Karate gloves and taekwondo mitts

Fingerless gloves, not boxing gloves

In karate and taekwondo, thin fingerless gloves are worn, which cover the back of the hand and the knuckles while leaving the fingers free. In karate, the fight, or kumite, is based on controlled techniques: the strike must be delivered with precision, without trying to knock the opponent out. The gloves protect both fighters from contact, without removing the feeling of the hit.

The rest of the equipment

Karate and taekwondo also include:

• Karategi.
• Belts.
• Protective gear.
• Accessories.

All of karate and taekwondo can be found on the karate and taekwondo page.

WKF and WT approval

In competitions, the protective gear must be approved by the international federation. In karate, the WKF gloves, from the World Karate Federation, like the adidas WKF or Wacoku, are either red or blue, matching the fighter's belt. Some include a thumb guard, such as the adidas with TH or the Wacoku, which prevents thumb sprains. In taekwondo, the approved WT gloves, from World Taekwondo, like the Kwon, are used with the electronic protective gear of competitions.

Size and care

The gloves are chosen based on hand size, from XS for children up to XL: they should cover the knuckles without slipping or being too tight, with the Velcro closure at the wrist properly adjusted. For club training, karate gloves Mizuno or Kwon Competition, for karate and jiu-jitsu, are sufficient. It's important to check the rules of your competition, as requirements vary by age category. After the session, air out your gloves, wipe them with a damp cloth, and avoid leaving them in a bag that is closed.

Great deals

Good deals can also be found in good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new products showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24h are prepared and sent out within 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the end-of-year holidays, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by the summer sales and back-to-school season.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between karate gloves and boxing gloves?

Karate gloves are thin and leave the fingers free for gripping and controlling, as karate fighting is based on controlled techniques. The boxing glove, thick and closed, is designed to absorb heavy and repeated strikes.

Why choose gloves with a thumb guard?

The thumb guard prevents sprains when the thumb catches on an elbow or the sleeve of a kimono during an exchange. It reassures beginners and children, and can be found on adidas WKF or Wacoku gloves.

Why are competition gloves red and blue?

In karate and taekwondo competitions, each fighter wears the colour of their corner, red or blue, so that referees can distinguish them. Thus, WKF or WT approved gloves are available in these two colours.

What size gloves should I choose for a child?

You should choose based on the hand circumference or the age range indicated by the brand: the glove should cover the knuckles without slipping or compressing the hand. If too large, it will rotate on the hand and poorly protect the wrist.

How can I avoid bad smells in my gloves?

Let them air dry after each training session, never leaving them inside a bag, and wipe the inside with a damp cloth. A disinfectant spray for combat gear limits the bacteria responsible for smells.