Best Rugby Balls for Sale in South Africa
Rugby balls for sale in South Africa, are central to every match and training session. A quality ball ensures consistent handling and accurate kicks.
When evaluating a rugby ball, factors such as grip, durability, and size are crucial. Match balls often feature superior materials for optimal performance, while training balls prioritise longevity.
If you want to purchase rugby balls, you must understand the differences between match, training, and replica balls. Purchasing rugby balls online offers a range of options, catering to different needs and budgets.
Whether for professional play or casual games, selecting the right ball enhances the overall rugby experience. Consider the ball’s construction, grip pattern, and bladder type when choosing.
Read on for a review of the main features, pros, and cons, and answer some common questions about Rugby Balls.
If you like our selection of Rugby Balls, you might also like to learn more about our selection of the best Rugby Bags or Protective Gear for Rugby Players available for sale online.
Our Picks of Rugby Balls for Sale
- Summit Classic Rugby Ball Orange – 4
- Medalist Super Grip Rugby Ball – Size 5
- Decathlon Canterbury Rugby Training Ball – Size 4
- Gilbert G-TR3000 Rugby Ball – Size 5
- Rhino Cyclone Rugby Ball
- Gilbert G-TR4000 Rugby Training Ball
- Summit Advance 3.0 Rugby Ball – Size 5
- Medalist Ultra Grip Rugby Ball – Size 5
- Summit Evolution X Rugby Ball
Summit Classic Rugby Ball Orange - 4
The Summit Classic Rugby Ball (Size 4) is a mid-sized training ball featuring a surface composed of a blend of synthetic and natural rubber. It’s labelled as a trainer and is available in bright orange, which helps with visibility during drills.
The ball is stitched and laminated, and it’s designed for entry-level use. The materials are mixed to keep costs down and still provide some grip and bounce.
- The latex bladder is built in for shape retention.
- The ball weighs around 400 grams, give or take 25 grams.
- Comes deflated and must be inflated with a sports pump.
- Size 4 is commonly used for youth or intermediate-level players.
- The outer layer is composed of 60% synthetic rubber and 40% natural rubber.
- Machine stitched using hyper-seam stitching.
- The inner structure includes one layer of cotton canvas.
- The second laminate layer is polyester viscose.
- Bright orange colour for high visibility.
- Rubber blend includes recycled material.
Should I Buy the Summit Classic Rugby Ball Orange – 4?
Buy it if you need a training ball for casual use, especially at school or youth level. Don’t buy it if you want precise weight balance or grip for competitive matches.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s a size 4, which is slightly smaller than the standard adult size.
Yes, it’s a general-use training ball and handles most outdoor surfaces.
The surface is not high-grip. It’s more suited for basic training than high-performance handling.
- Pros
- Includes recycled rubber in the outer layer
- Clear size and use case as a training ball
- High visibility colour
- Multi-layer internal construction
- Cons
- Valve can be damaged by incorrect pumps
- Grip may be limited compared to match balls
Medalist Super Grip Rugby Ball - Size 5
The Medalist Super Grip Rugby Ball is a size 5 training ball with a hand-stitched finish and a latex bladder.
It is intended for youth or casual-level use and comes uninflated, like most online rugby ball purchases. The outer layer includes a grip texture, and the shape is standard for its size and weight.
- Supplied deflated, pump required.
- Multi-coloured design.
- Packaged as a single ball per unit.
- Size 5 ball suited to youth and senior training.
- Hand-stitched construction.
- Outer material listed as polyester with rubber texture.
- Latex bladder for air retention.
- The surface is textured to improve grip.
- Item weight is approximately 250 grams.
- Diameter listed at 30 cm.
Should I Buy the Medalist Super Grip Rugby Ball – Size 5?
Buy it if you want a size 5 ball for training with a textured grip and a stitched build. Don’t buy it if you’re looking for a ball with match certification or detailed grip spec.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s labelled as a training ball, so it’s not intended for match use.
It’s a size 5, which is standard for adult rugby.
Yes, it uses hand-stitched seams.
- Pros
- Textured surface improves hand grip
- Hand-stitched for durability
- Suitable for general training
- Includes latex bladder
- Cons
- Ball arrives deflated
- No grip detail or match-grade rating
Decathlon Canterbury Rugby Training Ball - Size 4
This rugby training ball, designed by Decathlon and Canterbury, is specifically targeted at junior players aged 10–14. Size 4 makes it suitable for school and youth clubs, featuring hand-stitched seams and a layered rubber shell.
It is listed as part of a partnership between the two brands, with durability and grip listed as main features. The ball meets World Rugby requirements and comes with a two-year warranty.
- Latex bladder supports shape and pressure retention.
- Internal fabric layer made from 100% polyester.
- Inflation pressure is set at 0.7 bar.
- Total weight is approximately 410 grams.
- Approved to World Rugby standards for match legality.
- Size 4 ball aimed at ages 10–14 and women’s training.
- Made with 60% dry rubber and 40% synthetic rubber.
- Manual hand-stitched seams increase durability.
- Textured spherical pebble surface for grip.
- The neoprene layer enhances surface handling.
