Best Boxing & Martial Arts Protective Gear in the UK: Where to Buy and How to Choose

Why quality protective gear matters

If you train in boxing, Muay Thai, kickboxing, or any martial art, protective gear isn't optional — it's the difference between getting better and getting sidelined. Think of your gear as a seatbelt for your body; the right gloves, headguard, and shin guards absorb impacts, protect bones and soft tissue, and let you keep training week after week. Skimping on protection because something looks cheap or "good enough" is like driving without a spare tire — it might be fine for a while, but when you need it most you'll regret it. Investing in proper equipment keeps you safe and helps you progress faster.

What protective gear do you really need?

Different disciplines require different setups, but there are core pieces every boxer or martial artist should consider. The essentials include gloves, hand wraps, a mouthguard, head protection, shin guards for kickers, and a groin protector for full-contact training. Beyond that, gym-specific items like chest guards or body protectors can be useful for instructors and combat-sport coaches. The trick is matching gear to your activity: gloves designed for boxing differ from MMA gloves in padding and wrist support, and sparring requires more padding than bag work.

Boxing gloves

Gloves are the workhorses of your kit. For amateurs we talk weight in ounces — 8 oz and 10 oz are common competition weights, while 12 oz, 14 oz, and 16 oz are common for training and sparring. Heavier gloves give more padding, which reduces impact on both your hands and your sparring partner. Choose gloves with solid wrist support and a comfortable fit; leather models last longer but cost more, while synthetic leather is more budget-friendly.

Hand wraps

Hand wraps are the unseen heroes. They stabilise the wrist and compress the knuckles to reduce the risk of fractures and sprains. They come in cotton or elastic blends and typically run from about 108 inches to 180 inches long. Most fighters prefer wraps in the 108- to 180-inch range depending on hand size and how much padding they like under the gloves.

Headguards

Headguards reduce cuts, bruises, and surface-level impact—but they don't make you invincible. They’re excellent for sparring and amateur bouts where concussive impacts should be minimised. Look for headgear with good cheekbone coverage, a secure chin strap, and enough padding around the temple to absorb shocks without restricting your vision.

Shin guards and groin protection

Kicks can be brutal on lower limbs, so shin guards are a must for striking arts. They come in various thicknesses and are sized by height and leg measurements; pick a pair that protects the shin without hindering mobility. For men and women in full-contact training, a groin protector dramatically reduces the risk of painful accidents and should be part of the kit from day one.

Mouthguards

A custom-fit mouthguard is one of the best investments for dental safety. Even a boil-and-bite guard offers better protection than nothing, cushioning blows and helping to prevent knocked-out teeth and jaw injuries. Dentists and many fighters prefer custom-fit options because they sit lower in the mouth and allow easier breathing during intense sessions.

How to choose the right glove weight and fit

Picking glove weight comes down to the combination of your body weight, training purpose, and personal preference. Competition gloves are lighter for faster punches, while training gloves are heavier for protection. As a rule of thumb, fighters who are in the lighter weight classes often use 12 oz or 14 oz for training, while heavier fighters prefer 16 oz for sparring. If you're under 150 pounds, 14 oz is a safe middle ground for general training; if you're over 180 pounds, 16 oz tends to be more appropriate for sparring comfort. Always try gloves on with hand wraps to check the fit — your knuckles should sit just below the padding and the wrist should feel snug when you make a fist.

Top UK retailers where you can buy protective gear

The UK has a healthy mix of big chains and specialist retailers that cater to combat sports. Some options you’ll encounter include general sports chains, large marketplaces, and dedicated boxing and martial arts stores. Each has its strengths — chains often carry a wide selection of budget to mid-range gear, online marketplaces provide convenience and a broad brand mix, and specialist shops bring expertise and the chance to try before you buy.

Decathlon UK

Decathlon is a go-to for beginner to intermediate kit thanks to its in-house brands. You’ll find boxing gloves, shin guards, and mouthguards at reasonable price points. The brand focuses on value and sensible design, ideal if you're starting out and want equipment that works without breaking the bank.

Sports Direct and JD Sports

These high-street names stock a wide selection of mainstream boxing and training gear. They often stock recognizable brands and have many physical stores across the UK, which is handy if you want to try items on. Expect a mix of entry-level to mid-range equipment suitable for casual training and fitness boxing.

