A new study has found that a significant number of women’s rugby players experience discomfort when wearing boots originally designed for male athletes. According to data collected by IDA Sports, 89% of the surveyed players reported discomfort caused by footwear that is not adapted to the female anatomy.

The findings have been released just weeks before the start of the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England. After scanning nearly 1,000 feet and conducting an additional survey of 330 players, the study identified comfort as the leading factor when choosing boots—yet also revealed that this need is rarely met.

Study highlights “the inequalities they face”

The analysis included both amateur and professional players from Premiership Women’s Rugby. Some 78% of respondents stated that comfort was their top priority when selecting footwear, but a large majority reported feeling discomfort when using their boots. Laura Youngson, co-founder of IDA Sports, said the findings “highlight the inequalities female athletes face when it comes to footwear” and added that the company has spent the last seven years developing models specifically for women.

One of the most commonly reported areas of pain is located beneath the first metatarsal bone, just above the big toe—precisely where a stud is usually placed in male boot designs. According to the brand, 45% of the players reported discomfort in this area, with some resorting to filing down the stud to relieve pressure.

Changes in stud configuration

IDA Sports has developed an alternative stud pattern to address this issue. Differences in foot shape, arch structure and running mechanics between men and women have been identified as key reasons to adapt footwear accordingly. In some cases, studs not tailored to women’s feet may cause excessive pressure on the bones or even increase strain on ligaments.

Biomechanical studies have also examined how body weight affects footwear performance. Weight differences between male and female athletes can influence the amount of traction needed and the muscular effort required to manage that traction.

Traction-related risks

Matt Whalan, a consultant to the Fédération Internationale de Football Association -FIFA– on female health, explained in an interview with ‘The Guardian’ that long studs may pose a risk if not adapted to the specific physical characteristics of each player. “If a stud is 15mm long and you’re pushing hard to change direction but you weigh 10 kilos less, do you really need that much traction?” he said. In the same interview, he warned that excessive traction can increase the risk of injury.

The study also notes that the stiffness of the boot may place additional strain on female musculature if it is not adequately matched to body weight and foot strike patterns.