Base layers are excellent for the sport of rugby. Rugby base layers, often referred to as ‘rugby skins’ are layers that add compression to the muscles. This holds all kinds of benefits to the body including; regulating body temperature and enhancing performance.
The material of the base layers is specially engineered. It is the fabric that allows base layers to hold so many advantages and to perform in the way that they do. Read our blog to gain more information about the pros and cons of base layer shorts for rugby.
Base Layer Shorts for Rugby
Base layers in rugby are considered an essential part of the kit. This is due to the nature of rugby being a very physical and high-contact sport - base layers add that element of protection to the skin and the body.
Rugby base layers fit tight to the body without being restrictive or uncomfortable in any way. Base layer leggings or shorts are great to be worn when playing rugby. They can be worn as a first layer underneath any rugby kit, they are versatile and can be worn any year round.
The Pros of Base Layer Shorts for Rugby
Below you will find the top pros to wearing base layer shorts for rugby and what they can add to your games and training sessions.
Prevents Bruises and Scrapes
Base layer shorts shield the legs from bruises, scrapes and cuts. This is due to the extra protective layer shielding the skin from hard knocks and contact from the ground and other players when being tackled.
Enhances Performance
Compression enhances performance by adding support to the muscles. It limits muscle vibration and lactic acid, keeping muscles from tiring out so fast, which therefore can enhance a rugby player's performance.
Speed Up Recovery Times
Compression helps to speed up recovery times by adding pressure to the muscles as they work. Compression before, during and after exercise is particularly beneficial for rugby players as rugby is such a physical sport where injuries are likely, and often occur.
Speeding up recovery times allows players to get back to training and games quicker and minimises any muscle soreness. This makes it much easier to return to training.
Prevents Injury
Preventing injury is also accomplished by the compression element of base layer shorts. Compression helps the leg muscles by limiting the vibrations that are caused to the muscles when exercising. Holding the muscles steady prevents any possible injuries and supports the muscles as they move and work hard.
Temperature Regulation
Regulating temperature is another benefit of base layer shorts. It might seem counterintuitive to add another layer of clothing underneath your rugby kit. However, all quality base layers including base layer shorts have temperature regulation qualities.
This means base layers can keep you cool in hot weather when the body heats up and begins to sweat, whilst they also help to keep you warm in cooler temperatures, trapping heat like a thermal layer would.
This temperature regulation is important in rugby so players can stay as comfortable as possible and not overheat. Some of the largest muscle groups are in the legs, therefore players should wear their base layer shorts as part of their standard kit.
Moisture Wicking
Wick any moisture away from the skin with ease with your rugby base layer shorts. The lightweight fabric of base layer shorts is absorbent, quickly soaking up any moisture, essentially wicking it away from the skin and body so the body does not feel uncomfortable.
The fast-drying material can evaporate quickly so rugby players are not weighed down by any damp fabric, this also ensures players do not catch a chill.
Limits Muscle Fatigue
Base layer shorts help to reduce lactic acid buildup in the legs. As rugby players largely use their legs for power, wearing a base layer can be good to help them play to the best of their abilities without getting tired or weighed down by fatigued muscles.
The Cons of Base Layer Shorts for Rugby
There are not many cons when it comes to wearing base-layer shorts when playing rugby, but we have noted some possible examples that some players may experience - find out more by reading below.
Could Be Uncomfortable
Base layers can be considered uncomfortable for some rugby players. This is usually due to people not being used to tight-fitting clothing and the tightness of base layers.
With Mizos Apparel base layers, you will find the right fit without being restrictive or limiting movements in any way, so our base layers although snug fitting will not be uncomfortable on the body.
Extra Layers Could Be Warm At First
On a warm sunny day, extra layers underneath your rugby kit are going to be the last thing that you are going to want to put on. You will want to wear breezy clothing, however, you will soon be able to feel the benefits of base layer rugby shorts.
Base layers, as mentioned, have special moisture-wicking abilities and temperature control. On warm days you will remain cool, dry and comfortable by wearing your base layer shorts.
Tight Nature Could Be Unflattering
It is not uncommon for some people to feel uncomfortable, self-conscious or unflattered by tighter-fitted layers.
A tighter fit, snug against the body is the way that base layers have to fit for them to perform. We recommend wearing a layer of clothing on top of your base layer if you find it uncomfortable or feel self-conscious about wearing a tighter fit.
Mizos Apparel Base Layers for Rugby
Our base layers at Mizos Apparel are enjoyed by top professional sports clubs and players. This is no surprise as the quality of our garments is the very best.
View our products on our website and invest in a base layer for your game of rugby or any other sport if you haven’t already. You will not regret gaining one of the base layers as you start to feel the benefits of them and the positive impact that they have on your body whilst you play the game of rugby.
