Welcome to The Foot Practice’s buyers guide for the best boots for rugby players with wide feet. We tackle your questions with the precision of a fly-half and the power of a prop forward! Whether you’re a seasoned rugby veteran or a newcomer to the sport, read on to find out our lead podiatrist’s top picks for wide feet that will leave you feeling like you’ve just scored a try in the final minutes of the game and hopefully take your game to the next level.
Foot and ankle injuries are common among rugby players due to the physically demanding nature of the sport. These injuries often arise from collisions with other players, overuse, improper technique, and overtraining. Rugby’s most frequent foot and ankle injuries include ankle sprains, stress fractures, and Achilles tendinitis or tendinopathy. Choosing the proper rugby boots for your foot type can help prevent these injuries.
Here are some of lead podiatrist Tim Maiden’s top picks for wide-foot rugby boots.
Adidas Men’s Flanker IV WF
Photo source: prodirectsport.com
The Adidas Men’s Flanker IV WF Rugby Cleat is a top contender for finding the perfect rugby cleats for wide feet.
The Flanker IV WF is designed for players with wider feet so you can expect a comfortable and secure fit. The synthetic leather upper is soft and flexible, while the wide fit provides plenty of room in the toe box and forefoot. The lace-up closure allows for a customisable fit to adjust the tightness to your liking.
The Flanker IV WF is built for performance on the rugby pitch. The six-stud configuration provides excellent traction and stability, while the lightweight design allows quick and agile movements. The EVA insole provides cushioning and shock absorption, while the TPU outsole is durable and resistant to wear and tear.
While the Flanker IV WF may not be the most modern-looking cleat on the market, its classic design is still stylish and timeless. The black and white colourway is versatile and can match any team kit, while the Adidas branding adds a touch of sporty flair.
Reasons to buy
* Designed specifically for players with wide feet
* Comfortable and secure fit
* Excellent traction and stability
* Lightweight and agile
* Durable and long-lasting
Reasons not to buy
* May not be the most modern-looking cleat on the market
* Some players may prefer a leather upper for added durability and comfort
Overall
Adidas Men’s Flanker IV WF Rugby Cleat is a top pick for players with wide feet looking for a comfortable, secure, and high-performing cleat on the rugby pitch.
New Balance 442 V2 Pro FG Wide
Photo source: newbalance.com
These boots are designed for players with wide feet, featuring a luxurious kangaroo leather upper and an elite nylon plate for über performance on the field. The internal cushioned pillows provide comfort while delivering definitive lockdown support.
The stud tips are designed for pitches with firm ground, allowing players to optimise their performance with every stride. The cleat is available in black with silver colour and can be easily returned by mail within 30 days of delivery if it is unwashed, unworn and unused.
The cleat is designed with a wide last and is one of the widest cleats available. However, it may still need to be wider for feet accustomed to barefoot-style shoes.
Reasons to buy
* Luxurious kangaroo leather upper for premium feel and comfort
* Elite-level nylon plate for modern high-performance needs
* Firm ground studs for use on firm ground pitches
* Internal cushioned pillows for improved fit and effortless comfort
* Lace-up closure for a secure fit
* Available in wide last for players with wider feet
Reasons not to buy
* May not be wide enough for feet accustomed to barefoot-style shoes
* It may be a tad too expensive for some customers
Overall
New Balance 442 V2 Pro FG Wide Boots are a high-performance soccer cleat designed for players with wider feet.
Mizuno Waitangi PS
Photo source: mizuno.com
The Mizuno Waitangi PS rugby boots are well-regarded for their comfort and performance, especially suitable for players with wider feet. The boots are constructed with a soft Primeskin upper that moulds to the foot’s shape, ensuring both comfort and a secure fit. They are described as having a lightweight and great-fitting frame, providing ‘cat-like’ agility, which is particularly beneficial for players needing quick movements on the pitch. The aluminium stud formation on the boots offers excellent traction, making them ideal for forwards who require a stable and strong footing.
The Mizuno Waitangi PS is available in various sizes and colours, including black and yellow. Versatility is a popular choice among rugby players seeking reliable and supportive footwear.
Reasons to buy
* Made of premium leather
* Lightweight and comfortable fit
* Aluminum studs provide excellent traction
* Ideal for forwards
* Available in different colours and sizes
Overall
Mizuno Waitangi PS boots are a great choice for men’s rugby boots and provide excellent traction with their aluminium studs and those seeking reliable and supportive footwear.
