Locks — often known as the second row — are the towering pillars of the rugby forward pack. They bring essential height and athleticism to dominate lineouts and restarts while delivering raw power to drive the scrum forward. From securing possession in the air to thundering into contact with the ball in hand, locks require rugby boots that deliver maximum stability, grip, and durability.
If you’re looking for the best rugby boots for locks, here’s your ultimate guide to choosing footwear that matches the unique demands of this crucial position.
| Rank | Why? | Boot | |
|---|---|---|---|
1.
adidas Kakari RS | Lightweight build for both set and open plays | 
| |
2.
Canterbury Stampede | Perfect fit for forwards | 
| |
3.
Mizuno Morelia | Comfort throughout through its premium K-leather upper | 
| |
4.
Gilbert Icon Players | Modern forward boot from a trusted rugby brand | 
| |
Why Locks Need Specialised Rugby Boots
Locks are the “tall timber” of any rugby side, burdened with:
- Winning lineout ball through explosive leaps
- Contesting kick-offs and restarts in the air
- Acting as the powerhouse of the scrum, locking the front row together
- Driving the team forward in mauls and tight phases
- Carrying the ball into heavy traffic
- Making crucial tackles in the midfield and defensive zones
“The ‘tall timber’ in any rugby side, the locks are burdened with the task of winning the ball at lineout time and kickoffs. While height is a pre-requisite these players must also be strong, agile and coordinated.”
The wrong boots can:
- Reduce power transfer in scrummaging
- Slip during critical lineout jumps
- Cause discomfort or foot fatigue in prolonged physical battles
Essential Features in Rugby Boots for Locks
1. Maximum Stability for Scrummaging Power
Locks are the engine room of the scrum, delivering tremendous pushing force. Their boots must provide:
- A rigid soleplate for stability under intense pressure
- A wide base to distribute weight evenly
- Strong support to transfer leg drive into forward momentum
“The Lock who is also called a Second Row (2nd row) is the powerhouse of the scrum…”
2. Exceptional Traction for Lineouts and Mauls
Locks leap for lineouts and contest high balls during kick-offs. They need:
- Stud configurations that provide explosive grip off the ground
- Longer metal studs for soft, muddy pitches
- Even stud pressure to avoid stud pressure pain
Solid grip ensures locks launch powerfully in the air and maintain footing in rolling mauls.
“Locks require boots which provide superior traction, not only for explosively leaping from the ground to snare a throw but also for engaging in the grunt work in the scrum.”
3. Strong Ankle Support
Locks are:
- Constantly shifting weight during mauls
- Landing awkwardly from lineout jumps
- Engaged in scrums where feet can twist under force
Mid-cut or high-cut boots help:
- Protect the ankles from rolling
- Provide extra support under scrum pressure
- Stabilise the foot during aggressive movements
“The boot also needs to give good ankle support.”
4. Durable Construction for Heavy Contact
Locks endure:
- High-impact scrummaging
- Repeated ruck and maul collisions
- Ball carries into heavy defensive lines
Boots should feature:
- Reinforced synthetic or leather uppers
- Tough stitching and overlays
- Robust lacing systems to keep boots secure
Durability ensures boots withstand the punishment typical of second-row play.
5. Comfort for Long Battles
Locks play long, physically demanding matches. Boots must offer:
- Cushioned insoles for shock absorption
- Smooth internal linings to reduce friction
- Breathable materials to manage moisture
Comfort helps locks stay effective during both set-piece engagements and open play.
Playing Conditions Matter
Locks must adjust their boot choice based on pitch conditions:
- Soft Ground (SG): Longer studs help maintain grip for scrummaging and lineout lifts in muddy conditions.
- Firm Ground (FG): Shorter moulded studs provide traction on hard, dry surfaces and reduce stud pressure pain.
Many locks own multiple pairs of boots to stay prepared for any field condition.
The Ideal Lock Profile
Locks are:
- Tall and powerful athletes
- Key targets in lineouts and restarts
- The backbone of scrummaging force
- Physical ball carriers and heavy defenders
Their boots must provide power, support, and security, ensuring they can fulfil both aerial and ground-based roles.
“Locks as big guys are used in the open to run the ball up in contact and as such need to be able to run with the ball in hand and protect it.”
Key Takeaways: Choosing the Best Rugby Boots for Locks
When selecting rugby boots as a lock:
- Prioritise strong, stable soles for scrum power
- Choose aggressive traction for lineout jumps and mauls
- Opt for boots with solid ankle support to reduce injury risk
- Pick durable construction to handle heavy contact
- Ensure comfort to remain effective through long matches
Ready to Rule the Lineouts and Scrums?
Locks bring towering presence and raw strength to the rugby pitch. The right rugby boots for locks help you dominate the set piece, soar in the air, and power through contact with confidence.
Explore our full range of rugby boots for locks and find your perfect pair to become the true engine room of your team.
Adidas Kakari RS has that lightweight balance that allows the locks to perform their roles in the scrum pretty well, while still being agile and nimble during open plays. Fusionskin upper, which combines leather with knit fibres, is still strong enough to withstand the extreme pressure applied by forwards on their boots. The same goes with the one-piece soleplate, and both are still flexible and pliable enough.
Stampede carries a Pebax-based soleplate, so you’ll have the outsole responsiveness you’ll need when you transition to open play. But more importantly, you have a fit that is wide towards the forefoot and anatomical on the heel. A perfect fitting boot means you don’t have to worry about comfort and lockdown at the same time.
Mizuno’s premier silo has a one, if not the finest quality of K-leather in a pair of boots. What this does is it delivers a high level of comfort, and that is what you’ll need if you are right at the heart of the scrum group. The functional sole also does its job well in streamlining itself with that comfort sensation.
Gilbert Icon is a forward’s boot designed by a trusted rugby brand. The forefoot leather has been stitched strategically to make it durable for rugby’s most intense scrums, and at the same time the inherent pliable feel of the animal hide cushions the high-impact contacts of the sport. Traction won’t be a problem with its familiar 8-stud layout.
