Women's Rugby Is Finally Getting the Footwear It Deserves, Thanks to adidas

It's long overdue, but women athletes are finally getting gear designed specifically for them. Adidas just launched its first-ever RS15 Avaglide -- the only rugby boot created by women, for women in the game.

To do that, the brand dug deep and collected detailed foot data from players at every level, including both the men’s and women’s teams from rugby powerhouses like New Zealand and France.

One standout finding was that women often have narrower heels than men. So, rather than using the same boot shape for everyone, adidas created a new design feature called the "Waterfall heel," shaped to hug the back of the foot more naturally, with extra foam padding that wraps over the top and flows down the heel -- kind of like a soft, supportive cascade.

"It's a big moment for women's rugby players at all levels -- one that will make a huge difference to our comfort and experience while playing the sport," shared Ilona Maher in the press release. "One of the key factors in my decision to partner with adidas was their commitment to the continued growth and development of women's rugby. When I saw the plans for the RS15 Avaglide, I couldn't wait to try them out. The game has needed this and I'm excited to see the impact this will make for women and girls' players across the globe."

"As the first-ever women’s specific rugby boot available to players of all levels, it is an essential moment that provides our partners with technology and design built for them. We can't wait to see the players performing in them on the biggest stage at this summer's tournament," explained Kerry Foster, adidas' GM Specialist.

The RS15 Avaglide is available in a black and white colorway and will be available for purchase on adidas' official website.

Click the gallery to get a glimpse at the new RS15 Avaglide.

For more sports news, read about the 7 female athletes changing the brand ambassador game.

Click here to view full gallery at Hypebae