

RUGBY TACKLE BAGS, PADS & HIT SHIELDS GUIDE
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT RUGBY TACKLE BAGS
Considered an essential training aid by many coaches, tackle training equipment comes in various forms including bags, shields, pads and rings. Highly versatile, rugby tackle bags allow impacts and physical contact that closely simulate competitive gameplay. This helps players to develop timing, technique and conditioning that transfers directly to tackles made in a game.
Tackle bags and pads, get players used to taking and making contact whilst mitigating the risk of injury by cushioning the impacts involved. In addition to tackling, tackle bags allow players to practice and enhance their mauling and rucking techniques in the safest possible way.
At Net World Sports, we supply a large variety of innovative rugby training equipment. Our range of rugby tackle bags & pads includes wedged shields, tackle bags in various sizes, tackle tubes, hit shields and jackal bags.
In this guide we will run through the styles and models of tackle bags, so you know how to get the maximum benefit from each one.
FORZA RUGBY TACKLE SHIELD WITH TOP WEDGE [PRO MODEL]
Sizes available - Junior, Youth, Senior
Primary use - Partner tackling drills
Also used for - Fitness training and passing drills
An iconic rugby training tool, rugby tackle shields can be used to practice a range of techniques in a manner that reduces the force of the impacts involved. This not only reduces the risk of injury; but also allows players to practice tackling, rucking and mauling without significantly affecting a player's recovery from matchday. Highly versatile, they can also be used to develop rugby-specific strength and lower-body power.
Tackle shields are also great for small sided attacker-vs-defender drills, whereby the defending team uses the shields to simulate a tackle whilst the attacking team attempts to quickly pass or side-step the defenders.
In order to use a rugby tackle shield, you will need a designated shield-holder. When possible, especially with youth teams, players should be matched up with a shield-holder who is a similar size.
Benefits of Rugby Tackle Shields with a Top Wedge
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Simulates contact for both the tackler and the shield-holder
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Conditions both the tackler and the shield-holder to impacts and contact at speed
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Provides a safe way to practice correct tackling technique
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Top-Wedge provides additional padding and safety
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FORZA Tackle Shields are rip-proof with reinforced seams and reinforced vinyl
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Can be used to effectively practice tackling, rucking and passing drills
FORZA RUGBY TACKLE SHIELD WITH DOUBLE WEDGE [PRO MODEL]
Sizes available - Junior, Senior
Primary use - Partner tackling drills
Also used for - Fitness training, maul and passing drills
The FORZA Rugby Tackle Shield With Double Wedge is used in a similar way to the single wedge shield. However, the use of both top and bottom wedges encourages the correct technique and body-positioning when making a tackle. The use of a bottom wedge also provides extra protection for the shield-holder and the tackler.
The FORZA double wedge tackle shields can be used to create a highly effective and functional mauling practice exercise.
Benefits of Rugby Tackle Shield With Double Wedge
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The central target area of the shield encourages correct tackling technique
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The second wedge provides additional protection to mitigate the risk of injury
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FORZA Tackle Shield With Double Wedge features high-density foam with shock reducing technology
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Padded twin straps for greater comfort & safety
FORZA LOW-HEIGHT RUGBY TACKLE BAG [PRO MODEL]
Sizes available - Mini, Junior, Youth, Senior
Primary use - Tackling drills designed to promote correct technique & height of the tackle
Also used for - Fitness training, maul and turnover drills
The low height rugby tackle bags are designed to encourage correct tackling technique, body position and mechanics.
The relatively low height of this FORZA tackle bag means that players will develop the muscle memory and inclination to tackle at a legal and optimal height during practice and in competitive matches. If you are a coach and you have players who tend to tackle high, using a low-height tackle bag is arguably the best way to get them out of the habit.
One of the great things about rugby tackle bags is that players are able to practice their tackles on their own. FORZA’s tackle bags are freestanding and are perfect for both team and solo training sessions. In team training scenarios, players can stand behind or to the side of the tackle bag to provide additional resistance. Using a tackle bag with a partner is a great way to practice mauls and build functional strength by driving forwards upon impact.
