Gilbert All Blacks Official Training Midi Rugby Ball

This Gilbert midi rugby ball in All Blacks colours is designed for players of all levels seeking a reduced-size ball to sharpen their technique. Its midi size (between size 3 and official size 5) makes it perfect for specific pass work, rapid handling in confined spaces, indoor training or simply playing with family. Hand-stitched construction guarantees superior durability compared to glued balls, while the adhesive rubber provides natural grip even on wet ground.

Official All Blacks graphics — the emblematic silver fern on black background — make this ball both a collectible item and a training tool. The midi size is particularly suited to players wishing to improve pass velocity without the constraint of a regulation ball's weight, or to coaches looking to increase technical repetitions with young players.

What's the difference between a midi ball and a size 5 ball?

The midi measures approximately 25 cm long compared to 28-30 cm for a size 5. It weighs 20 to 30% less, facilitating quick passes and technical handling.

Can you play a match with this ball?

No, it is not approved for official competition. It remains ideal for training, recreational play and casual games.

Does the rubber resist abrasive surfaces?

Yes, Gilbert rubber is designed to resist synthetic and stabilised pitches. However, avoid concrete or tarmac to preserve longevity.

Technical Specifications

SizeMidi (intermediate between size 3 and 5)
CoveringGilbert adhesive rubber
ConstructionHand-stitched
DecorationOfficial All Blacks graphics
UseTechnical training, recreational play, indoor handling

Care Advice

Clean with lukewarm soapy water after use on muddy ground. Never leave the ball in prolonged direct sunlight (risk of rubber drying out). Inflate to the recommended pressure indicated on the valve (usually between 0.6 and 0.7 bar for a midi) — over-inflation weakens stitching and deforms the ball. Store in a dry place, away from temperature fluctuations.

Design

Gilbert uses a fine-grain composite rubber to maximise natural grip, even with wet hands. Hand-stitched construction guarantees stable sphericity over time, unlike heat-sealed balls that can deform after a few months of intensive use. All Blacks panelling faithfully reproduces the New Zealand team's visual codes — embossed silver fern, deep matte black — for a premium finish. The midi size, less common than standard sizes, offers a unique compromise: light enough to chain technical repetitions without fatigue, yet voluminous enough to maintain the natural long pass motion.

The All Blacks

New Zealand's team has embodied rugby excellence for over a century. The black shirt adorned with the silver fern has become one of the world's most recognised sports symbols. Every official All Blacks ball carries this strong visual identity, prized by collectors and players attached to the game's history.

Gilbert

Founded in 1823 in Rugby (England), Gilbert is the historic brand of rugby balls. Official supplier of the World Cup since 1995, Gilbert controls the entire manufacturing chain — from rubber selection to final stitching. The midi range is part of a logic of technical democratisation: providing reduced balls to maximise training volume without excessive physical constraint.

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