Top 9 Best Boxing Headgear

Best Boxing Headgear for Beginners: Sanabul Essential MMA Boxing Kickboxing Head Gear

Best Boxing Headgear for Advanced Fighters: Winning Headgear Fg5000

Best Boxing Headgear for Fighters on a Budget: Ringside Competition Boxing Headgear with Cheeks

Good quality headgear is essential to protect you from head injuries when you’re boxing. But with so many options out there, you can feel overwhelmed. With over 18 years of experience in martial arts, I’ve made this list of the best and most popular headgear on the market.

Table of Contents

Winning Headgear Fg5000 – Unmatched Excellence with a Price Tag
Cleto Reyes Traditional Headgear – Stellar Quality in a Classic Package
Title Boxing Leather Sparring Headgear – Great Comfort and Protection
Ringside Competition Boxing Headgear with Cheeks – Your Entry Ticket to Boxing
Sanabul Essential Boxing Head Gear – Versatile Protection for Your Combat Journey
Everlast Everfresh Head Gear – Your Trusty Companion in the Ring
MaxxMMA Headgear – Affordable Quality in the Ring
RDX Boxing Headgear Maya Hide Leather – Total Protection in the Ring
Hayabusa T3 Boxing Headgear Adjustable – Elegant and Functional
Venum Elite Headgear – A Flashy Design Package
1. Should You Wear Headgear in Boxing?
2. Advantages of Headgear
2.1. Protects the Nose and Chin
2.2. Reduces Bruising
2.3. Helps Prevent Cuts
3. Disadvantages of Headgear
3.1. Reduces Range of Vision
3.2. Creates a Larger Target
3.3. Creates a False Sense of Security
4. Does Headgear Prevent Concussions?
5. Why You Should Wear Headgear When Sparring
6. Types of Boxing Headgear
6.1. Full-Face Boxing Headgear
6.2. Open-Face Boxing Headgear
6.3. Boxing Headgear with Cheek Protection (Mexican-Style Headgear)
7. Things To Consider When Buying Headgear
7.1. Material
7.2. Padding
7.3. Coverage and Visibility
7.4. Comfort and Fit
7.5. Size and Weight

Winning Headgear Fg5000 – Unmatched Excellence with a Price Tag

Let’s talk about the creme de la creme of headgear, the Winning Headgear FG5000. Now, if you’re in the world of combat sports, you’ve probably heard the name Winning echoing through the halls of excellence since their establishment back in 1937. These guys are renowned for crafting some of the most elite gear in the business, and the FG5000 Headgear is a shining testament to their legacy.

When it comes to absolute protection and supreme comfort, you’re stepping into the big leagues with this headgear. It’s not just good; it’s outstanding. In fact, it’s right up there with the undisputed champions of boxing headgear on the market today.

Let’s break it down:

  1. Built Like a Fort: The FG5000 boasts a front nose bar, wide face holes that offer stellar visibility, and thick cushioning that’ll make you feel like you’re floating on a cloud of protection. This combination ensures your Winning FG5000 will stand the test of time while safeguarding you from the fiercest of boxing punches.
  2. Featherweight Champion: Weighing in at a mere 0.9 pounds, this headgear is as light as a feather. You won’t even notice it’s there, allowing you to focus entirely on your sparring without any annoying distractions.

But, and here’s the heavyweight punch in the gut, the one thing you can’t dodge is the price. Winning gear, as stellar as it is, comes with a hefty price tag. So, unless you’re seriously committed to your gear, it might feel like a financial uppercut. For those who need a more budget-friendly option, you might want to explore alternatives like the Ringside Boxing and Martial Arts Headgear if you’re an advanced fighter or Sanabul’s Essential MMA Boxing Kickboxing Head Gear if you’re just starting out.

Winning Headgear Fg5000

Pros:

  • Thick cushioning to protect you against punches
  • Adjustable and very comfortable
  • Provides excellent vision
  • Easy to clean
  • Made of artificial leather, hence long-lasting
  • Lightweight

Cons:

  • Very expensive

In conclusion, the Winning Headgear FG5000 is a masterpiece of protection and comfort. If you’re absolutely committed to your craft and are willing to make the investment, there’s no better choice out there. But for those who prefer to keep a closer eye on their wallet, there are more budget-friendly options that can still keep you in the game. The choice is yours, champ.

