6 Best Scrum Caps For Under 10S Rugby That Youth Coaches Recommend

Your child just joined their first Under-10s rugby team, and the gear list includes something called a "scrum cap." You watch them at practice, a whirlwind of energy and surprisingly clumsy collisions, and wonder which one is right. Making the right choice feels important, not just for safety, but for making sure they feel comfortable and confident as they learn the game.

Why Scrum Caps Matter for Young Rugby Players

Watching a U10s rugby match can feel like organized chaos, and it’s natural to focus on safety. A scrum cap, or headguard, plays a specific role here. It’s not a helmet designed to prevent concussions; rather, its primary job is to reduce the risk of superficial injuries like cuts, scrapes, and cauliflower ear from the constant rubbing and minor impacts common in rucks and mauls.

For a young player, this is about more than just avoiding a few bumps. It’s about building confidence. A child who isn’t worried about getting their ear scraped or a knock to the head is a child who will commit more fully to a tackle or a ruck. They learn to trust their equipment and focus on the skill, which is a foundational lesson in any sport. Starting this habit early, even before contact becomes intense, normalizes safety equipment and makes it a non-negotiable part of their kit for years to come.

Gilbert Falcon 200: Top Pick for U10s Fit

You’ve tried a few headguards on your eight-year-old, and they all seem to swim on them or slide down over their eyes. This is a common frustration, as many models are designed with older players in mind. Coaches often point parents toward the Gilbert Falcon 200 specifically because its sizing and design cater well to the smaller head circumferences of younger children.

The key is its flexible 3D fit and lace closure system, which allows for a highly customized and secure feel. For a child in the 7-9 age range, whose head is still growing, this adjustability is a game-changer. It means you can achieve a snug fit that stays put during play, ensuring the protective padding is always in the right place without becoming a distraction. This makes it a fantastic first headguard that can often last a couple of seasons.

Canterbury Ventilator for Maximum Protection

As kids approach the top end of the U10s bracket, their play becomes more physical and committed. If your primary concern is providing the most robust padding available, the Canterbury Ventilator is a name that consistently comes up. It’s known for its high-density, closed-cell foam that offers excellent shock absorption for the inevitable bumps and knocks of the game.

While offering top-tier protection, it’s important to consider the trade-off. The Ventilator is slightly bulkier than other models, which some children might find distracting at first. However, for the player who dives headfirst into every ruck without a second thought, the reassurance this headguard provides can be invaluable. It’s a choice that prioritizes protection, making it a favorite for parents whose kids are fully embracing the contact element of rugby.

Body Armour Vented for Breathable Comfort

"It’s too hot!" or "It’s itchy!" If these are phrases you hear often, then comfort should be your top priority. An uncomfortable player is a distracted player, and the Body Armour Vented headguard is designed to solve this exact problem. Its main selling point is its extensive ventilation system, which promotes airflow to keep a young player’s head cool during an intense match or a warm training session.

The lightweight construction and soft inner lining also help minimize complaints. This is a fantastic option for the child who is sensitive to wearing gear or plays in a warmer climate. By removing the distraction of being too hot or uncomfortable, you’re freeing them up to focus on listening to their coach and developing their skills on the field. Sometimes, the best piece of equipment is the one they forget they’re even wearing.

Optimum Velocity: A Lightweight Youth Choice

For the brand-new player who is still deciding if rugby is their "thing," investing in top-of-the-line gear can feel premature. The Optimum Velocity headguard strikes a wonderful balance between affordability and function, making it a smart choice for a family’s first foray into the sport. It provides the essential protection required without the higher price tag of more advanced models.

Its most notable feature is its extremely lightweight design. This is a huge benefit for younger U10s players who can be easily put off by heavy or bulky equipment. The Velocity offers solid, basic protection that meets safety standards while feeling less intrusive, which can be the key to getting a hesitant child to wear it without a fuss. It’s the perfect "let’s try it out" headguard that gets the job done well.

Kooga Elite Headguard for Season-Long Durability

Perhaps you have a younger sibling waiting in the wings, or your child has already declared rugby their one true passion. In these cases, durability becomes a key factor in your purchasing decision. The Kooga Elite Headguard is known for its robust construction, designed to withstand the rigors of a full season—and often, beyond.

This headguard is built with high-quality materials and reinforced stitching in key stress areas, like the chin strap and closure system. While it might represent a slightly higher initial investment, its longevity can make it more economical in the long run. For the committed young player or for families planning for hand-me-downs, choosing a durable option like the Kooga Elite is a practical and savvy investment.

Canterbury Airflow for Superior Ventilation

Similar to the Body Armour model, the Canterbury Airflow is another excellent choice for players who prioritize a cool and comfortable experience. Canterbury is a legacy brand in rugby, and this headguard leverages that experience to create a piece of equipment that breathes exceptionally well. It features strategically placed ventilation holes designed to maximize air circulation around the head.

This is particularly important for U10s players, as their ability to regulate body temperature isn’t as developed as an adult’s. A headguard that traps heat can lead to fatigue and a loss of focus, especially during long tournaments or summer training camps. The Airflow’s design directly addresses this, ensuring your child can play their hardest while staying as cool and comfortable as possible.

Fitting and Choosing the Right U10s Headguard

Selecting the right model is only half the battle; ensuring it fits correctly is what truly matters for both safety and comfort. An ill-fitting headguard is, at best, a distraction and, at worst, ineffective. The goal is a snug fit that doesn’t move or wobble when your child shakes their head, but isn’t so tight that it causes discomfort.

Start by using a soft tailor’s tape to measure the circumference of your child’s head at the widest part, usually just above the eyebrows and ears. Use this measurement to consult the manufacturer’s sizing chart, as sizes can vary between brands. When you try it on, the headguard should sit comfortably, not pressing too hard on the temples or forehead. The ear holes should align perfectly with their ears, and the chin strap should be snug but allow them to open their mouth and call out to teammates.

Here are the key checkpoints for a perfect fit:

• No Rocking: The headguard should not rock back and forth or side to side when your child moves their head.
• Clear Vision: It must not slip down over their eyes when they look down or are involved in contact.
• Secure Chin Strap: The strap should be fastened so that only one or two fingers can fit between the strap and their chin. It should be comfortable, not choking.
• Ear Alignment: The openings in the headguard should line up with their ears to allow for proper hearing and to prevent chafing.

Take the time to get this right. A well-fitted headguard becomes a natural part of their uniform, allowing your young player to focus on what’s most important: having fun and learning the game.

Ultimately, the best scrum cap is the one your child will wear correctly and consistently without complaint. By matching the features of the headguard to your child’s needs and ensuring a perfect fit, you’re not just buying a piece of equipment. You’re giving them the confidence to fully embrace the sport and all the valuable lessons it has to offer.