Martial Artists Deserve Better
Martial artists deserve better. Finding martial arts gear that truly fits women has been, well, a fight of its own. For years, female martial artists have had to make do with gear designed for men, leaving us to wrestle with oversized gloves, uncomfortable fits, and let’s face it uninspired designs. But those days? They’re finally tapping out. A new wave of women-led brands is stepping up, creating gear designed by women who actually understand the needs (and curves!) of female fighters. The result? Gear that’s not only functional but feels like it’s got your back—literally and figuratively. Because let’s face it, punching through glass ceilings is hard enough. We shouldn’t have to compromise on gear, too.
Why Women’s Martial Arts Gear Matters
Anyone who’s dabbled in martial arts knows the importance of having gear that fits well and performs as it should. But for women? That’s often easier said than done. For too long, martial artists like me have had to settle for gear that simply wasn’t made with us in mind. It’s not just a minor inconvenience it can affect performance, confidence, and even safety. Let’s take a closer look at what’s been holding women back and how innovative designers are breaking through those barriers.
Common Issues With Traditional Martial Arts Gear for Women
The martial arts industry has a long history of gearing up for one main demographic: men. While this might work for some, it leaves women scrambling to adapt to gear that wasn’t built for our unique builds and needs. What kind of issues are we talking about? Oh, let me count the ways:
- Ill-fitting gloves: Gloves designed for larger, broader hands can feel like wearing unwieldy oven mitts. They don’t provide the snug grip a woman’s hand needs during sparring or bag work.
- Uncomfortable chest guards: Standard chest guards often fit awkwardly because they were designed with a “one-size-fits-most” mindset. Spoiler alert: One size rarely fits anyone well, especially when it comes to women’s varied body shapes.
- Uniforms and rash guards geared towards men: When sizing is based on a male physique, women either end up swimming in oversized fabric or squeezing into attire that’s too tight in all the wrong places. Not exactly conducive to a high kick or submissions, right?
The lack of gear tailored to women has been such a common grievance that forums like this Reddit thread fuel ongoing discussions about the frustrations women face. What’s clear is that the industry’s oversight isn’t just an annoyance—it’s been a stumbling block for female martial artists striving to perform their best.
The Role of Female Designers in Solving the Problem
Who better to solve the challenges women face in martial arts gear than, well… women? Female-led brands are stepping up to redefine what functionality and inclusivity look like, and their impact is already making waves. With personal experience in martial arts, these designers approach the problem from an insider’s perspective, knowing exactly what women need.
Take, for instance, companies like Alchemize Fightwear, which creates gear for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and beyond. From adjustable waistbands to fabrics that can handle the grit of intense grappling sessions, their designs reflect the reality of combat sports for women. Similarly, Tussle Gear, a woman-owned company, specialises in boxing gloves that provide the perfect balance of comfort, protection, and durability for female fighters.
One of the most exciting aspects of these female-run brands is their dedication to innovation. Instead of retrofitting men’s designs, they’re creating gear from scratch with women in mind. For example:
- Rash guards that don’t bunch or roll up during grappling.
- Chest guards that provide both function and comfort, adapting to different bust sizes.
- Customizable fits, allowing every woman—whether petite, tall, or curvy—to feel properly equipped and supported.
Companies like Wicked Rose deserve a shoutout for not only focusing on the technical aspects of gear but ensuring that it’s stylish too. Wearing gear that fits and looks good? It’s a confidence booster that extends beyond the mat and into every kick, punch, and roll.
This shift isn’t just about better-fitting gloves or more supportive chest guards. It’s an acknowledgment that women martial artists are here to stay and deserve tools that celebrate and elevate that fact. The contributions from these trailblazing female designers are setting a new standard and honestly, it’s about time.
Features to Look For in Women’s Martial Arts Gear
Finding the perfect gear for women in martial arts is no small feat. But when you get the right fit, it feels like magicit moves with you, supports your strikes, and lets you focus on what truly matters: your performance. Let me break down some key features to prioritise when shopping for martial arts gear designed for women.
Fit and Comfort
When it comes to women’s martial arts gear, the fit is king—or should I say queen? No more squeezing into gear that’s too tight or adjusting straps mid-round because everything’s sliding around. Here’s what to look for:
- Different body types, different needs: Women aren’t one-size-fits-all, so your gear shouldn’t be either. Search for brands that cater to a variety of shapes, like those offering petite, curvy, and tall options.
