rugby balls 2 x Gilbert Omega match rugby balls 1 x Set of 50 space markers with a carry holder (various colours)
Please note the Dimension ball have been replaced with the all new Gilbert Omega rugby ball.
The Mitre Maori Match rugby ball is a performance rugby ball that is a great option for rugby players at all levels of the game. This affordable rugby ball also features the exclusive high grip Maori pattern design, for added aesthetic appeal.
The ball uses a compound rubber surface for increased durability. The Maori ball also has the very best in valve seam for stability during flight
The Maori Match rugby ball is available in sizes 4 and 5.
The Lusum Aquilifer Match Rugby Ball is one of the highest spec balls on the market, using the very latest designs and manufacturing techniques, to create a ball that can be used in any conditions.
The Max Grain grip gives the ball superior handling and using the latest Lusum graphics and colours improves players peripheral vision. This ball is a great alternative to the Gilbert Barbarian ball and is much more affordable.
This 3 pack of balls ensure you buy the best ball at the best price. 'Velocity Amplifier technology 4 layer construction Super top quality in seam bladder Max Grain grip Pre-Kicked to ensure the ball is match ready Available in size 5
Each ball comes in its own personal cloth bag and a free ball adaptor.
New designs are now in stock, Older pink designs are still on clearance, whilst stocks last
The Lusum Optio has a contempary design and is a high class match ball. In fact, the design was tested and then selected, as it was felt it could improve the rugby players visibility of the ball. Using this vibrant colour and design, will be a sure way of ensuring your players keep their eye on the ball.
The Optio has a Max Grain grip which performs exceptionally well in wet or dry conditions. The body of the ball is constructed from a 3 ply Super Barbarian skin. The ball also benefits from having a top quality super bladder and In Seam valve. This ball is a great alternative to the Gilbert Omega ball and is much more affordable.
Such care is taken to provide you with a rugby ball capable of with-standing high levels of performance. With all of the latest innovations, it is surprising to find the Optio is also hand stitched, to ensure the high standards are maintained throughout the manufacturing process.
3 Ply Super Barbarian technology Silica Reinforced rubber surface Top quality in seam bladder Highly visable match ball Max Grain grip Pre-Kicked to ensure it is match ready Available in size 4 and 5
Free needle adaptor with every Optio ball, as Lusum also understand that not everyone has a needle adaptor to inflate the ball so, they provide one with each ball.
New Design Now In Stock
The Aquilifer rugby ball is one of the best quality match rugby balls available. Using the very latest designs and innovations in core materials, producing a ball that could grace the elite stage.
Lusum have utilised a colour that improves the awareness of players. The research and development team tested many different colours before finding a colour, that improved the periphial vision of players of all levels, from junior to senior. This ball is a great alternative to the Gilbert Barbarian ball and is much more affordable.
The handling of the ball is rated as first class and has a Max Grain grip. The Aquilifer is Pre-Kicked to ensure the ball retains its shape when used in any conditions. the rubber surface is specifically designed with 16 grades of rubber using 'Velocity Amplifier' technology for a ball that gives the best flight.
Through development, Lusum have the best aerodynamic shape calculated to give the maximum amount of sweet spots.
'Velocity Amplifier' technology 4 layer construction Super top quality in seam bladder Max Grain grip Pre-Kicked to ensure the ball is match ready Avaliable in size 5
Free needle adaptor and individual bag with every Aquilifer ball. The Aquilifer is such a high quality ball it deserves to be looked after so, Lusum provide an individual mesh bag to store your ball in. This ensures the grip stays at its best for longer. In addition, all Lusum rugby balls come with their own needle adaptor, with compliments of Lusum.
The very popular Lusum Optio rugby ball and kicking tee pack is available in size 4 and 5.
Both the ball and tee will withstand hours of kicking and long hard winters too. The Lusum Optio rugby ball is designed with hi-vis colours to give the user maximum peripheral vision whilst the kicking tee has a sturdy construction to improve stability, when loaded with the rugby ball.
This ball is a great alternative to the Gilbert Omega ball and is much more affordable.
This pack now comes with a standard ball pump and a glycerine and needle adaptor kit.
