Buying rugby shorts can be a real **try**, especially when most stores stock basketball, soccer, and running gear instead. Rugby shorts need to be durable enough for contact, flexible enough for sprinting, and comfortable enough for a full match. Many retailers carry athletic shorts that can work, but they may not label them “rugby shorts.” That means shoppers often have to **scrum** through several racks before finding the right pair. The stores below are good Lansing-area places to check, but calling ahead is wise so your shopping trip does not get tackled by an empty shelf.
*Price note: The figures below are estimated average prices for rugby shorts or comparable athletic shorts, since local inventory and promotions change frequently. “Lansing area” includes nearby Okemos and mall locations.*
- **Play It Again Sports — Lansing**
- **Dunham’s Sports — Lansing area**
- **DICK’S Sporting Goods — Eastwood Towne Center**
- **Target — Lansing**
- **Walmart Supercenter — Lansing**
- **Meijer — Lansing or Okemos**
- **Hibbett — Lansing Mall area**
- **Champs Sports — Lansing Mall area**
- **Foot Locker — Lansing Mall area**
- **Rally House — Eastwood Towne Center**
For budget-minded shoppers, [Play It Again Sports](https://www.playitagainsports.com/locations/lansing-mi) is worth a **second try**, since used or overstock athletic apparel can cost less than new gear. Look for sturdy soccer, lacrosse, or training shorts that provide a similar fit and durability. **Estimated average price: $25.**
[Dunham’s Sports](https://www.dunhamssports.com/) carries a broad lineup of athletic clothing, so you may be able to **score a try** with rugby-style or compression-lined shorts. Check the soccer, training, and football sections if the rugby rack comes up empty. **Estimated average price: $30.**
[DICK’S Sporting Goods](https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/) is a solid **lineout** for performance apparel, particularly soccer shorts, training shorts, and contact-sport gear. Its athletic brands often offer durable fabrics and flexible cuts suitable for rugby. **Estimated average price: $45.**
[Target](https://www.target.com/) may not always carry dedicated rugby shorts, but its activewear department can help you **target** a practical substitute. Look for men’s training, soccer, or basketball shorts made from sturdy polyester blends. **Estimated average price: $25.**
[Walmart](https://www.walmart.com/) is a useful place to **tackle** the search on a budget, with athletic shorts frequently available at lower prices. Soccer, football, and performance running shorts are the best sections to check. **Estimated average price: $20.**
[Meijer](https://www.meijer.com/) can be a convenient **all-rounder** for basic athletic apparel, especially if you need shorts before a practice or casual touch-rugby game. The selection may be limited, but polyester training shorts can make a respectable substitute. **Estimated average price: $24.**
[Hibbett](https://www.hibbett.com/) focuses heavily on athletic footwear and sportswear, making it a good place to **step up to the plate—or pitch into the scrum**—for performance shorts. Ask employees about soccer, football, and training styles if rugby-specific items are unavailable. **Estimated average price: $40.**
[Champs Sports](https://www.champssports.com/) usually emphasizes branded athletic clothing, so shoppers may find comfortable training or basketball shorts that can **make the cut** for non-contact rugby practice. Expect higher prices for recognizable performance brands. **Estimated average price: $45.**
[Foot Locker](https://www.footlocker.com/) is another option for branded athletic shorts, and its staff may be able to **pass along** recommendations for flexible training apparel. Dedicated rugby shorts are not guaranteed, but soccer and workout styles are worth checking. **Estimated average price: $45.**
[Rally House](https://www.rallyhouse.com/) is primarily known for team apparel, but it can still be a worthwhile **home run** if you want sports-branded shorts for casual wear, supporters’ events, or touch rugby. Call first, because its rugby selection may be more about fan gear than match-ready equipment. **Estimated average price: $35.**
Before heading out, ask whether the shorts have reinforced stitching, a secure waistband, and pockets that will not become a **penalty box** during play. For full-contact rugby, dedicated rugby retailers and online team-sports suppliers may offer better options than general clothing stores. Still, these Lansing-area shops provide several ways to **get over the try line** without ordering blindly.