Should I Buy the Decathlon Canterbury Rugby Training Ball – Size 4?
Buy it if you’re looking for a World Rugby-compliant size 4 ball for youth training or school sessions. Don’t buy it if you need a ball for adult players or match-level performance in wet or muddy conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it complies with World Rugby regulations.
It should be inflated to 0.7 bar, as indicated on the ball.
Do not wash it in water. Use a brush to remove mud and keep grip.
- Pros
- Complies with World Rugby standards
- Hand-stitched seams improve shape retention
- Neoprene layer helps with handling
- Size 4 suited to junior players
- Cons
- Must be stored in dry conditions
- Requires brushing to maintain grip in muddy weather
Gilbert G-TR3000 Rugby Ball - Size 5
The Gilbert G-TR3000 Rugby Ball is a size 5 training ball. It features common elements found in the brand’s lower- to mid-range training models, including machine-stitched panels and a textured grip pattern.
The surface is rubber with a triangular grip layout, and the inner construction uses a 3-ply laminate.
- 3-ply polycotton and cotton laminate structure.
- Hydratec surface treatment offers basic water resistance.
- Weight and size meet general training standards.
- Not approved as a match ball.
- Size 5 ball suitable for players aged 15 and above.
- The surface features a triangular grip layout (TRI Grip).
- Panels are hand-stitched for better shape retention.
- The outer is made from rubber.
- The ball is shipped deflated.
- Compatible with standard rugby ball pumps.
Should I Buy the Gilbert G-TR3000 Rugby Ball – Size 5?
Buy it if you want a size 5 training ball for players aged 15 and above, featuring stitched panels and a grip texture. Don’t buy it if you’re looking for a certified match ball or need a pre-inflated option.
Frequently Asked Questions
The outer layer is rubber, and the inner layer is a 3-ply laminate of polycotton and cotton.
It includes a Hydratec coating, which adds surface-level water resistance.
It uses a triangular surface pattern known as TRI Grip.
- Pros
- Triangular grip layout improves surface hold
- Multi-layer laminate holds shape
- Hand-stitched for better durability
- Water-resistant coating
- Cons
- Not certified for match play
- Needs regular pressure checks
Rhino Cyclone Rugby Ball
The Rhino Cyclone Rugby Ball is a hand-stitched, 3-ply training ball built with durability in mind. The outer surface features a raised 3D grip, and the internal bladder is made from latex.
The shape and construction are designed for repeated use in club or school sessions. The textured grip is designed to enhance handling during skill drills or high-rep practice.
- Intended for general skill development.
- Requires manual inflation.
- Suited for dry and damp training conditions.
- Built with a 3-ply laminate construction.
- The surface features a 3D grip for improved hold.
- Textured for training use, not match-certified.
- Available in standard size.
- Branded as a Rhino training ball.
- Outer is hand-stitched.
- Latex bladder provides internal pressure retention.
Should I Buy the Rhino Cyclone Rugby Ball?
Buy it if you’re looking for a training ball with extra grip and a stitched outer for repeated use. Don’t buy it if you need a match-certified ball or a lighter, synthetic training option.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a standard size 5 ball.
Yes, the panels are hand-stitched.
It can be used in damp conditions but is not waterproof.
- Pros
- Textured 3D grip supports handling drills
- 3-ply laminate improves durability
- Latex bladder retains shape under pressure
- Hand-stitched for added build strength
- Cons
- Not certified for match play
- Supplied deflated
Gilbert G-TR4000 Rugby Training Ball
The G-TR4000 is part of Gilbert’s mid-range training line, sitting above entry-level balls due to its hand-stitched panels and water-resistant coating.
The outer uses a TRI grip layout and a reinforced rubber surface. The 3-ply polycotton laminate inside the ball supports weight retention and shape through regular drills.
- Weight listed at 140 grams (unusual, but manufacturer-stated).
- The item ships deflated.
- Intended for adult training sessions.
- One ball per pack, pump not included.
- Size 5 ball with black colourway.
- TRI grip technology is used across the surface.
- The outer layer includes a water-repelling Hydratec coating.
- Constructed with a 3-ply polycotton and cotton laminate.
- Hand-stitched panels.
- Textured rubber surface improves grip retention.
Should I Buy the Gilbert G-TR4000 Rugby Training Ball?
Buy it if you want a size 5 training ball with stitched panels and grip texture for consistent practice. Don’t buy it if you’re expecting standard weight or looking for match-certified gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
It uses Gilbert’s TRI grip pattern across the entire surface.
It includes a Hydratec coating, which helps repel moisture.
It includes a 3-ply polycotton and cotton laminate lining.
- Pros
- Hand-stitched with layered construction
- TRI grip texture adds consistency
- Includes Hydratec for water resistance
- Suitable for regular adult training
- Cons
- Weight listed as lower than expected
- Limited colour options
Summit Advance 3.0 Rugby Ball - Size 5
The Summit Advance 3.0 Rugby Ball is available in a size 5 format, featuring a red exterior and a layered construction. The panel materials consist of cotton canvas and polyester viscose, using a three-layer laminate. It includes a latex bladder and fits within official weight and size guidelines.
- Size 5 rugby ball.
