Choosing the Right Headguard
A rugby headguard — also called a scrum cap — protects against cuts, abrasions, and cauliflower ear. It won't prevent concussion, but it does reduce the risk of surface injuries in contact situations, making it a worthwhile piece of kit for players at every level and position.
Gilbert headguards are engineered to follow the contours of the head for a great fit, and are worn at the highest levels of professional rugby worldwide. Every headguard in our Canadian range carries the World Rugby Approved mark.
What to Consider Before You Buy
Four factors will guide you to the right headguard for your game.
Performance Level
Are you playing international, club, school, or junior rugby? Higher performance headguards offer more advanced padding configurations and superior fit for elite play.
Style & Ventilation
Do you need maximum breathability for warm-weather play, or more robust coverage for physical positions? Consider cut-out ear sections for communication and ventilation panel placement.
Size & Fit
A headguard must fit snugly without being uncomfortable. All Gilbert headguards feature an adjustable lace closure system to fine-tune the fit for your head shape and size.
Budget
Our Canadian range spans from $59.99 to $89.99, covering entry-level club and junior players right through to international-level performers — there's a great option at every price point.
Our Headguard Range
Three options, covering every level from junior club rugby to international play.
Air Headguard
$89.99 CADThe Air is Gilbert's most advanced headguard — worn at the highest level of professional rugby worldwide. It combines Gilbert's flexible 3D design with a moulded foam configuration that contours to your specific head shape, delivering a truly bespoke fit. The standout feature is its unrivalled breathability: strategically placed ventilation panels keep air flowing around the head so you stay cool at full effort, no matter the conditions.
Cut-out ear sections allow for clear communication with teammates — critical for backs calling plays and forwards directing lineouts. The lace closure system lets you fine-tune the fit for maximum security during contact.
- International level — worn by professional players worldwide
- Flexible 3D design with moulded foam — fits all head shapes and sizes
- Unrivalled breathability — ideal for all positions and climates
- Cut-out ear sections for clear communication on the pitch
- Adjustable lace closure system for a secure, personalised fit
- World Rugby Approved
Falcon 200 Headguard
$76.99 CADThe Falcon 200 is our best-value headguard, bringing high-end Gilbert features to club, school, and junior players at an accessible price. It shares the same flexible 3D design and moulded foam configuration as the Air, providing a great fit across a wide range of head shapes. The lace closure allows easy adjustment for a secure, comfortable fit through an entire match.
A great choice for junior players trying a headguard for the first time, or club players who want reliable protection at a sensible price. Also available in a limited-edition rainbow colourway while stocks last.
- Club, School and Junior level — outstanding value for money
- Flexible 3D design with moulded foam configuration
- Cut-out ear sections for improved communication
- Adjustable lace closure for a secure fit
- Limited rainbow colourway available — limited inventory
- World Rugby Approved
XP 250 Headguard
$59.99 CADThe XP 250 is built for players who want extra padding without sacrificing comfort. Its hex padding technology — combined with hollowed-out ear sections — delivers solid impact protection while keeping ventilation high. The expandable lace closure and moulded foam configuration ensure a flexible, secure fit for any head shape.
An excellent choice for forwards and physical players who spend time in contact situations and want a well-padded, breathable headguard at the most accessible price in our range.
- Hex padding technology — enhanced impact protection in contact areas
- Flexible 3D design with moulded foam for a secure fit
- Hollowed ear sections for improved communication and ventilation
- Expandable lace closure for an adjustable, comfortable fit
- Enhanced ventilation panels for optimised airflow
- World Rugby Approved
Sizing Your Headguard
All Gilbert headguards feature an adjustable lace closure, but getting the base size right first ensures the best fit and protection.
How to Measure
To find your headguard size, measure the circumference of your head approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) above your eyebrows using a soft tape measure. Keep the tape level around the widest part of your head. If you fall between sizes, we recommend sizing up and using the lace closure to adjust for a snug fit.
Children and junior players should be measured before purchasing — a poorly fitted headguard that moves during play offers significantly reduced protection.
| Size | Head Circumference | Typical Age |
|---|---|---|
| Small (S) | 52–54 cm | Junior / Youth |
| Medium (M) | 54–57 cm | Youth / Adult |
| Large (L) | 57–60 cm | Adult |
| X-Large (XL) | 60–63 cm | Adult |
Caring for Your Headguard
A little care after each session keeps your headguard hygienic, odour-free, and performing at its best throughout the Canadian season.
After Every Session
Wipe down the inside and outside of your headguard with a clean, damp cloth to remove sweat, mud, and debris. Don't stuff it back into your kit bag while wet — allow it to air out first.
Washing
Hand wash in lukewarm water with a mild detergent. Gently work the soap through the foam padding, then rinse thoroughly. Do not machine wash or tumble dry — this can damage the foam structure and affect the fit.
Drying
Allow to air dry naturally at room temperature. Do not place near a direct heat source, radiator, or in direct sunlight — excessive heat degrades the foam padding over time and can affect the fit of the headguard.
Lace & Closure
Check the lace closure before each session — replace the lace if it becomes worn, frayed, or broken. A secure fit is essential for the headguard to function effectively during contact.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid leaving in a sealed bag or car boot for extended periods — moisture build-up promotes bacteria and odour. A mesh kit bag is ideal for storage between sessions.
When to Replace
Inspect your headguard regularly for compressed foam, cracked panels, or damaged closures. If the padding no longer returns to shape after compression, it's time for a new headguard — reduced foam integrity means reduced protection.