Rugby protection gear market to see phenomenal growth with increasing grassroots participation and pro-level investments, States Fact.MR
According to Fact.MR, a market research and competitive intelligence provider, the global rugby protective gears market was valued at USD 759.6 million in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.5% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2035.
Rugby safety gear is important for players' protection in case of great impacts, takedowns, and scrums. The most important components of this gear are headgear, shoulder pads, and mouth guards that shock-absorb, protect vital areas, and prevent concussions.
The increased popularity of rugby has raised the demand for advanced protective gear. Product development including new materials like lightweight composites, smart textiles, and shock-absorbing foams in products to further improve safety without compromising performance.
Impact-detection sensors and technology for personalized fit are among several advances furthering the efficiency of protective gear. These innovations are driving market growth as players and teams prioritize both protection and comfort on the field.
The market is projected to grow at 3.5% CAGR and reach USD 1,109 million by 2035. The market created an opportunity of USD 141 million between 2020 and 2025. Western Europe is a prominent region that is estimated to hold a market share of 40% in 2035.
Predominating market players include Adidas, Canterbury of New Zealand, Everlast Worldwide Inc., Madison Sports & Entertainment Inc., Mizuno Corporation, NIKE Inc. and PUMA SE among others.
Head gear in gear type are estimated to grow at a CAGR of 3.5%, creating an absolute $ opportunity of USD 183.2 million between 2025 and 2035. North America and East Asia are expected to create an absolute $ opportunity of USD 149.8 million collectively.
“Global rugby protective gear market to see strong expansion, driven by regional popularity and technological advancements” says a Fact.MR analyst.
Growing Awareness of Head Injuries in Rugby Fuels Demand for Protective Gear
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 3.5 million Americans experience brain trauma each year. Over the past decade, the frequency of brain injuries in rugby has risen, often leaving players in vulnerable situations that impact their long-term health, cognitive function, and memory retention. This alarming trend has heightened concerns about player safety, prompting increased demand for effective protective equipment.
As awareness of head injuries continues to grow, manufacturers are prioritizing the development of advanced headgear for both professional and recreational rugby players. Protective headgear is no longer seen as an optional precaution but as an essential safeguard against potential concussions and long-term neurological damage. With evolving safety regulations and greater emphasis on player well-being, the adoption of rugby protective gear is becoming more widespread.
In response to these safety concerns, manufacturers are investing in design innovations that enhance both protection and comfort. Advanced materials, improved impact absorption, and ergonomic designs are reshaping the rugby protective gear market, ensuring that athletes can maintain peak performance while minimizing injury risks. This growing emphasis on safety aligns with the global movement toward higher standards in sporting equipment, reinforcing the importance of reliable, high-quality protective gear in rugby.
In July 2024, Adidas launched the new Kakari RS rugby boots, featuring cutting-edge technology like "Fusionskin" leather, combining traditional calf leather with knit for flexibility and durability. These boots offer improved support with reinforced embroidered stitching for high-impact areas, making them ideal for rigorous rugby play. The one-piece soleplate design reduces weight while enhancing stability and energy retention. Built for versatility, the Kakari RS is suited for various conditions, from waterlogged pitches to hot weather, positioning it as a game-changing boot for both professional and amateur players.
More Valuable Insights on Offer
Fact.MR, in its new offering, presents an unbiased analysis of the global rugby protective gears market, presenting historical data for 2020 to 2024 and forecast statistics for 2025 to 2035.
The study reveals essential insights on the basis of the Gear type (Mouth Guard, Headgear, Protection Vests, Gloves), Sales Channels (Independent Sports Outlet, Franchised Sports Outlet, Modern Trade Channels, Direct To Consumer Brand Outlet, Direct To Consumer Online Channel, Direct To Consumer Institutional Channel, Third Party Online Channel), Buyer Type ( Individual, Institutional, Promotional) and Others across major regions of the world (North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, East Asia, South Asia, and Pacific, Middle East & Africa).
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