Boxing, jiu-jitsu, and MMA are wonderful ways to keep kids active and involved in an activity they can enjoy throughout their lives.
Parents want their kids to train hard, try their best, and above all, stay safe.
Securing the proper fight gear is the first place to get started, and it’s essential that it all fits just right.
Ill-fitting gear can quickly lead to injuries and discomfort before the real battle on the mat even begins.
This kids’ combat sports gear checklist breaks down every training essential and how to size each just right to keep kids protected so they can fight with confidence.
Youth Boxing Gloves: Weight, Wrist Support & Fit
Size makes a difference when it comes to boxing gloves. Adult sizes weigh more and are too large to give kids the protection needed to punch and defend themselves.
Instead, stick with kids MMA gloves weighing between 4 oz. - 8 oz. depending on each child’s age and class level.
The smaller sizes will be better form-fitting to the hands for a secure fit. Additionally, youth boxing gloves offer softer, multi-layer foam to better absorb punches and keep knuckles well-protected.
And, with Hayabusa’s signature technology, boxing gloves designed for young fighters are equipped with the same unmatched Dual-X™ wrist closures the adult sizes are known for, to keep wrists aligned and protected with every punch.
Hand Wraps & Quick‑Gel Alternatives
Hand wraps are also an essential part of a kids’ boxing set. They provide an extra layer of protection and promote hand alignment before slipping on a pair of boxing gloves.
Hayabusa’s Quick Gel Hand Wraps are easy to slip on and off, making for a convenient alternative to traditional hand wraps with the perfect amount of stretch, support, and security.
Head Protection: Headgear & Mouthguards
In addition to the hands and wrists, it’s crucial to protect the head during boxing or any other combat sport.
Ensure youth boxing headgear has full cheek coverage without blocking vision. The top of the headgear should reach just below the browline, though it’s best to measure the head for exact size chart matching.
Meanwhile, a kid’s boxing set should include a mouthguard to keep teeth, jaws, and tongue comfortably protected, especially as kids start sparring with each other.
Shin & Instep Guards for Kick‑Focused Classes
For kids who take part in kickboxing, karate, or other kick-focused combat sports, shin and instep guards add coverage for sensitive areas.
Lightweight, protective foam padding prevents the equipment from being too heavy for smaller legs. Whereas, adjustable Velcro straps make it easy to put on and won’t scratch sparring partners.
Punching Bags: Height & Fill Weight
Training with a heavy bag can be intimidating for a first-time youth boxer.
Therefore, ensuring an optimal height of a punching bag kids can reach will make it more comfortable for them to practice their punches.
Additionally, when choosing a boxing bag for home gym use, a water base is easier to move since it can be drained and refilled as needed.
Hayabusa S4 Youth Epic Boxing Gloves
Hayabusa Hexagon Youth Fight Shorts
Hayabusa Geo Youth Rash Guard
Hayabusa Geo Youth Jiu Jitsu Spats
Care & Growth‑Spurt Upgrade Timeline
Lastly, part of learning boxing or MMA is honoring the discipline itself. This
includes teaching kids how to respect themselves and their opponents, as well as their gear and equipment.
Get them in the habit of wiping down their boxing gloves and shin guards after every session to keep them in good shape and ready for the next fight.
And, as they grow, they may require larger boxing gloves and head protection, so it’s best to evaluate the fit every six to nine months to ensure it still meets their coverage and comfort needs.
Start Their Journey Strong with the Right Fit
As you go through the checklist of what your kids need for combat, securing kids' combat sports gear keeps training safe, fun, and frustration‑free.
From youth boxing gloves to gel hand wraps and headgear to shin guards, explore Hayabusa’s lineup of kids' boxing sets so they can enter their next class with confidence.
