Proper Muay Thai gear can make or break your journey as a Nak Muay, or at least make you look a bit more polished in the gym mirror.
Fairtex, Twins Special, Yokkao, Top King, Boon Sport, Primo, Venum, and Sandee stand out as the go-to Muay Thai brands for quality gear.
The Legacy of Fairtex
Established in 1971, Fairtex is something of a stalwart in the Muay Thai world. Known for its premium craftsmanship and durability, Fairtex gear is a favourite among professionals, from gloves to shin guards to heavy bags. This is a brand committed to giving you that all-important confidence when stepping into the ring. After all, who doesn't want to brandish gear that has endured nearly as long as some fighters' careers?
Twins Special's Unique Features
Twins Special, set up shop in 1992, has been providing high-density padding and superior leather construction ever since. Comfortable and tough, their gear is celebrated globally. It's the sort of kit that offers uncompromising protection and a snug fit—ideal for clinching and sparring when you want your partner to feel every bit of your might, minus injuries.
Yokkao's Modern Designs
Since its debut in 2010, Yokkao has become synonymous with modern designs crossed with good old Thai craftsmanship. They also tug at your heartstrings with a touch of customisation thrown in for good measure. Sponsoring elite fighters such as Rodtang, Yokkao signals a premium choice for those who don't mind a bit of flash with substance.
Top King's Shock-Absorbent Gear
Come 2009, Top King entered the arena with an impressive range of shock-absorbent gear. Known for balancing mobility and protection, their equipment, including gloves and shin guards, excels in absorbing impacts. Ideal for those who don't quite fancy the idea of limping out of the gym.
Boon Sport's Minimalist Approach
Boon Sport isn't here to wow you with flamboyant designs. Instead, it offers durable, minimalist gear that gets the job done. Handcrafted in Thailand using premium cowhide leather, Boon Sport's gear prioritises functionality—a perfect choice for those who want their punches to do the talking, not their kits.
Primo's Rapid Rise
Launching into the scene in 2020, Primo has quickly made a name for itself through partnerships with fighters such as Jonathan Haggerty. Known for their stylish yet high-performance gloves, they are the new kid on the block that isn’t going unnoticed. Their flair for fashion mixed with functionality is indeed hard to resist.
Venum's Cross-Training Innovation
Venum straddles the fence between MMA and Muay Thai, with gear that carries a bit of both worlds. Known as the official outfitter of the UFC, their designs are dynamic, and their equipment is made for cross-training. A solid pick for those who fancy a bit of wrestling alongside their roundhouse kicks.
Sandee's Reliability in Western Gyms
San Dee, hailing from 1977, offers no-nonsense gear focused on reliability over trends. A staple in Western gyms, Sandee specialises in producing durable gear that won't let you down. It's got that old-school credibility wrapped in a pair of gloves.
Fairtex BGV1 Gloves
The Fairtex BGV1 gloves are quite the favourite for anyone looking for optimal wrist support. They boast a multi-layer foam padding system that's trustworthy whether you're pounding the heavy bag or sparring. A safe bet, these gloves are for fighters who know their craft.
Primo's Trinity Series Shorts
Primo's Trinity Series shorts are lightweight and allow for unrestricted movement, beautifully marrying style and comfort. Their retro cuts are not only about looks; they ensure breathability during those long and sweaty training sessions. A blend of practicality and panache.
Traditional Craftsmanship in Twins Special
Twins Special isn’t just about padding; they have traditional Thai craftsmanship down pat. Their gloves come with extra thumb reinforcement and ventilation, crucial for long sessions where your hands might start feeling like they've been in a sauna.
Yokkao's Premium Line Offerings
Yokkao's premium line comes with advanced shock absorption tech and customizable designs, albeit at a price. It's for those who fancy the idea of bespoke gear that stands out in the crowd, not just on the shelf.
What is the most durable Muay Thai gear brand?
Many would argue that Boon Sport shines when it comes to durability, focusing on craftsmanship with premium cowhide leather that’s built to last.
Which brand is ideal for beginners in Muay Thai?
For beginners, Top King provides an excellent balance of protection and mobility, making it a favourite for novices finding their footing.
Is it worth investing in custom Muay Thai gear?
Custom gear like Yokkao's can be a worthy investment if you value personalisation and have specific needs or preferences not met by off-the-shelf options.
