Combat Sports

Combat Sports Guides for Switzerland

Which combat sport is right for you, and what equipment do you really need? The Vikingstore blog features clear and honest guides to boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, MMA, BJJ, judo and other martial arts.

We answer questions regularly asked by beginners, active fighters and coaches in our stores. Topics include choosing boxing gloves, finding the right weight in ounces, hand wraps, mouthguards, headguards, shin guards, boxing shoes and preparing for your first training session.

Which combat sport is suitable for beginners?

The right discipline depends on your interests and goals. Traditional boxing focuses on punching techniques, footwork, distance management and defence. Kickboxing and Muay Thai also include kicks and, depending on the rules, knee strikes and clinch techniques.

BJJ and judo concentrate more on throws, ground fighting and submission techniques. MMA combines striking, kicking, wrestling and ground fighting. However, beginners do not automatically need to start with MMA. Learning the fundamentals of one discipline first can often be a sensible approach.

What equipment do you need for combat sports?

For an initial trial session, comfortable sports clothing may be sufficient, depending on the gym. The protective equipment required afterwards depends on the discipline and your coach’s instructions.

Boxing gloves, hand wraps and a mouthguard are fundamental items for boxing. Kickboxing and Muay Thai often require additional shin guards and groin protection. BJJ and judo gis differ in cut, material and technical requirements. No-Gi BJJ is generally practised in a rashguard with grappling shorts or suitable leggings.

How do you choose the right boxing gloves?

Boxing gloves differ in more than colour and price. Their intended use, padding, fit, material, closure and weight in ounces all matter.

Gloves designed for heavy-bag training have different requirements from models intended for sparring or competition. Options such as 10, 12, 14 and 16 OZ should not be chosen at random. Body weight, hand size, type of training and gym rules must all be considered.

Fit also varies between brands, meaning that a simple size chart is not always enough. Our guides explain the differences in detail and help you avoid buying unsuitable gloves.

How should you care for combat sports equipment?

Boxing gloves, shin guards and hand wraps absorb moisture during training. They should be removed from the sports bag after every session and allowed to dry in a well-ventilated place. Hand wraps should also be washed regularly.

Leaving damp gloves sealed inside a training bag is the fastest route to unpleasant odours and a shorter lifespan. Our articles provide practical advice on cleaning, drying and caring for different materials.

Advice Based on Real Retail Experience

Vikingstore is not an anonymous online shop. We advise combat athletes, parents, coaches and clubs every day and understand the most common questions and purchasing mistakes from real experience.

As an official Swiss partner and importer of several combat sports brands, we work directly with names such as LEONE1947, Sting Sports, SafeJawz, Namman Muay and Venum.

Our goal is not simply to sell you the most expensive gloves. We want to help you find equipment that genuinely suits your discipline, training requirements and budget.

Discover our combat sports guides or visit the Vikingstore locations in Bern and St. Gallen for personal advice.