Is your kickboxing equipment approved for tournaments by WAKO?

Tournament-approved kickboxing equipment
Arne Leon | February 4, 2025

Table of contents

1. Understanding WAKO Certification and the UV Mark

2. Tournament-Ready Equipment Checklist

3. Protective equipment

4. Securing competition-ready equipment

5. Compliance with kickboxing regulations

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When you enter the ring for a kickboxing tournament, the last thing you want to worry about is whether your equipment meets the necessary safety standards and regulations.

With the World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO) setting the standard for competition equipment, it is crucial that your equipment meets the requirements.

But how do you navigate among brands, styles, and certifications to find equipment that is tournament-approved while improving your performance?

Understanding WAKO certification and the UV mark

WAKO approval is more than just a label on the equipment. It is a guarantee that the equipment has undergone rigorous testing and meets the highest standards of safety, quality and performance. From 2025, all WAKO approved products will also be required to carry an official UV Label . This marking ensures that the certification is authentic and traceable using UV scanning technology.

When choosing WAKO-approved equipment, look for the official WAKO certification and the UV mark. These marks confirm that the product has been tested for:

• Shock absorption

• Material durability

• Design that ensures safety in combat

Tournament-Ready Equipment Checklist

Before you pack your bag for your next competition, go through this checklist to make sure your equipment is ready:

1. Boxing gloves: Check that the gloves are WAKO approved and have a UV mark. The gloves should fit well, provide good support for the wrists and have sufficient padding.

2. Protective equipment: Shin guards, mouth guards and a helmet are mandatory requirements. All protective equipment must be WAKO certified and carry the new UV mark. For example, the blue TOP TEN WAKO shin guards are known for their comfort and high level of safety.

3. Training clothing: Clothing such as shorts and rash guards should allow maximum freedom of movement without compromising safety. The clothing must be appropriate for the discipline and weight class in which you compete.

4. Accessories: Don't forget important little things like hand wraps and ankle supports. Although these don't require WAKO approval, they should be of high quality.

Choosing the right competition equipment

Choosing the right equipment for a kickboxing tournament isn't just about aesthetics or brand. It's about finding equipment that meets WAKO standards and supports your unique style and needs in the ring.

Protective equipment

Your safety in the ring depends on the quality of your protective gear. Every item, including shin guards, mouth guards, helmet and groin protector, must be WAKO approved and UV-marked to guarantee it can withstand the impact of a competition.

Ensuring competition-ready equipment

As the tournament date approaches, it is important that all equipment is in top condition and adapted to the requirements of the competition. Remember to:

• Inspect the equipment: Check for wear and tear that could compromise safety and performance.

• Test the equipment: Practice with the equipment you plan to use in the tournament to get familiar with how it feels and works.

• Pack smart: Organize your gear using a checklist, and consider a practical sports bag like the black and gold TOP TEN WAKO backpack.

Compliance with kickboxing regulations

Kickboxing tournaments, especially those sanctioned by WAKO, have strict rules to ensure safety and fair competition. This includes requirements for approved gloves, protective gear, and proper attire. Familiarizing yourself with these rules is essential for your tournament preparation.

For a complete overview of the requirements, please visit WAKO's official website or contact the tournament organizers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is my kickboxing equipment WAKO certified?
To check if the equipment is WAKO certified, look for the WAKO certification mark and UV marking. You can also contact the manufacturer for confirmation.

Is WAKO kickboxing full contact?
Yes, WAKO organizes competitions in various forms of kickboxing, including full contact, where direct punches and kicks between athletes are permitted.

Can you become a professional kickboxer?
Absolutely. Many start in amateur tournaments, such as those sanctioned by WAKO, and advance to professional status.

Is kickboxing an Olympic sport?
Kickboxing is not currently an Olympic sport, but WAKO is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which opens up for possible Olympic participation in the future.