Cleto Reyes Traditional Headgear – Stellar Quality in a Classic Package

Ah, Cleto Reyes, a name that echoes through the annals of combat sports history. These folks have been crafting top-tier gear for ages, and their reputation for quality is rock solid. The Cleto Reyes Traditional Headgear is a shining example of their commitment to excellence.

Let’s get down to brass tacks. Here’s why this headgear is a knockout choice:

  1. Anatomical Perfection: This headgear boasts a three-point anatomical fit that’s as snug as your favorite pair of gloves. It’s designed to cater to most boxers with its one-size-fits-most approach. The hook and loop rear closure, adjustable chin strap, and lacing allow you to fine-tune the fit, ensuring it hugs your head just right.
  2. Feather-Light Guardian: While it’s on your head, you might forget it’s there. The lightweight front bar and latex foam padding work in harmony to provide top-notch protection without weighing you down. This is crucial for keeping your agility and mobility intact in the ring.
  3. Crystal Clear Vision: In the heat of battle, you need to see every move your opponent makes. The Cleto Reyes Traditional Headgear delivers on this front, offering excellent vision so you can bob, weave, and counter with precision.
CLETO REYES Traditional Headgear with Nylon Face Bar - Black

Pros:

  • Made of real leather. Will last a very long time.
  • It comes in one size but fits most
  • Lightweight, comfortable, and secure
  • The latex foam padding offers excellent protection
  • Provides excellent vision

Cons:

  • Holds odors

In a nutshell, the Cleto Reyes Traditional Headgear is a classic choice that oozes quality and craftsmanship. Crafted from real leather, it’s a long-term investment that’s designed to stand the test of time. Its lightweight, comfortable design ensures you can move with agility and precision, and the latex foam padding offers top-tier protection. Just be prepared to give it a little extra TLC in terms of cleaning to keep it smelling fresh. So, if you’re looking for headgear that’s as reliable as your favorite combo, Cleto Reyes has got you covered.

Where it comes up short is when it comes to price. While it’s not as pricey as Winning, Cleto Reyes is very much a high-end brand. Another minor drawback is that it has a tendency to hold onto odors. Regular cleaning should help keep things fresh.

Title Boxing Leather Sparring Headgear – Great Comfort and Protection

Enter the world of Title Boxing, a well-respected name in the realm of combat sports. Their Leather Sparring Headgear embodies their commitment to producing reliable gear for fighters.

Here’s a closer look at what sets this headgear apart:

  1. Durability in Design: Crafted with an all-leather outer construction, this headgear is built to withstand the test of time. It’s a robust piece of equipment designed to endure the demands of intense sparring.
  2. Layers of Comfort and Protection: Its unique three-layered soft padding on the inside strikes the perfect balance between comfort and protection. You can take hits with confidence, knowing the impact will be absorbed effectively.
  3. Stay Dry and Comfortable: One standout feature is the plush suede leather lining. Not only does it add a touch of luxury, but it also has moisture-wicking properties. No matter how intense your training gets, your headgear will remain dry and comfortable, ready for your next round.
  4. Tailored Fit: The headgear’s anatomical wraparound design provides extended coverage while maintaining a comfortable fit. You have control over your comfort with an adjustable lace-tie back, head adjustments, and a chin strap featuring a steel buckle closure.
TITLE Boxing Leather Sparring Headgear

Pros:

  • Very durable
  • Stains come out easily
  • Offers excellent protection
  • It comes with cheek protectors
  • Adjustable fit

Cons:

  • Blocks your vision

As a whole, Title’s Leather Sparring Headgear is a blend of durability, comfort, and protection. Its all-leather construction promises longevity, and its stain-resistant material ensures it remains in top shape. With moisture-wicking features and customizable fit options, it’s a choice tailored for serious training. Just be mindful of the potential limitation in peripheral vision due to the extended coverage. When it comes to safeguarding your head, Title Boxing has got you covered.

