Author: Peter Wakeford

Looking for the perfect rugby-themed Christmas gifts?

Whether it’s for a scrum-half, a superfan, or a newcomer to the game, our ultimate guide is here to help.

From stocking fillers to game-day essentials and winter-ready apparel, we’ve curated gifts to suit every budget and bring rugby magic to the holidays. Kick off the season with presents that are sure to score big smiles!

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• Stocking Fillers
• Gifts for Under the Tree

Stocking Fillers

Who wouldn’t love a rugby-inspired stocking filler to bring festive cheer to the passionate fan or player in their life?

We’ve carefully selected our top picks, all priced under £30 at Lovell Rugby, making thoughtful gifting both easy and budget-friendly!

Canterbury British and Irish Lions 2025 Beanie Hat

The most anticipated rugby event of 2025, and one that has been four years in the making, you can guarantee that if the rugby fan in your life likes rugby, then they’ll be hot on this!

We’re starting with the standout Lions Beanie.

‘Red Dahlia’ is situated as the base colour, with the Lions crest embroidered on, highlighted with “Howdens” sponsor and kit supplier Canterbury’s ‘CCC’ logo.

Perfect for upcoming game days, outdoor adventures or casual outings, if they’re cheering on the lions for 2025, then this beanie is a no-brainer!

Mouthguards

Keep their smile intact on the pitch with the most essential piece of kit – a mouthguard!

While every player has their own preferences, you can’t go wrong with Safejawz (see what we did there?).

Available in a variety of bold styles and colours, like the striking Extro Series Black Fangz, these mouthguards are among the best in the business.

With FluidFit technology for a super-slim, secure fit and raised impact pads to protect the lower jaw from heavy hits, Safejawz takes safety to the next level.

For performance and protection, it’s a no-brainer!

Canterbury British and Irish Lions 2025 Supporters Scarf

Looking for the perfect companion to their Lions beanie? Nothing says “a match made in heaven” quite like pairing it with a Lions Supporter’s Scarf.

Featuring a bold graphic of the four nations’ flora and classic fringed edges, the scarf combines style and pride effortlessly. The iconic Red Dahlia colour makes a return, complete with the stitched Lions crest and gold lettering for a truly striking finish.

Rugby Gloves

The perfect winter-training accessory for when weather conditions turn unpredictable – Rugby Gloves!

Not your usual pair of gloves, these bad boys couple a fingerless design with a touch tape fastening strap to the wrist cuff for a secure fit, while a silicone grip pattern promotes increased grip on the ball to make for more efficient cut-out and spin passes.

Underwear

A timeless stocking filler, underwear is always a winner during the festive season!

With numerous brands, colours and styles to choose from at Lovell Rugby, our pick of the bunch are these Calvin Klein trunks thanks to the limited-time multi-buy offer that helps you save big.

Trusted by wearers worldwide, few match up to the quality of Calvin Klein.

TapeDesign Grip Socks

Help them get a grip on their game this Christmas with Grip Socks – the ultimate gift for any rugby player!

Perfect for every position, whether they’re dominating as a Loosehead Prop, flying down the wing, or powering through as a Number Eight, these socks are guaranteed to light up their Christmas morning.

So, what makes them a must-have?

Circular rubber elements on the sole provide unbeatable traction inside the boot, reducing slippage and boosting stability. Plus, their thick padding ensures all-day comfort, and the durable materials mean they’ll last match after match.

A practical and thoughtful addition to their kit, Grip Socks are a game-changing stocking filler that they’ll love!

Sliders

Whether lounging at home, hitting the gym, or heading to the beach on a rare sunny day, sliders make the perfect stocking filler.

Effortlessly easy to slip on and off, they’re a versatile addition to any wardrobe, pairing seamlessly with all kinds of outfits.

Built for comfort and durability, and available in a wide range of brands, styles, and sizes, there’s a pair to suit everyone this Christmas!

Kicking Tees

Got someone in your life looking to perfect their kicking game?

A good kicking tee could be just the boost they need!

