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Category Archives: Buying Gudes
MMA Fightwear Boxing Glove Size Guide Infographic
If you are still unsure about what kind of boxing glove is right for you we adviseAi??you consult your trainer / coach.
5 Good Reasons To Wear A Rashguard
Check out our info graphic below explaining 5 good reasons why you should wear a top quality Rashguard when training!
Boxing Glove Weight and Size Guide
What size Boxing Gloves should I use is such a common question and one that seems to spark up opposing views.
To make it simple we have shared our expertise with you in an easy to understand way that we hope will inform you to buy the right kind of gloves for you.
Below, we will look at;
Boxing For Fitness – Training Gloves
As is popular today, if you are boxing for fitness and not competing, you will want to find yourself a pair of Training Gloves that will be suitable for light sparring, pad work and bag work.
Once you have found a pair of Training Gloves that suit your budget you will then need to decide on the correct weight of glove.
Use our Body Weight / Glove Weight comparison list below to help you determine the most suitable weight of glove for you.
120lbs or less Ai??- 12oz or 14oz Gloves
120lbs ai??i?? 150lbs – 14oz ai??i?? 16oz Gloves
150lbs ai??i?? 180lbs – 16oz ai??i?? 18oz Gloves
180lbs or above – 18oz + ai??i?? Gloves
Taking advantage of the ever increasing number of participants involved in some form of boxing training for fitness, Hayabusa have recently released their Sports line of training gloves to cater for this market.
Sparring Gloves
Gloves that are named specifically as Sparring Gloves will have extra soft padding than other kinds of gloves and will normally come in the 16oz weight.
The additional padding is to make sure that both you and your sparring partner are protected and to help to reduce the chance of injury before a competition fight.
If you are lighter in weight (under 120lbs for example) then you could possibly get away with sparring with a 14oz glove.
If you do decide to spar in the same weight of glove that you will be competing at i.e a 12oz glove, make sure that you don’t go too heavy in sparring prior to the fight to avoid unnecessary injuries.
Bag Gloves
Specifically named Bag Gloves tend to be at the lighter end of the weight scale, 10 – 12oz, and will use more densely packed layers of foam to absorb the impact of repeated strikes of the heavy bag and pads. For those who are serious about increasing their hand speed, these light weight gloves can be useful in helping to work on this as they do not slow your hands down as much as a 16oz Sparring Glove would.
Having separate gloves for bag work and sparring is useful if you train regularly as it will help to prolong the life of the gloves and provide you and training partners with adequate protection during sessions.
It would certainly be possible to use your Training Gloves for bag work, but be careful of the kind of bag you are hitting, if you’re body weight is at the lower end of the scale. Some bags are harder and more densely packed than others and you could potentially damage your hands without adequate technique, padding and advise from your trainer.
Gloves for Competition
Weights for competition gloves vary from 12oz through 16oz, but they will be governed by the level you are fighting at and the organisation that you are boxing under. Always take advice from your trainer on this to make sure that you are well prepared and informed.
Our Recommendations
Boxing for Fitness
If you are in this category it is more than likely that you will only be engaging in heavy bag and pad workouts.
If this is the case, we would recommend that you invest in a pair of training gloves by using our body weight and glove weight comparison list above.
If you do engage in light sparring sessions, make sure that you are sparring with someone of equivalent weight who is sparring with the same weight of glove as you for protection and safety purposes.
Heavy Sparring, Bag & Pad Work
If you train hard and regularly at a club but don’t compete, then economically and for safety reasons, it would be worth investing in separate gloves that you can use for sparring and for bag and pad work.
By using your Sparring Gloves for their intended purpose only will help them to retain their shape and not stiffen the softer layers of padding for longer. This will reduce the frequency for replacement gloves as well as the obvious safety benefits.
Competing Boxers
As above, we recommend having separate gloves for the different kinds of training, but you will also need a pair of competition gloves too. As we’ve already mentioned, it is vital that you consult with your club and trainers about any guidelines that you will need to follow when it comes to specific glove weights.
