the best gear for the money?

[schultzpup]

Greetings! Hope it is okay to ask a basic question, but I can't seem to get a good recommendation from the black belts in the dojang I practice at about what  sparring gear to purchase.
I'm a serious beginner and plan to spar at least twice a week and compete on occasion. I want equipment that is safe and will last for a good while.
There are affordable internet specials for brands such as Macho, Century, ProForce, but I understand they don't hold up.
Someone has recommended Ikon, which costs about twice as much and it appears that perhaps the safest (and most expensive) is Top Ten.
Any feedback would be welcomed.

Thanks, a Southern Idaho rookie.

[shifueddiealcaraz]

Aloha Idaho Rookie,

Brand name should be of no concern,if you are looking for safety and longevity of your gear than you spend to buy the best.
Make sense.......

Aloha,Shifueddiealcaraz

[Brandi Ross]

One thing that I have always been told by my mother is buy quality.  It may cost more, but it will last for a very long, long time.  So, I would spend more to save down the road.  I have some Macho gear, but only use it for tournaments or special classes.  I always worry about how long it will last and thus use it sparingly.  Does that make sense.  Go for the more expensive and get the best quality possible.

Aloha,
Brandi

[schultzpup]

Thanks for the kind replies. I agree that it is a good policy to spend more for quality. I was just trying to find someone who had used or knew about the Ikon or Top Ten sparring gear who could vouch for it. The companies say they have a great product, and Top Ten in particular says it is the safest, best-built, but is that true or BS?
Perhaps I'll have to come up with the $300 and find out.

Gracias, So. Idaho Rookie

[Brandi Ross]

Now I see what you are asking.  Personally, I have heard of neither company.  Sorry, wish I knew more


Aloha,
Brandi

[John Bishop]

Dipped foam type gear like Macho and Century is always going to crack.  It may take a year, or as little as a few months.
If you get the sewn vinyl type gear like Century C-Gear or Tiger Claw it should give you years of use, for about the same price as the dipped foam.

[kajudaddy]

try 10 oz boxing/sparring gloves.TKO makes a nice set 79.99 check out htp//www.madwarehouse.com