Judging Quality Before You Buy

So many fabrics, colors & styles, which one do you choose? You want to buy training gear that will hold up to the demands of your training regimen. As you compare our products you should be comparing these points...

Uniform fabric:
The biggest difference in the quality of our uniforms lies in the fabric they are made of. Most uniforms are made from cotton, polyester or a mixture of both. However, there are varieties of each:

• Cotton - Cotton absorbs and releases perspiration quickly, giving it breathability. Less absorbent polyester doesn't make you sweat, but it does keep sweat next to your body. Cotton also has a softer, more supple feel, making it less likely to irritate the skin. That means it's a better bet for those with sensitive skin, including children and infants.
  
  
• Polyester - Cotton may have been first to market, but let's face it, polyester came to market during the Atomic Age. Polyester is built to last forever. The garments fashioned from it may feel cheaper, but the fabric itself is nearly indestructible.
  
  
• Cotton/Polyester - New versions of poly/cotton blend products are softer and more breathable than ever before. Poly/cotton blended products tend to keep their shape and colour longer and do not shrink very much at all, even when washed with warm or hot water. Some people have complained about pilling with some brands. Pilling does occur with low quality blends but can also happen with some types of 100% cotton. Blended products generally cost less and last longer than 100% cotton.
  
  

Sparring gear:
Like our uniforms, the biggest difference in the quality of our sparring gear is tied to the textiles they are made of. In most cases, leather gear is the most expensive, while vinyl and foam sparring/boxing gear offers a cheaper, yet comfortable alternative. However, there are varieties of each:

• Leather - Leather is an animal product, it's porous and remains cool to the touch. Leather sparring/boxing gear wears well and becomes softer and more pliant over time. Leather has a distict smell.
  
  
• Vinyl - Vinyl sparring/boxing gear will be more resistant to scuffing, stretching and generally will be more durable than real leather. Vinyl products are less costly and easier to maintain since they can be cleaned with soap and water. Vinyl is popular among supporters of animal rights, as it contains no animal products.
  
  
• Vinyl Cover Foam - Used mostly for sparring heads, kicks and punches our vinyl covered foam sparring gear comes in 1/2", 3/4" and " thickness and provides a lightweight alternative for protection that will not crush or shred. The vinyl covering is washable and resists tearing and cracking.