Colour of Kicking Tee may vary
The NEW Gilbert Sirius Elite Match rugby Ball is the best ball available and used in most international and Pro club matches. The ball was 1st introduced in 2018 so players could practice with and be used to the new ball by the time the RWC 2019 came around. The Gilbert Sirius has some of the features from their previous elite ball - the Match XV. Having said that this ball handles and is visually streets ahead.
The Sirius rugby ball conforms to World Rugby specifications and uses the latest Reaction Laminate construction and uses the highest spec G-XV rubber compound surface. The Copolymer 'Air-Loc' bladder is still the best you can get and helps retain air for longer as it also uses the Ellipse Truflight Valve.
This ball is only available in size 5 and is carefully hand stitched. The Elite balls are also Pre Kicked to ensure they are fully match ready. The Hypernova grip gives the player better control, with improved catching and passing properties.
This ball is normally ordered in as required and delivery is 3 to 5 days
The Aquilfer rugby ball is probably one of the best rugby balls ever produced. It is of such quality it could one day be seen at the highest level.
The Aquilifer ball is pre-kicked to ensure the ball is match ready. This ball is a great alternative to the Gilbert Barbarian ball and is much more affordable.
This pack comes with the following:- 10 x Aquilifer match balls 10 x Individual cloth bags for each ball 10 x Ball needle adaptors 1 x Lusum Breathable ball bag
Each ball comes with its own personal cloth bag to ensure the ball retains it's original grip. We also provide a free needle adaptor with each ball.
The Aquilifer ball consists of the following:-
'Velocity Amplifier technology 4 layer construction Super top quality in seam bladder Max Grain grip Pre-Kicked to ensure the ball is match ready Available in size 5 only
The Lusum rugby coaching pack is the best value coaching pack available. Available in size 4 or 5, this pack contains the essentials for a season of high quality rugby.
Contents as follows: 10 x Lusum Munifex training rugby balls (Size 4 are Green/Navy, Size 5 are Blue/Navy) 2 x Lusum Optio match rugby balls 1 x set of 50 space marker cones and stand 1 x high quality breathable ball bag
The Lusum rugby are recognised as offering exceptional quality balls for a realistic price, as Lusum do not spend vast sums on sponsorship, so the savings are passed directly to grassroots rugby.
For more info or to place an order, please email sales@sportsballshop.co.uk
A great way to gain maximum exposure for your club sponsors is to invest in Rugby balls with their logo on. The range of Gilbert rugby balls can now have your club crest and sponsors logo printed onto the rugby ball.
Personalised rugby balls have been produced for clubs, schools and are fast becoming a great way to boost the package offered to club sponsors.
The Balls are available to order in quantities of 25 or more. Lead times are from 8 weeks via air freight and 12 weeks if couriered by sea (slightly cheaper option).
We require from you:- 1. Your logo and club crests in digital format. A vector enabled AI or workable PDF image is required although we can get this created for you @ £42. 2. An outline of balls required along with styles, quantity and sizes.
We can then offer 3. An image of the design on the ball for your approval. 4. Price of balls and any additional charges such as screen set up charge. 5. Advise on estimated delivery date.
Lead times are from approval of artwork and confirmation of order.
This pack of Mitre rugby balls was designed by 2 qualified rugby coaches, who wanted to offer a great start up set for schools and clubs working with players aged 14 and above.
The Mitre Club pack contains the following:
8 x Mitre Sabre training rugby balls size 5 Blue/White 2 x Mitre Maori Match rugby balls 1 x set of 50 Space marker cones and holder 1 x Heavy duty Mitre 12 ball bag 1 x Double action ball pump and needle adaptor
Now only available in size 5.
The Mitre rugby club pack was designed by qualified rugby coaches for use in schools and club. This pack is size 4 and is suitable for use with players aged 9 to 14 years.
The Club pack contains the following items:
8 x Mitre Sabre rugby training balls size 4 in White/Blue 2 x Mitre Maori Match rugby balls size 4 1 x Set 50 Mitre Space marker cones 1 x Mitre Heavy duty 12 ball bag 1 x Double action ball pump and needle adaptor
Size 5 packs are also available
Save you or your club money by purchasing a great value rugby coaching pack. Everything a decent rugby coach would need to start a training session.
