Rugby studs: Are you using the right ones?

Over the last 20 years rugby boots have evolved heavily. Previously the number of brands and the choice was relatively limited.

The boots tended to be cumbersome, have high-cut ankles and even sported hard toes. They were designed with support and protection in mind.

The boots of this age had one single type of stud that universally fitted all boots.

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As the game has evolved with professionalism, the players have become bigger, faster and more skilful.

Rugby boots have had to keep pace with this progress as well.

They are all now low cut with soft toes, built with comfort, agility and weight, to the forefront. 

Along with this progression from the rugby brands came new studs, with different thread dimensions!

Just to make life that bit more confusing.

Modern rugby studs are not universal and most are manufactured from aluminium. 

If you are in North America you might wonder what we are talking about. Rugby studs can be known as cleats or even sprigs in other parts of the world.

It is worth noting that World Rugby has strict laws surrounding the legality of studs. Some of the most important points from Law 12 are below. 

• Must not be longer than 21 mm
• Must not have any burring or sharp edges
• At least 10mm diameter at the end
• All edges of the studs/cleats should be finished smooth and rounded to a radius of not less than 1mm.

Studs smaller than those in this image might be deemed illegal. A handy tip is to use a 10mm spanner to help gauge whether a stud is too small.

Another major consideration when choosing stud type is the length. This is determined by two factors - the ground type underfoot and the position you play.

In warmer climates and dry spells, the ground conditions will likely be firmer, or perhaps you play on a 3G or 4G pitch.

In these conditions, a moulded rubber stud or firm ground boot or a shorter aluminium stud might be a better option.

In wetter conditions, where pitches have become saturated, then a longer stud might be required to gain the right amount of traction.

The second factor is position. A back needs to be agile and lighter on their feet, they will likely use a shorter stud to achieve this.

Forwards, especially props, hookers and second rows do the majority of the pushing.

These guys need maximum traction and should almost certainly be using 21mm long studs come wet conditions.

Ok, back to the topic in point, what studs will fit my boots? 

If your boots are from Adidas RS15, Predator, Malice or 2022 and earlier Canterbury Speed collections you will need RS15/Speed/Malice studs or Adidas SG stud packs. These have a 6mm thread diameter.

• 8mm RS15/Malice/Speed Stud
  
• 11mm RS15/Malice/Speed Stud
  
• 15mm RS15/Malice/Speed Stud
  
• 18mm RS15/Malice/Speed Stud
  
• Adidas SG Short Stud Pack
  
• Adidas SG Long Stud Pack

If you have boots from the Canterbury Phoenix Genesis collection from 2022 onward, or the Speed Infinite from 2023 onwards, only the Genesis studs will work.

• Canterbury Phoenix Genesis Performance Rugby Stud Pack - Short
• Canterbury Phoenix Genesis Performance Rugby Stud Pack - Long

And if you have any of the boots from the collections listed below you have what we would determine a standard stud - with a 4mm thread diameter.

• Adidas Kakari
• Asics Lethal Warno/Tackle/Charge
• Canterbury Stampede
• Gilbert Sidestep 8 stud
• Kooga
• Mizuno Morelia/Waitangi/Monarcida
• Puma H8
• All Junior rugby boots - any brand

You can use any of the studs listed below. 

• 15mm Rugby Stud
• 18mm Rugby Stud
• 21mm Rugby Stud
• All Carta Stud Packs
• All Precision Stud Packs

And finally a couple of Gilbert options to also be aware of

• Gilbert Boots with 6 studs will need the Gilbert Prolite studs
• The Kaizen will need the Gilbert Pro Tip studs

Worth noting that we sell stud keys to suit the majority of these stud options, however, if you find yourself in a bind without one, just dig out the pliers!

We do hope this addition to the Rugbystuff Clubhouse has helped you 'get a grip' on the studs you require.

Adam Clark

Bio As the driving force behind Rugbystuff Clubhouse, I bring a wealth of experience as a prop and a deep-rooted passion for the game. With my extensive rugby knowledge, I’ve developed a profound understanding of the sport. As the founder, I’m dedicated to sharing my knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow rugby fans. My insights, combined with my industry expertise, make Rugbystuff Clubhouse a go-to resource for players, supporters, and enthusiasts alike.