Karate and taekwondo protection gear

Mandatory protections and WKF and WT approvals

In sparring, the mandatory protections depend on the discipline, age, and level, and official competitions require approved models. In karate, the World Federation, the WKF, approves the hand guards, foot guards, shin guards, chest protectors, and mouthguards used in kumite. In taekwondo, the federation World Taekwondo, name adopted in 2017 by the former WTF, recognizes the chest protectors, helmets, and limb protections allowed in tournaments. For training, non-approved models are sufficient, as long as they fit well.

The rest of karate and taekwondo

Karate and taekwondo also include:

• Karategi.
• Gloves.
• Belts.
• Accessories.

All the equipment is gathered on the karate and taekwondo page.

The equipment of the kumite karateka

In kumite, the karateka wears hand guards, foot guards, and shin guards, often combined into a removable piece from adidas and Mizuno. The WKF models come in red and blue, the two colors assigned to fighters, aka and ao, so it's often necessary to own both. For women, a chest protection, like the sports bra with cups from adidas or the Kwon Softstyle, is worn under the karategi, along with a suitable shell like the women's shell adidas WKF. The mouthguard completes the set for competition.

The equipment of the taekwondo practitioner

The taekwondo practitioner first wears a chest protector, or hogu, which covers the torso, the main target of kicks. The helmet, such as the adidas or Kwon KSL with visor, protects the head, and the forearm and shin guards from the Kwon Evolution range, recognized by World Taekwondo, absorb blocks and contact. Younger participants add foot guards like the Kwon Anatomic Tiger. At the highest level, the chest protector and foot sensors register valid touches: this is the electronic system used at the Olympics since 2012.

Good deals

Great deals can also be found in good deals, promotions, clearances, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals show the latest collections, and items shipped within 24 hours are prepared and sent out in 24 hours. The highlights of the year happen in a consistent order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the holiday season, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by summer sales and back-to-school.

Frequently asked questions

What size foot guard should I choose for karate?

Choose the size that corresponds to your shoe size in the manufacturer’s guide: the foot guard should cover the top of the foot to the toes without exceeding. If it’s too big, it moves during kicks and exposes the joints.

Is a mouthguard mandatory in combat?

It is required in combat in most karate and taekwondo competitions and strongly recommended for training. A thermoformable model, shaped with hot water, contours the teeth and interferes less with breathing.

How do I clean foam protections?

After each session, take them out of the bag and let them air dry, then wipe the foam with a damp cloth and mild soap. A disinfectant spray helps limit odours, while washing machines may distort the foams.

How do I choose the size of a taekwondo shin guard?

Measure the distance between the bottom of your knee and the top of your foot, then refer to the brand’s guide. The shin guard should stay in place during kicks without hindering the flexing of the knee or ankle.

Is an arm guard useful for training?

Yes, it cushions repeated blocks against kicks, which can quickly mark the forearms. The Kwon Evolution models, recognized by World Taekwondo, are suitable for both club use and competition.