10 MMA Gear Picks to Kickstart Your Training This Winter

I know how tempting it is to wait until spring to start something new, but winter is actually a great time to begin MMA training. I put together a concise list of ten essentials that cover protection, comfort and value so you can get rolling straight away.

If you’re just starting out I want to help you pick gear that keeps you safe, moves with you and won’t break the bank, so you can focus on building consistency and technique.

Top Category Benefits

• Reliable Impact Protection for Hands, Shins and Head
• Improved Joint Support and Wrist Stability
• Unrestricted Movement to Preserve Technique
• Breathable, Quick-Dry Materials for Longer Sessions
• Good Value Options That Don’t Sacrifice Safety
• Easy Care and Fast Turnaround Between Workouts
• Useful Across Striking, Grappling and Conditioning Work

How I Picked These

I picked items that matter most when you’re starting MMA: protection, fit, durability and value. I looked at verified customer feedback, materials and construction to prioritise gear that protects your hands, head and legs without adding unnecessary cost. I also favoured versatile pieces you can use across boxing, Muay Thai and grappling sessions, and I considered sizing guidance and ease of use so beginners can get set up quickly.

Health Benefits

How to Use Them

These items work across a lot of contexts: bag and pad work, mitt rounds, no‑gi sessions and light sparring. I use the same core pieces for technical drills, conditioning and travelling to classes, simply switching padding or weight depending on the session.

For winter training you can layer baselayers under a hoodie, or pick ventilated pieces when you move indoors.

Durability & Care

Durability usually comes down to material and care. Synthetic leathers and reinforced stitching give long service at a mid price point, while natural or premium synthetics last longer but cost more.

I extend kit life by airing gloves after use, avoiding tumble drying, and checking Velcro and seams regularly. Expect several seasons of regular training from mid‑range gear if you look after it.

Fit and Comfort

Comfort is often the deciding factor for whether you train regularly. I pay attention to fit more than label size: size up on compression tops, try gloves with wraps on, and make sure shin guards don’t cut circulation. Break‑in periods are normal for padding and leather‑like materials, but good ventilation and ergonomic shapes make long sessions far more tolerable.

FAQ

What Gear Should I Buy First

When I started I focused on protection and basics: a good pair of hand wraps, a reliable set of training gloves and a mouthguard. I find the 4.5m RDX hand wraps (about £10.99) give the coverage I need, and a midweight training glove around £32.99 covers bag work and light sparring.

If you’re on a budget you can add shorts or a rash guard later, but I always tell new trainees to prioritise protection and fit before style.

How Do I Choose The Right Size And Fit

I look at how I’ll use each item: for gloves I pick an ounce rating that matches my training—lighter for pad and technique work, heavier for sparring—and try them on with wraps where possible. For rash guards I usually size up if it’s a compression cut, since they can run tight, and for shorts I check the waist and movement rather than just the label. With wraps a 4.5m length gives me flexibility to add layers around knuckles and wrists, and for shin guards I tighten straps so they stay put without cutting circulation.

How Should I Care For And Maintain My Gear

I treat gear like tools: air-dry gloves and mitts after sessions, wipe them out and don’t leave damp items in a kit bag, and wash rash guards and shorts on a gentle cycle. I hand-wash or use a cool cycle for wraps and always air dry to keep elasticity and prevent colour bleed, and I store mouthguards in their case after rinsing.

Small habits like rotating gloves and checking Velcro before washing will help your kit last a lot longer.