Designed to provide a stable platform, these essential tools keep the rugby ball steady, even in less-than-ideal weather – though we’re not sure any tee could handle the wrath of Storm Darragh!

With a variety of options available, different tees allow for tailored ball heights and angles to suit individual kicking styles.

By exposing the ball’s sweet spot, they help deliver more precise and consistent kicks, making them an invaluable addition to any kicker’s kit.

Boot Buddy Boot Cleaner

Mud-covered boots? A sign of a great game, but not off the pitch. That’s where the Boot Buddy comes in!

Designed with a unique 3-in-1 bristle system, a mud scraper, and a 300ml water reservoir, this handy tool tackles stubborn dirt and removes chunks of mud effortlessly. The durable bristles ensure every inch of your boots gets a deep clean, leaving them pitch-perfect for your next game.

Keep their kit bag fresh, extend the life of their boots, and make cleaning up easy with the Boot Buddy Boot Cleaner—every player’s must-have accessory!

Gifts for Under Tree

Headguards

This Christmas, give the gift of on-pitch safety with a Rugby Headguard.

Rugby’s physical, high-contact nature often leaves players feeling the hits, but a quality headguard can make all the difference.

While we wouldn’t change the intensity of the game (where’s the fun in that?), a headguard offers crucial protection against head injuries like lacerations, abrasions, and even concussions.

Our top pick?

The Gilbert Air Headguard. Lightweight and expertly designed, it features strategic ventilation to keep players cool and advanced closed-cell foam padding for exceptional shock absorption, especially in key impact zones like the temples.

Trusted by world-class athletes like Cheslin Kolbe and Gregory Alldritt, and as the official headguard of England and France Rugby, it’s a gift worthy of the best players this Christmas.

Why not make their Christmas safer and stronger?

Rugby Shirts

From the Six Nations to the British & Irish Lions, the latest 2024/25 Rugby jerseys are exclusive must-haves, making the ultimate gift to unwrap this Christmas.

Whether they’re fired up for intense club rivalries, counting down to the 2025 Six Nations, or already dreaming of the British & Irish Lions Summer Tour, Lovell Rugby has everything you need to keep them game-ready this festive season!

Training Tops

Whether smashing PBs in the gym or dominating on the field, no player can resist the value of a high-quality Training Top.

With options from Nike, adidas, Canterbury, Mizuno, and more, there’s a wide range of colours, styles, and materials to suit every taste.

For top-tier quality and innovative sweat-wicking tech, the Canterbury Vapodri Super Light Tee takes the spotlight – because when it comes to rugby, we love a brand as passionate about the game as we are!

Fleece Jumpers

With winter fast approaching, it’s time to wrap up more than just presents – stay warm and stylish with fleece jumpers from Lovell Rugby

Our standout choice? The stunning British & Irish Lions Outback Fleece.

Inspired by the rich hues of Australia’s outback, mountain ranges, and coastlines, it’s the perfect companion for chilly matchdays or outdoor adventures this season.

Jackets

Another winter essential, you can’t beat a rugby jacket!

Our top pick is this newly released Canterbury British & Irish Lions Heritage Quilted Jacket that just oozes with style and grace, while capturing the history and enduring tradition of the Lions and making it modern.

The cleanest bit of Lions merch since the launch of the official Jersey! (In our opinion anyway).

Rugby Boots

Nothing puts a smile on a rugby player’s face quite like a fresh pair of boots – because let’s be honest, you can never have too many!

With options ranging from elite-level boots for pro performance to takedown models perfect for beginners or intermediates, there’s a pair for every position.

Whether they’re tearing up the field as a back or holding the line as a forward, the right boots make all the differenc

Our top pick:

The adidas Predator Elite FT in a striking champagne colourway. Featuring enhanced grip, control, and comfort – plus that iconic fold-over tongue – these boots deliver everything a player needs to shine on the pitch.

Rugby Balls

If they love collecting replica balls that match the look, feel, and size of those used in professional matches, or simply need a new match or training ball, now is the perfect time to make it happen!

