Kickbox - Best headgear for sparring?

Hi there!

So, I’ve been training Kickbox for a little while now, and I’m looking to get some extra sparring sessions in with my teammates outside of our regular classes. The only thing we’re really trying to avoid—if possible—is showing up to work or campus with massive bruises on our faces. It’s a bit awkward walking into the office with black eyes, isn't it? 🙄 I’ve been looking at different headgear options, and one specific Pride model from $83 caught my eye, but I’ve heard some pretty negative feedback regarding that Pride shop in Washington, D.C. Does anyone have recommendations for a sparring helmet under $117 that I could try out locally?
It doesn't need to be heavy-duty professional gear; I just want something that prevents those nasty impact marks, since we won't be hitting at 100% power during these sessions.

Thanks in advance!

http://www.profightstore.com/webshop...afety/496.aspx I’ve used this one myself, and honestly, it’s top-tier. There is zero chance you're going to take anything to the face with this...
They also sell those versions with full facial protection—you know, the ones with that cage over the helmet. Personally, I can't stand them. They narrow your field of vision way too much. Even the one in the link restricts your view just a tiny bit. In my opinion, completely open face guards are much better, but if you really want that extra layer of security, this is my recommendation...

Hmm, leather is definitely $130, which makes it worth more than $117, but if you aren't wearing it all the time, a faux leather version is totally $73... So now... 😬

Thanks, I actually already received a recommendation for that PFS harness. It feels a bit pricey, but then again, if I buy it once and it lasts me years, isn't that better value than grabbing a cheap one only to replace it again in a few months? Does anyone have experience with this synthetic leather version? Does it start peeling, or does it hold up well?

Personally, I view them as consumables, just like gloves.
If I were you, I’d head over to a Pride shop or some local gear store to try them on in person. Get a feel for how they actually sit on your head before committing. That way, you won't end up getting ripped off by some random online listing.
Just look for something with full cheek protection, and you'll be set.
It really isn't that complicated...

I've owned a few pairs over the years—one high-end leather set and a cheap pair from Academy Sports. They hold up exactly the same. Honestly, I don't see how you could even manage to destroy them...

And yeah... watch how those ears feel when you put them on. If they’re already pinching during the fitting, they’re going to be absolutely brutal after a long sparring session.

Thanks, 🙂

Hey, honestly, you should definitely grab this helmet. I’ve been rocking it for ages now, and I’m telling you, it’s hands down the best gear I've ever owned 🙂
If you're feeling the pinch and money is tight, I'd suggest checking out this one instead 🙂