How to Choose the Right MMA Gear: A Beginner’s Guide

Starting your Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) journey is an exciting step, but it can be overwhelming when faced with the array of gear available. At Sassom MMA, we understand that having the right equipment is crucial not just for performance, but also for safety and comfort. Whether you’re stepping onto the mats for the first time or gearing up for more serious training, here’s our beginner-friendly guide to help you choose the essentials.

At Sassom MMA we do sell some equipment to our members, we choose good quality equipment at a reasonable price point. MMA equipment like most things, you only get the quality you pay for. There is no requirement to use our gear, but if you are starting out our gear will take the guess work out of what to purchase.

1. Gloves: Protecting Your Hands

16oz Boxing Gloves are one of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll need. We use these for partner drills and sparring. When you Strat sparring we break up the elements of MMA into Striking, Wrestling, BJJ. As you skill set progresses and you become better at sparring you can advance to combining all of these elements together, and then you will need MMA gloves.

MMA Gloves unlike traditional boxing gloves, MMA gloves are lighter and designed with open fingers to allow grappling. Beginners start with 7 or 8oz training gloves, which provide extra padding for general use, competition gloves are lighter with less padding.

Key tips: Make sure the gloves fit snugly but not too tight, and always choose gloves made from high-quality materials.

2. Hand Wraps: The Unsung Heroes

Hand wraps are essential for protecting the small bones in your hands and wrists during training. They provide support and reduce the risk of injuries like sprains or fractures. Look for wraps that are around 4.5 metres long for full coverage, and choose a breathable, slightly stretchy material for comfort. There are many different way to wrap your hands, you can find plenty of examples on line to try, or you can ask one of the coaches or other members at the gym. Over time you will develop you own personal way of wrapping your hands.

3. Mouthguards: For Safety

When training MMA mouthguard is optional, when sparring it is compulsory. Your mouthguard protects your teeth, gums, and jaw from impact during sparring and training. Boil-and-bite mouthguards from chemists and sports stores are affordable and offer a decent fit for beginners. However, if you plan to train regularly or compete, investing in a custom-fitted mouthguard will provide superior protection and comfort. Often mouthguards are included or a portion of the cost is covered with your private health insurance.

4. Shin Guards: Protecting Your Legs

Shin guards are vital, especially during striking drills and sparring. They protect your shins and feet from painful impacts and reduce the risk of bruising or fractures. Muay Thai style shin guards with plenty of padding are what we recommended and use for sparring. As with gloves, ensure they fit securely without restricting movement.

5. Training Attire: Comfort and Flexibility

Your training clothes should allow for unrestricted movement. Rash guards are popular because they wick away sweat, reduce skin irritation, and protect against mat burns. Pair them with MMA shorts that are durable and flexible, designed to withstand grappling and striking. Spats can be worn under your shorts but not on their own. For beginners and shorts that have a long leg, no pockets and no zippers are a good start.

6. Optional Extras: Upgrading Your Gear

Once you’ve covered the basics, you might want to invest in extras like:

• Groin Protectors: For males there are some very well made protectors for fighting so do just grab to old cricket box, as these can move and do more harm than good.
• Ankle supports: For additional joint stability.
• Chest Protectors: Females fighters might consider chest protectors for added safety during sparring.
• Gym bag: To keep all your gear organised and easily transportable.

Final Tips for Choosing MMA Gear

• Quality over quantity: It’s better to invest in a few high-quality items than to buy cheaper gear that wears out quickly.
• Try before you buy: If possible, visit a store to try on gear for the perfect fit, or consult with your coaches at Sassom MMA for recommendations.
• Prioritise hygiene: Always clean your gear after training to prevent bacteria build-up and extend its lifespan.

Choosing the right MMA gear is the first step to a safe and successful training journey. At Sassom MMA, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. If you’re unsure about any equipment, don’t hesitate to ask our experienced coaches for advice. See you on the mats!