Equipment Guides
Shin Guards & Protective Gear Breakdown
Shin pads, mouthguards, hand wraps and ankle supports — the protective kit that keeps you training through the hard rounds.
Shin guards
Shin pads are non-negotiable for live sparring. They protect both your shins and your partner.
- Leather — durable, moulds to your leg, the long-term investment. Heavier but worth it for regular sparring.
- Synthetic — lighter and cheaper, fine for beginners and pad work. Less durable over years of hard use.
Sizing is by shin length (knee to ankle), not by height — measure before you order. Size up if you're between sizes for full coverage.
Mouthguards
A boil-and-bite mouthguard is the minimum. If you spar regularly, a custom-moulded guard from a dental impression is a worthwhile upgrade — it protects teeth and reduces concussion risk.
Hand wraps
Always wrap before gloves. Wraps stabilise the small bones and tendons of the hand and wrist. See our hand wrapping guide for a proper technique.
Ankle supports
Ankle supports add compression and a little warmth to the joint. Useful if you've had a tweak or you train on hard floors. They're support, not a fix for an injury — see a physio for real issues.
Groin guards & headgear
- Groin guard — mandatory for sparring, men and women. Get one that stays put.
- Headgear — reduces cuts and cauliflower ear; it doesn't make you concussion-proof. Spar smart regardless.