Suitable for schools or junior club rugby as this is available in sizes 3 and 4.
This pack is now available in a choice of colours Black, Red and Navy.
This pack includes:- 1 x Gilbert breathable ball bag 10 x Gilbert GTR4000 training rugby balls 2 x Gilbert Omega match rugby balls 1 x Set of 50 space marker cones.
The Gilbert Control-A-Ball rugby balls are my favourite rugby training aid. The pack contains 5 different types of size 5 rugby ball, with each offering a different challenge to your players. These are designed to improve player skills, especially passing and catching. It is proven that using various types of rugby balls can improve the players awareness and skill sets.
The Control-A-Ball concept was developed with the Springbok coach, Richie Gray. The rugby coaching balls are all the same colour - green and black, so it isn't obvious which ball is being used so the skill levels are tested to the maximum levels. Great fun and a brilliant training ball to develop players whilst a coach can use their skills to create quality and enjoyable training sessions. This pack of 5 balls also includes 6 drills as a suggestion to get the ball rolling.
The pack contains:- 1 x Match rugby ball - This has the normal grip you would expect from a Gilbert rugby ball 1 x Heavyweight rugby ball - which weighs around 650g and allows players to adapt their catching and passing skills 1 x Lightweight rugby ball - which weighs around 300g and also allows a player to develop their catching and pasisng skills, if used alongside the heavyweight ball. 1 x Gripless rugby ball which has a smooth outer layer so, makes passing and catching more difficult when wet or slippy 1 x Unstable rugby ball is filled with a small amount of water to make the ball unstable through the air.
The unstable rugby ball has to be filled with 280g of water which is approximately 200ml's. To do this you unscrew the end of the pump and carefully fill with 200ml of water, then put your finger over the needle to stop it draining out. Put the top back on and insert the needle into the ball. When you inflate the ball the water is transfered into the inner bladder.
Rugby is one of the UK's favourite sports, attracting large audiences to domestic, youth and international games. Rugby as a youth sport has developed significantly over the last decade in the UK, helping to improve the amount and calibre of young players being introduced into the game.
Sports Ball Shop are committed to providing an unrivalled range of rugby balls, featuring the leading brands and a variety of prices, sizes and specification.
Gilbert Rugby Balls
Gilbert have been involved with the sport since 1823 and have been supplying the official rugby world cup ball since 1995. They were again the supplier for the 2011 rugby world cup in New Zealand. They are also acknowledged as the official match ball supplier and are the preferred choice for 8 of the top 10 rugby playing nations, including England, South Africa and Australia.
Lusum Rugby Balls
Lusum balls were created in 2011, by a group of players, coaches and technicians including an aerodynamicist. The coaches were frustrated at paying for balls that were obviously marked up to cover sponsorship deals.
Lusum decided to never pay sports sponsorships to players, clubs or leagues like other brands do. Because Lusum does not pay sponsorship, you pay up to 25% less for your ball - without having to compromise on the quality and performance.
Mitre Rugby Balls
Mitre is one of the best known rugby manufacturers in the world, producing and distributing thousands of balls across the world each year. If you're looking for high quality, long lasting training balls that represents excellent value for money, then Mitre is the brand for you.
Webb Ellis Rugby Balls
The name of Webb Ellis has been associated with rugby since 1823. Their head office is still located in the birthplace town of Rugby. Webb Ellis are continuing to analyse hundreds of hours of footage to guage the performance of their balls, in all conditions.
They then use this data to produce rugby balls suitable for all levels of the game. Technology is always changing yet Webb Ellis still manage to be a leader and their RAPRA engineered rubber formula is a fine example. This formula is designed to repel water, to ensure the player gets the best grip in wet conditions.
Steeden Rugby Balls
Steeden was first established in Queensland Australia, in1958 by Ray Steeden. They produced leather footballs that are now the world's biggest brand in Rugby League. Steeden is now not under the control of the Grays family which also includes Gilbert Rugby, as the Steeden brand is managed within Europe by a new independent company.
Steeden were the official ball supplier to the Rugby League World Cup 2013.