Safety First!
No matter what level you are, choosing the right weight of glove is only the beginning when it comes to safety!
Always remember to wrap your hands prior to any training to make sure that your hands, knuckles and wrists are protected and most importantly make sure that your technique is right.
Even a one off misfired punch can do more damage to your hands and wrists than you think, let alone the long term damage caused by a prolonged period of bad habits.
How To Wrap Your Hands by MMA Fightwear
Check out our illustrated guide on how to wrap your hands using traditional cotton hand wraps for boxing training or sparring.
Before you get started, there are a couple of things to note that you will want to keep in mind when wrapping up your hands.
ai??? Get the tension right
You need to make sure that you wrap tightly enough so the wraps are not loose but not too tight to risk reducing circulation of blood flow. It may take you a few attempts before you get the right balance between comfort, fit and support.
ai??? Keep the wraps as smooth as possible
When wrapping, try to prevent them bunching up and keep the surfaces as smooth as possible. If you allow the hand wraps to wrinkle, this will not only be uncomfortable, but it will also make them less protective for your hands and wrists.
1 – Keep your hands and fingers outstretched
Before you begin to wrap your hands up, make sure that your fingers are fully stretched out. This helps with making sure that you do not wrap your hands too tightly and ensures that you are properly protected. If you wrap your hands with your fingers close together, you may find that your movements are restricted once your hands are fully wrapped up.
2 – Start with the thumb loop
Begin the process by placing your thumb through loop, making sure that the underside of the wrap is against your skin. You will know which side is the right way up as most wraps have a branded logo at one end where the Velcro fastening is, this is the side that should be visible.
3 – Wrapping the wrist
Depending on the size of your wrists and the length of the wrap itself, you should aim to wrap around the circumference of your wrist 3 to 4 times, finishing off so that the wrap is facing inwards (in the same direction as your outstretched thumb).
4 – Wrapping your hand
Bringing the wrap around the back of your hand just above your thumb and pull it across your palm to the other side. Repeat this action 2 – 3 times finishing off so the wrap is facing inwards.
5 – Wrapping your thumb
In an upward motion, wrap from the base and around your thumb and follow on by wrapping your wrist once.
6 – Wrapping your fingers
It is worth noting that variations on how to wrap hand wraps can vary and some guides tell you to close your fist when wrapping your fingers (as bring the wrap over and in between your fingers), so you may also want to give this a try when repeating steps 6 & 7.
Starting off near the base of your thumb on the inside of your wrist, bring the wrap up, over and in between pinky and ring finger.
Wrap over the top of the hand, and from the inside of your wrist again, proceed to bring the wrap over and between your ring finger and middle finger.
Repeat this action and bring the wrap over and between your middle finder and index finger, finishing off again on the inside of your wrist.
7 – Wrap your wrist again
Begin by wrapping your wrist as normal, then from the inside of the wrist, bring the wrap over the front of your hand in a diagonal direction to the outside edge of your hand.
Check out our range of traditional cotton and bamboo Hand Wraps on our site, from top brands like; Hayabusa, Venum & PRO MMA.
Bring the wrap across the palm of your hand just above your thumb, then repeat the action. finishing off by wrapping a full circumference around your wrist.
8 – Strap the wrap in place
Finally, to secure the wrap in place, simply close the Velcro panels together.
Repeat this with your other hand and you should be good to go.
MMA Shorts Buying Guide
MMA is a contact sport that requires agility, speed and a mastery of different techniques and disciplines. With this in mind, protection and freedom of movement are two key components that are factored in to any specialist MMA equipment or apparel.
MMA Shorts are designed to make sure that the wearer has as much freedom of movement as possible, whilst staying securely in place and not shifting around during a fight.
There are a number of common features that different brands use to ensure that their shorts are fit for purpose. We’ve outlined some of the most popular features of MMA Shorts that you will find so you know what to look out for.
Lightweight & Quick Drying
MMA Shorts are often made from a Polyester / Spandex composite material, making them lightweight and flexible.
