GILBERT IS 200 YEARS
MAKER OF RUGBY
By 1823, Gilbert were already supplying balls to Rugby School when William Webb Ellis first picked up and ran with the ball and the game of Rugby Football began.
By 1851, the fame and reputation of Gilbert Rugby balls was growing and medals were won at the Great Exhibitions in London in 1851 and 1862.
For the last 200 years, we have been at the forefront of rugby whilst our expanding innovation, technologies and products continue to provide the best to today's game.
OUR 200 YEAR STORY
Take a look behind world rugby's most decorated brand. Since 1823 Gilbert has been providing the finest rugby footballs to the world of rugby.
We've certainly achieved a lot in our 200 years and will continue to thrive and grow in the beautiful game but where did it all begin?
Head back to the beginning, to see how we've grown into the brand you know and love.
THE GRAY FAMILY
In 2002, Grays of Cambridge International Ltd acquired the Gilbert brand and continued to lead the way in ball technology, design and quality, shaping it into the brand it is today.
The Gray Family, are Headquartered in the UK and remains the proud owners of the Gilbert brand today - leading the way across rugby and netball.
GILBERT X RODD & GUNN
For 200-years, generations of rugby players of all ages and skill level have relied on the quality and precision of Gilbert rugby products to stay on the pitch.
Now, this unbroken heritage extends to an exclusive clothing collaboration, representing a new level of expert craftsmanship and quality for all rugby enthusiasts, off the field. We're delighted to be partnering with Rodd & Gunn on this collection.
RUGBY WORLD CUP 2023
Gilbert have a long-standing affiliation with both the men's and women's editions of Rugby World Cups. We've had a 28 year partnership with World Rugby, having supplied the match balls to every tournament since 1991. We're delighted to be the official ball supplier for the RWC 2023.
Shop our RWC 2023 collection below.
LIMITED EDITION PRODUCTS
Across this monumental year, we will be launching some fantastic Limited Edition pieces to the Gilbert range. Each carefully and thoughtfully designed to excite rugby fans across the world, these Limited Edition pieces are worth the wait.
Sign-up below to be the first to hear when they are released!
Exclusive 1823 Collection
The Gilbert Rugby 1823 Vintage Leisure range offers a classic rugby collection celebrating 200 years of rugby.
This classic style rugby shirt, sweatshirt and leisure t-shirt and shorts offer a perfect blend of style and comfort, and is suitable for both casual wear and sports activities.
OUR PARTNERSHIPS
We are privileged to work with many prestigious partners over our 200 years, including: British Airways, Tiffanys, DHL, Brietling and many more. Collaborations and partnerships add a new level to our business and we're always excited to see how we can develop with fellow companies. If you're interested in finding out more about our partnerships, get in touch.
RUGBY SCHOOL EVENTS
William Gilbert (1799-1877) was the boot and shoemaker to Rugby School.
Two centuries ago, rugby football was created at Rugby School when William Webb Ellis, playing in a football match, took a Gilbert ball in his arms and ran with it. We're incredibly excited to be celebrating alongside Rugby School with their events across the year.
club partnerships
Gilbert are proud to be the official kit supplier for a number of clubs, including the famous Barbarian FC and the World XV - providing both teams with élite playing and off field kit for their fixture in May 2023.
The Official supporter's collection is available now.
