Rugby Boots: All In The Name Of Progress
2011-10-03 16:11:57
Back in the day, there was a whistle for the referee and coal braziers to save games from the frost. Now there are cameras covering every angle to provide super slow motion for TV viewers. Fields are protected with inflatable covers, the visible match clock means there are no more arguments with the referee over additional time and the grass technology has been revolutionised so the pitch could be re-laid within two days. Mouth guards are commonplace, half-time oranges have been replaced with isotonic drinks and there are no longer leather balls that are hard to kick. Rugby boots may nowadays feel as comfortable as slippers while providing maximum protection and support even in the most vigorous matches.
There is a great diversity of brands producing high-performance boots that offer a perfect fit, feel and function at a competitive price. While the design and styling may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, there is a set of universal standards worked out to boost performance and help avoid injuries.
Modern rugby boots feature studs for optimal traction on wet and dry grounds. The length depends largely on the surface, with longer studs helping players dig deeper into the wet ground. A 4--2 configuration is commonplace for soft surfaces; 4 studs are located on the top of the sole and the remaining two are placed in the heel area. Firm ground boots may feature 8 studs for an enhanced grip and improved balance at higher speeds, with 2 studs being placed in the heel area too. This strategic positioning of studs within the outsole of both a soft and firm ground boot is said to ensure superior weight distribution. A number of the latest models boast cutting edge technological innovations designed to reduce the amount of grass, mud and dirt collected during the game and improve traction and stability.
Uppers of up-to-date rugby boots are normally made of ultra-lightweight materials. Super-soft full-grain leather may ensure a superb ball feel and a tight comfortable fit, while supple top-grain microfiber may significantly reduce weight. They are constructed to tightly accommodate the foot and remain durable all season long regardless of weather conditions. A vast array of designers has introduced high-tech breathable uppers containing a purpose-built lining of perforated leather that allows airflow to the foot to keep it dry.
Top-notch multifunctional insoles are moulded to fit the foot like a glove producing the so-called second skin effect. Added cushioning in the heel of modernised rugby boots is used for absorbing shock and impact, while an anti-bacterial lining helps manage moisture and odour. As a result, the foot usually remains dry throughout the entire match.
Rugby has been greatly modernised and revolutionised in the recent years due to remarkable technological advances in broadcasting, design, manufacturing and servicing. As the technology and design have progressed to another stage, it has become possible to create high-tech rugby boots that may provide an excellent fit, a superb feel and superior performance on every surface in all weather conditions.
There is a great diversity of brands producing high-performance boots that offer a perfect fit, feel and function at a competitive price. While the design and styling may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, there is a set of universal standards worked out to boost performance and help avoid injuries.
Modern rugby boots feature studs for optimal traction on wet and dry grounds. The length depends largely on the surface, with longer studs helping players dig deeper into the wet ground. A 4--2 configuration is commonplace for soft surfaces; 4 studs are located on the top of the sole and the remaining two are placed in the heel area. Firm ground boots may feature 8 studs for an enhanced grip and improved balance at higher speeds, with 2 studs being placed in the heel area too. This strategic positioning of studs within the outsole of both a soft and firm ground boot is said to ensure superior weight distribution. A number of the latest models boast cutting edge technological innovations designed to reduce the amount of grass, mud and dirt collected during the game and improve traction and stability.
Uppers of up-to-date rugby boots are normally made of ultra-lightweight materials. Super-soft full-grain leather may ensure a superb ball feel and a tight comfortable fit, while supple top-grain microfiber may significantly reduce weight. They are constructed to tightly accommodate the foot and remain durable all season long regardless of weather conditions. A vast array of designers has introduced high-tech breathable uppers containing a purpose-built lining of perforated leather that allows airflow to the foot to keep it dry.
Top-notch multifunctional insoles are moulded to fit the foot like a glove producing the so-called second skin effect. Added cushioning in the heel of modernised rugby boots is used for absorbing shock and impact, while an anti-bacterial lining helps manage moisture and odour. As a result, the foot usually remains dry throughout the entire match.
Rugby has been greatly modernised and revolutionised in the recent years due to remarkable technological advances in broadcasting, design, manufacturing and servicing. As the technology and design have progressed to another stage, it has become possible to create high-tech rugby boots that may provide an excellent fit, a superb feel and superior performance on every surface in all weather conditions.