- Flexibility and movement: High kicks, deep stretches, and sudden pivots are standard in martial arts. Gear that restricts movement? Absolute no-go. Look for gear made from flexible fabrics and designs that don’t pinch, pull, or chafe.
- Glove sizing for women’s hands: Larger gloves meant for men’s hands can lead to weak punches and a lack of control. Brands like Society9 gloves deliver smaller, snugger fits ideal for women.
Material Innovations: Sweat-Wicking and Breathable Fabrics
Let’s face it—martial arts training can get sweaty fast. You need gear that works with your body, not against it. Thankfully, advancements in fabric technology have brought us options that keep you cool, dry, and feeling fresh:
- Moisture-wicking fabrics: These specially designed materials pull sweat away from your skin and help it evaporate faster. Think of it like magic for staying dry during marathon sparring sessions. Hayabusa Fightwear integrates this into their suits for top-notch performance.
- Breathable designs: Mesh panels or ventilated sections are a godsend for those long grappling matches. They keep air circulating, so you don’t feel like you’re trapped in a sauna.
- Durable materials: Whether you’re sparring or training on mats, gear takes a beating. Investing in durable, high-grade materials like reinforced stitching ensures your favorite piece won’t fall apart mid-roll.
Adjustability and Support
Support doesn’t only mean protecting your body but also ensuring the gear adapts to you. This starts with designs that take women’s needs seriously:
- Adjustable straps: From gloves to chest guards, gear with customisable straps lets you tweak the fit for ultimate comfort and functionality. No more slipping or constant adjustments when sparring heats up.
- Compression shorts and bras: Compression items are fabulous for minimising muscle fatigue while offering solid support. They’re an essential addition to your martial arts wardrobe.
- Chest guards designed for women: Unisex chest protectors just don’t cut it. Women-specific guards, like those from Athena Fightwear, consider bust size and shape to deliver both protection and comfort.
When you find gear that gets the balance right flexible and functional, supportive yet breathable it can totally transform your experience on the mat. So whether you’re throwing punches, rolling, or perfecting that high kick, make sure you’re equipped with gear that works as hard as you do.
Top Women-Led Martial Arts Gear Brands You Should Know
As martial artists, we know the struggle is real when it comes to finding gear that fits how we fight, feels comfortable, and—let’s be honest—looks pretty awesome, too. Luckily, some women-led brands are throwing their hats (or gloves) in the ring, changing the game for female fighters everywhere. Let’s spotlight a few brands crafting martial arts gear that not only performs but empowers.
Society Nine: Redefining Boxing and MMA Gear
Society Nine isn’t just selling boxing and MMA gear—they’re rewriting the rules. Founded on a mission to empower women and make fight gear accessible without sacrificing style or performance, this brand is all about equipping modern warriors with the tools they need.
What I adore most about Society Nine is their attention to detail. Their boxing gloves, for instance, aren’t just smaller versions of men’s gloves. Designed for smaller hands, they offer a firmer, snug fit that won’t let you down during rounds. Items like their Icon Boxing Gloves and Galea Head Gear perfectly combine clean designs with unbeatable function.
But this isn’t just about gear. Society Nine prides itself on creating a movement of empowerment, celebrating the fight in all of us—inside and outside the gym.
Alchemize Fightwear: Performance With Style
Who says you can’t crush your opponents and channel some flair at the same time? Enter Alchemize Fightwear, the brand that’s bringing personality into BJJ and MMA gear with unapologetically bold designs and superior functionality. Their pieces are more than just eye-catching—they’re crafted to handle the demands of grappling, rolling, and everything martial artists throw their way.
If you’ve ever struggled with rash guards riding up during intense matches, you’ll appreciate how their women-specific rash guards stay put, thanks to meticulous tailoring for female bodies. Their gear, from high-performance spats to compression wear, ensures top comfort with movement in mind. Funky patterns and vibrant hues turn the mats into a canvas where you can dominate and express your individuality. Check out their full lineup here.
Alchemize doesn’t just prioritize aesthetics—they’re redefining what it means to make high-quality female-focused gear. Because, let’s be honest, we’ve deserved this for a while!
Hayabusa: High-Performance Gear for Female Fighters
Looking for the best-of-the-best in fight gear technology? Hayabusa is the brand that’s pushing the limits, blending science and innovation to bring women athletes gear that’s both high-performing and ridiculously durable.