Amazon UK

Amazon’s strength is variety. From mass-market gloves to niche martial arts accessories, the marketplace gives you access to many brands and customer reviews. Use reviews and seller ratings to filter out poor-quality items, and be cautious with counterfeit brand listings — always buy from reputable sellers or authorised store pages.

Specialist retailers: RDX Sports, Everlast UK, and BoxingGearUK

Specialist suppliers are where serious fighters go. Brands like RDX and Everlast have UK distribution and sell directly or through specialist retail partners. Stores that focus solely on boxing and martial arts tend to stock higher-quality, purpose-built equipment and often provide detailed sizing guides, which can make selecting the right gear much easier.

MMA and combat-sport shops

For mixed martial arts you’ll want stores that understand the crossover between striking and grappling. Specialist MMA shops stock hybrid gloves, lighter shin guards, and protective gear tailored to the pace of MMA training. These retailers often carry brands like Venum and Hayabusa which bridge the gap between boxing and MMA.

High-end brands worth the splurge

If you train frequently, investing in a higher-quality brand will pay off through better fit, longevity, and protection. Premium boxing gloves and headguards use higher-grade leather, denser foams, and precision stitching that keeps padding where you need it. Brands like Cleto Reyes, Winning, and Hayabusa are well respected for delivering performance-level items. They often cost more, but think of them as long-term tools rather than disposable kit.

Cleto Reyes and Winning

These names are synonymous with competition-level boxing gear. Cleto Reyes gloves are known for their snug fit and responsive feel, while Winning, though pricier, is prized for superior shock absorption and craftsmanship. Both are often preferred by professional boxers and serious amateurs.

Hayabusa and Venum

Hayabusa offers exceptional wrist support and modern materials, making their gloves popular for heavy hitters and grapplers who work both striking and clinch. Venum blends style with functionality and is a common sight in MMA gyms. These brands tend to be more available through specialist retailers and online shops that cater to combat sports.

Budget-friendly options and how to find deals

Not every training session needs premium gear. For fitness boxing and light training, affordable gloves and shin guards from chain retailers or mid-range brands are perfectly adequate. Look out for seasonal sales, outlet sections on brand sites, and certified refurbished items from reputable sellers. Clearance lines can offer big savings, and smaller brands often produce very competent kit at lower prices.

Maintaining your kit for longer life

Taking care of your gear saves money and keeps your equipment hygienic. Air out gloves after every session — take the insoles out if possible and let them dry in a well-ventilated area. Use a towel to remove sweat from headguards and shin guards, and a gentle disinfectant spray designed for sports gear to prevent odours and bacterial growth. Replace foam liners once they start to lose shape; that’s a sign padding has degraded and protection is reduced.

Buying online versus trying in person

Buying online gives you access to a wider range and often better deals, but trying in person removes guesswork. If you're new to combat sports, visit a local specialist store or a big sports chain that stocks boxing gear to try sizes and models. Measure your hand circumference and consult online sizing charts when you buy remotely. If you prefer shopping online, stick to retailers with clear size guides and verified customer reviews to reduce the chance of an awkward fit.

Where to test gear in the UK

If you want to feel gloves or shin guards before you commit, stop by specialist stores in major cities, or check if your local martial arts club has a partnership with a shop. Many boxing gyms and dojos keep spare kit for new members to try — think of it like a test drive. That hands-on experience often tells you as much as a spec sheet about whether a glove or pad suits your style.

Quick checklist before you buy

Before adding gear to your basket, run through a short checklist: Is the gear sized correctly for your weight and sport? Does the padding match its intended use — sparring versus bag work? Is the material durable enough for frequent training? Does the seller provide clear photos and measurements? Taking a few minutes to answer these will reduce returns and ensure you get gear that’s fit for purpose.

Conclusion

Choosing the right boxing and martial arts protective gear in the UK comes down to understanding the difference between disciplines, matching gear to your training needs, and selecting reputable retailers — whether that’s a specialist store, a trusted high-street chain, or a wide-ranging marketplace. Invest in protective items that suit your body and purpose, care for them so they last, and don't be afraid to try gear on in person when possible. With the right equipment you’ll train safer, hit harder, and enjoy the sport more — and that’s what it’s all about.