Players do not wear any padding or protection except for a mouthguard. The traditional uniform
consists of a long sleeve cotton shirt with a collar. Shorts are usually cotton and rise to about
mid-thigh. Knee-length socks with turnover tops are worn along with boots similar to soccer
cleats. There are strict rules governing the kinds of cleats used. An optional piece of equipment
is the scrum cap worn by some forwards which is made from leather or cloth and worn as
protection for the ears. A frequently used substitute is electrical tape.  Any other item than what
is listed is usually not allowed in play with the inclusion of jewelry. The ball comes in many sizes.
It is shaped like an American football, but is larger. The standard length is about 285 mm
(11 inches) and the standard center circumfrence is about 630 mm (24 inches).