What do I need to start taekwondo?
A uniform (dobok) and a white belt are enough to begin. Most clubs add Adi-Kick 2 shoes for mat training, and sparring gear comes later once you start sparring.
What is the difference between a student dobok and a poomsae or Olympic uniform?
The student uniform is light and affordable for class and grading. Poomsae uniforms are cut for clean form lines, and the Adi-Pro Olympic uniform is a premium competition cut.
Is the sparring gear World Taekwondo approved?
Yes. The chest guard, foot protector, and fighter gloves listed as World Taekwondo approved are built to the spec sanctioned tournaments use; product pages note WT approval where it applies.
Which taekwondo shoes should I choose?
Both are made for the mat. The Adi-Kick 2 has a pivot point on the sole for spins and turning kicks. The Contestant Pro has a thin, flexible one-piece rubber sole that keeps your foot close to the floor, with ventilation holes along the sides to let heat out.
How much does a full taekwondo kit cost?
A starter kit (student uniform, belt, shoes) runs about $115 to $140. A full sparring setup runs roughly $250 to $350 from individual WT approved pieces (head guard, chest guard, groin cup, forearm, shin and instep, foot protector, and fighter gloves).