What kit and safety equipment does my child need, and what isn't allowed?

Kit must comply with World Rugby Law 4 and Regulation 12, which the RFU applies at all ages.

Basic kit: jersey (sleeves at least halfway to the elbow), shorts, socks and boots. At Under 7 and Under 8, players also wear a tag belt with two tags, one over each hip, worn outside the shirt.

Optional extras that are allowed: mouthguard (World Rugby recommends every player wears one), headgear, shin guards, fingerless mitts, approved shoulder or chest pads, ankle supports under socks, compliant base layers and leggings, and headscarves that aren't a danger.

Not allowed:

• jewellery
• gloves (full-finger gloves are only for non-contact rugby)
• shorts or leggings with padding sewn in
• anything sharp, or with buckles, clips, zips or rigid parts
• anything with blood on it

Boots and studs: moulded or replaceable studs are fine if they meet Regulation 12, including children's boots (there is no exception for age or boot size). Check studs for sharp edges or burrs; the referee can send a player off the pitch until a dangerous item is removed.

Glasses: glasses are allowed only in non-contact rugby. In contact rugby, only sports goggles dispensed by a GOC-registered optician or optometrist, with their written confirmation that they are needed and safe, are allowed (RFU Regulation 9).