What Makes a Rugby Ball?
The other day we were asked a question about rugby balls and why you would pay £100 plus for a Pro quality match ball rather than £10 for a good quality training ball, surely they can’t be 10 times better can they? So we had to explain the differences and why the Pro ball was so much more expensive, although we still couldn’t justify paying in excess of £100 for any type of match ball.
Materials
During my visit to one of the biggest rugby ball manufacturers in India, I watched the whole process of manufacture, from the mixing and macerating of the rubber compound, adding the grip, stitching the ball and the final quality check. It was fascinating to watch and I would recommend to anyone, if given the chance to view. The rubber compound is normally a mixture of 2 types of rubber - 1 which has more elasticity and the other is stronger. There can be many different grades of rubber used but generally they come from 2 types of tree giving different properties from each. When macerated and rolled out, giving a stronger and more durable material that changed the way rugby balls were made. Originally made from a pigs bladder then from a heavy leather material (which became heavier in wet conditions), the new method was developed in association with a delightful chap called Dr Raj, whom I had the pleasure of meeting. His passion was there to see and he was immensely proud of what he had created and rightly so. The rubber sheets were approximately 3 to 4 mm thick at this stage and then went into the bonding section of the plant. This is where the strength is given to the ball and layers of material are bonded to the rubber compound. This also gives something for the stitching to work with at the later stitching stage of ball manufacture. If stitching directly into the rubber compound without the added material, when the ball is inflated the seams would split easily as the stitching would cut through the rubber. The added material gives this the strength to hold.
Layers
When looking to buy a rugby ball you may have seen the description as stating this is a '2 Ply' ball or '3 Ply' or even '4 Ply' also known as Quad Core Technology or whatever marketing jargon they decide to call it. The term ply refers to the layers of polyester cloth material that are layered on top of each other and then applied to the rubber sheet previously made. These are glued together at high pressure in a heavy press machine with rollers and a liberal amount of glue. The ply of the ball gives the ball longevity and is often overlooked when purchasing the clubs rugby balls.
2 Ply is generally used on training balls
3 Ply is used on best quality training balls and most match balls
4 Ply or Quad Core is mainly used on Pro quality match balls and is thought of as the highest level available
If more layers are added the ball becomes too heavy and less reliable so that is why you would not see a ball being constructed with a '5 Ply' mix. The ply and rubber layers are then cut into manageable sheets approximately 40cm x 70cm.
Graphics
The graphics on the ball are the most visual part of the ball which can often mean it sells well or not at all. Most of the rugby balls available today are made in Jalandhar, in the north Indian state of Punjab. There is a certain amount of brand snobbery within rugby clubs across the world and many pundits suggest the ball is of inferior quality, should the brand name GILBERT is missing. This is of course nonsense in my opinion but as Gilbert spends many millions on marketing this means their balls get the most exposure on TV, Internet and written press. The graphics are applied to a cellophane sheet with a rubber based ink. This sheet is applied to the rubber side of the bonded sheet produced earlier. The ink is rubber based as it then becomes part of the ball when heat in the next stage. This would not be the case if standard ink was use and applied on a transfer, a process which can be used to add club crests at a later date when the ball has been stitched.
Grip
There are many different types of grips which can be applied to the rubber side of these sheets and is selected by each brand during the design process. I had never considered how a grip became part of the ball before and was fascinated to see this stage of the ball development. There are various grips available and it is down to personal choice which you feel is best
Standard Grip
Dual Grip
Tri-Angular Grip
3-D Grip
Aerosensa Grip
Max Grain Grip
The list is endless but the most common is the standard grip. Brands will claim their grip is best in all conditions or may specify a particular grip for a specific ball and weather. The grip configuration is designed and embedded onto a metal sheet. How this process works if as follows:
The 1st layer has one flat metal sheet
On top of this a layer of bonded material and rubber sheet is placed. Cloth side down
The grip sheet is then added on top, with the grip side facing down onto the rubber surface, with the flat side of the metal sheet facing up
This process is then repeated until the maximum amount of layers is created.
At this point the block of layers are added to a machine which heats and presses at the same time.
