Equipment for Mixed Martial Arts

The current style of mixed martial arts competition began in 1993. As this sport continues to explode in popularity so does the need for MMA equipment. Most of the equipment necessary or desired for MMA competition comes from other martial arts, while other equipment has evolved to increase the safety of the participants. While by most standards the safety equipment such as gloves, hand wraps and protective cups ares minimal it has increased mainstream acceptance and thus the popularity and promotability of mixed martial arts.

Mixed Martial Arts Equipment

Grappling Gloves:

Grappling gloves open-fingered gloves that also leave the palm exposed. Quality gloves are generally made of leather and are filled with EVA rubber to provide protection to the hands. MMA gloves are available in training, competition and combination styles. Training gloves have thicker padding to protect both the hands and the opponent during sparring. Competition gloves typically have less padding, often 1/2" as opposed to the 2" of padding in safety gloves. Dual-purpose or combination gloves are a budget-minded option with an intermediate level of padding suitable for both training and competition. Gloves are typically available in various sizes, colors and designs.

Grappling Gloves, Pro-Style Professional Price: $44.95 As seen on The Ultimate Fighter. Designed for professional competition and training use. A full 3/4" of padding allows for increased hand and opponent safety. Open palm for maximum grip with the additional security of a thumb strap. Made of all leather with an open palm and thumb. Color: Red w/ black wrist strap. Weighs 5oz... Buy At immortalusa.com

Hand Wraps:

Hand wraps are worn either under gloves for additional protection or alone for light workouts and sparring. Gel wraps offer a slight amount of additional cushioning, while more traditional Mexican-style hand wraps made of cotton and elastic, typically with a hook and loop (velcro) closure are an affordable option.

There is a science to protecting your hands in mixed martial arts training and competition so it's no wonder options abound for hand protection. In addition to gloves and hand wraps many participants take advantage of tape and gauze to further protect their hands.

Instep Guards:
Instep Guards are designed to stay in place during grappling and all MMA training and workouts. A typical instep guard has an inch of contoured impact-resistant foam along the shin and instep for protection. Quality instep guards have a leather front cover with form-fitting neoprene back for a custom non-slip fit. Hook and loop straps make an instep guard easy to apply and remove.

Head and Face Guards:
Head Guards are designed to protect the head, face, cheeks and jaw. Some head guards have clear plastic or metal mesh guards that further protect the participants face during sparring.

Training & Grappling Head Gear Price: $59.99 The perfect necessity for all training and grappling demands. All-leather shell and super sleek contoured design is ideal for all MMA training. Shock absorbing multi-density foam padding throughout provides the tops in coverage and unobstructed usage. Complete with ventilated and padded extra coverage on top to help protect against strikes and kicks from the top. Unique 3-way hook-and-loop adjustable fastener on back affords a custom and firm fit for all athletes. Smooth inside surface for easy sweat removal and clean-up. Convenient on and off application for ready action. Available with or without cheek protectors. Color: Black/Silver Sizes: Regular (S/M), Large (L/XL) Styles: Open Face, With Cheeks Buy At immortalusa.com

The following gear is generally considered mandatory for serious MMA training:

Supporter and Cup
Mouth Piece/Guard
Support Shorts
Boxing Head Gear
Grappling Gloves
Knee Pads
Shin Guards/Instep Guards

Additional equipment includes:

Wrestling Mat
Wrestling Shoes
Heavy Bag
Wrist Wraps
Ankle Support/Wraps
MT Pads
Focus Mitts