How to choose the right helmet for boxing. How to choose the best boxing helmet for sparring

Boxing is a traumatic sport, and every part of the athlete's body needs reliable protection. This is especially true for the head. We can say that the head is the most defenseless place, since the cranium is covered with a thin layer of skin, and the cartilaginous muscles of the ears and nose are very brittle. In addition, the arches of the eyebrows and the human brain itself are endangered, which even a strong skull cannot protect during a strong blow. Therefore, all athletes involved in boxing must have a boxing helmet. And how to choose a boxing helmet, we will tell further ...

For training, boxers need a reliable and practical helmet, which is a mandatory element of protective equipment.

The helmet has a very important task, which consists in two important positions:

the first is to provide good protection to the most vulnerable areas of the head.
the second is to provide comfort and good visibility for the boxer in the ring.

How to choose a helmet for boxing?

Which boxing helmet is right for me? How do you know which type will be the most comfortable and practical during training in the ring? These are the questions every beginner boxer asks himself. And you need to answer them based on the main characteristics of the boxing helmet and its existing varieties.

Types of boxing helmets

Consider the main types of boxing helmets and their key features.

Boxing helmets for competitions

The main task of such an outfit element is to be used in competitions and various kinds of boxing tournaments. The boxing helmet is characterized by a maximum degree of visibility, does not have protection for the cheeks, chin, and also does not have a bumper. A boxing helmet must have a fastener under the chin. Such protective elements are produced only in red or blue. They are approved by AIBA, and there are also boxing helmets without approval.

Training helmet (Mexican style)

Such protective elements were first used in Mexico, their purpose was to protect the head from blows during hard training, as well as during the preparatory stages before fights.
"Mexican" helmets stand out from the rest in that they have wide pads in the cheek area, a narrow slit for the eyes, and a strong fastener on the chin. A "Mexican-style" helmet is great for protecting your eyes, nose, and all the weak spots on your head from hard impacts at the same time. The only drawback is the lack of a protective zone for the chin, and then when striking in this part of the face, the jaw may also suffer.

Boxing helmet with full protection

This is a regular model of a boxing helmet, complemented by protective pads in the cheek and chin area. Due to the protection of the chin, it is possible to absorb the impact force, reduce the risk of injury to the jaw, as well as lips and teeth. It should be borne in mind that a boxing helmet with full protection when hit by a strong blow only protects the head by 60 percent, but micro-concussion can occur.

Boxing helmet with bumper

The main feature of this type of helmet is that it has a perpendicular protective bar for the face area. In addition, the use of such a helmet helps to protect the nose, eyes and chin. The only drawback of the outfit item is a small view from below.

Choosing a boxing helmet by size

To accurately determine the correct size of a boxing helmet, you need to take a centimeter tape and circle it around the circumference of your head on the forehead line. Thus, it is possible to obtain the circumference of the head to correlate with size chart helmets and correctly indicate the appropriate size.

Outcome:

Choosing a boxing helmet is an important and responsible task. First you need to determine for yourself the ultimate goal of its use. If you will participate in amateur competitions, then it is best to buy a helmet with good reviews and chin strap. If boxing is your hobby and you have a lot of contact with people at work, but you don't want them to see your cuts and bruises, your best bet is to buy a "Mexican-style" or bumper helmet. Professional boxers choose a helmet in a classic Mexican style for their workouts.

When choosing a boxing helmet, remember one thing Golden Rule– it does not guarantee 100% protection during the training of striking techniques. Even the most expensive, thick and durable helmet is not able to protect the wrestler's head from missed blows.

Only absolute concentration on one's own movements and on the movements of the opponent, only a good reaction and keeping the correct distance from the opponent, only one's own skills and abilities in boxing can ensure maximum safety and protection for the boxer in the ring.

Of course, as part of protective equipment, a helmet plays an important role, and it is mandatory for wearing not only for beginners, but also for professionals. In a helmet, the force of a missed blow is softened by up to 50 percent, in addition, dissection of the superciliary arches or the frontal region can be avoided. Wearing a boxing helmet in training is to ensure good protection and safety for your ears, to prevent fractures of the cartilaginous muscles, and also to save your hearing organ from rupture of the eardrum.

The most important thing is to buy a boxing helmet made of genuine leather, and with a fabric lining inside, so that it doesn’t drip into your eyes, but is absorbed into the fabric. Now such products cost from 4000 thousand rubles. You should not consider cheaper options, as they will not meet your expectations regarding protective features.