The composite materials used often have moisture wicking properties that helps to draw the sweat from your skin to the outside of the fabric of the shorts, enabling you to remain cool and dry.
Some brands will also feature material that is both sweat and blood repellant too.
Short Length
Traditionally, MMA Shorts have been of a fairly standard ‘board short’ style length, but recently we have seen increasing number of shorter styles and even some Vale Tudo / MMA hybrid cross over styles.
The length of the short is really down to your personal preference and how comfortable you feel when training or competing.
Stretch Panels
MMA can involve quick movements in different directions and it’s important that the garments you wear move with you and allow you to do this.
The inclusion of spandex stretch panels in the crotch area of the shorts is a common feature that allows the shorts to stretch and move without the risk of any embarrassing tears or splits occurring.
Split Seams
Similar to the stretch panels, spilt seams down either leg allow the wearer to freely move about when grappling and execute high leg kicks without being restricted or risking tearing the shorts.
Combined Velcro and Drawstring Fastening
Keeping the shorts firmly in place without relying solely on tightening a drawstring regularly is a problem that has been overcome with the use of a combined velcro and drawstring enclosure system.
Whilst the enclosure systems on certain brands may be a little more elaborate than on others, the principles are the same.
Often two velcro panels, one across the waist and one on the front of the shorts are used to reinforce the traditional drawstring system to make sure your shorts don’t move and shift about when being worn.
Rubberised Waistbands
Another popular feature that is used to further reduce unwanted movement, is the rubberised waistband.
Rubberised waistbands provide additional grip and combined with the above mentioned enclosure systems, they do a good job of keeping your shorts in place.
With the basics covered above, all that is left for you to decide on the style and price range that suits you best.
Check out our full range of MMA Shorts and be sure to check the sizing the guides for each brand as some slight variations are possible.
What Weight Glove Should I Use? – Advice From Georges St Pierre
One of the most common questions that we get asked here at MMA Fightwear in relation to equipment is, “What size and weight glove should I use for sparring and bag work?”.
Check out the video below featuring Georges St Pierre and the Hayabusaai??? Sport Doctor, Dr. Knight as he gives his advice on the best weight glove to choose, depending on the type of training your are practicing, your skill level and your weight.
GSP references the need to have different gloves for different types of training to help ensure the longevity of your equipment, as well discussing some of the features of the Tokushu Series Boxing Gloves in terms of the protection that they provide.
MMA Head Guard Buying Guide
To protect your head and to help prevent concussion and other serious injuries, Head Guards are a kit bag essential, especially if you are planning to spar on a regular basis.
We have put together this simple buying guide to give you an idea of what to look for when choosing this important piece of equipment.
PADDING
It will come as no surprise that padding is important when choosing a Head Guard. As well as determining how well your face and head will be protected, the amount and type of padding will also have a bearing on the weight and comfort too.
Varying thicknesses in padding exist from product to product, you may find that the padding feels soft from brand new, where others will initially feel quite dense, but over time and use it softens up.
COMFORT
As with a lot of equipment, personal preference will determine comfort, but it is important Head Guard should feel as comfortable as possible.
How it fits and contours to the shape of your head, the type of inner lining (smooth or softer moisture wicking material style) and the amount of padding and coverage are all factors that will affect comfort.
The type of chin strap or padded chin area will also effect how comfortable the Head Guard will feel.
Comfort will also be determined by breathability. The level of which can be regulated by design features like ear holes and open top construction.
VISIBILITY
You will notice that different brands have different amounts of padded areas and coverage. Different brands will have varying amounts of forehead and cheek coverage around the face for example.
As well as offering varying amounts of protection to the different areas of your face, the amount of padded coverage will also affect your visibility as the wearer.
This is important to you as a fighter because being able to see a punch or kick before the impact will help your body to brace itself and of course, give you a better chance of manoeuvring to avoid being hit all together!