Ringside Competition Boxing Headgear with Cheeks – Your Entry Ticket to Boxing

When it comes to Ringside, you can count on them for quality gear that won’t break the bank. Their Competition Boxing Headgear with Cheeks is a prime example of their commitment to offering dependable equipment at an accessible price point.

Let’s delve into what makes this headgear a solid choice:

  1. Variety in Sizing: Ringside understands that one size doesn’t fit all. This headgear is available in a wide range of sizes, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit for a diverse array of fighters.
  2. Feather-Light and Cozy: The headgear is impressively lightweight and boasts exceptional comfort. Wearing it won’t feel like a burden, allowing you to focus on your training without distractions.
  3. Sweat Management: With an inner soft suede lining that absorbs sweat, you can spar with confidence, knowing that moisture won’t hinder your performance.
  4. Impact Dispersion: The padding, made of high-quality laminated foam, does an admirable job of distributing the impact from your opponent’s punches. This adds a layer of protection, reducing the risk of injuries during sparring.
  5. Curved Cheek Design: The curved design at the cheeks is a thoughtful feature aimed at deflecting punches. While it sounds good in theory, the padding on the cheeks might not be the thickest, so be aware that a full-force cross to the cheeks could still smart a bit.

Now, let’s weigh the pros and cons:

Ringside Competition Boxing Muay Thai MMA Sparring Head Protection Headgear with Cheeks

Pros:

  • It’s durable
  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • Protects both face and head from punches
  • It comes in various colors and sizes
  • Great value for money

Cons:

  • The cheek protection isn’t the thickest

In conclusion, the Ringside Competition Boxing Headgear with Cheeks embodies the brand’s ethos of quality and affordability. It offers a comfortable, lightweight fit and does a commendable job of protecting both your face and head. While the cheek padding could be more robust, especially against forceful punches, the overall value it provides makes it a fantastic choice for advanced fighters who want dependable gear without breaking the bank. So, if you’re looking to elevate your sparring game without emptying your pockets, Ringside has got you covered.

Sanabul Essential Boxing Head Gear – Versatile Protection for Your Combat Journey

In the world of combat sports, sometimes you need gear that’s adaptable and versatile. The Sanabul Essential Boxing Head Gear is just that – a reliable option for a range of combat disciplines, including MMA, kickboxing, and Muay Thai.

Here’s what makes it a solid choice:

  1. Complete Coverage: This headgear doesn’t hold back on protection. It offers essential coverage for your head, cheeks, and chin, ensuring you’re well-guarded during intense sparring sessions.
  2. Battle-Tested Foam: Thanks to the Impact-dura shock foam, it can absorb the brunt of kicks and punches from your sparring partners, allowing you to keep going without feeling the full force of each blow.
  3. Secure Fit: The Hook and Loop Closure system ensures a secure fit that won’t budge. With this headgear in place, you can concentrate entirely on your game, not on constantly adjusting your gear.
Sanabul Essential Boxing Headgear for Men & Women | Muay Thai and MMA Headgear | Sparring Headgear | Boxing Head Gear with Full Face Coverage

Pros:

  • Offers full face protection
  • It’s lightweight and comfortable
  • It comes in different sizes and colors
  • Recommended for various sports
  • It has a solid construction and padding system
  • Doesn’t slip

Cons:

  • It doesn’t offer the best visibility

In summary, the Sanabul Essential Boxing Head Gear is an adaptable companion for your combat endeavors. It offers comprehensive protection, comfortable wear, and versatility across multiple sports. However, it’s worth noting that it may not provide the best visibility, which could be a consideration for more advanced fighters. For beginners or those engaging in lighter sparring, it’s a dependable choice that won’t let you down. So, whether you’re stepping into the ring or the cage, this headgear has your back.

Everlast Everfresh Head Gear – Your Trusty Companion in the Ring

When it comes to headgear, Everlast knows how to keep you protected while offering essential features for your comfort. The Everlast Everfresh Head Gear has a few tricks up its sleeve, making it a great option for beginner boxers and those seeking a balance between safety and visibility.

