Gilbert vs RAM and other rugby ball brands: an honest comparison

You're standing in front of a rack full of rugby balls wondering: are you paying for a brand or for quality? Gilbert dominates the shelves, but RAM and other brands make the same claims. Who's right, and what should you choose for your situation?

Gilbert: from English cobbler to world brand

Gilbert has been around since 1823. William Gilbert was a shoemaker in the English town of Rugby, right next to the famous Rugby School where the sport got its name. His nephews and successors grew the brand into what it is today: the official ball supplier for World Rugby, the Six Nations, the Premiership, Super Rugby and the Rugby World Cup, a partnership that runs until 2033 (source: World Rugby).

That long partnership is no coincidence. Gilbert consistently invests in material development. Their top match balls, like the Gilbert Kinetica, use a higher concentration of natural rubber for better grip, and the Truflight valve is built into the seam rather than the panel. That may sound like a minor detail, but it noticeably improves the spin stability of the ball. Gilbert training balls are hand-stitched and feature Hydratec technology to reduce water absorption through the seams (source: Gilbert Rugby).

The Gilbert Barbarian 2.0 is one of the best-selling club balls in the Netherlands. It combines match ball quality with a price that is achievable for most clubs.

RAM Rugby: the own brand

RAM Rugby is not just a store, it is also its own rugby ball brand. Those balls are designed with two things in mind: consistent performance and long lifespan. Reinforced seams, a balanced bladder and a durable outer layer are the technical basis of every RAM model.

The RAM Victor 2.0 is the top model in the match line. It is a ball suitable for high-level club rugby, with performance comparable to Gilbert balls, but typically at a more favourable price. Ideal for clubs that want to play on quality without exceeding the match ball budget.

For training, the RAM Gripper 2.0 Pro Trainer is a popular choice. The ridged texture provides extra grip in all weather conditions, making it particularly suitable for autumn and winter training sessions. Bundle deals are also available for clubs that need multiple balls at once, which reduces the price per ball further.

Other brands: Rhino, Optimum and more

Besides Gilbert and RAM, there are other brands that have carved out a place in the rugby world.

Rhino is known for balls of comparable quality to Gilbert, but at slightly lower prices. They are particularly popular with schools and clubs in the United Kingdom. For Dutch clubs, Rhino balls are less common in local stores, but they are a serious option if ordered online.

Optimum targets the entry-level market: affordable training balls for schools, youth teams and recreational use. The quality is less refined than Gilbert or RAM, but for beginners or children just starting rugby, that is not a problem.

Webb Ellis is historically interesting, the brand is named after the legendary inventor of rugby, but commercially it is a niche player. The balls are less easily available in the Netherlands.

Brands like Adidas and Nike have also released rugby balls, but they primarily focus on other sports. Their rugby balls are generally less specialised and are not used at competitive level.

Honest comparison: quality, price and use

Price does not say everything. A Gilbert match ball, when properly maintained, lasts longer than a cheap training ball from an unknown brand. In the long run, the price per hour of use for a quality ball is often lower (source: SportsBallStu).

Which brand suits you?

Are you an individual player or beginner? Start with a RAM training ball like the RAM Squad Trainer Ball. Durable, affordable and suitable for all ages. No overkill for someone just discovering the game.

Are you a club manager or coach buying balls? Then look at bundle deals. RAM offers set bundles that significantly reduce the price per ball. For match use, the Raider 2.0 or Victor 2.0 is a strong choice. If you want purely the name and prestige for official matches at the highest level, choose Gilbert.

Do you play at competitive level? Then you are likely bound by the ball requirements of your competition. Always check whether your governing body prescribes a preferred brand. In many Dutch competitions, the match ball is determined by the organiser, not the home club.

Looking for a training ball that can handle rough weather and intensive use? The RAM Raider 2.0 holds its shape even after hundreds of training sessions, thanks to reinforced seams and a robust outer layer.

Always check when buying

Frequently asked questions

Written by

David Riepma

Peter van der Hoeven

Specific question about balls, equipment or club orders? Peter knows the answer.

Ask your question