Mixed martial arts is not for the faint of heart. It requires you to master a plethora of grappling and striking disciplines, each with its own unique set of challenges. But what many people often overlook is that having the right equipment is just as crucial as having the right technique. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, investing in the best MMA brands can help you take your training to the next level. With so many brands vying for your attention, it can be tough to decide what’s worth your hard-earned money. But fear not! In this article, we’ll be diving into the top MMA equipment brands in the market today, what sets them apart, and why you should consider them.
So, whether you’re looking for the perfect gloves to improve your striking, or a high-quality rash guard to keep you protected during grappling, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to step up your game with the best MMA brands out there!
Welcome to the world of mixed martial arts! As an MMA fighter, you are in for a thrilling ride. But to truly succeed, you need more than just skill and guts. You need the best training equipment and proper nutrition to fuel your body for intense training. In a crowded market of brands vying for your attention, it can be tough to discern the best MMA equipment brands to invest in.
Fear not, as we’ve got you covered! This article will deeply dive into the top 12 brands that every MMA fighter should know about. From Venum to Hayabusa to Revgear Sports, we’ll explore their top offers and why they should be on your radar. So buckle up, grab your gloves, and let’s get started!
Best MMA Brands
1. Bad Boy
It was a tough choice between Bad Boy and Tapout, with the latter being ignored for their recent ignorance of performance wear in favor of fashionable clothing. Moreover, Bad Boy has a history in martial arts going back to its infant years, but it did not start this way. The company started providing apparel for San Diego surfers, skaters, and motocross riders.
Only later, when fighting sports gained popularity, they entered the foray. They would soon release their combat sports lineup. This was done in association with Rickson Gracie, son of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu great Helio Gracie. This was the start of a successful partnership that would take Bad Boy to magazine covers and become a hallmark brand in Brazil.
Bad Boy started with Jiu-Jitsu gi but soon followed it with non-traditional apparel for martial artists. They saw a market gap and started providing equipment that synergized with their standard products. Soon, they offered mouthguards, gloves, and other equipment alongside MMA apparel, shorts, and shirts.
They are one of the few brands that produce equipment and apparel for combat sports athletes. It is easy to say that they are the most recognizable brands in the MMA world, with many UFC and Bellator fighters on their roster.
2. Hayabusa
The organization lends its name from the Japanese word for the peregrine falcon. Hayabusa has had a similar fast trajectory after being founded in 2006. It is one of the more recognizable brands out there and owes its success to its founders’ research and development ethos.
It started with an initial offering of fight gloves, rash guards, and fight shorts, the bare essential tool to get created in training. Based on prior research of founders Ken Clement, Craig Clement, David Zikakis, and Luke Harris, the quality of Hayabusa products allowed them to meet and exceed requirements. They have not let down since and continue to fund research at the University of Waterloo and the University of Cincinnati alongside third-party laboratories.
Their product range includes headgear, boxing gloves, MMA gloves, shin pads, rash guards, BJJ spats, hand wraps, gym bags, strike pads, technical apparel, protective equipment, and coaching equipment for combat sports. They are known for their comfort, durability, and sophistication, making them a choice in training and competitions.
3. Revgear Sports
Revgear has been in the market for over two decades, and they always increase their product catalog. If you are looking for apparel and equipment for your first days on the mat or starting your gym, Revgear has your back. It fulfilled the mission statement of Paul Reavlin when he started the business in 1996.
Reavlin wanted a brand that could be adorned by fighters worldwide, and Revgear does precisely that. Their product lineup proves that the fight game is more than training and matches; but is a way of life.
So, if you need gloves, gi, groin guard, gym bag, headgear, knee pad, elbow pads, MMA gloves, mouth guard, or shin guard, stop by at Revgear. But this is not everything that the company is producing. They have specialized gear for sparring to keep fighters injury-free and soaps and cleaners made with a soldier in mind.
You are clearly mistaken if you think this is all they offer. Besides specialized equipment for MMA, they also cater to boxing, fitness, kickboxing, Krav Maga, Jiu-Jitsu, and Muay Thai practitioners. To top it off, all this was produced in consultation with top fighters and coaches to give the most value to beginners and established athletes.
4. Venum
Franck Dupuis started Venum in 2006, and the rest is history, so much so that this list would not be complete without Venum. The brand replaced Reebok as UFC’s official outfitting partner, a remarkable achievement given its humble roots. From Kurt Angle to Jose Aldo, athletes from different martial arts are sponsored by the organization, and to good effect.