Here’s a closer look at what this headgear brings to the table:

  1. Safety First: One of the standout features is the inclusion of cheek protectors. These aren’t just for show; they play a crucial role in enhancing safety during your sparring sessions. You’ll find that it offers excellent visibility, allowing you to see your opponent’s moves clearly.
  2. Secure and Adjustable Fit: With an adjustable chin strap and elastic closures, you can customize the fit to ensure it stays snugly in place, providing the security you need during training.
  3. Sleek Design: Available in brilliant black, this headgear adds a touch of style to your gear collection. It’s one size that fits most adults, so you won’t have to fuss about finding the right fit.

Now, let’s weigh the pros and cons:

Everlast Everfresh Head Gear

Pros:

  • It’s comfortable and lightweight
  • It offers optimal safety for the head and cheeks
  • Provides excellent visibility
  • It can fit most adult head sizes

Cons:

  • Not the most durable

In summary, the Everlast Everfresh Head Gear is a reliable choice for beginner boxers who prioritize safety and visibility. Its comfortable and lightweight design ensures you can focus on your training without discomfort. The inclusion of cheek protectors and adjustable features adds to its appeal. However, it’s worth noting that it may not be the most durable option available. So, if you’re just starting out on your boxing journey and are seeking a dependable headgear that offers a snug fit and clear vision, this one’s a solid contender.

MaxxMMA Headgear – Affordable Quality in the Ring

Embarking on a boxing journey as a beginner requires the right gear to kickstart your training. The MaxxMMA Headgear steps up to the plate, offering a suitable option to begin your boxing adventure. Here’s why it could be your ideal starting point:

  1. Visibility Champion: One of its standout features is the excellent visibility it provides. As a newcomer, being able to see oncoming punches is crucial for your learning process.
  2. Protection All Around: Safety is a priority, and this headgear offers extensive coverage, protecting both your head and face. The multi-layered, shock-absorbing inner foams are there to cushion and shield you.
  3. Size Options: With two size options, large and X-Large, you can choose the fit that suits you best.
  4. Comfort Meets Lightweight: The headgear is lightweight and comfortable, ensuring that you can focus on your training without feeling weighed down.
  5. Affordability: It won’t break the bank, making it an accessible choice for those starting out in the sport.
MaxxMMA Headgear L/XL Boxing MMA Training Kickboxing Sparring Karate Taekwondo

Pros:

  • Offers extensive coverage protection over the head and face
  • It’s lightweight and comfortable
  • Provides a firm fit
  • It’s relatively affordable
  • Offers excellent visibility

Cons:

  • It isn’t suitable for boxers wearing glasses
  • It moves a lot on the head

In summary, the MaxxMMA Headgear is tailor-made for beginners venturing into the world of boxing. It strikes a balance between protection, comfort, and affordability, making it an accessible choice for those starting their boxing journey. Its extensive coverage and clear visibility enhance your safety and learning experience. Just keep in mind that it may not be ideal for boxers who wear glasses, and some users have noted that it may shift on the head during vigorous training. For those seeking an entry-level option to kick off their boxing training, this headgear could be the perfect fit.

RDX Boxing Headgear Maya Hide Leather – Total Protection in the Ring

For fighters who value quality, but still don’t want to break the bank, the RDX Maya Hide Leather Headgear steps into the spotlight. This headgear isn’t just about protection; it’s about going the extra mile to ensure you’re covered from every angle.

Here’s what makes it a top contender:

  1. Versatile and Lightweight: Whether you’re into boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, or sparring, this headgear is up for the challenge. It’s not just versatile; it’s also impressively lightweight, allowing you to move with agility and precision.
  2. All-Around Protection: What sets this headgear apart is its ability to protect you from all angles. No need to worry about unexpected punches catching you off guard; the all-around foam cushioning disperses impacts across its surface area.
  3. Comfort Meets Stability: It’s not just about protection; it’s about comfort too. The easy and convenient fit ensures the headgear stays in place, offering stability during your bouts.
  4. Breathability Plus: The clever design promotes airflow, keeping you dry as you engage in battle. Say goodbye to discomfort caused by excessive sweat.

