Top UK Boxing & Martial Arts Gear: Where to Buy the Best Equipment in 2025

Why the right gear matters more than you think

Choosing the right boxing and martial arts gear is like picking the right shoes for a long hike — the wrong pair will hurt after a mile. Whether you’re training for fitness, competition, or self-defence, good equipment protects your body, improves technique, and makes every session more productive. Cheap gloves that collapse after a few months or a flimsy headguard can turn progress into pain, and that’s why knowing where to shop in the UK matters.

Big-name UK stores that carry reliable gear

You don’t have to hunt overseas to find quality boxing and martial arts supplies. Several established UK retailers stock everything from beginner gloves to professional-grade ring equipment. Brands and retailers often mix and match lines, so you can find budget-friendly options alongside premium pieces depending on your needs and budget.

Decathlon UK — budget-friendly, wide range

Decathlon is a go-to for newcomers who want good value. Their boxing line includes gloves, focus pads, and heavy bags at pocket-friendly prices. The gear is ideal if you’re training at home or joining a beginners’ club, and their in-store try-on policy helps you find the right fit before you buy.

Sports Direct (Frasers Group) — high street convenience

Sports Direct stocks big brands and often runs sales that bring ring-ready equipment within reach. From gloves stamped with well-known logos to affordable protective gear, this retailer is great for shoppers who want in-person browsing plus online deals.

Amazon UK — massive selection, fast shipping

Amazon’s strength is variety. You’ll find niche brands alongside mainstream names, useful customer reviews, and quick delivery options. Want specialist items — like Muay Thai shorts or BJJ gis — Amazon usually has multiple sellers to compare in one place.

FightStore UK & MMA-specific retailers — specialists for combat sports

If you’re serious about striking or grappling, specialist retailers such as FightStore and MMA Shop focus on performance gear. These shops offer pro-grade gloves, competition shin guards, pro fight shorts, and often carry small-batch or boutique brands that are harder to find elsewhere in the UK.

Everlast UK & RDX Sports — trusted combat brands

Everlast and RDX have long traditions in boxing and MMA. Their UK outlets and authorised sellers provide durable gloves, headguards, and punching bags. When you want gear that’s been road-tested, these brands are reliable choices for heavier training loads.

JD Sports & Pro:Direct — trend-forward and technical

For people who care about style as much as function, JD Sports and Pro:Direct offer sporty silhouettes and tech-driven materials. They’re handy if you’re pairing gym wear with your combat kit or want the latest design updates in training footwear or compression clothing.

How to choose the best store for your needs

Think about three things before you buy: your budget, training goals, and how often you’ll use the gear. If you train three to five times a week, invest in higher-end gloves and head protection from specialist retailers. If you’re a weekend boxer, mainstream stores will often provide enough quality without blowing your budget. Also consider whether you prefer trying equipment in person or shopping online for a bigger selection.

Essential items for beginner boxers and martial artists

Starting out can be confusing: what do you actually need? At minimum, every boxer should own a pair of gloves, hand wraps, a mouthguard, and a quality pair of training shoes or boots. Martial artists may need additional items like shin guards, grappling gloves, or a gi for BJJ and Judo. Specialist stores like FightStore and MMA Shop tend to list starter kits, which is a useful way to get matched gear without guesswork.

Gloves — choosing the right weight and style

Glove sizes are often given in ounces: 8 oz, 10 oz, 12 oz, 14 oz, 16 oz, and so on. For fitness and sparring, 14 oz or 16 oz gloves are common because they offer more padding and protect both you and your partner. Lighter gloves like 8 oz to 10 oz are used in competition or by smaller fighters. When shopping, try gloves on at a store or read detailed reviews on specialist sites to find the best balance of padding, wrist support, and feel.

Hand wraps and protection — small items, big difference

Don’t skimp on hand wraps. They stabilise your wrist and knuckles and are inexpensive compared with gloves or headgear. Cotton or elasticated wraps both work; five- to six-yard wraps are common for adults. Pair them with inner gloves or gel wraps for extra comfort during heavy bag sessions.

Punching bags and home setup tips

Choosing a bag comes down to space and training goals. A hanging heavy bag in the range of 70 to 100 pounds is a solid all-round choice for adults. If your ceiling can’t support a bag, freestanding bags are a practical alternative, though they behave differently on impact. Specialist stores can advise on weight, height, and mounting kits — and many high-street stores sell floor-stand conversions if you need one quickly.