When you spar, whether it's boxing or MMA, it's important what kind of helmet you wear to protect your face from abrasions and bruises. While cuts, abrasions, swelling, and bruising can occur even with headwear, this is far less likely. The sportgo.com.ua online store has compiled a list of the top 10 best boxing helmets, based on information from the best equipment manufacturers, reviews of professional athletes and coaching staff.

10. Ringside Master's Competition Headgear

Comfort: 7.2
Overall Protection: 7.6
Durability: 7.6
Average: 7.6

Great helmet for the money. Equipped with a good and thick layer of padding, which is even increased by one layer next to the nose (a rare trait for a boxing helmet). Unfortunately, this type of protection is a bit arbitrary, because the extra layer near the nasal septum can also be a disadvantage, which limits peripheral vision fighter. A comfortable fit due to the correct anatomical design makes it very comfortable and reliable for long-term wear.

9. TITLE Platinum Training Headgear

Value for money: 8
Comfort: 7.4
Total defense: 8
Durability: 7.6
Average: 7.75

The TITLE Platinum Headgear is well made and easy to adjust. The all-leather construction means that a significant portion of the applied force is dissipated on the surface, with the remainder being in a softer material that will take the brunt of the impact. It has easy way fit, fixed with straps and Velcro, also equipped with a large layer of filler that effectively performs its task. An excellent choice, suitable for all types of martial arts. Unfortunately, the Platinum series is not approved by AIBA, meaning you will need another headgear for strictly boxing tournaments.

8. Hayabusa Tokushu Headgear

Value for money: 7.4
Comfort: 8
Overall protection: 7.8
Durability: 8
Average: 7.8

It is unlikely that the Hayabusa Tokushu will be your first helmet because it is not cheap compared to even the top competitors. Colorful design, excellent fit, which is adjustable with Velcro on the back of the head, makes the helmet very comfortable and reliable in training. Good visibility and light weight are two more pluses that can be added to the asset of this product. As the manufacturer himself says, "with prolonged wear, you can even forget about it." If you're willing to pay the extra money, then you certainly won't be disappointed and make sure the Hayabusa Tokushu series is worth it.

7. Everlast C3 PROFESSIONAL SPARRING HEADGEAR

Value for money: 7.8
Comfort: 8
Total defense: 8
Durability: 7.8
Average: 7.9

The popular C3 Foam filler, which is used in Everlast ammunition, has excellent cushioning properties and will perfectly protect your head from heavy blows. Fully leather shell withstands long-term loads, does not deform. The special lining inside and the Everdri technology provide breathability and comfort during perspiration. Ear protectors protect side part heads. The helmet is fixed with Velcro at the bottom and at the back of the head, as well as with laces at the top. Every athlete should try this boxing helmet at least once. Note: helmet without chin guard.

6. Rival Traditional Training Headgear

Comfort: 7.6
Overall Protection: 7.6
Durability: 8
Average: 8.05

This old school design from Rival guarantees a clean and high quality result without a colorful design. The case is made from 1.0mm thick calfskin leather, which has an incredibly long lifespan. The polyurethane foam filler protects the head reliably. The helmet has an extra layer of foam on the forehead and cheeks. The suede inner lining is soft, stretchy and water resistant, very comfortable and durable. The headgear is securely fastened with adjustable strap closures at the back and an adjustable leather chin strap. Suitable for all athletes.

5. Twins HGL-6 boxing helmet

Value for money: 9
Comfort: 8
Total defense: 8
Durability: 8.4
Average: 8.325

The production of protective ammunition Twins is located in Thailand, where Thai boxing is widespread, and high safety standards are simply necessary for athletes. 100% handmade, this helmet is very durable and effective in terms of protection. External and inner part made entirely of genuine leather, which has high performance and impressive wear resistance. Equipped with a chin guard, fixed with Velcro on the back of the head. A popular model among all types of contact martial arts.

4. Fairtex Super Sparring Headguard

Value for money: 9
Comfort: 9
Total defense: 8
Durability: 8
Average: 8.5

The Fairtex Super Sparring Headguard is designed for Muay Thai sparring which may involve elbow strikes - so it is important to have a helmet that provides adequate cheek, chin and ear protection. Super Sparring by Fairtex is one of the best head protectors during a fight. It ensures that you are completely covered, provides excellent visibility, and at the same time offers unrivaled comfort. If you want a good helmet and good visibility, this is a great option.

3. TITLE Gel World Full-Face Training Headgear

Comfort: 9
Total defense: 8
Durability: 8
Average: 8.75

TITLE makes some of the best boxing products on the planet and this headgear is no exception. Gel liner and multi-layered polyurethane foam offer the highest degree of protection and fit for your head. It is made of genuine leather that guarantees long service life. It has close-fitting cheeks to protect your nose, as well as a chin bar. Massive ear protectors will protect your ears from enemy blows. Used by many professional athletes during the training process.