OVERALL
Ultimately when choosing a Head Guard, you are looking for one that will provide the utmost protection yet feel light enough to not be an annoyance or hinderance on your peripheral vision when fighting.
We have a choice of Head Guards available on our site from brands like Hayabusa & PRO MMA. Check out each of the products on offer and take time read up on their features to find out which one is right for you.
New Hayabusa Jiu Jitsu Gi Collection
We are now stocking the new Jiu Jitsu Gi collection from Hayabusa.
Check out our quick comparison below to help you decide which Gi is better for you.
In total there are three new Gi models available (each model is available in a variety of colours)
The three new models include;
1 – Ai??Hayabusa Shinju Lightweight Pearl Weave Jiu Jitsu Gi
Price: A?105.00
Gi Weight: 450gsm
Colours Available: White & Blue
Key Features:
ai???Ai??100-gsm lighter than regular Shinju Lightweight Jiu Jitsu Gi
ai??? Light weight, durable and tough.
ai??? 11 oz. 100% Cotton Ripstop Pants
2 – Hayabusa Shinju Pearl Weave Jiu Jitsu Gi
Price: A?110.00
Gi Weight: 550gsm
Colours Available: White & Black
Key Features:
ai???Ai??Pearl-weave, one-piece construction and reinforcements for added strength.
ai???Ai??Stronger, more durable Gi built to withstand all types of training.
ai???Ai??14oz Canvas Cotton Pants
3 – Hayabusa Goorudo Gold Weave Jiu Jitsu Gi
Price: A?115.00
Gi Weight: 550gsm
Colours Available: White, Blue & Black
Key Features:
ai??? The strongest and most durable Gi of the new Hayabusa collection.
ai??? 12oz Twill Cotton Pants
ai??? The design features additional embroidered patches on the chest and lower back.
ai???Ai??ideal for competition use,Ai??combines the durability of a double weave and the breathability of a single weave Gi.
MMA Gloves Buying Guide
This simple buying guide has been put together to give you a brief introduction into MMA Gloves and as an explanation of their common features and uses.
WHY SHOULD I BUY SEPARATE GLOVES FOR MMA?
Versatility, Freedom of Movement & Protection
ai??? MMA Gloves are designed to help you seamlessly adapt between striking and grappling as well as provide protection for your hands and wrists as well as your opponent.
ai??? With their fingerless design (or use of finger loops on MMA Sparring Gloves) MMA Gloves keep your hands free for grappling. The varying degrees of padding offers up protection for your knuckles when striking.
ai??? Certain wrist enclosures on some brands also provide additional wrist support and protection too. The wrist support used on the Hayabusa MMA Gloves and in particular their Tokushu Series MMA Gloves are excellent examples of this.
MMA GLOVE WEIGHT
4ozAi??-Ai??The regulation and widely approved weight for MMA competitions.
7oz -Ai??The typical (although not universal) weight of the MMA Hybrid or MMA Sparring Glove.
4oz MMA GLOVES or 7oz MMA SPARRING GLOVES?
Competition, Grappling & Sparring
ai??? Deciding on the weight that is best for you is all down to what you intend to use them for.
ai??? For competition and grappling training we would recommend the 4oz MMA Gloves.
ai??? For training that will include both grappling and light sparring then we would recommend the 7oz MMA Sparring Gloves. 7oz weight gloves will have more padding and offer more protection for you and your training partner.
WHAT MMA GLOVES AREN’T FOR
ai??? Heavy Bag Work -Ai?? We do not recommend any kind of MMA Gloves for this type of training.
ai??? We recommend that you invest in a pair specifically designed Heavy Bag Gloves to make sure that your hands and wrists receive the right amount of protection.
ai??? Heavy Sparring -Ai??MMA Gloves will not provide the padding protection needed for safe Heavy Sparring.
ai???Ai??In the interests of protection for both yourself and your training partner, we would advise that you invest in a pair of Sparring Gloves for Heavy Sparring Sessions.
Click Here to view the full range of MMA Gloves available from MMA Fightwear.