What Are Rugby Shorts Made Of? Best Materials Explained
Best Materials for Professional Rugby Shorts
Wondering what rugby shorts are made of? The short answer: the best rugby shorts use 100% polyester performance fabric with sublimation printing. This guide explains why that combination wins for durability, moisture-wicking and shape retention — and what to look for when buying rugby shorts in South Africa.
100% Polyester — The Professional Standard
The overwhelming majority of professional rugby shorts are made from 100% polyester performance fabric. Here's why:
Moisture-wicking: Polyester pulls sweat away from the skin to the outer surface where it evaporates quickly. Critical during intense matches in South African heat.
Durability: Polyester fibres resist tearing, stretching, and abrasion far better than cotton or cotton-blend alternatives.
Quick-drying: Polyester dries 3-4x faster than cotton. Essential for players training multiple times per week.
Shape retention: Unlike cotton that stretches out after repeated washes, polyester maintains its original fit throughout the season.
Colour fastness: When combined with sublimation printing, polyester holds colour permanently — excellent colour retention wash after wash.
Why Cotton Rugby Shorts Are Outdated
Some budget rugby shorts still use cotton or cotton/polyester blends. Problems include: heavy when wet, slow drying, stretches over time, shrinks in hot washes, and fades quickly. Cotton shorts also offer zero moisture management in hot conditions.
The Untamed Gear Approach
All Untamed Gear rugby shorts use premium 100% polyester performance fabric with advanced sublimation printing. This combination delivers the best possible performance: lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking, and designs built to hold their colour. The elasticated waistband with drawstring ensures a secure fit during the most physical play.
What to Look For When Buying Rugby Shorts
• Fabric: 100% polyester (avoid cotton blends for match/training use)
• Print method: Sublimation (not screen print) for durability
• Waistband: Elasticated with drawstring
• Stitching: Reinforced at stress points (crotch, side seams)
• Weight: Lightweight (under 200g) for speed and comfort