2. Cleto Reyes Cheek Protection Headgear

Value for money: 10
Comfort: 8
Overall Protection: 8.6
Durability: 10
Average: 9.15

Made in Mexico with cowhide leather and latex foam inside, the Cleto Reyes Boxing Helmet features an anatomically correct three-point design that secures with a drawstring at the chin, velcro at the back of the head, and laces at the crown. This provides good protection for the cheeks, temples and forehead. The 3-point system means you can customize it to suit you in every way, visibility and safety. Chin and lower jaw remain vulnerable, so if this is a problem for you, look for a helmet of a different model.

1. Boxing helmet Winning FG-2900

Value for money: 9
Comfort: 10
Total defense: 10
Durability: 10
Average: 9.75

Winning is made in Japan and is known to be one of the best brands in boxing - and the most expensive. Winning gloves are well known for providing the best possible fit and hand protection. This is something to consider if you are a serious puncher.

The helmet of this model is used by pros in training - and for good reason. It is super light - only 270 grams - and very comfortable. It feels like you're not wearing anything at all. The level of safety here is very solid for such a lightweight helmet. The only “but”: protection in the back of the head is minimal! This is the lightest boxing helmet ever made and is highly valued by top fighters. An important fact is that this helmet is made of leatherette, but, nevertheless, it takes a well-deserved first place in our rating.

Every boxer must do his best to avoid brain injury. There are many people who will argue that a helmet only protects against cosmetic damage to the face, but cannot cushion the force of an impact. There may be some truth in this, but helmets are still necessary in boxing - they reduce the risk of serious injury, and in some cases can even save lives.

In the martial arts section?

Great! Congratulations! You almost voluntarily signed up to receive a lot of the strongest punches and kicks.

And how did you want? hard sport educates .

Okay, don't be scared! In the training sessions themselves, athletes do not work at full strength.

Either way, you can minimize the impact. Here are some recommendations:

The last point is an important link to ensure security. In general terms, a lot has already been written and said about equipment. But today I have prepared a review for you best models helmets for boxing and kickboxing.

Why do you need a helmet?

The brain is the main control organ of the human body. And one of the most vulnerable. Therefore, when starting boxing or kickboxing, take care of protecting your head from blows.

This includes the helmets that I have experienced throughout my kickboxing career. And now they protect me from uncontrolled blows of my students)))

What kind of helmet do you need for boxing and kickboxing, so that you definitely won't regret your purchase?

My best choice and site opinion are helmets from TOP TEN. Namely, the models FIGHT , AVANTGARDE And FULL PROTECTION .

Let's see what they are!

All three models are made of synthetic rubber, namely absorbent material bayflex. Manufacturing technology of helmets made of polyurethane foam brand Wowflex patented for TOP TEN. And this allows us to produce the best helmets for boxing and kickboxing, with virtually no worthy competitors.

Bayflex® has high impact resistance and flexibility - even in extremely cold conditions. Because of their superior cushioning properties, Bayflex® helmets are great at absorbing punches and kicks. Experimentally proven ability to withstand up to 100.000 the strongest blows.

In addition, such helmets are very light, comfortable and have excellent hygiene indicators - antibacterial protection, do not absorb moisture, are easy to clean, do not cause allergies.

As you can see, all three leaders are made of the same material. The differences lie in design features, i.e. in the design of the helmets themselves. What determines their use, convenience, security and, of course, the price!

The first model was born TOP TEN “ FIGHT” .

And my first acquaintance with TOP TEN came from the FIGHT boxing helmet. I can't express the feeling when I fought for the first time in this helmet. After using an old boxing helmet without the manufacturer's emblem, putting on a helmet from TOP TEN was like changing from a Zhiguli to a Ferrari!

Don "Dragon" Wilson (ten-time world kickboxing champion) has a favorite helmet of the same model, which he used throughout his career as a professional kickboxer.

His helmet is a little worn, but still fit for duels!!!

kickboxing helmet TOP TEN “ AVANTGARDE” is a modern rebirth of the “FIGHT” model. Design improvement provides more reliable protection and excellent comfort for the fighter.

There are several innovations:

9 holes in the helmet contribute better ventilation and reduce sweating.
Enhanced ear protection.
Reinforced frontal part of the helmet.
Improved head protection

Ideal for competitions and training in boxing and kickboxing. The choice of most athletes!

The latest model from our review is TOP TEN “ FULL PROTECTION” .

In training, you study and practice new strikes, their combinations,. In doing so, you run a huge risk of missing punches to the head. And here you need maximum protection of the head.

