Sports socks for the pitch

Why rugby socks are knee-high

Knee-high socks are part of the match kit: Law 4 of World Rugby lists socks among the clothing worn by each player, along with the jersey, shorts, and shoes, and they feature the team colours to distinguish the two teams in a scrum. Rising above the knee, they protect the shins and calves from stud impacts in rucks and burns on synthetic grass. They also support shin guards, which are allowed by the rules as long as they are worn underneath the sock. Striped models, like the Proact with horizontal stripes, remain the visual signature of rugby, and the turned-over top of the sock helps to support the strap that keeps the sock up.

Other accessories

Accessories also come in various types:

• Gloves.
• Compression tops.
• Compression leggings.
• Windbreakers.
• Beanies.

All the accessories are gathered on the accessories page.

Non-slip socks: how grip works

A non-slip sock has small rubber grips or dots on the sole and the heel that cling to the insole: the foot doesn't slide forward during pushing, direction changes, or scrum engagements. The Uhlsport Grip combines this gripping area with a cotton foot, a distinct anatomical shape for the left and right foot, and elastic compression in the calf. The Craft Progress comes in mid-high and mid-length versions, the latter being non-slip, and the Murphy's Pro Mid Grip applies the principle in children's sizes. A foot that doesn’t move in the shoe also means less friction, hence fewer blisters after a session on soft ground.

Size ranges, material and washing of socks

Socks are sold in size ranges, for example, from thirty-nine to forty-two, and these ranges vary from one brand to another: it’s better to refer to the manufacturer’s size chart rather than their regular clothing size. For a growing child, a range that includes their current size and the next one avoids having to buy more pairs during the year. In terms of material, polyamide and polyester dry quickly and keep their shape after repeated washes, while cotton, being softer, retains more sweat. For supporters in the stands in winter, a thick sock that mixes wool and synthetic fibers keeps the foot warm without deforming in the wash. Washing at thirty degrees, inside out, preserves the grips and elasticity.

Good deals

Good bargains can be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24 hours are packed and dispatched within 24 hours. The main events of the year follow a stable order: Black Friday at the end of autumn, the year-end festivities, winter sales, French Days in spring, followed by summer sales and back-to-school.

Frequently asked questions

What colour socks should you wear in a rugby match?

The whole team wears socks of the same colour, as set by the club, often matching the shorts or the jersey. The cuffs or the turned-over part sometimes feature a second colour of the club for a uniform look.

How to stop your socks from slipping during a match?

You wrap a strap or adhesive tape around the top of the sock, just below the knee, over the turnover. A sock in the right size range, not too big or loose, already stays on much better.

Are there rugby socks for women?

Rugby socks are mostly unisex: a female player simply chooses the size range that corresponds to her foot size, usually the smallest adult range. Smaller sizes can also look at the larger kids' sizes.

How many pairs to prepare for a week of training?

One pair per session, plus one for the match, making three or four pairs for a player training twice a week. In winter, the slower drying justifies an extra pair in the bag.

What sock should you choose for a child starting rugby?

A knee-high sock in the colours of their club, in the size range that covers their current size and the next one. A non-slip model for kids helps them maintain their footing in sometimes slightly large boots.