Sparring Gear
The Do's and Don'ts of Fighting Gear
Uniform and Belt -- Traditional TKD uniforms must be worn by all participants. Satin, vest-style, shorts, or other non-traditional style uniforms are not allowed. Sleeves cannot be rolled up and your belt signifying your current rank must also be worn.
Medical Identification -- This can be vital for those who have a medical risk and are used by medical staff in the event you are not able to convey your situation if something should happen. If you have any of the following conditions, we strongly encourage you to mark the inside lapel of your uniform top with the following abbreviations or written words which will help medical staff assist you.
- DM - Diabetes
- RAD - Asthma
- EPL - Epilepsy
- HBP - Hypertension
- VP - Anisocoria
- ALM - Allergies to Medication
- CHX - Cardiac History
- HH - Hearing Impaired
Hand and Foot Protective Equipment -- The material for this gear must be the polyurethane type. No leather or vinyl styles will be allowed. All protective gear is subject to inspection before any fight. It must be whole and clean. If it is taped, it must be with the soft cloth-style tape; no vinyl or plastic tape is allowed because that can make it dangerous for other fighters.
Gear must be of an appropriate size for your stature and should cover the entire fist or foot. The Center Referee has the right to request a change of pads if they believe your pads are dangerous or not in good condition for use in a fight.
Head Gear -- ALL sparring competitors at this Tournament must wear appropriate protective head gear. Head gear should be the full-coverage style since kicks coming down on top of your head are legal.
Mouthpiece -- All competitors MUST have a mouthpiece. There are both pre-fitted (recommended) and non-fitted versions, as well as top-teeth-only styles and full-mouth styles. Competitors wearing dental braces should take extra care when choosing a mouthpiece to ensure it protects them appropriately.
Cup and Supporter -- All male competitors must wear this equipment inside their uniforms.
Optional Equipment (but highly recommended):
Shin Pads -- Soft style only. Cloth-covered foam type that slip on under the uniform past the foot and onto the shin. Velcro strapped styles are not allowed, nor are any shin guards that are not underneath the uniform.
Breast Protectors for women -- These come in both polyurethane as well as cloth covered styles with plastic molded inserts.
What You Cannot Wear -- You cannot fight with a cast, hard brace, or tape on the hand or foot. No jewelry of any kind is allowed due to safety concerns. Even the small “starter piercing” style jewelry must be removed for sparring matches.
