Parents Guide to Buying Martial Arts Equipment for Their Child

It can be daunting to buy martial arts equipment for kids entering the sport. There are so many options, how do you know what equipment is the right equipment to buy? MA Authority can help. MA Authority created this guide to walk you through the process of buying martial arts equipment.

Key points to know when buying Martial Arts Equipment:

Martial Arts Uniforms

1st and foremost, make sure to check with instructor regarding your uniform purchase.

Heavy 12-ounce cotton-canvas uniforms may provide crisp snaps and a sharp look that appeals to tournament judges. A lighter-weight cotton uniform is ideal for hot environments.

Sizing: For men to women sizing comparison a small men's size is similar to a medium women's, a men's medium is like a women's large. Martial Arts Uniform Sizing Chart.

Look for shirt-type tops and elastic or drawstring waistband pants. They offer the most flexibility. They require the least number of adjustments. Think about your comfort.

Martial Arts Uniform Color

White is the most common and used by most students in martial arts studios.

Black is used many times by instructors. It is also used in Kenpo Karate.

Blue is used many times by instructors or at the specification of some school instructors.

Sparring Gear

Leather sparring shoes are durable and more comfortable but will slip more in comparison to foam dipped protection.

Cloth gear is less expensive and more secure than foam dipped gear but offers less protection and durability.

Headgear with a face cage may provide more protection but may limit the user’s range of visibility.

Select a mouth guard that allows adequate air flow for breathing. A single guard mouthpiece allows for greater air flow but protects less against shocks to the jawbone area relative to a double guard mouthpiece.

Martial Arts Equipment Purchasing Guide for Kids

Now that you are informed with the key points, let’s walk you through the equipment that you may want to purchase. It’s easy – just follow the 3 steps below. By using the guide, you can purchase the necessary equipment your child needs with confidence.

Step 1:

The first determining factor is the level at which your child is participating in martial arts. Which level would you say your child is at?

My child is new to the sport. This is really just a trial period and I’m not sure they will continue past 3 to 6 months.
Go to Package 1

My child has been in the sport for over 6 months and takes it very seriously. We have passed the trial period and they appear to enjoy martial arts and be dedicated.
Proceed to step 2

Step 2

Now it’s time to determine your budget. We know that most parents don’t have an excess of extra money lying around, so we wanted to create packages that were budget friendly.

My budget for martial arts equipment is small, but I want to ensure they have the best equipment that fits in my budget.
Go to Package 2

I’ve set aside money in order to upgrade their starter equipment to more advanced martial arts equipment.
Go to Package 3

Money is not a factor; I want the best equipment available.
Go to Package 4

Step 3

Listed below are packages that we have created to best fit every budget

// Package 1 - ($80.75)

Child is a beginner and my budget is small.

// Package 2 - ($140.75)

My child has been in the sport for over 6 months and I need to purchase advanced equipment. My budget is small, so I need items that I can afford.

// Package 3 - ($158.75)

My child has been in the sport for over 6 months and I have set some money aside for this purchase.

// Package 4 - ($218.75)

My Child has been in the sport for over 1 year and I want the best equipment available.