Bag size and weight — what to pick

For most adults, a 70- to 100-pound heavy bag gives enough resistance for power shots without bouncing too much. Taller fighters often prefer longer bags to practise low kicks and body shots — think bags around 48 to 72 inches for a more versatile target. If you’re lifting or moving a bag alone, check weight specifications in pounds and consider a friend to help install a hanging mount safely.

MMA and grappling gear — specifics that matter

MMA requires a different kit from boxing. Open-finger gloves, shin guards, and rash guards are core items, while BJJ players need gis or no-gi shorts and spats. Specialist MMA retailers stock competition-legal gloves and certified shin guards — crucial if you plan to enter a sanctioned bout. For grappling, pay attention to gi weave and weight; lighter gis are more comfortable for constant rolling, while heavier gis last longer under heavy grips.

Choosing shin guards and MMA gloves

MMA gloves are measured by weight and padding style — lighter gloves let you grapple easier, heavier gloves offer more striking protection. Shin guards vary in length and padding density; look for guards that protect both shin and instep for Muay Thai. Trying them on at specialist stores or reading size charts in inches will ensure a secure fit.

Footwear: boxing boots and training shoes

Shoes matter. Boxing boots are lightweight, offer ankle support, and help with quick pivots. Training shoes serve better for mixed conditioning and circuit work. If you train on mats, choose flat-soled shoes or go barefoot in grappling. Brands sold at major retailers often offer trial sizes and return options if fit isn’t perfect, but it’s helpful to measure your foot in inches first.

Brands and boutique shops worth knowing

Beyond the household names like Everlast and RDX, boutique brands are gaining traction in the UK scene. These smaller makers often focus on craftsmanship, unique padding layouts, or handmade leather. If you want a custom fit or a glove that stands out, seek out specialist shops and local makers via online marketplaces or social media. You may pay more, but custom or small-batch gear can last longer and perform better for competitive training.

Where to find the best deals without sacrificing quality

If price matters — and it often does — look for seasonal sales and bundle deals. High-street shops and online marketplaces frequently mark down training kits or sell clearance models that are perfectly serviceable. Also, comparison sites can help you spot price differences across multiple UK stores so you don’t waste time hunting each site individually. Remember: the cheapest pair of gloves might cost more in the long run if they wear out quickly.

Buying online vs. in-store — pros and cons

Online shopping gives you unmatched variety and often better prices, but in-store you can try gloves, feel the padding, and test the weight. If you can, do both: try on items at a local shop to confirm size and comfort, then track down the best online price from a trusted retailer. Specialist stores usually provide detailed photos and sizing guidance that reduce the risk of a poor fit when buying online.

Maintenance tips to make gear last longer

Look after your kit and it will look after you. Wipe down gloves after each session, air out headgear, and keep leather conditioned with appropriate sprays. Use deodorising sachets or natural alternatives like baking soda for trainers, and always store gear away from damp basements. A little care adds months to the lifespan of costly items like gloves and bags.

Final shopping checklist

Before you check out, run through a quick checklist: glove size in ounces, hand wrap length in yards or feet, bag weight in pounds, shoe size in inches, and the correct shin guard length. Decide if you need competition-certified items, and confirm the material type — leather lasts longer, while synthetic options are cheaper and easier to clean.

Where to get expert advice in the UK

If you’re unsure, seek out local clubs and trainers. Most coaches happily recommend stores or brands based on your discipline and weight class. Local gyms also often have links with specialist retailers for team discounts, which can be handy if you’re buying protective sets for an entire club.

Finding the right boxing and martial arts gear in the UK is a balance of price, protection, and personal fit. From general retailers like Decathlon and Sports Direct to specialist outlets like FightStore and MMA Shop, there’s something for every fighter and budget. Shop smart, try before you buy when possible, and treat your equipment like an investment in your training.

Whether you’re a beginner buying your first pair of gloves or a seasoned competitor upgrading your kit, the UK market is well stocked. Take your time, compare options, and you’ll be back in the ring or on the mat feeling safer, sharper, and more confident.

Ready to gear up? Start with gloves and hand wraps, then build out your kit based on the type of training you love most — striking, grappling, or a bit of everything.

Good luck, and train hard.