If you’re looking for new rugby boots as a back, you probably know that rugby is a physically demanding sport, and one that requires players to have the right equipment to perform at their best.
You don’t need much to play rugby, but one of the most important pieces of equipment for any rugby player is a good pair of boots. In this article, I will take a look at some of the best rugby boots for backs based on my own experience as a scrum half in the UK.
The Best Rugby Boots for Backs in 2026
Some of the best rugby boots for backs include:
- Canterbury – Stampede Pro 3.0
- Canterbury – Phoenix
- Mizuno – Morelia Neo III ß Elite Mix
- Adidas – Adizero RS7
- Nike – Mercurial Superfly Elite DF SG
- Adidas – Kakari-SG
- Puma – Avant Pro
- Puma – King Pro Rugby H8 SG
- Canterbury – Phoenix 3.0 Projection
- Nike – Tiempo Legend 8
Nike Tiempo
I personally tried the Nike Tiempo boots – they’re certainly comfortable and lightweight, but it’s worth noting that my boots wore away quite a bit over the course of two seasons, but many people wouldn’t keep boots for that long. Just my personal experience. Make no mistake, the Nike Tiempo are a great pair of boots for backs.
A quick update: on their third season (yes, I know) they finally fell apart. Both boots ripped from the bottom within a few days, but they lasted a good while before giving up on me.
Adidas Adizero Malice
One of the top options for backs is the Adidas Adizero Malice. These boots are designed to be lightweight and provide excellent traction, making them perfect for backs who need to move quickly and change direction on a dime. They also feature a comfortable fit and a durable design that can withstand the rigors of a rugby match.
Nike Mercurial Vapor
Another great option for backs is the Nike Mercurial Vapor. These boots are known for their ability to allow for speed and agility, making them a great choice for backs who need to move quickly on the field. They also feature a lightweight design and a comfortable fit, which makes them perfect for players who need to run and move a lot during the game.
Under Armour Spotlight
Finally, the Under Armour Spotlight is a great choice for backs who need a boot that provides excellent support and a stunning design. These boots are designed to help players maintain stability and balance, which is essential for backs who need to move quickly and change direction on a field. They also feature a lightweight design and a comfortable fit, which makes them perfect for players who need to run and move a lot during the game.
Can Backs Wear Football Boots For Rugby?
Forwards may not be able to get away with wearing football boots, because they need tough and durable boots that can withstand the challenges of the physical game. However, backs may be able to wear football boots for rugby. Backs’ rugby boots are generally interchangeable with football boots, just make sure they align with the laws of the game. To be safe, I’d start with a pair of metal studs where possible, as some plastic blades (often used in football) can be banned.
How Long Do Rugby Boots Last?
Rugby boots vary in terms of durability, and paying more for boots doesn’t always equate to a more durable or hardy pair of boots. An expensive pair of flashy backs boots may not last as long as a cheap pair of forwards boots like Sondico’s or Patricks, for example.
What To Look For in Rugby Boots For Backs
Generally speaking, the best rugby boots for backs should be:
- Affordable
- Comfortable
- Agile
- Lightweight
- Supportive
- Durable
- Optional: Bright and flashy!
How to Find the Best Rugby Boots for Backs
In conclusion, when it comes to rugby boots, backs need boots that are lightweight and comfortable, provide good traction and support for quick changes in direction. The Adidas Adizero Malice, Nike Mercurial Vapor, and Under Armour Spotlight are all great options for backs looking for a high-performance boot. With the right pair of boots, backs can perform at their best on the field and help their team to victory. Or at least look good while trying to do so!
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