A '2 Ply' ball needs to be baked for 5 minutes, a '3 Ply' ball is baked for 6 minutes and a '4 Ply' ball is baked for 7 minutes.
Panels
The sheets are removed from the 'oven', are allowed to cool and are ready for the next stage with the graphics and grip applied. This stage is the final process to be completed in this factory and is the cutting of the panels. A machinist layers the cooled sheets (one at a time) onto his press in front of him. When he is happy with the positioning of the sheet, he applies the press cutter which has a force in excess of 2 tonnes applied. The hole for the valve is also added by the cutter at this time. The waste material is removed and the 4 panels are stacked and wrapped with an elastic band to ensure they stay part of the same set.
Bladder
The pack of 4 panels is now sent to the next stage and can be in a different factory altogether, although the majority are still manufactured in the 2 biggest plants, as previously mentioned. The quality of the bladder can have a major impact on the longevity of the ball and how it plays too. There are generally 2 choices of bladder available but, it can be hard to find which is used in your ball as manufacturers use marketing jargon to make their balls sound different from all other balls
Latex Bladder - These are softer and have a natural feel which ensures the ball retains the shape for longer. They can allow air to permeate though the skin though and the ball will need re-inflating more often but the air lose is often offset by introducing 'Air-Loc' valve to the ball.
Butyl Bladder -These are more durable and are often used on training balls and the lower end match balls as they retain their air for longer.
The positioning of the bladder outlet is determined at an earlier design stage and can be 'In-Panel' or 'In-Seam'. Training balls and many match balls have 'In-Panel' design and the best quality match balls have the 'In-Seam' design. How to find out which you ball has is quite easy:
In Panel - The valve to the bladder will be positioned in the centre of a panel.
In Seam - The valve to the bladder is positioned within the seam/stitching of the ball. Players say the best balls to play with in matches are 'In-Seam' as they have a better flight path and are more stable when kicked.
The bladder valve is carefully positioned and glued in place, then allowed to dry for at least an hour
Stitching
This is the stage where the shape of ball is formed. The stitching can be applied by a highly trained machinist or by an even higher trained and incredibly patient hand seamstress. Unlike football the majority of rugby balls are hand stitched as the shape doesn't allow machine to be used in this process. If a machine is used at all, the final stitches are still applied by hand, which can then allow the manufacturer to claim they are hand stitched. The stitching used is water resistant, UV stable and is very durable
Inflating and Testing
Small samples of training balls are taken to be fully inflated and tested to ensure they retain the air for a given period. They can be kicked too with a machine to give a realistic test, without the need to take the balls outside onto a muddy field. The higher quality match balls have a higher sample of balls taken for testing and most are pre-kicked by machine, to get the ball ready for play. The ball pressure is specified by the manufacturer and is written around or close to the valve of the ball. This can differ greatly between manufacturers and also between match and training balls, so should always be adhered to. When inflating you rugby ball take care and add a small dot of glycerine into the opening of the valve. When the needle is inserted this takes the lubricant down into the valve making damage to the valve or bladder less likely. Never use water or saliva as these do not lubricate the valve and with saliva can add debris to the valve, allowing air to escape. We had 2 customers that claimed their rugby balls were faulty so, we got them back for inspection. One had what looked like remnants from someone's lunch within the valve and when we suggested the needle was lubricated with saliva whilst the user was eating a bag of crisps, the guy was very embarrassed; the other ball had been lubricated with Vaseline. So, the valve had so much Vaseline within it, they couldn't get a seal on the ball, allowing air to escape. Lesson learned by both to use glycerine in future.
Is a Pro Ball worth so much more than a training ball?
The use of 4 ply makes them higher quality as does the use of the best bladders. The graphics and rubber compounds tend to cost the same though. The stitching costs are a fraction higher on pro quality balls as the highest paid seamstresses are employed and more time is taken on each ball. The stitcher will often only finish 12 pro quality balls a day, so the costs are definitely higher. The pro balls are also used in high profile competitions are often given for free as part of the marketing and sponsorship package; this can add huge sums to the cost of the ball for the end user. In our opinion the £100+ balls are overpriced and are not worth that much as you can get a similar quality ball for much less as it won’t have the marketing spend associated with the ball.
