Rugby
Ball Sports · 9 specs
Direct Answer
Official rugby balls are prolate spheroids regulated by World Rugby (Law 2) for Rugby Union and the RFL for Rugby League. An adult match ball (Size 5) has a length of 280–300 mm (11.0–11.8 in), long circumference of 740–770 mm (29.1–30.3 in), short circumference of 580–620 mm (22.8–24.4 in), mass of 410–460 g (14.5–16.2 oz), and pressure of 0.67–0.70 bar (9.7–10.2 psi).
Source: World Rugby Laws of the Game Law 2 / International Rugby League (IRL) Laws · Last reviewed Aug 28, 2026
Specs
| Official Match Size | Size 5 World Rugby / IRL Standard |
| Length Axis (Tip to Tip) | 280–300 mm (11.0–11.8 in) |
| Long Circumference | 740–770 mm (29.1–30.3 in) |
| Short Circumference | 580–620 mm (22.8–24.4 in) |
| Mass / Weight | 410–460 g (14.5–16.2 oz) |
| Inflation Pressure | 0.67–0.70 bar (9.7–10.2 psi / 65.71–68.75 kPa) |
| Size 4 Youth (Ages 10–14) | 270 mm length / 540 mm short circ / 370–390 g Youth Standard |
| Size 3 Junior (Under 10) | 250 mm length / 500 mm short circ / 310–330 g Junior Standard |
| Panel Geometry | 4-Panel Poly-Cotton Laminate with Rubber Compound Pimple Grip Standard |
Rugby Union vs. Rugby League Ball Nuances
- Shape Comparison: Rugby League balls are slightly more pointed at the tips and narrower across the short circumference (580–600 mm) to facilitate rapid passing and spiral handling, whereas Rugby Union balls (Gilbert Match Balls) feature a slightly rounder prolate profile to stabilize long-range tactical punting and place kicks.
- Grip Grain: The outer rubberized surface features embossed triangular or multi-matrix pimple studs to maintain friction in heavy rain and mud.