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Haven't seen a review of this headguard on the forum so thought I'd do a quick one.
I've had the newer version of this headguard for a few months now, swapping it out occasionally with my Top Ten Avantgarde for sparring and have fought in it. The only noticeable change from the previous model is the closure system. The current model has a dual velcro strap system on top, and dual strap at the back, whilst the older version had a lace-up top and a single strap at the back. I personally don't notice any actual difference between the two when using them.
Initial Impressions
As you'd expect, this headguard comes in a variety of sizes with S, M, L and XL, and then the two standard red and blue colour options. My head circumference is 22.75inches and I'm a medium.
The leather used is okay. I don't think this is so important a factor in a headguard so long as it remains lightweight and lasts. The stitching is clean and well done in most places.
Performance & Protection
Adjusting the top and back velcro straps you can get a good fit which stays put when hit. I haven't noticed any difference in the old closure system to this closure system honestly, they both feel the same to me. The chin strap does fit on me just below my chin and I never have an issue with it going too close to my throat or coming up onto my mouth. Really I don't have any kind of fitting issues with this headguard.
It is very light and compact too, although bulkier than the bayfill Top Tens. It's not going to be as protective as the bigger training headguards but does do a decent job especially around the forehead. Vision is practically perfect.
The "Amara" lining feels like suede so is soft, thick and comfortable. It absorbs a lot of sweat so you'll need to be sure to let it dry out after use.
Summary
So basically it's lightweight, offers decent protection and all-round is a good competition headguard, and all of this is expected. The biggest compliment I can give it is that it doesn't once cross my mind in fights or in sparring.
It probably provides very slightly worse protection than the Top Ten Avantgarde and vision too, and is also bigger, and also probably durability because Top Ten bayfill headguards can last a long time. One problem I found with the Top ten bayfill ones though was because it doesn't absorb any liquid (making it really easy to clean), sweat can get in your eyes and also make the headguard slip a little in the later rounds. I do like the Adidas a little more than the AIBA Greenhill headguard, about the same as the Everlast AIBA, but really all the leather AIBA headguards are similar and do a good job.
Pics!
Took a few pics with my phone real quick:
^vs. the Top Ten Avantgarde
^back of the head
^top of the head
I've had the newer version of this headguard for a few months now, swapping it out occasionally with my Top Ten Avantgarde for sparring and have fought in it. The only noticeable change from the previous model is the closure system. The current model has a dual velcro strap system on top, and dual strap at the back, whilst the older version had a lace-up top and a single strap at the back. I personally don't notice any actual difference between the two when using them.
Cowhide leather with grey hi-tec anti slip Japanese AMARA artificial leather lining. Light weight supaflex 'XL' air cushion foam padding. Leather/velcro strap back closing.
Initial Impressions
As you'd expect, this headguard comes in a variety of sizes with S, M, L and XL, and then the two standard red and blue colour options. My head circumference is 22.75inches and I'm a medium.
The leather used is okay. I don't think this is so important a factor in a headguard so long as it remains lightweight and lasts. The stitching is clean and well done in most places.
Performance & Protection
Adjusting the top and back velcro straps you can get a good fit which stays put when hit. I haven't noticed any difference in the old closure system to this closure system honestly, they both feel the same to me. The chin strap does fit on me just below my chin and I never have an issue with it going too close to my throat or coming up onto my mouth. Really I don't have any kind of fitting issues with this headguard.
It is very light and compact too, although bulkier than the bayfill Top Tens. It's not going to be as protective as the bigger training headguards but does do a decent job especially around the forehead. Vision is practically perfect.
The "Amara" lining feels like suede so is soft, thick and comfortable. It absorbs a lot of sweat so you'll need to be sure to let it dry out after use.
Summary
So basically it's lightweight, offers decent protection and all-round is a good competition headguard, and all of this is expected. The biggest compliment I can give it is that it doesn't once cross my mind in fights or in sparring.
It probably provides very slightly worse protection than the Top Ten Avantgarde and vision too, and is also bigger, and also probably durability because Top Ten bayfill headguards can last a long time. One problem I found with the Top ten bayfill ones though was because it doesn't absorb any liquid (making it really easy to clean), sweat can get in your eyes and also make the headguard slip a little in the later rounds. I do like the Adidas a little more than the AIBA Greenhill headguard, about the same as the Everlast AIBA, but really all the leather AIBA headguards are similar and do a good job.
Pics!
Took a few pics with my phone real quick:
^vs. the Top Ten Avantgarde
^back of the head
^top of the head
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