A beginner's guide to buying martial arts gear

Martial arts are more popular than ever. Whether you are just starting out with boxing, MMA or another martial art, the right martial arts gear is essential to get started well prepared and safely. But what should you look for when buying martial arts gear, especially online? In this guide, we give you practical tips to make the right choices and avoid pitfalls.

The world of martial arts gear can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. There are countless brands, types, and price points. However, you don’t have to be an expert to make a good choice. It all starts with knowing what you need and what to look for.

Start with the basics: What do you need?

The type of combat sport will determine what martial arts gear you need. For boxing, boxing gloves and hand wraps are essential, while Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) requires a sturdy gi (suit). For MMA, hybrid gloves, shin guards, and a mouth guard are essential. Do some research on your specific sport first and see what basic gear is required.

In addition to the necessary items, fit is crucial. Your gloves should fit snugly without pinching, while shin guards should provide adequate coverage without restricting your range of motion. Also pay attention to sizing; online stores often provide sizing charts to help you. Make sure you measure accurately to avoid making a bad purchase.

Safety first: Choose quality

Safety is a priority when practicing martial arts. Cheap martial arts gear can be tempting, but skimping on quality can lead to injuries. Choose gloves with plenty of padding to protect your knuckles and bandages that stay securely on your wrists. For sparring, good shin guards and a helmet are also recommended.

Check reviews and product descriptions carefully. A good indication of quality are well-known brands such as Twins , Everlast or Fairtex . Although they may be a bit more expensive, these items often last longer and offer better protection. As a beginner, you may not want to go for the most expensive options right away, but avoid the cheapest range.

Material and durability

The material of martial arts equipment plays a major role in comfort and durability. Genuine leather boxing gloves are more durable and resistant to wear and tear than synthetic alternatives. However, for a beginner, synthetic gloves are often a great choice due to their lower price.

Also check if the material is easy to maintain. Martial arts items can quickly become dirty due to sweat. Therefore, choose items that are easy to clean and well ventilated, such as gloves with breathable material or gis made of quick-drying fabric. This way, your items will stay fresh and hygienic for longer.

Shop smart: Online stores and choices

When buying martial arts items online, you have access to a wide range, but this does not always make the choice easier. Choose a reliable webshop with good customer service and clear return conditions. If something does not fit properly, you want to be able to exchange or return it easily.

Also pay attention to offers and sets. Many web shops offer starter packages with, for example, gloves, bandages and a mouth guard. This can be a good option if you want to buy everything at once. Make sure you check the quality of the set; sometimes accessories are added that are of lesser quality.

Accessories you shouldn't forget

In addition to the basic equipment, there are a number of accessories that will significantly enhance your martial arts experience. Bandages are essential for stability and protection of your wrists. Invest in a good mouthguard, especially if you do sparring. A good sports bag can also be a solution to take all your gear to training.

In addition, there are useful items such as a skipping rope for warm-ups and compression clothing for extra comfort during training. Start with the basics, but over time see what can further improve your training.

Tips to get value for your money

You don’t always have to pay top dollar to buy quality martial arts gear. Read reviews and compare prices. Some brands offer the same quality as the big names, but at a lower price. Also keep an eye out for outlet deals or discount promotions at online stores. You can often save big on top brands at the end of a season.

Second hand can also be an option, but be careful with this. Always check the condition of the items. Damaged padding or worn bandages do not provide sufficient protection and can be dangerous.

Ready to get started?