Research finds 89% of female rugby players experience pain wearing boots

Boots worn by players during the Premiership Women's Rugby match between Exeter Chiefs and Trailfinders Women. Photograph: Harry Trump/Getty Images

Wearing boots designed for men causes discomfort for a majority of female rugby players, according to new research which finds as many as 89% of athletes experience pain from boots not built for women’s feet.

With the Women’s Rugby World Cup coming to England in just over two weeks’ time IDA Sports, a footwear brand designed for female athletes, called out what it describes as the “iniquity” of boot design that leaves women not only lacking comfort when playing but exposed to a heightened risk of injury.