In solo training sessions, a tackle bag can be used to create a fitness drill that develops tackling proficiency simultaneously. For example, the player could position the tackle bag around 5m away, sprint to the bag, perform a tackle, pick the bag back up and then sprint back to the starting position. Then run backwards 5m and repeat the exercise.
When hitting or tackling a tackle bag, you should aim to make contact with at least one foot (preferably two) on the ground. Many coaches will also encourage players to wrap their hands around the bag, at the same time as making an impact with the shoulder.
Coaches can encourage players to hit the tackle bag at different heights by calling out the letters printed down the front. For example, on the FORZA tackle bag, calling “F” would indicate a higher tackle and “A” would tell players to perform a lower tackle.
Benefits of Low-Height Rugby Tackle Bags:
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Forces players to tackle low in accordance with best practice & technique
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Double ball-strap allows for Jackal and turnover training
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Letters on the bag can be used for different targets
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Freestanding - can be used for solo practice sessions & drills
FORZA FULL-HEIGHT RUGBY TACKLE BAG [PRO MODEL]
Sizes available - Mini, Junior, Youth, Senior, Jumbo
Primary use - Tackling drills designed to promote correct technique & power
Also used for - Fitness training, ruck and turnover drills
Whilst low-height tackle bags encourage optimal tackling technique, full height tackle bags replicate the size of a rugby player. Ideal for developing the power and force of your tackles, these heavyweight tackle bags are tear-resistant and feature pioneering shock-absorbing technology to ensure that the risk of injury is greatly reduced.
Benefits of Full-Height Rugby Tackle Bags
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Simulates the approximate height & size of a rugby player
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Double ball-strap allows for Jackal and turnover training
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Letters on the bag can be used for different targets
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Freestanding - can be used for solo practice sessions & drills
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Jumbo tackle bag is 34kg and can be used for various fitness & strength exercises
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Combine with the FORZA Doughnut Tackle Ring to encourage low tackles
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Available in 5 sizes, including “mini” for players under 10 years old
FORZA RUGBY DOUGHNUT TACKLE RING
Sizes available - Junior, Youth, Senior
Primary use - Used with tackle bags to encourage correct height of tackles
Also used for - Fitness training, ruck and turnover drills with tackle bags
The FORZA Doughnut Tackle Ring is an excellent accessory and tool that can be used with our full height tackle bags. Combine the benefits of the full-size tackle bag, with the advantages of the low-height version, by attaching the doughnut ring to provide a “maximum height” line or specific zone for tackles and impacts to be made.
This allows coaches to encourage low front-on tackles, whilst allowing players to practise on a full-size tackle bag that more closely replicates the size and dimensions of a rugby player.
Drilling tackles with a bag that is fitted with a tackle ring, can help a player develop the correct muscle-memory and biomechanics when it comes to making tackles.
Benefits of Rugby Tackle Tubes
- Improve accuracy of tackles
- Develop correct technique for low tackles with a full-height tackle bag
- Make a full-height rugby tackle bag more versatile
FORZA RUGBY TACKLE TUBES [PRO MODEL]
Sizes available - Junior, Youth, Senior
Primary use - Tackling drills designed to promote correct tracking & timing
Also used for - Turnover drills; Footwork training; working on low tackles
Rugby tackle tubes (also known as “rugby tackle rings”) provide a dynamic, realistic and fun way to practise rugby tackles. The tackle tubes can be rolled along the floor to provide a moving target for players to tackle. The relatively low height of the tackle tubes also encourages the correct tackling technique.
Due to the foam interior and the relatively light weight of the tubes, they are ideal for training sessions that emphasise technique and accuracy, rather than power. For this reason, they carry a very low risk of injury and can be used the day before an important game without coaches having to be concerned with physical recovery.
FORZA Tackle Tubes also feature a double-strap that allows a rugby ball to be secured inside. This allows players and coaches to practise “jackal” training and turnovers by getting back to their feet and steeling the ball as soon as a tackle is made.
