Muay Thai Gear: A Beginner’s Guide

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and train in Muay Thai. Congratulations, you’ve made a great decision! Muay Thai is an incredible sport that will test your limits, push you beyond what you thought was possible, and help you build strength, stamina, and discipline. 

Before you begin your training, however, there is one crucial thing you need to do: get yourself some gear. Here is a beginner’s guide to buying your Muay Thai gear essentials.

Essential Muay Thai Gear

1. Muay Thai Shorts

When it comes to Muay Thai gear, one of the essential items you will need is a good pair of Muay Thai shorts. After all, Muay Thai is a combat sport involving a lot of kicking and kneeing, so you need to move freely and without restriction. First of all, you need to think about the material of the shorts. 

Muay Thai shorts are usually made from either satin or polyester, and each material has advantages and disadvantages. Satin shorts are usually more comfortable, but they can be more expensive. On the other hand, Polyester shorts are generally cheaper, but they can be uncomfortable. 

Another thing to consider is the length of the shorts. Muay Thai shorts should ideally be around mid-thigh length, offering good coverage but not restricting your movement. Finally, you need to think about the design of the shorts. Muay Thai shorts are usually decorated with traditional Thai designs, such as elephants or dragons. However, there are also modern designs available. It is up to you to choose a design that you like the look of.

2. Kick Pads

Kick pads are an essential piece of Muay Thai gear, and they come in various shapes and sizes to suit different training styles. Whether you’re looking for extra padding for your shins or a more comfortable way to practice your kicks, a kick pad is perfect. 

First, consider the material of the kick pad. Leather is generally the most durable option, but it can be heavy. Synthetic materials are lighter and often more comfortable, but they may not stand up to heavy use compared to leather.

Next, think about the size and shape of the kick pad. Circular pads are great for practicing roundhouse kicks, while rectangular pads are better for front kicks and other strikes. Ensure the pad is large enough to cover your targets entirely but not so large that it’s cumbersome.

Finally, consider the padding of the kick pad. Thick padding will offer more protection for your strikes, making the pad heavier and more challenging to move around. Thin padding will be more responsive and allow you to feel your strikes more clearly, but you may need to be more careful to avoid injuring yourself or your training partner.

3. Muay Thai Gloves

Choosing the right pair of gloves is essential for both safety and performance. You’ll want to ensure that your gloves fit snugly but comfortably. They should also offer good support for your wrists. And of course, they should be made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of training. 

There are a few different types of gloves available on the market, so it’s important to know what’s right for you. For instance, bag gloves are designed for use during training sessions on punching bags. 

Conversely, sparring gloves are meant for use during actual sparring sessions with an opponent. There are also hybrid gloves that offer a combination of both styles. If you’re interested to learn more about Muay Thai gloves and other gear, check out this link.

4. Hand Wraps

Hand wraps are one of the essential pieces of Muay Thai gear and serve a dual purpose. First, they protect your hands from impact by absorbing some shocks. 

Second, they keep your hands tightly together so that you can deliver maximum power with each punch. There are a few things to keep in mind when purchasing hand wraps. First, choose a material that is both comfortable and durable. Second, ensure the wraps are long enough to cover your entire hand, from wrist to knuckles. Finally, look for hand wraps that support your wrists, as this will help prevent injuries.

5. Mouthguard

A good mouthguard will protect your teeth and gums from the impact of an opponent’s punches and kicks. Choosing a mouthguard that fits well and is comfortable to wear is essential. Otherwise, you’ll be distracted during training. 

Mouthguards come in different sizes, so choosing one that fits comfortably in your mouth is essential. You should also consider the level of protection you need. If you’re just starting, you may not need as much protection as someone who has been training for years. 

Takeaway

Muay Thai gear is essential for protecting yourself and getting the most out of your training. Choose a design that you like and make sure it fits properly. Consider the material, size, shape, padding, and protection each piece provides to ensure that you’re getting the right gear for your training needs. You’ll be ready to train safely and effectively with the right Muay Thai gear!