Starting Muay Thai is exciting, but walking into your first class can feel intimidating if you don’t know what to bring. Gloves, wraps, shorts, shin guards… do you really need them all on day one? The truth is, Muay Thai doesn’t require much to get started. But having the right essentials makes training safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable.
This guide breaks down what you must have, what’s optional, and how to make smart choices without wasting money.
The Essentials: What You Should Get First
1) Boxing Gloves
Your gloves protect both your hands and your training partners. For beginners, 12–14oz gloves are ideal, with enough padding for heavy bag work and partner drills. Look for durable leather or high-quality synthetic options. In Singapore’s humidity, breathability, and easy cleaning matter a lot.
Tip: At Evolve MMA, students often start with gloves available at the gym shop, curated so you don’t waste money on low-quality imports.
2) Hand Wraps
Hand wraps are your foundation. They protect the small bones and tendons in your hands and wrists. Cotton wraps (4–4.5m long) are perfect for beginners. Remember to wash them after every class because keeps your gloves fresh too!
3) Muay Thai Shorts
Yes, you can technically train in any sports shorts, but Muay Thai shorts are cut specifically for high kicks and knee strikes. They’re light, comfortable, and allow a full range of motion. Plus, they help you feel part of the culture.
Optional But Worth Considering
Shin guards, mouth guards, and ankle supports become essential as you progress to sparring and partner drills, offering protection and stability.
- Shin Guards: Essential once you start sparring. Beginners can skip these at first, but once drills include shin-to-shin contact, protection is a must.
- Mouth Guard: Not necessary for your very first class, but a smart investment once you do partner drills or sparring.
- Ankle Supports: Helpful if you’re prone to ankle soreness or need extra stability.
Hygiene And Comfort Tips
- Always bring a towel and a water bottle. Training is intense, and you’ll sweat more than you expect.
- Wash your wraps after every use and air out your gloves. Singapore’s humidity makes bacteria grow fast. A glove deodorizer or silica packs help.
- Keep a spare T-shirt in your bag for the trip home!
Do’s And Don’ts When Buying Gear
Do:
- Invest in quality gloves, they last longer and protect better.
- Try on shorts for size and comfort.
Don’t:
- Buy super cheap gloves online, they break down fast and can cause setbacks to your training.
- Splurge on every piece of gear at once. Start simple, upgrade later.
Making It Easy At Evolve MMA
At Evolve, all our academies have world-class facilities and a fully-stocked pro shop. New students don’t need to stress about what to buy or where you can get beginner-friendly gloves, wraps, and shorts on site. Because at Evolve MMA, they’ve been tested by professional fighters and instructors.
And with locations across Singapore right by MRT stations, it’s easy to train without lugging your gear far.
Final Thoughts
Starting Muay Thai should be about learning and having fun, not stressing over equipment. Begin with gloves, wraps, and shorts. Add shin guards and a mouth guard once you’re sparring. Prioritize comfort, hygiene, and durability.
Once you’ve got the right gear, the rest comes down to showing up and training consistently!
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