At 21 Sensations, we don’t just explore new destinations—we immerse ourselves in them. When we landed in Phuket, Thailand, our goal wasn’t just to lounge on the beaches. We wanted to dive deep into local culture, and there’s nothing more authentic than training in the art of eight limbs: Muay Thai. As we moved from gym to gym, testing our endurance and learning from some of Thailand’s most seasoned fighters, we also put the Best Muay Thai Gear to the test. Here’s what held up and stood out.
Why Quality Muay Thai Gear Matters
Muay Thai is a physically demanding sport that pushes your body to its limits. From daily pad sessions to intense sparring rounds, your gear needs to protect, perform, and last. Investing in the best Muay Thai gear is not just about comfort—it’s about safety, efficiency, and making the most of your training.
During our month-long stay in Phuket, we tried multiple brands and styles, and quickly realized that not all gear is created equal. The following are the essentials that made the cut.
1. Best Muay Thai Gloves: Twins Special BGVL3
The moment we walked into our first training session, our coaches recommended Twins Special gloves. The best Muay Thai gear starts with solid gloves, and the BGVL3 model proved to be exactly that. With their robust padding and wrist support, we felt protected even during hard sparring.
The leather construction handled sweat and abuse well, and unlike cheaper alternatives, the gloves retained their shape after weeks of daily use. If you’re looking for the best Muay Thai gear to start with, gloves should be your first investment.
2. Shin Guards: Fairtex SP5
Next up on our best Muay Thai gear list are shin guards. Whether you’re checking kicks or drilling combinations, protecting your shins is critical. The Fairtex SP5 shin guards stood out for their snug fit, secure straps, and lightweight design.
Unlike some bulkier options, these allowed us to move freely while still offering reliable protection. We trained with confidence knowing that our gear could keep up with the fast-paced sessions.
3. Hand Wraps: Top King Cotton Wraps
Hand wraps may seem like a small detail, but they’re vital to injury prevention. We tested several brands and found Top King’s cotton wraps to be the most dependable. Breathable, stretchy, and long enough for full coverage, they quickly became a staple in our best Muay Thai gear lineup.
They withstood daily washes and stayed soft without losing elasticity—something that can’t be said for many budget alternatives.
4. Muay Thai Shorts: Yokkao Carbonfit Series
Style meets function in Yokkao’s Carbonfit shorts. They offered an ideal combination of breathability, lightweight material, and eye-catching design. We wore these nearly every day, and they never felt restrictive during training.
When you’re searching for the best Muay Thai gear, don’t overlook clothing that allows you to move fluidly. These shorts gave us total range of motion while looking sharp—perfect for both beginners and advanced nak muays.
5. Mouthguard: Venum Challenger
A mouthguard is non-negotiable for anyone engaging in sparring. We found the Venum Challenger to offer the right balance of comfort and protection. After boiling and fitting it, it molded well to our teeth and didn’t slip during sessions.
Safety is a huge part of what makes something the best Muay Thai gear, and the Challenger gave us peace of mind without breaking the bank.
6. Ankle Supports: Nationman Ankle Guards
Ankle injuries are common in Muay Thai, especially during the early days of training. We wore Nationman ankle supports daily, and they offered compression without discomfort. Designed by a Thai brand and widely used in local gyms, these were a great addition to our best Muay Thai gear checklist.
7. Gym Bag: Hayabusa Ryoko
To carry all our gear, we needed something durable and spacious. The Hayabusa Ryoko backpack met every expectation. With ventilated compartments, heavy-duty zippers, and enough room for gloves, wraps, and more, it became an indispensable travel companion.
While it may not be traditional gear, a reliable bag deserves a spot on any best Muay Thai gear list, especially for those training abroad.
8. Training Shirts: Under Armour HeatGear
Though not specifically designed for Muay Thai, the Under Armour HeatGear line helped us stay cool and dry in the tropical Phuket heat. The compression fit kept the shirts close to the body without chafing.
When it comes to choosing the best Muay Thai gear, moisture-wicking clothing that can survive two-a-day workouts in 90% humidity deserves mention.
9. Skipping Rope: Thai Made PVC Rope
Every Muay Thai warm-up starts with a jump rope, and the PVC ropes sold in Thai fight shops are some of the best. Lightweight, fast, and inexpensive, they helped improve our cardio and footwork dramatically. For under $10, this piece of equipment became one of the most essential parts of our best Muay Thai gear experience.
10. Oil and Liniment: Namman Muay
Though not “gear” in the traditional sense, Namman Muay oil and liniment are staples in Thai gyms. Applied before and after training, they helped us recover and reduce muscle soreness. No best Muay Thai gear setup is complete without this locally loved formula.
Final Thoughts: Train Smart, Train Safe
Phuket gave us not just a deeper appreciation for Muay Thai, but a firsthand understanding of what quality gear can do for your performance and safety. Whether you’re heading to Thailand or training at home, investing in the best Muay Thai gear will enhance your experience and protect your body.
From gloves and shin guards to the smallest accessories, every item we mentioned was tried, tested, and trusted. This isn’t theory—it’s lived experience.
Let 21 Sensations guide your journey through authentic travel and real experiences, one kick at a time. If you’re gearing up for your own Muay Thai adventure, start with the best Muay Thai gear—because what you wear shapes how far you go.
