Point Sparring/Semi-Contact Sparring Helmet
Top Ten is a brand specializing in equipment for martial arts competition sports. The German manufacturer invested heavily in research and development of protective gear and is known for its headgear and competition gloves for boxing and kickboxing. Their kickboxing gloves have been used in competition since 1983. The quality of their gear allows them to be approved by the WAKO, IFMA, & NASKA.
Point Sparring/Semi-Contact Sparring
Karate/Kickboxing point fighting is normally done at high intensity with controlled contact. MMA is full contact and alternatively, this helmet is for semi or light-contact competition like WAKO kickboxing matches. I used this in semi-contact karate sparring training. Sparring helmets can get very sweaty, hot, slimy, and smelly. The normal rubber-dipped foam gear always gets hot and sweaty. This helmet was the first I found between the foam-dipped gear and fabric gear.
Pros
1. Very thin material with good protection.
2. Form fitting around the head and feels like part of your head - make sure to measure your head and check against sizing.
3. Straps under the chin and on the back of the head are secure.
4. Enough vent holes for some heat and sweat dissipation.
5. Material is easy to clean and very soft.
Cons
1. The price is not cheap!
2. Availability is sparse across many websites.
3. A vertical bar on the back of the helmet under the velcro strap can slip out and move over the velcro under lots of movement.
Point sparring gear can and should last a long time under normal conditions due to the lessened amount of contact. The Avantgarde Top Ten Sparring Helmet could be the last helmet you buy if you are looking for top quality and premium feel.