But like any piece of gear, it has its pros and cons:

RDX Boxing Headgear Sparring Grappling, Maya Hide Leather, Head Gear for MMA Muay Thai Kickboxing Training, Multi Layered Padding, Taekwondo Martial Arts BJJ Wrestling Karate, Black

Pros:

  • It comes with a great design to allow adequate airflow, keeping you dry as you fight
  • You get protected from all angles
  • It’s lightweight and comfortable
  • It’s durable
  • Offers great visibility

Cons:

  • It might be too tight around the chin, making it uncomfortable

In conclusion, the RDX Maya Hide Leather Headgear is the epitome of total protection in the ring. Its versatility, lightweight design, and all-around cushioning make it a formidable choice for fighters across various disciplines. The added bonus of airflow design keeps you cool under pressure. Just be mindful of the potential snugness around the chin, especially if you have an extended bout ahead. For those who prioritize complete protection without compromising on comfort and visibility, this headgear stands as a reliable ally in the heat of battle.

Hayabusa T3 Boxing Headgear Adjustable – Elegant and Functional

When it comes to the Hayabusa T3 Boxing Headgear, you’re entering the realm of top-tier gear that combines performance and aesthetics seamlessly. While it may come with a slightly higher price tag, every penny is justified by the quality and features it delivers.

Here’s a closer look at what sets this headgear apart:

  1. Maximum Protection, Minimum Bulk: The compact design of the Hayabusa T3 ensures you receive maximum protection without feeling weighed down. It’s a testament to both its design and engineering.
  2. Stays Put During Battle: Thanks to the adjustable chin strap and patented T-Cross closure, this headgear stays firmly in place. You won’t have to worry about it shifting during your intense boxing sessions.
  3. Comfort Beyond Compare: Despite the heavy-duty protection it offers, this headgear is incredibly lightweight and comfortable. You’ll find yourself so at ease that you might even forget you’re wearing headgear.
  4. Built to Last: The exterior construction is made from indestructible Vylar engineered leather, ensuring durability that can withstand the rigors of your training.
  5. Cool and Ventilated: The ultra-soft interior features vented mesh ear coverings, keeping you cool and comfortable while you train.
  6. Panoramic Vision: It offers an ultra-wide field of vision, allowing you to see your opponent’s moves with unparalleled clarity.

But, as with any premium gear, there are pros and cons to consider:

Hayabusa T3 Boxing Headgear Adjustable

Pros:

  • It’s lightweight and comfortable
  • Quite durable
  • Provides an ultra-wide field of vision
  • It offers the ultimate non-shift fit
  • The inner construction keeps you cool while you train
  • Offers maximum protection

Cons:

  • Quite expensive

Overall, the Hayabusa T3 Boxing Headgear is the epitome of excellence in both performance and aesthetics. Its compact design, adjustability, and non-shift fit make it a reliable partner during intense training. The use of indestructible Vylar engineered leather ensures longevity, while the ultra-soft interior keeps you cool and comfortable. With a panoramic field of vision and maximum protection, it’s a top-tier choice for serious boxers. Just be prepared to make a slightly larger initial investment for the privilege of owning this exceptional piece of gear.

Venum Elite Headgear – A Flashy Design Package

When it comes to headgear, the Venum Elite stands as a robust option with a focus on durability and performance, particularly suited for experienced fighters. Crafted from semi-leather material, it offers impressive longevity, making it an attractive choice for those who value gear that lasts.

Here’s a closer look at what distinguishes this headgear:

Here’s a closer look at what distinguishes this headgear:

  1. Longevity Assured: Built from semi-leather material, the Venum Elite is designed to withstand the rigors of consistent use. Its durability is a key selling point.
  2. Streamlined Protection: This headgear doesn’t feature excessive padding, which may not be suitable for all fighters. However, for experienced boxers, this minimalistic approach allows for increased agility, enabling precise defensive movements.
  3. Swift and Agile: The ultra-lightweight design of the Venum Elite facilitates rapid head movements. This agility can be invaluable when evading punches from opponents.
  4. Breathability Matters: The mesh design enhances breathability, ensuring you remain comfortable even during strenuous training sessions. Ventilation is a priority.

