Scrum Caps: Do You Need One?
Scrum caps are one of those bits of rugby kit that divide opinion. Some players won’t step onto the pitch without one, while others wouldn’t dream of wearing one. So how do you decide if it’s right for you?
First things first, let’s clear up a common misconception. Scrum caps are not proven to prevent concussion. While they offer a layer of padding, there’s currently no definitive research showing they reduce the risk of concussion in rugby. That means you shouldn’t see a scrum cap as a free pass to play without concern for head injuries. Safe technique and concussion awareness will always matter more.
Where scrum caps really come into their own is ear protection. If you’re a forward, especially in the front five, your ears take a fair bit of pressure in scrums, rucks and mauls. Over time, that can lead to cauliflower ear - something most players would rather avoid. A well-fitted scrum cap adds a protective barrier and can significantly reduce that risk.
That said, they’re not perfect. Some players feel that wearing a scrum cap slightly muffles sound, which can make it harder to hear calls from teammates or instructions from the referee. Communication is key in rugby, so this is a genuine consideration in fast-paced games where awareness is everything. If you’re worries about this but still want some extra ear protection you could consider using tape as an alternative.
You’ll notice scrum caps are more common among forwards, but there’s no rulebook saying backs shouldn’t wear one. You’ll see Italian Centre Beatrice Rigoni in a scrum cap despite playing in the backs. Rugby kit is personal. If wearing a scrum cap makes you feel more confident, protected or comfortable, that’s what matters most, regardless of your position.
There are other benefits too. A bright scrum cap can make you easy to spot from the sidelines (or on the tv) so if you have family or friends supporting you’ll be making their lives a whole lot easier! Just look at Dorothy Wall and her iconic pink scrum cap, she’s impossible to miss.
Helping family spot her on TV is a big part of why Aoife Wafer still wears her distinctive red scrum cap. She initially started wearing one as a young girl to hide her long blonde hair so that the boys on the mixed team she played for would mistake her for a boy and pass her the ball. Later on she kept wearing it so her nan could recognise her on the pitch.
If you are thinking of wearing a scrum cap, and have textured hair, you might want to check out Sadia Kabeya’s scrum cap collab with Gilbert. The trailblazing Red Rose worked with Gilbert to create a satin lined scrum cap designed to protect textured hair. A pretty incredible move in making the sport and our kit more inclusive for all players, and removing some of the barriers that people face. What an inspiration!
Ultimately, wearing a scrum cap is about personal choice. Think about whether your ears or hair need the protection a scrum cap can offer as well as what makes you feel your best on the pitch. Your kit should work with you, not against you and should make you feel confident when you play.
