The Ultimate Guide for Muay Thai Gear
Buying Muay Thai/Kickboxing gear can feel like a lot, especially if you’re new to the sport. Don’t worry, I’ve made it simple with easy tips to help you choose the right gear without the guesswork.
Know Your Budget
Before anything else, think about how much you’re willing to spend. Some brands offer gear at every price point, while others focus on premium or budget options only.
Here’s a quick breakdown of typical price ranges and brand examples:
| Price Range | Brands |
|---|---|
| 💸 $30–$40 (Entry-Level) | Sanabul, Venum, RDX |
| 💰 $50–$70 (Mid-Range) | Venum, Hayabusa, Revgear |
| 💎 $100–$120+ (Premium) | Fairtex, Top King, Yokkao |
📝 KickboxingNerd Tip:
Start with entry-level gear if you’re new. As you train more, you’ll figure out what you like — from fit and padding to wrist support and materials.
Remember: Gear is Personal
The “best” gear often comes down to personal preference. One glove might feel amazing to you and awful to someone else. That’s why it’s helpful to:
Ask gym friends what they use (and like)
Try on different gear if possible
Focus on comfort and function over hype
And yes, expensive gear is nice, but it’s not a requirement to start training. You can train safely and effectively with affordable equipment.
Thai-Made Gear = Quality
Some of the best Muay Thai gear is made in Thailand — it’s built to last and designed for real fighters.
🏆 Top Thai Brands:
Fairtex
Top King
Yokkao
Other great gear also comes out of Japan (Winning) and Mexico (Cleto Reyes), though prices can be steep. If you’re on a budget but want quality, Thai brands are usually the best bang for your buck.
Essential Gear Checklist
Here’s what you need to get started:
| Gear | Why It’s Essential |
|---|---|
| 🥊 Gloves (12-16 oz) | For pad work, bag work, and sparring |
| 🦿 Shin Guards | Protect your legs during kicks and sparring |
| 🛡️ Mouthguard | Vital for sparring and safety |
| 🩲 Groin Protector | For obvious reasons (yes, even during drills) |
| ✋ Hand Wraps | Protect your wrists and knuckles with gloves |
Optional (But Useful) Extras
| Item | Why You Might Want It |
|---|---|
| 🧦 Ankle Guards | Support during kicks and footwork |
| 🪢 Jump Rope | Great for conditioning and warm-ups |
| 🧴 Thai Oil | Pre-training rub to warm muscles and prevent injury |
| 🩹 Sports Tape | Extra wrist or finger support (especially for fighters) |
Final Thoughts
Don’t stress about buying the “perfect” gear on day one. Start simple, stay within your budget, and upgrade as you grow in the sport.
High-end gear is a luxury, not a requirement. What matters most is showing up, putting in the work, and staying safe. Do your research (like reading this blog 👊), ask around at your gym, and find what works for you.