Inflation
Balls should be inflated to 9 - 10.5 psi (pounds of air). This will give you the best performance and bounce.
It is a common thing for rugby balls to feel like they are losing air when inflating it for the first time. While pumping up the ball it will push out air from the tips of the ball. This is completely normal. This is the air that is between the inside bladder and the outside panels. Simply pump up the ball completely. Once the ball is completely full no more air will come out of the tips of the ball. It will stay inflated for a couple of weeks, before you will need to refill it again.
Match vs Practice balls
Match balls are firmer and have better grip than practice balls. They have better symetry and shape which ensures improved flight characteristics. They are great for use in games or in high level training.
Practice balls are highly durable balls, designed to last on all types of fields. Practice balls are slightly softer when fully inflated than match balls which makes them easier to catch repeatedly. They have the best air retention.
Care
Clean and dry the rugby balls after each use. Keep the balls out of extreme conditions like extreme heat, cold, wetness or direct sunlight.
Manufacturers recommend that you reduce the air pressure in your match balls after a game to reduce the amount of stress on the ball seams or stitching. Be sure to inflate the ball back to proper pressure before the match.
Construction
Rugby balls are made out of the following materials:
- Bladder
- Lining
- Cover/Casing
Bladder
Bladders hold the air and are at the very center of the balls. They can be made out of Latex or Butyl. Most soccer balls use butyl valves to improve air retention.
Latex used on higher quality balls. They are soft and offer a better touch when playing. They don't hold air as well as butyl and require frequent filling.
Butyl used on practice balls and basic match balls. They hold air very well and don't need to be filled as often as latex bladders.
Lining
Inserted between bladder and cover. It gives the ball the shape, structure, and feel. It ensures a proper bounce.
Lower end balls have two layers of polyester.
Mid level balls have two to three layers of cotton or polyester.
Top level balls have four to five layers of cotton or polyester.
Cover/Casing
The cover material depends on the level of skill. The three most common materials are Synthetic, Polyurethane (PU), and PVC.
Synthetic used for best quality soccer balls. It offers superior feel and softness, but is less durable and less water resistant than other materials. It is the most expensive cover material.
Polyurethane (PU) used for high quality practice balls and basic match balls. It combines the benefits of synthetic materials (great feel and softness) and PVC (highly durable). Feels like leather. Highly scuff resistant, water resistant, and durable.
PVC used for entry-level practice balls. Molded out of plastic with a glossy coating for additional protection. It is the most durable, scuff resistant and water resistant material. Has less softness and feel than the other cover materials. Generally used for the least expensive balls.
Panels
Rugby balls are made out of 4 panels and are either hand or machine stitched.
Stitching
Stitches hold the panels together.
Hand Stitching used on mid to top-level rugby balls. Hand sewn balls have tighter and stronger seams. Uses a polyester thread.
Machine Stitching used on low to mid-level rugby balls.
