Gilbert Rugby Ball

Gilbert is one of the oldest and most prestigious names in sports equipment, synonymous with the history of rugby itself. The brand's origins date back to 1823 in Rugby, England, where cobbler William Gilbert began supplying leather balls to the local Rugby School. This foundational association helped define the rectangular shape of the game’s equipment. Today, the brand is a global leader, serving as the official ball supplier for major international tournaments, including the Rugby World Cup.

While the brand maintains its deep British heritage and design headquarters in the United Kingdom, manufacturing has largely shifted to specialized facilities in India, often cited as the global hub for hand-stitched sports balls. This allows the brand to maintain high-quality standards while meeting global demand. The brand's ownership has evolved from a family-run business to being part of a larger sports equipment portfolio, ensuring its survival and growth in the modern professional sports market.