And as with any gear, there are advantages and drawbacks:

Venum Elite Headgear

Pros:

  • It offers excellent breathability
  • It provides unsurpassed head protection
  • It offers excellent durability and high fighting performances
  • It’s lightweight
  • Easily adjustable
  • Perfect for experienced fighters

Cons:

  • Only available in one size

At the end of the day, the Venum Elite Headgear is a solid choice for experienced fighters seeking durability, agility, and streamlined protection. While it doesn’t feature extensive padding, it strikes a balance that allows for rapid head movements and effective breathability. The caveat is its single-size availability, which may not accommodate all users comfortably. If you’re an experienced boxer looking to hone your defensive skills and prioritize gear longevity, this headgear could serve as a dependable training companion.

1. Should You Wear Headgear in Boxing?

You need to wear headgear in boxing. Wearing headgear is the only way to protect yourself against head and brain injuries. The headgear acts as a barrier that neutralizes your opponent’s punches, keeping your head and face safe.

The strikes passed across boxing rings can easily damage your brain severely, even when you’re only practicing. That is why you should come prepared for any eventuality.

Some may argue that since they have the padded 16-ounce gloves on, there’s no need for headgear in boxing. Although necessary, gloves only lessen the severity of the opponent’s heavy blow. The blow might still be fateful if it lands on an unprotected head, hence the need for headgear.

2. Advantages of Headgear

There are several advantages of wearing headgear in boxing, including:

2.1. Protects the Nose and Chin

Contrary to popular belief, boxing headgears don’t protect heads only. The best boxing headgear should guard your head and face, including your cheek and chin.

Most of the headgears discussed above provide nose and chin protection. But be mindful of your vision when looking for this feature in your headgear.

Also, bear in mind that headgear isn’t very good at blocking overhand punches. Overhands (sometimes known as overcuts) are semi-circular punches thrown with the rear hand. They’re called “overhands” because they reach above your opponent’s guard. Although they’re aimed at the chin or face, they can often land on top of the head, especially if your opponent is bobbing or weaving at the same time as the punch.

2.2. Reduces Bruising

Bruises, black eyes, and bleeding noses are common occurrences in boxing rings. But if you have headgear, it becomes hard for punches to get through your face and ears, reducing bruising.

2.3. Helps Prevent Cuts

Cuts in boxing mainly occur at points where skull bones are exposed. And, in most cases, it’s the gloves that cause these cuts when one gets punched on the head or face. Headgear covers the most vulnerable head parts, preventing cuts.

3. Disadvantages of Headgear

Headgears are not faultless. They have some demerits that vary from one brand to the next.

3.1. Reduces Range of Vision

Your competitor may be sending hard blows that can quickly put you down when they land on the face/head. To avoid such punches, you need to change your head’s position quickly.

However, some headgears will make this clear vision impossible since they only offer a small window for vision.

3.2. Creates a Larger Target

Headgears are usually bulky, causing your head to appear larger when wearing one. In this case, the opponent finds your head a larger target for blows, which can wear you out quickly if you don’t evade the punches.

3.3. Creates a False Sense of Security

A fighter shouldn’t use headgear as a security blanket, but they do it anyway since headgears give them some false sense of security.

With the headgear on, a fighter feels they can absorb more blows to the head and face since it’s less painful. Unknown to them, the aftermath can be severe and life-threatening.

4. Does Headgear Prevent Concussions?

Headgear doesn’t prevent concussions but can protect you against head blows causing concussions. Your headgear will not save your brain from the shock when an opponent strikes your head hard. For this reason, you should always wear headgear to minimize such punches on the head.

As long as you and your opponent follow boxing rules and stay within the range, you can avoid unnecessary impacts. Doing so reduces the risk of concussions or other severe injuries.

5. Why You Should Wear Headgear When Sparring

You can decide to wear or not wear headgear when sparring, but this is a necessity for beginners. Below are reasons why you should wear headgear when sparring.

  • Prevent accidental head collisions that can otherwise turn out deadly
  • Protect you against cuts, swelling, and bruises
  • Increase your confidence

6. Types of Boxing Headgear

There are three different types of boxing headgear – open-face, full-face, and cheek protection headgear. Personally, I prefer to use headgear with cheek protection. But for beginners, I’d recommend full-face headgear.

6.1. Full-Face Boxing Headgear

Also called face savers, this type of headgear gives you the most protection. It consists of a mouth guard and cheek guard. A perfect example of this type of headgear is the Winning Fg5000 we looked at above or the Ringside Deluxe Face Saver.