Benefits of Rugby Tackle Tubes
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Provides a moving target to simulate gameplay
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The thickness and height of the tubes allow players to simulate tackling and "wrapping" legs with their arms
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Double-strap for ball allows for jackal/turnover training drills
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Made with woven, rip-proof 615gsm material
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A great tool for footwork, speed and reactions training
FORZA RUGBY CURVED HIT SHIELD [PRO MODEL]
Sizes available - Junior, Senior
Primary use - Tackling drills
Also used for - Fitness and passing drills
FORZA’s curved tackle shields provide the protection afforded by high-density foam and woven 615gsm material, whilst closely replicating the mechanics and impact of a real in-game tackle.
The waterproof and tear-proof shields can also be used to practice and drill set-plays and mauls. The curved tackle shields are also a great tool for developing rugby-specific fitness.
Benefits of Rugby Curved Hit Shield
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Ideal for tackling and rucking drills
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Can be used to develop strength in the lower body & core for driving players backwards
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High-density foam and vents allow for maximum shock absorption
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Allows the tackler and shield-holder to develop rugby specific resilience and strength
FORZA TACKLE JACKAL BAGS
Sizes available - Senior
Primary use - Tackling & turnover drills
Also used for - Fitness drills
The FORZA Jackal Tackle Bags are named after the player who steals the ball in a ruck. To become a proficient “jackler” who can steal the ball frequently during a match, you must be able to perform an effective tackle and then bounce right back to your feet before gaining possession of the ball.
The FORZA Tackle Jackal Bags feature an indent with straps that can be used to secure a rugby ball inside. Players are then able to practise both tackling and stealing the ball in the same drill.
Relatively heavy at 16.5kg (36.4lbs) the bag also provides a fair amount of resistance, so that players can practice driving through upon impact when making a tackle. The weight and shape of the bag also mean it can be used for various fitness drills that involve carrying, dragging or rotating/rolling the bag across the ground.
The Jackal Tackle Bag can be used to perform many solo or partner drills.
Benefits of FORZA Tackle Jackal Bags
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Perfect for practising jackal and turnover drills
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The freestanding bag is ideal for solo practice sessions
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Ideal for fitness and set-play drills
FORZA RUGBY RUCK & ROLL PADS
Sizes available - Junior, Senior
Primary use - Rucking drills
Also used for - Fitness & tackling drills
Ruck & roll pads give the pad-holder much more control and a greater ability to manipulate the position and direction of force produced by the player performing a tackle.
The fact that the pad-holder has a greater surface area in contact with the player, means he/she can make it very difficult for the player to drive forwards. By moving the pad upwards, downwards and side to side, the tackling player or the player who is binding on to drive forwards must work especially hard to control the direction that they are both moving.
The Ruck & Roll pad is very safe for the holder and the tackling/rucking player to use, as the curved top surface prevents any accidental collisions with the pad holder's face.
The curved surface of the pad, also means that the tackling or rucking player who is making contact with the pad must do so at a relatively low height. This is best practice and players should make contact at the same height or lower than the opposition player’s centre of gravity - which is typically just below their solar plexus.
Benefits of FORZA Ruck & Roll Pads
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The dipped shape of the pad gives the pad-holder more control
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Reduced likelihood of collisions to the face of the pad-holder
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Provides a specific target area in the middle of the pad that encourages correct technique and height of tackles
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Great for developing lower body and core strength involved in driving a player backwards
FORZA CONTACT & PUSH RUGBY PAD
Sizes available - Junior, Senior
Primary use - Rucking & tackling drills
Also used for - Fitness & passing drills
These cost-effective pads are ideal for practising rucks, tackles and for introducing young or novice players to contact and the impacts associated with rugby.
100% weatherproof, the pads feature a high-density foam interior with a PVC cover and 2 reinforced handles.
Typically used for simulating and practising tackles and rucks, the Contact & Push Pads can also be used to practice passing and side-stepping in small-sided games. They can also be used alongside other equipment such as agility ladders or slalom poles to work on specific fitness and footwork drills.
Benefits of FORZA Contact & Push Rugby Pad
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Cost-effective rugby tackle shield
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Ideal for tackling and rucking drills
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Lightweight and easy to transport
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Great for junior players and post-injury rehab training
FORZA BODY RUGBY TACKLE PAD
Sizes available - One size fits all
Primary use - Rucking & tackling drills
Also used for - Small sided full contact games
An excellent training tool for top-level teams, the FORZA Body Rugby Tackle Pad allows players to perform highly specific and functional tackling and rucking drills, whilst minimising the risk of injury.