While most of the brands listed before are based out of America, Venum started in Brazil and has made its way globally. It became the go-to brand for grapplers and soon became famous in other martial arts with its gear. They are a versatile brand known for its apparel and MMA equipment. Venum is not confined to Brazil and South America but is popular in Asia, Europe, and North America. It gained notoriety when a complete UFC fight card was adorned in its fighting apparel; so much about making a splash.
Moreover, Venum is not limited to MMA but also produces products for cross-training, boxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, judo, and karate. It includes a range of fine wares for trainers and coaches alike. If you want to stop at one shop and get all your essentials, Venum has you covered.
5. RDX Sports
Across the Atlantic divide, RDX has its roots in England. It is a cheaper alternative to American, Japanese, and Brazilian brands but does not relax in output quality. It is one of the fastest-growing e-commerce-based sports brands in the world and claims to have 200 million satisfied customers.Â
If you are going to the gym, mat, ring, cage, or dojo, RDX can supply you with what you need. They have one of the most diverse product ranges for fighters and even have a special section to indulge youngsters in the sport. RDX has an overwhelming range for its shoppers, exemplified by its gloves range, including fight gloves, sparring gloves, training gloves, bag gloves, kids’ training gloves, and grappling gloves.
It does not stop there with similar variety in punching bags, coaching equipment, protective gear, training equipment, and apparel. RDX provides one with the platform you start your journey and will be with you throughout your journey. Therefore, it is easy to understand why it is famous amongst enthusiasts and upcoming fighters. The brand is linked with Tony’ El Cucuy’ Ferguson.
6. Sanabul
Sanabul prides itself on making professional-grade equipment accessible to everyone. Their product range is complete, and you can almost pick out anything you want. This is why Sanabul is one of the fastest-growing MMA equipment brands.
However, this is not why we chose Sanabul on our list. It is a fact that the brand has everything related to specific apparel for all things MMA and the equipment required to get you started. This is why Sanabul is unique. They have the apparel range of Bab Boy and the equipment range of RDX, and they are the complete package. If you are a newbie, you will find Sanabul products comfortable and last you a lifetime.
With the straight shooter Michael Bisping as their spokesperson, Sanbul is straightforward in their approach. It immediately informs you that they are using alternative materials, not genuine leather. Their research shows that natural cowhide is premium amongst leather products, but for more outstanding performance and durability, it is not the best option. This is why their products are made of performance-engineered synthetic leather, a unique approach in a market of tall claims.
7. Everlast
Everlast made its name in the boxing world. Their gloves have been adorned by the best in the business. With a history of 1910, they are a premier equipment supplier in combat sports. In addition to boxing, their products also make waves in MMA and the fitness world.
Everlast has heritage, but they do not rely on its laurels. The authenticity of their products has allowed them to gain a foothold in the world of MMA and thrive as a result. They are present in 101 countries across six continents and are the go-to for beginners and experienced practitioners.
The American company is now in English ownership, but nothing has changed. The great thing about them is that their offerings are not limited to practice, fight equipment, and fitness. They have their own patented EverDri Technology that keeps you dry and extends the life of your chosen equipment. If you are in the market for a premium product to meet your needs, Everlast should be your choice.
8. Ringside
For the last 50 years, Ringside has supported amateur boxing in the United States. Suffice it to say, when they are a force to reckon with. When the mania for MMA began, Ringside jumped in the arena and used their expertise well. It does not matter whether you are an amateur or professional, a boxer or a practitioner of mixed martial arts; Ringside has got you covered.
Ringside’s gloves are some of the best in the fight game, which is one reason they are famous. However, their comprehensive range of products, including gloves, gear, training equipment, headgear, trunks, and punching bags, set them apart. The fact that they are available at affordable prices and globally is another checkmark in their favor.
Pros prefer Ringside for its cutting-edge technology that includes but is not limited to IMF Tech, Gel Shock, and Dome Air. Couple this with their focus on craftsmanship, and in Ringside, you have an established brand that is worth the money you dispense.
Moreover, Ringside is not a standalone brand but includes world-renowned Heritage, Contender Fight Sports, and Cleto Reyes. While Ringside has a massive range under its umbrella and provides the quality all around, they are known for its boxing gloves and an array of punching bags.
9. Celebrita MMA
A grappling dummy becomes a requirement as you go further in your MMA journey. At this level, a grappling dummy is not supposed to be multi-purposed; it has to fulfill a specific function. This is where Celebrita MMA comes into the picture. They are the leading manufacturer of grappling dummies, and there is a reason for their stature.
