Combat sambo adds striking to sport sambo’s throws and ground control, and that changes what’s in your bag. Where sport sambo only requires a jacket, shorts and shoes, combat sambo layers a full set of protective equipment on top. Here’s what each piece does and what to look for when buying.

What’s different about combat sambo gear

Sport sambo gear is built around grip fighting and throws. Combat sambo gear has to do that and protect against strikes, so the materials and construction are different — typically genuine leather or heavy-duty synthetic shells instead of the cotton used for jackets and shorts, since the equipment needs to absorb repeated impact rather than just withstand grips and pulls.

The core pieces

Fighting gloves. Combat sambo gloves are built for grappling as well as striking, so they need to allow grip and clinch work while still protecting the hands on impact. Genuine leather construction is common because it holds up to repeated sparring impact better than cheaper synthetics, and a secure wrist fastening matters more here than in pure striking gloves, since combat sambo gloves also need to stay put through grip exchanges and throws.

Headgear. Combat sambo headgear typically uses a genuine leather shell with a sweat-resistant suede lining, plus reinforced ear protection and a double fastening system to keep it secure through scrambles — a headgear that shifts mid-exchange is a liability, not just a discomfort. Headgear is sold in red and blue to match your assigned competitor color.

Shin guards. Combat sambo shin guards are usually a cotton-elastane blend rather than rigid plastic, prioritizing a snug, breathable fit that stays in place through kicks, sweeps and ground work without restricting ankle mobility.

Groin guards. Typically spandex construction with a secure elastic fit — built to stay in place through scrambles and throws, not just stand there, which is where cheaper groin guards tend to fail.

Mouthguards. Usually silicone, chosen for a comfortable fit that holds up through a full training session or match without needing constant readjustment. Unlike the other pieces here, mouthguards aren’t sized by body measurements — fit is about the mold, not a size chart.

Do you need all of it?

Only if you train or compete in combat sambo specifically. Sport sambo (the throws-and-ground-control-only version) doesn’t use striking, so none of this protective gear is required for it — a sport sambo athlete’s kit is just jacket, shorts and shoes. If you’re not sure which version your gym or competition follows, ask your coach before investing in a full protective set.

Buying checklist

• Prioritize genuine leather or heavy-duty construction for gloves and headgear — this is equipment that needs to survive repeated impact, not just grip fighting.
• Buy headgear and, if your rules require it, other pieces in both red and blue if you compete regularly and don’t know your assigned color in advance.
• Don’t skip the mouthguard because it’s inexpensive — it’s one of the few pieces here that directly protects against injury rather than just cushioning impact.
• Check with your coach or event rules on which protective pieces are mandatory for your specific competition format, since requirements can vary.

Browse our combat sambo protective gear: fighting gloves, headgear, shin guards, groin guards and mouth guards.