Adidas Malice SG
Photo source: adidas.co
The Adidas Malice SG Boots are designed for rugby players, particularly for the backs. The boots feature a synthetic upper with asymmetrical lacing for a clean striking area and Non-Stop Grip (NSG) technology for better ball control. The lightweight outsole has mixed studs ideal for soft ground, enhancing agility and traction. We appreciate the boots’ lightweight design and effective grip, though there may be sizing issues for some.
Reasons to buy
* Lightweight and dynamic design
* Suitable for various types of surfaces
* Perfect fit and comfort
Reasons not to buy
* Concerns about quality and durability
* Spikes may fall off after only a few uses
Overall
Adidas Malice SG receives our praise for their performance and comfort on the field.
Mizuno Morelia Neo III MD
Photo source: mizuno.com
While not specifically designed for rugby, Mizuno Morelia Neo III MD is a high-performance cleat designed for firm ground and features a leather upper for durability and comfort. This top-of-the-line cleat is actually for football players who demand the best performance, comfort, and durability. Still, it also works for rugby players in back positions who prioritise speed and agility. It is made with premium kangaroo leather, providing a soft, comfortable fit and exceptional ball feel. The cleat also features a graded midsole that provides optimal cushioning and support, while the conical studs offer excellent traction and stability on firm ground surfaces.
The Mizuno Morelia Neo III MD’s exceptional blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology makes it a standout choice for enthusiasts. Crafted with high-quality K-Leather, it offers a quilted, luxurious feel that enhances the sense of touch and control, crucial for precise play. This model is particularly noted for providing a superb fit, thanks to the engineered fit last and 24-hour leather lasting process that allows the boots to mould perfectly to the foot, offering a secure and customised fit.
Features include stud configuration and soleplate, which provide adequate traction on grass pitches, making it a viable option for rugby players looking for a boot that supports fast-paced play.
Reasons to buy
* Premium kangaroo leather upper for exceptional ball feel and comfort
* Graded midsole for optimal cushioning and support
* Conical studs for excellent traction and stability on firm ground surfaces
* Positive reviews from satisfied customers
Reasons not to buy
* Higher price point compared to other cleats on the market
* May not be suitable for players who prefer a lighter cleat
Overall
While not specifically designed for rugby, the Morelia Neo III MD boots are great for enthusiasts in back positions who prioritise speed and agility.
Adidas Copa Mundial Boots
Photo source: adidas.co
The Adidas Copa Mundial Boots, another football boot, are a timeless classic in the world of footwear. They have been a popular choice among players for decades, thanks to their durability, comfort and modern performance on the pitch. Made with premium K-Leather that provides a soft, comfortable fit and exceptional ball feel. The boots also feature a durable outsole with moulded studs that offer excellent traction and stability on firm ground surfaces. They offer enhanced ball control and kicking precision, essential in gameplay. The additional leather also ensures greater durability and protection—a necessity in the rough and tumble of rugby.
Reasons to buy
* Premium kangaroo leather upper for exceptional ball feel and comfort
* Durable outsole with moulded studs for excellent traction and stability on firm ground surfaces
* Positive reviews from satisfied customers
* Classic design that has stood the test of time
Reasons not to buy
* Higher price point compared to other boots on the market
* May not be suitable for players who prefer a lighter boot
Overall
Featuring a timeless black and white design, the Copa Mundials are known for their understated style and focus on functionality. The boot’s low-cut design and ten traditional, replaceable conical studs distribute pressure evenly, which is vital for playing on natural grass rugby fields.
Puma Future Ultimate MxSG Men’s Football Boots
Photo source: puma.comPhoto source: adidas.co
Puma Future Ultimate MxSG are designed for mixed/soft ground and features a synthetic upper for lightweight performance — a cutting-edge choice for rugby players looking for superior comfort, adaptability, and grip. Engineered with the latest technology and innovative design elements, these boots cater to the rugged needs of modern rugby gameplay.
Lightweight outsole with a mix of conical and bladed studs offers exceptional traction and stability on mixed and soft ground pitches. Accommodating various lacing positions to suit different foot shapes and preferences gives a more personalised fit for rugby players who require optimal lockdown and support during intense physical play. The upper is made from a soft yet durable synthetic material that conforms to the foot for excellent comfort without sacrificing protection.
The Puma Future Ultimate MxSG boots showcase a bold aesthetic with striking colour patterns and sleek design lines that visually impact the field. The boot’s knitted sock creates a snug, ankle-hugging fit, enhancing stability and agility. This design ensures that the foot remains secure, reducing the risk of slips and providing support during lateral movements and sprints.
