Training Tops Gilbert

From the cobbler of Rugby School to the World Cup balls

It all started in 1823 in Rugby, England: William Gilbert, a cobbler set up on the high street next to Rugby School, made the school's balls from hand-stitched leather covers, in four panels, inflated with a pig's bladder. His nephew James took over the workshop, and Gilbert balls were awarded medals at the London World Exhibitions in 1851 and 1862. The brand has been the official supplier of the ball for each World Cup since 1995. This specialist know-how was later extended to protective gear and training clothing for clubs.

The other brands

Training tops are also available in:

• adidas.
• Nike.
• Under Armour.
• Puma.
• Le Coq Sportif.
• Canterbury.
• Kappa.

All training tops are gathered on the training tops page.

Photon and Atomic: two families of Gilbert tops

Gilbert training tops are divided into two uses. The Photon Warm Up is a lightweight outer layer made of polyester, water-repellent treated, with an elastic jersey collar and elastic cuffs: it is worn during warm-ups and wet sessions, and comes in many colour combinations, ideal for dressing a club. The Atomic range includes base layers, close-fitting tops that are worn next to the skin under the jersey to keep warmth and wick away sweat. Pairing an Atomic base layer with a Photon on top creates a cohesive outfit, from the first workshop to the cool down.

Layering and choosing your size

A Gilbert warm-up top should be chosen with what it covers in mind: worn over a base layer and training shirt, it should allow free shoulders for passes, which often means going for a size up. The base layer, on the other hand, should be chosen in your exact size to fit the skin. Sizes generally range from XS to triple XL for adults, with junior versions for rugby schools. To maintain the water-repellent treatment of the Photon, wash it at low temperature, without fabric softener, and let it dry hanging, away from a source of heat.

Great deals

Great deals can be found in the great deals, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24h are prepared and dispatched within 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow in a stable order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the end of year festivities, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, then the summer sales and back to school.

Frequently asked questions

Why does the name Gilbert appear on rugby balls?

Because William Gilbert was already making the balls for Rugby School in 1823, making the brand one of the oldest manufacturers of oval balls. It has supplied the official ball for each World Cup since 1995.

Does Gilbert also make clothing?

Yes, in addition to balls and protective gear, the brand offers jerseys, base layers, warm-up tops, and jackets for clubs and rugby players.

Who owns Gilbert today?

Since 2002, Gilbert has been part of the British group Grays International, a specialist in sports goods. The brand has retained its name and its historical link with the town of Rugby.

Is the Photon Warm Up waterproof?

It is water-resistant: its fabric causes water to slide off during a shower or wet session. To stay under heavy rain for a long time, a waterproof jacket with protected seams is more suitable.

What to wear under a Gilbert warm-up top in winter?

A long-sleeved base layer close to the body, followed by the training shirt. The warm-up top is removed during the opposition and put back on at the end of exertion to avoid getting cold.