First Competition Gear Checklist

by Sana Ullah Khan on November 13, 2026

First: read the event outline

Every tournament publishes an outline with its rules: which divisions, what gear is required, and whether electronic scoring (PSS) is used. At World Taekwondo events using PSS, the organising committee provides the WT-recognised electronic protectors. Local events vary, so check yours, or ask your instructor or Australian Taekwondo.

A black infographic titled 'FIRST COMPETITION GEAR CHECKLIST' from IBEX SPORTS showing multiple sports protection items and accessories

Sparring (kyorugi) checklist

  • ✓Head guard
  • ✓Chest guard (hogu), unless the event provides electronic ones
  • ✓Forearm (arm) guards
  • ✓Shin guards
  • ✓Hand protectors (gloves)
  • ✓Foot protectors, unless the event provides electronic sensor socks
  • ✓Groin guard
  • ✓Mouth guard
  • ✓Uniform and belt

All seven protectors come together in our First competition kit, sized together.

Poomsae checklist

  • ✓Poomsae uniform, if the event requires one
  • ✓Belt
  • ✓A spare uniform top, in case of a tear or stain

In the bag

  • ✓Water bottle and healthy snacks
  • ✓Your name on every piece of gear
  • ✓Thongs or slides for walking between rings
  • ✓A small towel
  • ✓Registration details and any ID the event asks for

The week before

  • Try on every piece of gear. Kids grow, and last term's head guard may now be tight.
  • Check straps and Velcro still hold.
  • Wash the uniform and air out the protectors.
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Shop the gear in this guide

FAQ

Do I need to buy an electronic chest guard?

Usually not for a first competition. Where electronic scoring is used at World Taekwondo events, the organisers provide it. Check your event outline.

Which mouth guard should we get?

Any good-fitting mouth guard. World Taekwondo has no recognised mouth guard brand.

Sources