Rugby Gloves
Rugby Gloves or Mitts fall under the terminology of protective wear. They are created with a pimple effect on the fingers and palms to aid gripping the ball. typically made of lycra with polyester palms.
Origins
The Rugby Glove is not the most highly recognised piece of equipment around and the origins are sketchy. They were first introduced to stop the hands and fingers getting cold but having no ends as they were considered a danger the extremes of the fingers are open to the elements, hence the word Mitt is a more accurate name than gloves. Gloves have been in use since the late 60's.
Modern Mitts
The Mitts of today are a far cry from the woollen ones which really were not helpful in holding a pass. Today with the use of polyesters and pimple technology the Mitt can be an advantage particularly when the ball gets muddy in aiding the players ability to hold when receiving a pass and also in controlling the release when passing the ball on. They also do help to keep the hands warmer. As with all equipment they mast be IRB approved for use during games.