As you can guess, a face saver completely protects your face. It can lessen the impact of all sorts of punches – hooks, uppercuts, overhands… It even protects you from straight punches to the nose thanks to the nose guard some of them have (although a really strong punch can still break your nose, so you still need to be careful).

The major downside to this type of headgear is the very limited visibility it gives you. Especially in the case of full-face boxing gear with nose guards, it’s really hard to see your opponent’s punches coming.

6.2. Open-Face Boxing Headgear

Openface headgear is compeletly open in the front, giving you excellent visibility. They’re also usually lighter than full-face headgear due to using less material.

The only problem with this type of headgear is the lack of protection. It can provide some protection against hooks and overhands, but most of your face will still be exposed. So uppercuts, hooks to the chin, straight punches are all things this type of headgear leaves you open to.

However, if you ever plan on fighting in tournaments, be aware that most amateur boxing tournaments use this type of headgear.

6.3. Boxing Headgear with Cheek Protection (Mexican-Style Headgear)

This is my headgear of choice. Mexican-style headgear is very similar to the open-face type you see above, with the exception of cheek protectors at the sides. In a sense, Mexican-style headgear is the best of all worlds. It gives you protection similar to a face-saver while not impacting your visibility as much.

Yes, it doesn’t provide as much visibility as an open-face headgear, but the cheek protectors can really help against hooks and punches to the chin.

7. Things To Consider When Buying Headgear

Ideal headgear protects your head/face and may help you win boxing duels. But how do you pick the best gear? Below are crucial aspects to consider when buying boxing headgear.

7.1. Material

Want to know how long the headgear will last and perform? Look at the material used for its construction, outer fabric, stitching, and padding. The two main things you need to look for are:

  • Outer Material – Ideally, you’d want this to be made of genuine leather or synthetic leather. This is the part that’s going to see the most abuse, so you want something strong and durable.
  • Inner Material – Here, you’re looking for something that’s comfortable and which is good at absorbing sweat. I personally prefer foam, but leather is also fine. Avoid things like EVA or PVC, which is used in cheaper boxing headgear.

The outer and stitching materials define longevity and fitting, while the padding determines how protected your face and head are when fighting.

The best material for the headgear’s outer construction is leather due to its many benefits. Leather is smooth, strong, and highly durable. The main drawback is that it’s expensive.

So, if you don’t have the budget for it, the next best thing is synthetic leather. It’s not as breathable or as durable, but it’s way better than vinyl or plastic, which is what some cheaper headgear is maded of.

7.2. Padding

The primary purpose of headgear is to offer protection from cuts and bruises. Padding is the component that provides this protection.

Picking proper padding for your headgear can be tricky.

Thick padding absorbs the opponent’s punches, reducing injuries and allowing you to concentrate fully on the fight. However, it makes headgear appear bulky and heavy.

On the other hand, minimum padding can easily cause injuries to the head since you feel the pain. However, it makes the headgear lightweight, making it possible to evade punches quickly.

7.3. Coverage and Visibility

The best boxing headgear should provide excellent visibility. Defending yourself is only possible if you can see your opponent’s punches.

The headgear should also offer full coverage over the head and face so you don’t sustain more injuries.

Choosing headgears that tick the above boxes is therefore paramount.

7.4. Comfort and Fit

Does the headgear fit perfectly, and do you feel comfortable wearing it? Does it move after heavy use or stay in place even after getting hits on the head?

The idea is to get headgear that won’t stress you, taking your concentration away from the duel.

7.5. Size and Weight

Headgears come in different sizes, ranging from small to extra-large. When picking one, ensure it is the right size for your head or that you can adjust it to fit accordingly.

Picking a small-sized headgear that fits tightly isn’t advisable. Such headgears can cause a headache even when you wear them for a short time.

On the other hand, oversized headgears move a lot. You can lose concentration on the fight as you’ll be adjusting it more often as you fight.

Size goes hand in hand with weight, and a weighty headgear makes it hard for you to move your head quickly to evade punches.

The best thing to do is measure the circumference of your head beforehand. Using the measurement, get a headgear that won’t move around while in use.

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