The Bare Essentials Guide For Starting Combat Sports - What You Need as a Beginner.

The Bare Essentials Guide to Fighting Gear for Beginners

When you're starting your journey into combat sports like Muay Thai, kickboxing, or MMA, one of the first things you'll need to figure out is what gear to get. The right equipment is crucial not just for your safety but also for making sure you're training effectively and looking the part. While you don't need to go overboard with gear at the beginning, having the right essentials will make a world of difference in your performance and comfort.

In this “Bare Essentials” guide, we’ll cover the must-have items for any beginner fighter and recommend a few high-quality products from trusted brands like Venum, RDX, Fairtex, and others that are known for producing gear with great durability, comfort, and style.

1. Shin Pads

Shin guards are a must-have for any striking-based martial art, especially Muay Thai and kickboxing, where you’ll be kicking and blocking with your shins. You’ll want to get a pair of shin pads that offer solid protection without compromising mobility or comfort.

Recommended Products:

- Venum Challenger 2.0 Shin Guards

These shin guards from Venum provide excellent protection while still being light and flexible enough to let you move freely. The high-density foam helps absorb impact, and the durable synthetic leather ensures long-lasting use. They’re perfect for beginners who want something reliable without breaking the bank.

- Fairtex Shin Guards (BGV1)

Fairtex is a well-respected brand in Muay Thai, and their BGV1 shin guards are one of the best options for beginner and intermediate practitioners. Made with genuine leather and a soft foam interior, they offer excellent protection while still feeling comfortable during prolonged training sessions.

- RDX Power Shin Guards

RDX offers a great budget-friendly option with the Power Shin Guards. They feature a robust, impact-resistant shell and a soft inner lining for comfort. The straps make them easy to adjust, ensuring a snug fit. These are perfect if you’re looking for something sturdy but affordable.

2. Headgear: Is It Necessary?

Headgear is typically more essential for sparring or full-contact training than for just hitting pads or bags. If you’re just starting and primarily training on the pads, you might be able to skip the headgear at first, but if you plan on sparring or participating in full-contact training, it’s a good investment.

Recommended Products:

- Venum Elite Headgear

The Venum Elite Headgear is a fantastic option for beginners who plan to spar. It provides good protection around the face, jaw, and temples while maintaining visibility and comfort. The multi-layered foam absorbs shock efficiently, and the adjustable straps ensure a secure fit.

- RDX Headgear (Aqua Gel)

If you're looking for something with a little extra padding, the RDX Aqua Gel Headgear is an excellent choice. It features gel padding technology, which offers superior shock absorption, making it ideal for sparring. Plus, the breathable mesh material helps keep you cool during intense training.

- Fairtex Full Face Headgear (HG1)

For added protection, Fairtex offers the HG1 full-face headgear. This model provides full coverage for the cheeks and chin, making it a great choice for beginners who want to feel extra safe during sparring sessions. The genuine leather construction ensures durability and longevity.

3. Hand Wraps

Hand wraps are essential for protecting your wrists, knuckles, and the bones in your hands when you punch. They provide support and help prevent injuries, especially when you're hitting heavy bags or sparring.

Recommended Products:

- Venum Kontact Hand Wraps

These hand wraps are stretchy, durable, and comfortable. The Venum Kontact wraps come in a variety of colors and feature a thumb loop for easy application. At 3 meters long, they offer full wrist and knuckle support without being too bulky.

- Fairtex Hand Wraps

Fairtex’s hand wraps are high-quality and designed to offer maximum support and comfort. Made from a cotton-elastane blend, they’re stretchy and absorb sweat efficiently. The 5-meter length is perfect for wrapping your hands securely, even for larger hands.

- RDX Boxing Hand Wraps

RDX’s hand wraps are durable and made from a blend of cotton and polyester for a perfect balance between comfort and strength. They’re available in a range of vibrant colors and are about 4.5 meters in length, ideal for ensuring full coverage for your hands and wrists.

4. Fighting Shorts

Comfortable and durable fighting shorts are essential for any striking sport. Look for shorts that allow full range of motion, especially for high kicks, knees, and other dynamic movements. You don’t need anything too fancy, but it’s important to choose shorts that can withstand the demands of your training.

Recommended Products:

- Venum Kontact Fight Shorts

The Venum Kontact Fight Shorts are lightweight and flexible, with a split design on the sides that offers excellent mobility. Made from high-quality polyester and elastane, they’re perfect for Muay Thai and kickboxing, providing comfort during high-intensity training.

- Fairtex Muay Thai Shorts

If you're looking for authentic Muay Thai shorts, Fairtex offers a great selection. Their BGV3 Muay Thai Shorts are comfortable, stylish, and made from satin fabric that breathes well during training. They also feature a wide waistband for comfort and a traditional fit.

-RDX MMA Shorts

RDX’s MMA Shorts are versatile and durable, designed for both striking and grappling. The four-way stretch fabric ensures freedom of movement, and the anti-slip waistband ensures that the shorts stay in place during training. A great option for those who cross-train in both striking and grappling sports.

5. Training Tops

While training tops aren’t absolutely necessary, they can enhance your comfort and performance by allowing for better mobility and breathability during training. A good training top can also give you that extra boost of confidence when you look the part!

Recommended Products:

- Venum Gladiator T-Shirt

The Venum Gladiator T-Shirt is made from breathable fabric that wicks away sweat, keeping you cool during intense sessions. The athletic fit offers a snug but comfortable feel, and the bold design ensures you stand out in the gym.

- Fairtex Performance Rash Guard

Fairtex’s Rash Guard is a solid option for those who prefer a more fitted, compression-style shirt. It’s made from moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabric that helps keep you comfortable during sweat-heavy training. The compression also helps improve blood circulation and reduces muscle fatigue.

- RDX Compression Shirt

RDX's Compression Shirt is designed for serious athletes looking for support during their training. The fabric is engineered to enhance performance, reduce fatigue, and promote faster recovery. Plus, the bold RDX branding gives you a sharp look.

Final Thoughts: Building Your Kit

As a beginner, your focus should be on building a functional and safe gear kit. Don’t get too caught up in the aesthetics or buying every single item under the sun—start with the essentials and gradually add more gear as you advance in your training.

When choosing your gear, always prioritize comfort, protection, and durability. Brands like Venum, Fairtex, and RDX offer some of the best gear available for beginners, and their products provide excellent value for money. As you progress in your training, you’ll develop personal preferences for specific gear, but these essentials will always be the foundation of your fighting kit.

What gear do you swear by in your training? Let us know in the comments below!