Self Defence and Martial Arts

Are head gear and chest protectors in karate really necessary?

Im doing a research paper on the topic above, but I’m having trouble finding websites specifically for Martial arts that talk about protective gear. I am doing an argumentative paper and would like to make the case that head gear and chest protectors are not necessary.

In Karate, no. In other full contact sports perhaps, but in my opinion, it’s not necessary in traditional Karate since it is primarily a martial art not a sport and control as well as proper defense are some of the things taught in the art.

Sport Chest Guard – Bold Martial Arts

BMA Taekwondo Reversible Chest Guard New WTF Style $29.95 …

Chest Guard Dots,Large $29.99 Our Cobra line of sparring equipment features strong vinyl exteriors that provide superior durability versus plastic based alternatives….

Adidas WTF Body Protector,Medium $69.99 W.T.F. (World Tae Kwon Do Federation) recognized chest protector….

TMAS Hogu Chest Protector $41.95 Durable, high-density EVA foam with a soft vinyl cover. Reversible, special shape, designed by Macho, conforms to all body types. Red scoring zones on one side, blue on the other….

BMA Taekwondo Reversible Chest Guard New WTF Style …