From autumn 2026, WAKO's new equipment requirements take full effect. This means that all athletes competing in WAKO-sanctioned tournaments – including the Norwegian Championships, the Norwegian Cup and international championships – must use equipment with the official WAKO label. Equipment without approval will not be accepted by the referees.
In this article we explain what the rules mean in practice, what is required of you as an athlete or club leader, and which products you need to be ready.
What is the WAKO label?
WAKO (World Association of Kickboxing Organizations) has introduced an official approval label to ensure that equipment used in competitions meets a defined level of safety. The label is woven with UV thread – a technology that makes it impossible to counterfeit and easy for referees to verify quickly.
The label is visible on the outside of the product and shows clearly under UV light. This makes equipment checks at events faster and more reliable.
The timeline – what applies when?
From January 2025 (already in force): The WAKO label is required on all protective equipment (gloves, headgear, shin guards, elbow pads) in all WAKO tournaments. For clothing, the requirement initially applied only to World Championships, European Championships and World Cups.
From autumn 2026 (full implementation): The WAKO label is mandatory on all equipment and clothing – in all WAKO tournaments worldwide, regardless of level. This includes local and national events.
What do you need?
Here is an overview of the equipment categories that must have the WAKO label from autumn 2026:
- Boxing gloves – must have the WAKO label visible on the outside
- Head protection/headgear – must have the WAKO label on the hook-and-loop strap or headgear
- Shin guards and foot protectors – must have the WAKO label
- Elbow pads – must have the WAKO label
- Shorts and clothing – must have the WAKO label at all competitions from autumn 2026
Note: Combat Store is not permitted to sell the WAKO label separately. You must buy equipment that already has the label attached. The exception is the replacement hook-and-loop strap with WAKO label for TOP TEN headgear.
WAKO-approved gloves
WAKO-approved head protection
WAKO-approved clothing and other equipment
Why does this matter?
There are several good reasons to upgrade to WAKO-approved equipment now:
- You avoid being turned away at the event. From autumn 2026, referees will reject equipment without the WAKO label. That is not something you want to experience right before a fight.
- Higher safety standards. WAKO-approved equipment is tested and certified – you know it measures up.
- Equal competition conditions. Everyone uses equipment that meets the same requirements, which makes for fair fights.
- Quick verification. The UV label makes equipment checks quick and easy for referees.
- Future-proof. WAKO is working towards Olympic status – having approved equipment now means being ready for the future.
Tips for clubs and coaches
Are you responsible for a club or a team? Here is some practical advice:
- Go through the club's equipment store and check what has the WAKO label and what is missing it.
- Inform athletes in good time – do not wait until the week before the season's first event.
- Remember that clothing (shorts, uniforms) must also have the label from autumn 2026.
- Order in good time – Combat Store delivers lightning fast from our warehouse in Eastern Norway, but demand can be high at the start of the season.
Questions and answers
Can I use old equipment without a label?
No, not in WAKO-sanctioned competitions from autumn 2026. Equipment without the WAKO label will be rejected.
Can I buy the label separately and attach it myself?
No. WAKO does not allow the sale of loose labels. The equipment must be bought with the label already sewn on. The exception is the replacement hook-and-loop strap with WAKO label for TOP TEN headgear.
Does this also apply to beginners and younger classes?
Yes – from autumn 2026, the requirement applies to all WAKO tournaments, regardless of level or age class.
What about training equipment?
The requirement applies only to competitions. You can train with any equipment you like.