Helmet TOP TEN “ FULL PROTECTION” adapted for use in complex and hard sparring. In the design of the helmet, special attention is paid to the protection of the chin, cheeks, ears and forehead.

But, despite this, convenience, comfort and good audibility have been preserved!

Summing up, I want to say that all three models deserve their place among your sports equipment. Of course, you don't have to buy all three at once. Just choose one - the one!!!

What to buy for a young boxer? How to care for sports equipment to serve for a long time? You will find answers to these questions in our article.

Boxing equipment includes:

sportswear: t-shirt/shirt, shorts/trousers, sneakers/boxers;
boxing gloves;
protection: boxing helmet, cap, "shell", brace, bandages;
accessories.

Sports uniform

T-shirt/T-shirt and shorts/pants

A boxer moves a lot in the ring, and nothing should hinder movement, so the shirt and shorts should be loose. It might be better to buy 1 size up. Boxers are not engaged in a tight fit, as you need to be dexterous and change position abruptly, and tight clothing makes it difficult to move.

When choosing shorts, pay attention to the belt, which performs protective and supportive functions. He must be. The length of the shorts is to the knee. The material repels moisture, cotton in this case will not work. Now the preference is given to polyester.

Care. Wash the boxing uniform with a special powder designed for sportswear. Do not dry the form in an active sunny day, as it may lose color. If you have any concerns about the condition of your sportswear, choose a delicate cycle or wash them by hand in cold water. Hot water can ruin the structure of the fabric, and this will affect its qualities.

Boxers / sneakers

For this sport, special shoes were invented - boxers. They differ from ordinary sneakers in their special sole made of dense rubber. Boxers should fit snugly to the foot, but do not press or rub. The top is mesh, leather or just made of dense matter. The length is from the ankle to the calf muscle. This is a matter of taste or convenience.

The most important feature of shoes is comfort and ease of movement around the ring. Boxing shoes are rarely used because they don't fit snugly around the foot. The sole is lighter and glides over the surface, which creates the possibility of falling or.

Care. The simplest principle is to look at the washing rules on the label. When buying, find out if shoes can be washed, how to do it, at what temperature. You need to dry sports shoes at room temperature with paper stuck inside so that the boxers do not lose their shape. Do not dry with a hair dryer, as sport shoes does not like hot air.

Boxing gloves

Types of gloves

There are several types of boxing gloves used for different occasions:

Professional. The heaviest, the athlete puts them on for competitions. They come with a lacing to ensure a secure fit.
Training gloves that are already lighter.
Projectile gloves are designed for practicing hitting a pear or bag. They fit snugly to the hand, can go with Velcro.

Glove weight

The weight of boxing gloves is measured in ounces. The minimum weight is 4, the maximum is 22 ounces. Gloves are selected based on the weight of the athlete.

Size

The size of the palm, measured in the center, is taken as the basis. Based on the length, a glove is selected.

Material

Gloves are made of genuine leather. There is a cheaper option - leatherette. On the wrist are fixed either with Velcro or with lacing.

Filler

The most modern material for filling boxing gloves is foam polymer foam. It does not lose its structure from numerous blows. Depending on the manufacturer, homogeneous or multi-layer polymer foam is used. The first option is cheaper than the second.

Fixation

Dear readers, if you see an error in our article, write to us about it in the comments. We will definitely fix it. Thank you!

If you decide to buy a boxing helmet, you do not need to explain what it is for. So, let's get down to business. When choosing a boxing helmet, it is recommended to be guided by the criteria below.

Convenience

You must feel comfortable in protective gear, it is very important point! Sparring is already a stressful situation for the body, you should not be distracted, annoyed or inconvenienced by anything. High-end boxers often sacrifice more protection for comfort, as speed and a calm, relaxed state provide more safety than an uncomfortable, higher-protection helmet.

Comfort refers to how the helmet sits on the head. Some boxing helmets are tight around the forehead or put pressure on the back of the head, it happens that the helmet slides on the head or even dangles freely. Some helmets fit unevenly to the head, leaving an empty space between the inside of the helmet and the head, and they move in a "figure of eight" pattern when an opponent manages to hit your head. Sometimes the problem of helmet rotation on the head is caused by a smooth lining, which becomes very slippery when wet with sweat. In such cases, the helmet rotates on the head with each hit, which directly affects safety - a boxer deprived of vision misses additional blows.

Another important detail of comfort is the chin rest. Used in boxing helmets different types chin locks. The lock should not cause inconvenience, while securely fixing the helmet.

A very important point is the weight of the helmet. The lighter your helmet is, the more comfortable it will be to work in.

