A note on gear

A quick memo as this came up quite often when members were shopping for gear after the last equipment blog--particularly gloves, shinguards, and headgear (there's much more to be said on the subject but this is a start):

Competition gear-- tends to provide bare minimum yet regulation protection for both the wearer and the opponent. Fit, feel, and look are all factored in. However, price and durability are not the priority in competition. For everyday use, one might want to save their money and go to something below.

Training gear-- Come in a variety of choices, but basically training gear is more concerned with durability. Higher end training will still focus on fit and feel, but the idea is to have a reliable piece of equipment that one can work time and time again at the gym. Lower end training gear is essentially the bare minimum in all areas and most often not all the durable. "Soft" gear--usually gloves-- are more trailered for comfort and protection but often don't last as long as "bag" gear which is meant to TAKE punishment over time. "Soft" gear can come in many forms, such as gels, and while they do give you great protection, do not last as long and can be much more expensive.

Sparring gear-- Basically a mix of the above but with more priority of safety for you and your training partners. This equipment will be made for repeated use and maximum protection. Most often they provide far more protection than is needed in an actual match scenario but they are worthy of a place in your gym bag as they can prevent a lot of injuries--dishing it out or being on the receiving end. Remember, the idea is for you to be durable as well.

Note: Price is not always the best indicator of a brand's quality but more expensive gear is just that often because of the reputation associated with the product. Just remember that having two pairs of 'junk' gloves are not as worth having a single reliable pair. Save your money, but don't be stingy. The savings or extra expense should be factored in over time; this is over the life of the gear and over the life of your training career. Another thing: I hate to say it because they are useful and they, well, are cool, but save attire for last. A great looking pair of fight trunks will not do you much good when they're in the dirty laundry and you're still having to hit the bag with dirty old club gloves and no wraps.