Introduction
During mock combat hands and fingers often get hit. That's why protective gloves are always mandatory.
Purpose and relevance of this article
Explain why hand protection is necessary
Clarify minimum requirements
Prevent injury to hands and fingers
Historical & functional context
Gloves must:
Be made of padded leather with a minimum thickness of 5 millimeters or
Be made of suitable steel
Unlined leather gloves are permitted by some groups but lined gloves are preferred.
Mittens or gauntlets are allowed, as long as they're worn with a leather inner glove. This prevents cuts and bruising.
Practical tips / inspiration
Make sure gloves provide enough freedom of movement
Check for damage and loose rivets on gauntlets.
Combine comfort with protection
Tip: mittens offer more protection than gauntlets because the finger protection consists of fewer loose plates.
Summary
Gloves are mandatory
Minimum 5 mm leather or sufficient padding
Inner gloves mandatory with steel gauntlets and mittens
Safety in mock combat starts with the user themselves. No equipment is safe without proper use and maintenance.
