The Number 8 wears many hats on the rugby pitch. Part powerhouse, part playmaker, they anchor the scrum, carry the ball with authority, and often serve as a crucial link between forwards and backs. This unique blend of strength, speed, and skill demands rugby boots that deliver across all areas of the game.
If you’re looking for the best rugby boots for a Number 8, here’s your complete guide to choosing the perfect pair for your playing style.
| Rank | Why? | Boot | |
|---|---|---|---|
1.
adidas RS15 Pro | Best represents the concept of the number 8 as the start of the scrum-to-open play transition | 
| |
2.
Canterbury Phoenix | Able to dominate close quarters and still dart off the back of the scrum | 
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3.
Puma Future | Multi-layered upper gives a protective, durable feel |
>> Get Puma Future 8 Ultimate | |
4. Nike Tiempo Legend | Can be viewed as an all-around option for number 8s |  >> Get Elite Tiempo Legend 10 at Nike | |
Why Number 8s Need Specialised Rugby Boots
Number 8s are unique in the forward pack. They’re the only forward permitted to pick up the ball directly from the base of the scrum and frequently act as an extra back in attack. Their game includes:
- Powerful scrummaging
- Dynamic ball carries
- Quick acceleration into open play
- Solid tackling and defensive duties
- Aerial skills in lineouts and restarts
Their boots must handle powerful forward engagements and explosive running, often in the same phase of play.
Essential Features in Rugby Boots for Number 8s
1. Strength and Stability for Scrums
As a crucial part of the scrum’s rear platform, Number 8s need a stable, supportive soleplate:
- Prevents slipping under scrum pressure
- Helps maintain solid body position
- Transfers power efficiently through the legs
A boot with a rigid chassis and wider base can help keep a Number 8 grounded in heavy scrummaging conditions.
2. Lightweight Enough for Running
Unlike props or locks who stay largely in tight channels, Number 8s regularly:
- Burst off the scrum with the ball in hand
- Support open-field breaks
- Act as dynamic ball carriers
A boot that’s lighter in weight helps maintain speed without sacrificing the robustness needed for forward duties.
3. Secure, Locked-In Fit
Quick side-steps, sudden pivots, and powerful accelerations demand boots that:
- Fit snugly without restricting movement
- Lock the foot in place to avoid sliding inside the boot
- Offer solid lacing systems to keep everything secure
A good fit prevents foot fatigue and blisters during high-intensity matches.
4. Durable Construction
Number 8s are constantly:
- Carrying the ball into heavy traffic
- Tackling big forwards
- Participating in rucks and mauls
They need boots made from reinforced synthetic or leather uppers, with strong stitching and overlays for durability.
5. Reliable Traction
Whether bursting from the scrum or contesting a high ball, Number 8s require:
- Longer metal studs for grip on soft, muddy ground
- Stud patterns designed for multi-directional traction
- Even stud pressure to avoid discomfort
Good grip ensures stability under pressure and powerful push-offs for explosive carries.
6. Comfort for Long Matches
Number 8s cover significant ground and stay heavily involved in play. Essential comfort features include:
- Cushioned insoles for impact absorption
- Smooth inner linings to prevent rubbing
- Breathable materials to manage moisture
Comfortable boots help maintain focus and power across the full 80 minutes.
Playing Conditions Matter
Number 8s often play in heavy conditions during winter:
- Soft Ground (SG): Longer metal studs improve grip and reduce slipping during scrummaging and carrying.
- Firm Ground (FG): Shorter moulded studs or hybrid soleplates perform better on dry, hard surfaces.
Owning both SG and FG boots is a wise choice for a versatile Number 8.
The Ideal Number 8 Profile
Number 8s tend to be:
- Among the bigger forwards but with good athleticism
- Dynamic ball carriers who break tackles
- Effective tacklers and ruck operators
- Versatile players bridging forwards and backs
Their rugby boots must reflect this dual role, offering both power and mobility.
Key Takeaways: Choosing the Best Rugby Boots for Number 8s
When selecting rugby boots as a Number 8:
- Prioritise stability for scrummaging and pushing power
- Choose lighter models for dynamic running and carrying
- Seek durability to withstand contact and rucking
- Ensure excellent traction for scrums and open play
- Look for a comfortable, secure fit for long matches
Ready to Take Control of the Game?
A Number 8 is the ultimate hybrid player—powerful yet agile, forceful yet skilled. The right rugby boots for Number 8s keep you strong in the scrum and explosive in the open field, ready to lead from the back of the pack.
Check out our full selection of rugby boots for Number 8s and find the perfect pair to elevate your performance.
1. adidas RS15
As the boot has a leathered and synthetic models, I would personally choose the former for the number 8. As part of the scrum, the position requires the player to dig-in their forefoot to the fullest, and this is where the comfort of the leather can greatly help. Then as soon as the team disengages from the scrum, the number 8 wouldn’t have to worry about heel lockdown (courtesy of the Ripstop quarter) when he starts flying around the pitch.
With its 8mm heel raise, the Canterbury Phoenix Genesis keeps you ready as a number 8 both to engage in rugby’s most powerful set piece and to initiate the motion of active play. The combination of mesh and a Vaposkin overlay gives the Phoenix an upper that is durable and protective but still nimble and agile.
3. Puma Future
Rugby is one of those sport that can easily wear down boots. As the Puma Future 8 has that Fuzionfit 3 upper comprised of a pliable inner Lycra layer and an outer, semi-detached dual mesh shell, it is one of those that feels protective and solid on-feet relative to the ground-and-pound of the game to the boots. It is also wide-fit leaning especially on the heel, and the Future is more suitable to strong guys up front that have big feet to match their frame.
The Flytouch Plus upper of the Tiempo Legend aims to replicate the properties of leather in a synthetic setting. And in a way it’s Nike’s best attempt at doing so. The material is pliable enough and does not hold that much moisture unlike natural leather. For a number 8, the Tiempo allows him to be mobile because of that upper softness and overall boot lightness. It also ensures that the player has a longer-lasting pair of boots because of the synthetic qualities.