From Gilbert to Canterbury and Kooga, there’s a ball for every budget this Christmas.

Massage Guns

For those after gym sessions or giving it their all in the thrill of the full 80, a massage gun is a great gift to help them get back on form this Christmas.

The Pulseroll Mini Gun is a game-changer for recovery, an ideal Christmas gift for active players, boosting recovery and keeping muscles game-ready with enhanced blood flow stimulation.

With 4-speed settings and interchangeable heads, it’s perfect for targeting every muscle group.

Its unique heating element lets players warm up or cool down effectively, enhancing flexibility and easing localized knots, tension, and stress.

Complete with a durable hard-cover carry case and a long-lasting 6-hour battery life, this compact kitbag essential ensures recovery stays effortless and portable.

Still Not Sure What to Get Them? Give the gift of gift Cards

Not sure what to get? Let them pick their perfect gift with a Lovell Rugby Gift Voucher – the ultimate go-to for rugby fans this Christmas!

Looking to protect your pearly-whites from the savages in the scrum, but not sure which mouthguards are up to the job? As rugby aficionados, we’ve done the hard work to make sure you’re fully protected on the field!

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s find the perfect mouthguard for you and get you ready to play with confidence!

#1. What’s all the fuss about Rugby Mouthguards?

#2. Factors to Consider when Choosing Your Mouthgaurd

#3. The Best Mouthguards in the Game

#4. How to Find and Fit the Perfect Mouthguard

#5. How to Care for Your Rugby Mouthguard

#6. Maximizing On-Field Protection

#1. Why are Mouthguards so important in Rugby?

If you’re already familiar with the role and purpose of rugby mouthguards, feel free to skip ahead. However, if you’re new to the game or simply need a quick refresher, we’re here to help!

A Rugby Mouthguard, a vital piece of equipment, could be the difference between a regular game and an unplanned trip to the dentist!

Typically made from a flexible material known as Ethylene-vinyl acetate (or EVA for short), this material employs both soft and hard layers within the mouthguard. These layers work in tandem to evenly distribute forces upon impact, ensuring enduring protection, durability, and resistance to tearing.

In fact, Makurasport presents an eye-opening statistic: players who opt not to wear a mouthguard are 1.6 to 1.9 times more likely to suffer from orofacial trauma. This includes injuries to the mouth and face, such as displaced or fractured teeth, mouth or tongue cuts, and facial bone fractures.

Moreover, since the mandatory use of mouthguards in New Zealand in 1997, World Rugby reports a significant 47% decrease in rugby-related dental claims. They also discovered that mouthguards can reduce the risk of concussion by 20 percent.

Now, those are statistics worth noting!

#2. What should I look for when Choosing a Mouthguard?

When it comes to choosing the right mouthguard to protect your smile, it’s easy to get sidetracked by the flashy features and “enhanced protection” that some brands prominently display on their packaging without explaining why…

However, when it comes to your teeth, they deserve nothing but the best. Here are a few key factors to consider:

Comfort vs Protection

A superior mouthguard should not only be comfortable to wear but also provide adequate protection.

Material 

The material can influence its durability, comfort, and fit. Keep this in mind. Some materials include EVA, Silicone, Rubber, or Polyurethane.

Mouthguard Thickness 

The thickness of the mouthguard can impact the level of protection it offers. While thicker mouthguards provide more protection, they can also be uncomfortable to wear.

Braces 

If you wear braces, this is a critical factor to consider. We recommend the brand Opro if you’re seeking the perfect balance between functionality and affordability.

Easy to Clean 

Ideally, the mouthguard should be easy to clean as maintaining oral hygiene is crucial.

Personalisation 

Although it’s the last thing on the list, personalisation can be important to some people who prefer to show off their team colours, logo, or unique design. But hey, that’s entirely up to you at the end of the day!

#3. The Best Mouth Guards in the Game!

There’s a lot to choose from, but we’ve narrowed it down to our Top 3.

