Size 5 is the full-size ball used by adults and older teenagers. Size 4 is used by younger teens and older children, and size 3 by young children in mini rugby. The exact age cut-offs are set by each national union, so check your club's age-grade rules. Match balls have deeper grip and approved construction; training balls trade some grip for durability on rough or artificial pitches.
Using the right size ball helps young players handle and pass properly.
Sizes
| Size | Typical players |
|---|---|
| Size 5 | Adults and older teenagers |
| Size 4 | Younger teenagers and older children |
| Size 3 | Young children in mini rugby |
| Mini and midi | Skills practice, gifts and souvenirs |
National unions set the exact age bands, which vary slightly between countries and between union and league. Your club or school will tell you which size each team uses.
Match versus training balls
| Match ball | Training ball | |
|---|---|---|
| Grip | Deep, tacky pimples | Moderate |
| Durability | Lower on abrasive surfaces | Higher |
| Approval | Competition-approved models | Not required |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
Grip and weather
Wet-weather grip depends on the surface pattern and coating. If your team plays mostly in rain, grip matters more than anything else.
Care
- Keep inflated to the pressure printed on the ball.
- Clean off mud and store away from heat.
- Rotate training balls so they wear evenly.
Touch and tag
Touch and tag rugby use the same ball sizes, often a size 4 for social adult touch. See touch vs tag rugby. For boots and protection, see boots by position and World Rugby equipment rules.
Browse rugby balls.
Common questions
What size rugby ball does an adult use?
Size 5, the full-size ball used in senior union, league and sevens.
What size rugby ball for a 10-year-old?
Usually size 4, though some unions use size 3 up to that age. Check your union's age-grade guidance.
What is the difference between a match and a training ball?
Match balls have a deeper, grippier surface and meet competition approval. Training balls are built to last through repeated use on all surfaces.
How much should a rugby ball be inflated?
Follow the pressure printed near the valve. Over-inflated balls are hard to catch and wear faster.