This article is written for parents, new athletes and clubs who are buying competition gear – and want to quickly understand what actually applies in Norway and internationally.
In brief
- Main rule in competition: Gear used in a bout must be WAKO approved and have a visible WAKO label where required.
- NM and Norwegian Cup: NKBF (the Norwegian Kickboxing Federation) sets the requirements. In the first half of 2026, national events can be held without all gear being labelled, but from August 2026 gear must have a valid WAKO label.
- Colours in Norway: From August 2026, both gloves and headguards must be red/blue.
- European and World Championships: "Technical protections" are mandatory in red and blue.
What does WAKO approved mean?
When we say "WAKO approved", we are not talking about an ordinary brand mark – it is a formal approval and labelling system. The purpose is for referees to be able to see quickly that the gear is approved, and that non-approved gear is not used in a bout.
Only WAKO Approved protective gear is allowed at WAKO events. National federations and referees enforce this, and the wrong gear can lead to sanctions.
The WAKO label (UV marking): what is it?
The WAKO label is impregnated with UV security marking and designed to be difficult to counterfeit. It is integrated into the production of approved gear and clothing and serves as a visual check for referees.
This is what a WAKO UV label looks like. On gear sold in pairs (gloves, shin, foot), the label is often only on one piece – this is normal.
Which products must have a WAKO label?
Must have a WAKO label
- Headguard
- Face mask (where used)
- Gloves (point fighting and kickboxing)
- Elbow guards
- Shin guards (incl. shin-instep)
- Foot guards
Does not need a WAKO label
- Mouthguard
- Chest guard
- Groin guard
- Bandages / hand wraps
- Ankle guards
What do the competition rules say about the gear itself?
Approved gloves are mandatory in all fighting disciplines. There are separate glove types for different disciplines:
- Point fighting: open-palm gloves
- Light contact / kick light / full contact / low kick / K-1: kickboxing gloves of the correct oz weight
In official competitions, kickboxing gloves must be 10 oz and the weight must be clearly marked. Other mandatory items: a headguard in all fighting disciplines, a mouthguard in all age categories, and hand wraps together with kickboxing gloves.
Colours: when red/blue is required
International championships
At official championships (European Championships, World Championships, World Cups), "technical protections" are mandatory in red and blue. The wrong colour can mean the athlete has to change gear – and in the worst case lose by walkover.
Norway
For several years NKBF has required gloves to match the corner. From August 2026, both gloves and headguards must be red/blue, and shin/foot guards are recommended in the same colours.
Norway 2026–2027: transition arrangements and dates
- First half of 2026: National events can be held without all gear being labelled, but WAKO-approved gear is required.
- From August 2026: Gear must have a valid WAKO label. Gloves and headguards must be red/blue.
- From January 2027: Fight clothing with a WAKO label also applies at NM.
- Internationally: A WAKO label is required from January 2026.
WAKO-approved gloves
WAKO-approved head protection
WAKO-approved clothing and accessories
Buying guide for parents and clubs
- Prioritise WAKO-labelled TOP TEN – the most future-proof option as the requirements tighten.
- Have both a red and a blue version of gloves and headguard – required from August 2026.
- Choose the right gear for the right discipline – boxing gloves for point fighting are wrong. Always check which discipline the athlete competes in.
- Kickboxing gloves in competition must be 10 oz and clearly marked.
- Club recommendation: Have a club set with red/blue gloves in several sizes, red/blue headguards, shin/foot guards (ideally red/blue), mouthguards and spare parts.
Checks before competition
The evening before
- Check that the gear is intact, clean and fits
- Check the WAKO label on visible protective gear
- Pack both red and blue gloves (and ideally headguards)
- Pack your mouthguard and hand wraps
On fight day
- The wrong colour or missing approval can mean you have to change gear at short notice
- Check Velcro and fastenings before you go to the gear check
- If you are not ready, the bout can be recorded as a walkover