Reasons to buy
* Synthetic upper for a comfortable fit and excellent ball control
* Lightweight outsole with a mix of conical and bladed studs for exceptional traction and stability on mixed and soft ground surfaces
* Ideal for players with wide feet
Reasons not to buy
* Higher price point compared to other boots on the market
* May not be suitable for players who prefer a leather upper
Overall
Equipped with a mix of bladed and conical studs, the MxSG configuration offers exceptional traction on soft, muddy surfaces, typical in rugby, and control when making quick turns and during explosive acceleration.
New Balance 442 V2 TEAM FG
Photo source: newbalance.com
Expertly crafted for optimal performance, the New Balance 442 V2 TEAM FG are excellent for rugby players looking for stability, durability and comfort on firm ground pitches. With a design that balances classic styling with modern performance features, these boots cater well to the demands of rugby. The boots also feature a lightweight outsole with moulded studs. The leather material provides a soft feel, conforming to the foot for a custom fit over time, and delivers excellent ball touch—a beneficial feature for rugby players who handle kicks and passes.
The boot also integrates a reinforced stitching pattern that enhances its durability under the rigorous conditions of rugby play. This classic aesthetic combines a modern lace-up closure, ensuring a secure and adjustable fit. The overall structure is designed to support the foot’s natural movement.
Reasons to buy
* Leather upper for a comfortable fit and excellent ball control
* Lightweight outsole with moulded studs for exceptional traction and stability on firm ground surfaces
* Positive reviews from satisfied customers
* Ideal for players with wide feet
Reasons not to buy
* Higher price point compared to other boots on the market
* May not be suitable for players who prefer a synthetic upper
Overall
Perfect for players who need extra room in the toe box and a practical choice for players looking for a reliable boot that performs consistently over time.
Nike Tiempo Legend 10 Pro
Photo source: nike.com
The Nike Tiempo Legend 10 Pro boots are an excellent choice for rugby players who value comfort, touch, and a classic look with modern enhancements. Although they are primarily designed for football, their features are well-suited to the needs of rugby, particularly for players who engage heavily in kicking and quick directional changes.
The boots’ upper is crafted from premium kangaroo leather, providing exceptional comfort and superb ball control benefits. This translates well into handling rugby balls for accurate passes and kicks. The boots also include integrated mesh linings that prevent the leather from overstretching, thus maintaining the shape and enhancing durability. The integrated tongue design and webbed cables within the lacing system offer a secure fit that locks the foot in place, providing stability and support during high-impact rugby manoeuvres.
Reasons to buy
* Premium kangaroo leather upper for a comfortable fit and excellent ball control
* Lightweight outsole with a mix of conical and bladed studs for exceptional traction and stability on firm ground surfaces
* Positive reviews from satisfied customers
* Classic design that has stood the test of time
Reasons not to buy
* Higher price point compared to other boots on the market
* May not be suitable for players who prefer a synthetic upper
Overall
These Nike Tiempo Legend 10 Pro are ideal for players who need reliable, supportive footwear that allows for precise control and agile movement on the pitch.
Diadora Brasil OG LT T MDPU
Photo source: diadora.com
The Diadora Brasil OG LT T MDPU is a high-quality football boot designed for use on firm natural grass surfaces. The boot is crafted from premium full-grain leather, providing excellent touch and control of the ball. The leather is also water-resistant, making it suitable for wet conditions. The insole of the Diadora Brasil OG LT T MDPU is made from cushioning EVA foam, which provides comfort and shock absorption during play. The boot also features 12 studs for optimal grip and traction on the pitch.
Reasons to buy
* Premium kangaroo leather upper for a comfortable fit and excellent ball control
* Lightweight outsole with a mix of conical and bladed studs for exceptional traction and stability on firm ground surfaces
* Positive reviews from satisfied customers
* Classic design that has stood the test of time
Reasons not to buy
* Higher price point compared to other boots on the market
* May not be suitable for players who prefer a synthetic upper
Overall
Diadora Brasil OG LT T MDPU is an excellent choice for football players who prioritise comfort, touch, and grip on firm natural grass surfaces.
So Which Rugby Boot Is Right for You
If you are about to buy a pair of spanking new rugby boots or have recently purchased one but have yet to use them, bringing them into The Foot Practice’s podiatry clinic for a footwear assessment is highly recommended. This will ensure that you have a pair of boots that fit your foot properly for rugby, which can help prevent foot and ankle injuries and improve your overall performance on the field.