Opro

Founded in 1997 by Dr Anhtony Lovat, Opro Moutguards quickly rose to become the pioneer in oral protection and have even supplied their gum shields to the likes of England Rugby, New Zealand Rugby and even the UFC, while also serving over 10 million athletes around the world.

Available in a wide range of colours, the Opro Self Fit Moutguard utilises anatomically positioned fins that soften when the Mouthguard is boiled to mould around the teeth for a bespoke fit.

Shockdoctor

Another excellent brand that is committed to ensuring your pearly-whites stay protected – Shockdoctor!

Labelling themselves as “the undisputed leader in mouthguard technology”, aswell as the “#1 moutguard in the world”, Shockdoctor have made waves with their performance-driven mouthguards, earning the esteem of Pro and Youth athletes world wide.

Our personal favourite is the Shock Doctor Gel Max Mouth Guard as it delivers exceptional comfort and protection, all while donning a low-profile design that ensures a snug, natural fit with a re-inforced inner grid for maximum protection.

Wearers of braces, we haven’t forgotten about you, and neither have Shock Doctor!

For an enhanced fit that doesn’t compromise on comfort, the Ultra Braces Mouthguard utilises a patented “Insta-Fit Plus” system to allow athletes to mold and re-mold the mouthguard as your teeth continue to adjust through orthodontic treatment.

Pair this with its triple-layer protection and you’re well on your way towards a distraction-free game!

#4. Finding your Fit: How to Fit a Traditional Mouthguard

If you’re opting for a traditional “Boil and Bite” EVA mouthguard, we’ve got you covered with a step by step guide to ensure you find the perfect fit first time!

Gently Prepare the Mouthguard:

• Submerge the gumshield in boiling water for approximately 30 seconds to soften it.
• Using tongs, carefully lift it out of the water and shake off any residual water.
• Position the gumshield over your upper teeth, making sure it aligns properly within your mouth.

Securing the Fit

• To adapt the mouthguard to the contours of your teeth, position your thumb inside your mouth and apply gentle suction.
• Press your lower teeth onto the mouthguard, then use your finger on the outside to shape the mouthguard against your upper teeth.
• Repeat these steps as necessary until the mouthguard stays in place comfortably.

Final Adjustments

• If adjustments are needed, use sharp scissors to trim any excess material from the mouthguard.
• For a polished finish, briefly hold the cut edges over a flame (be careful!) and then gently smooth them with your finger.

#5. Caring for your Rugby Mouthguard

Cleaning and maintaining your mouthguard is a crucial practice if you’re looking to ensure its longevity and your oral health.

There’s numerous ways in which to do it, so no excuses!

Toothpaste Method:

If you’ve got a spare toothbrush handy, this is one of the easiest ways to keep your gumshield clean!

1. Rinse the mouthguard in cool water.
2. Apply a small amount of non-abrasive toothpase to a soft-bristle toothbrush.
3. Gently brush the mouthguard with a toothbrush until soapy.
4. Rinse off the Toothpaste and dry.

Soap & Water Method:

Another method that doesn’t require a day out to the shops!

1. Rinse the mouthguard in cool water.
2. Apply a small amount of mild, alchohol free-soap to your mouthguard.
3. Gently brush the mouthguard with a toothbrush until soapy.
4. Rinse off the Soap and allow to dry.

Baking Soda Method:

1. Combine equal parts baking soda and water into a small bowl until you form a paste.
2. Dip your toothbrush into the past and gently brush your mouthhguard.
3. Rinse off with cool water and let it dry.

6.Maximising your On-Field Protection

While your mouthguard is vital for protecting your teeth and reducing the risk of concussions, there’s more you can do to stay safe on the rugby field. From headguards to body armour, rugby protection gear helps minimize injury and keeps you performing at your best.

For an in-depth look at all the essential gear you need to stay safe, check out our comprehensive guide: Rugby Safety Made Easy: A Complete Guide to Protective Gear. Learn how headguards, body armour, and other equipment can take your on-field protection to the next level.