The Gilbert rugby ball has experienced significant evolution since its creation in 1823. Originally the ball was made of pig bladders encased in hand stitched leather. This made the ball appear that it would be used more for kicking. Over time, people began to raise health concerns with the pig bladders as they were inflated by people through a pipe or tube. It exposed people to diseases and harmful bacteria. Eventually, rubber bladders were created and adopted for use. Using a rubber bladder made the ball look more oval shaped. The design of the Gilbert rugby ball enhanced handling and passing, aligning with the sport evolving game. The introduction of synthetic materials completely changed the game by reducing the balls weight, improving accuracy for passing, and catching. To this day Gilbert continues to innovate and improve the ball with traditional craftsmanship using modern technology.
- Related Stories
- https://worldrugbymuseum.com/from-the-vaults/evolution-of-rugby/the-evolution-of-the-rugby-ball
- https://www.worldrugbyshop.com/blogs/blog/from-leather-to-synthetic-the-evolution-of-the-rugby-ball?srsltid=AfmBOoq9hwux9PBOV1Xu1UMOx7Kp1tBZiNVmSkD8lqL0wvIgytyIc3dT
- https://www.worldrugbyshop.com/blogs/blog/evolution-of-the-gilbert-rugby-ball?srsltid=AfmBOopk8iwintWPLOlnjN6C1ldmwQ-D9V8aLN_p9GKNE8KohWU-YiAf
- https://www.playerssports.co.nz/blog/18/the-evolution-of-the-rugby-ball-from-pig-bladders-to-high-tech-ovals?srsltid=AfmBOooWOefgfVKNVGwbujcrL90qlbyOkcqvxqeuhwbKhGkyxisCvNdm
- https://4dproducts.co.uk/where-does-the-rugby-ball-design-come-from/
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