Their compression wear and gloves feature cutting-edge materials designed for peak performance. Their patented tech, like Fusion Splinting and Dual-X Closure systems, ensures wrist alignment and comfort while delivering unbeatable protection. This isn’t just talk—it’s proven gear that countless athletes swear by for both safety and fit.
What sets Hayabusa apart is their total commitment to tailoring technology for female fighters. Their boxing gloves and training equipment provide ergonomic fits while absorbing high impacts, so you can train with intensity and confidence. It’s functionality meets innovation, and it’s exactly what martial artists like us need.
The right gear inspires confidence, improves performance, and just plain feels good to wear. Society Nine, Alchemize Fightwear, and Hayabusa are raising the bar for female fighters everywhere—and for that, my fists are in the air… literally.
Breaking Barriers: The Rise of Women in Martial Arts
Martial arts isn’t just about throwing punches and mastering takedowns—it’s about breaking limits. Women have been doing just that, smashing through stereotypes while leaving their mark in MMA, Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and beyond. Along with their growing impact, the need for martial arts gear that respects and supports their unique needs has soared. It’s no longer just about gear that “works”; it’s about gear that fits, empowers, and performs, just like the women wearing it.
A Growing Presence in Combat Sports
Over the past few decades, women have stepped into combat sports with grit and determination, proving their place in arenas traditionally dominated by men. Who could miss the surge of female fighters competing in MMA events or the increasing number of women winning medals in Jiu-Jitsu championships? From MMA to Muay Thai, women are showing they’re here not just to participate but to dominate.
This growing representation has not only highlighted talent but also exposed gaps in combat gear. Let’s face it, gear designed for men just doesn’t cut it—whether it’s gloves tailored for broader hands or uniforms ill-fitted to women’s bodies. Enter the demand for high-quality, women-specific martial arts gear.
Consider the rise of prominent female fighters like those discussed in The Emergence Of Women In MMA, which underscores how these trailblazers in combat sports push boundaries. Their increasing presence has driven manufacturers to reimagine their designs. Gloves that fit smaller hands snugly during intense rounds? Yes, please! Rash guards that stay put and feel right? It’s no wonder brands are finally stepping up to the challenge.
Game-Changing Moments for Female Fighters
Women in martial arts have had iconic moments that not only shifted public perception but also underscored the need for tailored gear. Let’s take a look at some of these milestones:
- First Women’s MMA Fight in North America (1995): An unforgettable event that marked the start of women being taken seriously in MMA. Such moments sparked conversations about empowerment and proper gear, as documented in Key Milestones in the History of Women’s MMA.
- Creation of Invicta Fighting Championships (2012): A pivotal organization that gave women MMA fighters their own spotlight. With this rise in visibility came demands for more thoughtful gear designs, no longer just “shrunk down” versions of men’s equipment, as noted in The Dynamic History Of Women’s MMA.
- Major Matchups, Like Gina Carano vs. Cris Cyborg (2009): This was more than just a fight; it was a statement that women’s bouts could draw large audiences and, equally importantly, spotlight louder calls for innovation in equipment.
These milestones don’t just document history; they highlight how female fighters have continuously paved the way for others while reshaping the industry’s priorities. It’s not only about entering the ring but about crafting an environment where gear ceases to be a limitation. With the momentum building, more women entering martial arts can do so equipped like the champions they aspire to be.
Women martial artists aren’t demanding the spotlight—they’re earning it, match after match, milestone after milestone. And now, the gear they need to train and compete effectively is beginning to reflect that shift. When you combine a desire to dominate with tools designed to support that drive, the result is nothing short of extraordinary.
Conclusion
Women in martial arts aren’t just reshaping combat sports—they’re redefining the industry from the ground up, with gear that doesn’t just meet the standard but smashes through it. The rise of women-led brands isn’t just about better fitting gear; it’s about claiming space in a world that often forgets to accommodate us.
Wearing martial arts gear designed for women by women isn’t just practical—it’s powerful. It tells you, every time you hit the mat or step in the ring, that this space is yours too. Whether it’s a snug-fitting glove, a rash guard that refuses to roll, or stylish gear that actually feels good, investing in yourself means backing your fight with the right tools.
So, why settle? Explore brands like Society Nine or Alchemize Fightwear, and experience what happens when your gear feels as strong as your punches. What’s your go-to brand for martial arts gear that just gets it? Drop a comment and let’s grow this movement together.
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