The Rugby Tackle Pad is often used by coaches and players during pre-match warm-up drills, to prepare the body and nervous system for the hits and impacts commonly experienced in a rugby match.
Due to the comfortable fit and the free movement of the arms, players can also wear the body tackle pad for small-sided games that involve full contact hits and tackles - without the risk of rib and sternum injuries.
Benefits of FORZA Body Rugby Tackle Pad
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Provides ultimate protection for the midsection and front of the shoulders
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Arms are free to pass and catch the ball
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Can be used to play small-sided games involving full hits or tackles
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Specifically replicates the process of tackling a real person rather than a bag or pad
FORZA RUGBY WRAP AROUND SHIELD
Sizes available - One size fits all
Primary use - Rucking & mauling drills
Also used for - Tackling drills
Featuring thick straps, these wrap around rugby tackle shields provide the ultimate level of protection. Ideal for ruck and maul practice sessions, they provide protection from both sides and the front. The large surface area and the full wraparound design allows for high-impact training drills, whilst mitigating the risk of injury.
Made with an impact-resistant foam interior and a tear and weather-proof PVC exterior, the wrap-around shields are suitable for frequent use by professional teams.
Benefits of FORZA Rugby Wrap Around Shield
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Extremely high level of protection from sides and in front of the shield-holder
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Ideal for maul drills
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Impact-resistant foam interior
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100% weatherproof & tear-resistant
FORZA RUGBY CRASH MATS
Sizes available - Small, Medium, Large
Primary use - Tackling drills & indoor training
Also used for - Rucking drills
By providing a soft landing when practising tackling techniques, players can improve their tackling proficiency without risking injury.
Allowing for players to practise tackles on dried out summer pitches or indoors, the tackle mats fold up so that they can be conveniently stored away.
With many coaches claiming that a large rugby crash mat is crucial for practising front-on and dump tackles at full speed, your team can develop a furious array of brutal tackles, without risking unnecessary injuries with the FORZA Rugby Crash Mat.
Benefits of FORZA Rugby Crash Mats
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Practice dump and front-on tackles whilst reducing the risk of injury (always practice with a coach's supervision)
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Allows for tackling practise indoors
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Mat can be used for fun & functional wrestling drills
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High-density foam interior for a cushioned impact
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Strong, heavy-duty PVC exterior for extra durability
FORZA 360 HIT RUGBY TACKLE BAG
Sizes available - Full size, ⅔ size
Primary use - Tackling drills
Also used for - Rucking drills, mauling drills, passing & set game-play drills
The ultimate tackle bag, the FORZA 360 Hit Rugby Tackle Bag uses target “hit zones” to encourage tackles at the correct height for the highest level of effectiveness and player safety.
The full-size tackle bag features two hit zones, whilst the smaller ⅔ size has a single hit zone. The hit zones make tackling safer, as there is very little chance of the tackle slipping upwards and colliding with the bag holder's chin or face. In addition, the tackle bags are freestanding and are therefore suitable for solo-practice sessions.
Due to the restricted thickness of the bags around the hit zones, players can also practice “wrapping up” the tackle by simulating clasping their hands around the waist or legs of a player.
Benefits of the FORZA 360 Hit Rugby Tackle Bag
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Encourages correct tackling technique
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Promotes tackling at the correct height
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Reduces injury risk by cushioning the shoulder from above and below
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Allows players to wrap hands around the bag to simulate tackling best practice
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As the bag is freestanding, it is great for solo drills and practices
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Weighing 22kg and 19kg, the 360 Hit Tackle Bags can be used for a range of fitness drills
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Features Weatherproof PVC outer, closed-cell interior foam and reinforced seams
FORZA 360 HIT RUGBY CONTACT SHIELD
Sizes available - One size fits all
Primary use - Tackling drills
Also used for - Rucking drills, mauling drills, passing & set game-play drills
Designed to optimise tackling practice sessions, the 360 Hit Rugby Contact Shield features a Hit Zone which functions as a target that promotes optimal tackling body positioning and mechanics. Providing a superior level of cushioning, the indented Hit Zone allows the player to wrap their arms around the shield-holder to closely replicate the best practice when it comes to finishing a tackle.
