Canterbury has renewed its partnership with Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR), strengthening its support for the women’s game in England.
The global rugby brand confirmed it will provide every registered player in the league with kit and boots tailored to their playing position, marking a significant step in investment and recognition for female athletes.
The announcement, made on 28 October, comes as part of Canterbury’s ongoing efforts to develop women-specific rugby equipment. More than 450 players across nine clubs will benefit from the initiative, which aims to address the differing requirements between positions such as the front row and scrum-half, while ensuring female players have access to properly fitted, high-performance gear.
While Canterbury has not traditionally been the leading choice of boot supplier among PWR players, as the brand does not currently offer boots specifically designed for women, this latest move signals a clear intent to expand its influence in the women’s game and respond to the growing demand for female-focused products. One PWR player told us this was the most significant aspect of the announcement — and a long overdue step forward.
Growing Commercial Backing for the PWR
Canterbury’s renewed partnership follows a series of major sponsorship announcements within Premiership Women’s Rugby. In October, Gallagher Insurance became the league’s official insurance partner, further strengthening ties between the women’s and men’s professional competitions.
At club level, sides across the PWR are also expanding their commercial portfolios. Ealing Trailfinders Women recently extended their partnership with Arnold Hill, a chartered accountancy firm that supports the club’s TrailfindHERS programme — an initiative investing in youth and girls’ rugby.
These partnerships are viewed as essential in helping clubs develop the infrastructure required to sustain the professional game, attract new players and fans, and build long-term stability.
Progress and the Path Ahead
Industry observers have welcomed the increased corporate interest in women’s rugby as a sign of its growing appeal and commercial potential. Tailored investment from brands such as Canterbury is also seen as an important step in improving accessibility and inclusion within the sport.
Beyond England, competitions such as the Celtic Challenge — involving teams from Scotland, Ireland and Wales — are helping to grow the women’s game further. Following Scotland’s strong performances at the recent World Cup, there is optimism that progress in England will continue to inspire development across the home nations.
With more major brands showing confidence in women’s rugby, the game looks set to continue its upward trajectory — both on and off the field.
