Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is known for its ever-growing popularity, but did you know it’s more popular than ever among youths?
Even though it’s banned in many places due to safety concerns, using proper MMA gear that ensures safety can help nurture a teenager’s passion for this art. The teen years are the most formative years of your life, making you significantly more vulnerable to injury.
However, wearing properly fitted and high-quality gear can reduce the risk of injury and helps you be more stress-free during sparring. Here are some of the best MMA gear for teens for their safety and comfort.
Why Safety & Comfort Are Essential For Teen MMA Fighters
MMA is one of the most aggressive combat sports involving a wide array of fighting techniques that can cause significant damage to the opponent. These include punches, throws, kicks and a combination of these movements, and that’s why MMA fighters, especially teens and beginners, require the right gear to protect themselves. Good MMA gear will also help them match the aggression level and stand their ground in the ring.
The right gear, such as gloves and mouth guards, also prevents severe sparring injuries. For example, loose gloves will give you discomfort while throwing pouches, which can lead to palm and wrist injuries.
Regarding comfort, ill-fitting training gear can limit your movements and make you uncomfortable in the ring. This limitation can be a serious disadvantage in an actual fight. However, well-fitted MMA gear can comfort you while providing enough support and stability to different body areas.
Top MMA Gear Brands For Teens
MMA Gloves For Teens
Gloves are one of the most important training gear since they protect your hands and opponent during sparring. The cushiony material absorbs the shock of a throw or punch and provides comfort to the combatants during grappling.
The Shinobi Sekiro Kids Boxing Gloves are made from high-quality materials that protect teens’ softer hands and knuckles. Another sleek and fashionable option is the Venum Razor Boxing Gloves, which make you look like a real pro.
Headgear for Teen MMA Fighters
Regardless of age and expertise, the head and face is the most sensitive part of every fighter and the most targeted during a fight. This is due to its all-around protection, covering even the chin and ears, efficiently absorbing the shock from blows. An MMA headgear can help you avoid head injuries in combat and sustain the maximum time in the ring.
The Shinobi Assassin Headgear – Kids is a one-size-fits-all headgear with shock-absorbing foam and velcro closure for better fittings. It also comes with protective padding on the chin, ear areas, and forehead – so you can headbutt all you want without getting hurt.
Shin Guards For Teen MMA Fighters
Since MMA doesn’t just involve throws and punches, you must adequately gear up to take kicks to your legs and shins. You’ll likely incur injuries during grappling or direct combat if you don’t wear shin guards.
Shin guards like the Shinobi Semi ShinGuards – Kids are lightweight and shock-absorbent, making them perfect for teenagers and kids starting in MMA. On the other hand, full-coverage ones like the Shinobi Raven Shinguards – Kids will fully absorb the shock of kicks and leg strikes while protecting the knees.
Mouthguards for Teen MMA Fighters
Besides blocking out blows with your mitts, a mouthguard is the only other way to protect the mouth (and teeth). Even though they are not required during practice and training, they’re essential for actual fights and sparring. And it’s safer to protect your teeth and gums since injuries to those areas can be long-lasting and painful.
Mouthguards are usually available in different sizes, based on average mouth sizes, so you’ll find dental protectors specifically designed for teens. You’ll also find that mouthguards are made from different materials catering to different comfort preferences. The high-density rubber guard and the gel protector are the most common types used in MMA.
How To Properly Fit MMA Gear For Teens
Of course, fittings are the most problematic aspect of MMA gear for teens, so purchasing ones specifically designed for the age group is best. However, many teenagers have the height and body type as adults, so regular MMA gear may also fit. You just need to measure their body dimensions carefully and make an informed decision.
One-size-fits-all MMA gear can also come in handy when unsure about the fittings and would rather not measure each body part individually.
Can Teens Use Adult-Sized MMA Gear?
Borrowing from the previous segment, some adult-sized MMA gear can easily fit teenagers, given that most are free-size. Typically, there shouldn’t be too much of a difference in size, but if the teen in question has a small stature, it’s best to get their exact size.
However, adult gear with adjustable straps and buckles can be worn by teens since they can be adjusted to their sizes and preference.
Protective & Comfortable: Top MMA Gear For Teenagers
Although MMA helps gain discipline and physical transformation, it is an aggressive sport with a high risk of injury. So, it’s important to learn about the essential gear required in combat and ensure they’re the right size.
The MMA Factory will help you tick those boxes with our wide variety of MMA gear — from gloves and other protective shields to uniforms and punching bags for training – we’ve got you covered.