Manufactured with a highly durable and rip-proof PVC exterior, the shield is filled with high-density foam to provide an optimal level of shock absorption and safety.
Benefits of FORZA 360 Hit Rugby Contact Shield
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Encourages players to tackle at the correct height
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Allows players to wrap their arms around the shield-holder to simulate tackling more accurately
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High-impact foam and target area reduces the risk of injuries to shield-holder and tackling-player
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4kg shield is portable and can be used for dynamic drills and practice games
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Weatherproof PVC outer and reinforced seams for excellent durability
With so much choice within our range of tackle bags, pads and hit shields, it can be difficult to decide which ones best suit your needs. The table below summarises the features and benefits of each rugby tackling training aid.
FORZA RUGBY TACKLE BAG COMPARISON TABLE | |||
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NAME | PRIMARY USE | KEY FEATURES | KEY BENEFITS |
FORZA Rugby Tackle Shield With Top Wedge | Tackling & Mauling drills | High-density foam top wedge | Top-wedge provides high level of safety |
FORZA Rugby Tackle Shield With Double Wedge | Tackling & Mauling drills | High-density foam top & bottom wedges | Top & Bottom wedge create a middle target zone |
FORZA Low-Height Rugby Tackle Bag | Tackling drills | Double strap for rugby ball | Encourages tackles at optimum height |
FORZA Full-Height Rugby Tackle Bag | Tackling drills | Weighs up to 21kg | Solo training. Size encourages power in tackles |
FORZA Rugby Doughnut Tackle Ring | Creates target area on tackle bag | Shock resistant foam interior | Provides an adjustable target area |
FORZA Rugby Tackle Tubes | Dynamic tackling drills | Extra thick for balance & speed over grass | Provides a moving target for tackling drills |
FORZA Rugby Curved Hit Shield | Tackling & Mauling drills | Curved shape to encourage lower tackles | Ideal for dynamic tackling & mauling drills |
FORZA Rugby Ruck & Roll Pads | Tackling & Mauling drills | Curves provide additional strength & control | Designed for ruck & mauling drills |
FORZA Contact & Push Rugby Pad | Tackling & Mauling drills | High-density shock-absorbing core | Cost-effective rugby tackle shield |
FORZA Body Rugby Tackle Pad | Tackling, mauling drills. Full contact games | Pad-wearer is free to run, pass & tackle | Pad-wearer can engage in normal gameplay |
FORZA Body Rugby Tackle Pad | Tackling, mauling drills. Full contact practice drills | Pad-wearer is free to run, pass & tackle | Pad-wearer can engage in normal gameplay |
FORZA Rugby Crash Mats | Tackling drills | High-density foam. Folds for storage | Can practice tackles at greater intensity |
FORZA Rugby Wrap Around Shields | Tackling & Mauling drills | Huge size for multiple player drills | Practice mauls at greater intensity |
FORZA 360 Hit Rugby Tackle Bag | Tackling drills | Clear impact target points | Solo training - develop tackling at optimum height |
FORZA 360 Hit Rugby Contact Shield | Tackling drills | Clear impact target point | Encourages tackling at optimum height |
FORZA Tackle Jackal Bag | Tackling & jackling drills | Ball 'holding area with robust straps' | Encourages tackling & ball retrieval |
With a broad range of rugby tackle pads, tackle bags, and hit shields, available in junior and senior sizes, you can find exactly what your rugby team needs to develop technical, well-timed, and powerful tackles on matchday.
We are proud to offer, not only professional-quality tackle bags but also a wide selection of rugby equipment that has been designed by rugby players and our in-house team, to help take your game to the next level, with everything from top-quality rebounders, rugby balls, agility equipment, a collection of passing target nets, plus much more. If you are looking to build muscle and develop your fitness as efficiently as possible, we also supply a wide range of strength & conditioning equipment including Olympic Barbells, plyometric boxes, and air bikes.
Whether you’re a player looking for training equipment you can use at home, or you’re a coach sourcing the best rugby training equipment; we’ve got you covered!