Based out of Illinois, Celebrita MMA is unique in its approach to martial arts equipment. Their products are designed for the end consumer’s needs, but this is not where their service ends. The dummies come with detailed descriptions, photos, and sizing charts that maximize users’ productivity. This is why their dupes have carved a name for themselves in the UK, Germany, France, Mexico, and Canada, among other MMA-fanatic destinations.
Not only are their products manufactured with high-quality fabrics, but they also have unique detailing that matches the purpose you are procuring them. Celebrita MMA is famous for its grappling dummies, but its punching bag lineup also makes waves for its versatility and durability. To top it all off, their product lineup is affordable compared to their rivals in the industry.
10. Bestzo
Most brands we discussed started in the equipment business and moved into the apparel segment. This is a logical step, as fans crave clothing more than fight equipment. Bestzo is an anomaly in this regard, and they started in the leather jackets category and moved into the equipment category.
It is a relatively young brand and was only founded in 2016. From producing and selling leather motorcycle jackets and vests, their transition into the MMA world has been swift. Their product offering now includes MMA gloves, punching bags, dummies, and bags. It does not seem they are stopping anytime soon, as one is informed of a new product on their mailing list every other week.
Bestzo’s approach to MMA equipment is unique as it produces specialized products with a minimal footprint. However, they are developing a sound footing amongst the fight world fans, who are gulping down their synthetic leather products. Their jump into the MMA equipment business does make one wonder, from pure leather apparel, that the rise of the sport is undoubtedly financially beneficial.
11. GoldBJJ
If you are rolling on the mats or just ready for a strenuous day of exercising, spats become necessary for your martial arts training. It will help you avoid mat burns and allow a full range of motion while keeping you comfortable. GoldBJJ gets a shout-out from us for their specialized spats.
GoldBJJ does not have an exhausting lineup, but they make up in quality where they lack in quantity. Their spats are made up of a durable, breathable poly blend, and their preference for flatlock stitching ensures that the rows are easy to use. It seems like a product review but is a brand highlight overall.
In addition to their spats, GoldBJJ has a no-gi lineup and produces top-of-the-line headgear at affordable rates. This is not where their involvement in the fighter lifecycle ends; they also have a supplement lineup that puts the user on an accelerated training path. The BJJ PreRoll is excellent for focus and energy, while BJJ PostRoll has proven effective in muscle recovery after exercise. Given their lineup, they are one of the few brands to tackle something of everything in the fight game.
12. Title Boxing
Boxing equipment makers have transitioned into the MMA world. The move is easy and understandable as MMA fighters have similar requirements but with minute differences. This is probably why Title Boxing jumped on the MMA bandwagon and has enriched the sphere with its knowledge and industry.
Title Boxing supplies gloves, protective gear, improvement ware, apparel, coaching equipment, and fitness products. They are not good at one thing but have quality offerings in all, and this is why this upstart, founded in 1998, has become quite popular.
If we are to single them out for excellence in one area, Title Boxing’s protective gear is better than everyone else, especially their range for trainers. The coaches have to take care of themselves, and their chances of injury are high as they have to catch a fighter’s strike. The service this area through punch mitts, body protectors, punch and kick shields, and thigh pads.
Title Boxing has everything that anyone in the fight game might need. They service the fighter and the corner. Such is the versatility at their disposal that they are probably one of the few brands also offering timers and punch counters alongside portable rings to have unofficial scraps anywhere you need them.
Bonus Selection: Shock Doctor
We started our list with an apparel brand indulging in MMA equipment, and it is only fair that we end our highlight reel with a specialist brand. For all your equipment needs, the different brands have you covered and even infringe on Shock Doctor’s territory. However, they do not come close to what they offer.
Shock Doctor specializes in one area and one area alone, mouthguards. They are the undisputed leaders in this niche market segment, and for a good reason. They produce specialized mouthguards for all your needs.
Different sports have different requirements, and Shock Doctor fulfills these needs. In addition to mouth guards, they also produce protective wares for various sports, including but not limited to MMA. They make specialized braces for knees, ankles, back, waist, elbow, shoulder, wrist, calf, shin, and groin. They also have a range of cups and supporters that are comfortable and versatile in their utility. Besides, they also sport fashionable and sporting apparel that fulfills your daily requirements.
To stay injury-free in MMA is a requirement if you are to advance your skill. Shock Doctor is the one brand you can rely upon, as it is your one-stop shop for all your protective needs.