Review

The maximum degree of protection is very important, but it is difficult to defend against blows that you cannot see. Even if you still miss a lot of punches, it is very important to see them - because it allows you to use defensive actions - diving, slipping, pulling.

The field of view of a boxing helmet can be limited by protective protectors in the cheek area, a protrusion of a protective filler in the frontal part of the helmet, a bumper at the bottom of the helmet, sometimes in helmets with a very thick filler, the padding limits the field of view to the left and right of the eyes.

Protective filler

The protective functions of a boxing helmet depend not only on its geometry, but also on the protective properties of the filler. An effective filler absorbs impact energy of various strengths, dispersing the damaging force over the area. The filler of helmets is a rather complicated issue, it happens that an overly soft helmet makes weak blows almost imperceptible, but breaks through with a strong hit. To find out how effectively a particular helmet will dampen impact energy is possible only in a combat situation. Therefore, study reviews and reviews of specific helmet models.

Execution quality

The quality of the helmet depends not only on its appearance, but also how long the packing will retain its protective properties, whether it will break through after a few months of use. Special attention attention should be paid to the quality of the fasteners or Velcro of the chinstrap, and other fittings responsible for fitting and adjusting the helmet on the head. Also pay attention to the quality of the helmet shell. Usually high-quality boxing helmets are made of genuine leather, the seams on them are neat and durable.

Degree of protection

Boxing helmets cover the following parts of the head and face: forehead, temples, cheeks, cheekbones, chin, back of the head, ears. Different helmets provide different options for covering these parts.

It can be conditionally divided into five categories:

1. Helmet with full face protection

As a rule, such a helmet represents a strange symbiosis between a boxing and a hockey helmet. It is not recommended to use it for several reasons. Firstly, this helmet only creates the illusion of complete protection. Any element made of plexiglass or iron with strong blow might get stuck in your face. Secondly, it is unlikely that anyone will want to spar with you, since it is very easy to damage the gloves on the visor.

2. Bumper type helmets

Provide maximum protection for the head and face of the athlete. Such helmets are very common in the country where boxing is most popular - in the USA. Many stars train in helmets with bumper protection professional boxing. We recommend looking at helmets of this type, if only for this reason. Inside the helmet with bumper protection contains a rigid element - a frame. As a rule, it is made of plastic or metal. The protruding bumper is well suited for people with a problem or just a big nose. Also, such a helmet reliably covers the forehead, temples, cheekbones. If you work in an office or are just not ready to walk around with bruises under your eyes, this helmet is for you.

The disadvantage of helmets of this type can be attributed to a limited view. The bumper protruding in front of the nose reduces visibility from below, especially at close range.

3. Helmets with cheekbone and chin protection

At first glance, these are helmets with a high degree of protection and good visibility. But, as you know, the devil is in the details. Thanks to the jaw protection, this helmet is very difficult to adjust. The height of the head is different for all people, and there is no adjustment in this direction.

Many boxers complain that the padding on the chin makes it difficult to take correct stance lowering the chin down. Also, the slightly protruding jaw protection is an additional leverage. According to many boxing experts and sports medicine, hitting this very lever increases the degree of traumatic effect on the brain. This is why people fall on the canvas of the ring even with a relatively weak but accurate hit to the chin.

4. Amateur helmets

For competition or open type helmets. Until recently, such helmets were a mandatory attribute of any competition in Olympic boxing. The only advantage of these helmets is excellent visibility.

Protection in such helmets is mostly just for show. Fully open face and very thin layer of filler on the forehead and temples. In general, helmets for an amateur or more for psychological protection.

5. Mexican style helmets

One of the most popular types of helmets in the world. They are used by almost all top boxers, alternating them with bumper-type helmets. These helmets cover the forehead, cheekbones, nose (mainly from side impacts), temples and the back of the head. As a rule, such helmets have three levels of adjustment: fixing Velcro or lacing in the back of the head, lacing in the upper part, adjustable chin lock.

Successful models of helmets of this type combine a high degree of protection with comfort and lightness, they are great for training boxers and athletes of most martial arts.

conclusions

When choosing a helmet, it is best to try it on yourself, listen to your feelings, evaluate the review and other criteria described in this article. If you don’t have the opportunity to do this, and we know that not all large cities of Russia have shops with decent equipment, what can we say about cities with a population of less than 100,000 people, you can see what boxers train in high level and look for similar helmets in reliable online stores. Before buying, it would be useful to study reviews and reviews about specific models, listen to the advice of a trainer.

You only have one head, so buy the best boxing helmet you can afford once you start sparring seriously.