- Surface uses a blend of synthetic and natural rubber.
- Grip pattern is 3D pimple style.
- Three-layer laminated body.
- One cotton canvas layer.
- Two polyester viscose layers.
- Red exterior colour.
- Latex bladder inside.
- Weight listed at 500 grams.
- Labelled as a senior trainer ball.
Should I Buy the Summit Advance 3.0 Rugby Ball – Size 5?
Buy it if you want a heavy-duty training ball that retains its shape even after frequent use. Don’t buy it if you prefer lighter balls for kicking-focused drills or youth coaching.
Frequently Asked Questions
It has a 3D pimple-style grip pattern across the surface.
It weighs approximately 500 grams, which aligns with the official specifications.
It includes a high-tech latex bladder.
- Pros
- Blended rubber gives a firmer surface
- Pimple grip adds hold in contact
- 3-layer lamination improves durability
- Latex bladder supports shape retention
- Cons
- Limited size availability
- Slightly heavier than some alternatives
Medalist Ultra Grip Rugby Ball - Size 5
The Medalist Ultra Grip Rugby Ball uses a patterned surface to provide friction during handling and kicking. It is ideal for both match use and training, and is available in a multi-colour finish.
The texture is raised with a 3D layout, while the ball structure includes a balance bladder and standard size 5 diameter. The rubber surface wraps around a polyester base. It’s lighter than many adult match balls but still within spec.
- Size 5 match ball.
- Surface made from polyester and rubber.
- 3D grip pattern is moulded across panels.
- The colour scheme is multi-tone.
- Fitted with a balance bladder.
- Aimed at both match and training use.
- Diameter listed at 30 cm.
- The weight is around 450 g.
- Outer panels are textured, not flat.
- Made by Medalist with a 1-year warranty.
Should I Buy the Medalist Ultra Grip Rugby Ball – Size 5?
Buy it if you want a match-sized rugby ball with a raised grip texture that can withstand wet weather. Don’t buy it if you want heavier training balls or single-colour gear for team consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
It weighs around 450 grams.
It’s listed under youth, but is suitable for any players using a size 5 ball.
It includes a one-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.
- Pros
- Raised texture supports grip in wet conditions
- Listed for both match and training use
- Balance bladder improves stability
- Weight fits official match ball range
- Cons
- Multi-colour finish might fade faster
- Youth label may not appeal to all adult players
Summit Evolution X Rugby Ball
The Summit Evolution X Rugby Ball is a standard full-size ball with a stitched body and a layered fabric core. It’s heavier than most entry-level options and ideal for practice rather than casual play.
The fabric is dense, and the outer surface has a clearly defined texture pattern. The stitching is hand-done and tight across the seams.
- Round, firm shape supports passing drills.
- Stitchwork sits flush across panels.
- Balanced weight for consistent rebound.
- Suited for adult-level practice or match use.
- Made with a blend of polyester and cotton-coated fibres.
- A four-layer laminate wraps the core for added structural integrity.
- 100% hand-stitched for consistency.
- Latex bladder adds bounce and retention.
- Textured outer for grip in dry or damp weather.
- Weighs approximately 450 grams.
Should I Buy the Summit Evolution X Rugby Ball?
Buy it if you want a full-weight rugby ball for structured passing, kicking, or contact drills. Don’t buy it if you want a lightweight training ball for kids, or something soft for indoor or casual use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but hard surfaces may wear the texture faster over time.
It’s a full-size 5, made for adult use.
The four-layer construction and hand stitching make it one of the tougher options at this price point.
- Pros
- Dense stitching holds up to repeated use
- Reliable grip pattern
- Balanced feel off the foot
- Full-size and regulation weight
- Pros
- May be too heavy for juniors
- Requires proper pump to inflate safely
Conclusion
Among the rugby balls reviewed, price points and construction vary more than styling. The Summit Classic and Medalist Super Grip lean toward budget-friendly options with basic grip and lighter weight, suited to general training or youth play.
The Decathlon Canterbury and Gilbert G-TR3000 bridge offers affordability with a sturdy structure and improved shape retention, making it practical for schools or clubs.
On the higher end, the Rhino Cyclone, G-TR4000, Summit Advance 3.0, and Summit Evolution X lean more towards match-spec territory, using layered builds and firmer grip textures. Medalist Ultra Grip is not match-tier, but perfect for focused training sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size rugby balls are used for matches?
Size 5 rugby balls are standard for adult matches, while size 4 is used in youth games, typically up to age 14.
Are all rugby balls suitable for wet weather?
Not all rugby balls perform equally well in wet conditions. Some have textured rubber or specialised grip patterns that hold up better when the surface is slick.
How do I know if rugby balls are inflated correctly?
Check the inflation guide on the ball — most state 0.7 bar or a similar value. Overinflating can stretch the seams; underinflating affects accuracy.
Can rugby balls be used indoors?
They can, but standard rugby balls are heavy and have a rough surface. Softer or foam alternatives are safer for indoor sessions.
Can rugby balls be machine-washed?
No. Wipe them down with a damp cloth and brush off mud. Soaking or machine washing can damage the outer material and seams.
