What to Wear to Muay Thai Class (for Women Beginners)

Starting Muay Thai can feel intimidating - especially if you have never stepped foot in a combat sports gym before. Not just because of learning a new skills in a new environment, but because you also might not know what to wear. The good news? You don’t need to overthink it. The most important thing is to wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident, while being able to move freely.

If you’ve never stepped into a Muay Thai gym before, here’s what to expect - and how to dress for your first class.

Understanding What You’ll Be Doing

A typical Muay Thai session includes:

• Skipping or shadowboxing for warm-up

• Padwork and bagwork for striking

• Drills that include kicks, knees, punches, and elbows

• Bodyweight exercises like squats, push-ups, or planks

You’ll be moving constantly - kicking, kneeing and working up a sweat- so like most sports you need clothing that lets you move freely, dries quickly, and stays comfortable from start to finish.

What Most People Wear

Once you’ve been to a few classes, you’ll notice most people wear the same thing.

Most women train in Muay Thai shorts with a sports bra and/or light t-shirt. The shorts are designed specifically for the sport: they’re lightweight, breathable, and cut with side slits to allow full range of motion for kicks and knees.

However, the most important thing is to wear what makes you feel comfortable, not what you think you should wear.

Why Fit and Comfort Matter

Typical Muay Thai shorts are made for men and don’t fit our wider hips — the waistband can feel tight or dig-in, and many women end up rolling the waistband over to make it sit better. 

Sabre Fightwear’s Muay Thai shorts, on the other hand, are tailored specifically to fit the female form. They’re cut higher on the thigh and wider through the leg to allow full freedom for movement while the high-waisted, wide elastic waistband stays secure without digging in. 

Muay Thai shorts should stay in place throughout training, letting you focus fully on your movement and technique without distraction.

What Not to Wear

There’s no strict dress code, but a few things could make your first class less comfortable:

• Joggers: restrict movements and trap heat

• Cotton t-shirts: absorb sweat and dry slowly

• Loose, long shorts: can ride up or catch when you’re moving

Stick to lightweight, breathable fabrics that let your skin breathe and your body move freely.

Training Essentials

You don’t need much equipment to start, but it helps to bring a few basics:

• Hand wraps – protect your wrists and knuckles

• Boxing gloves – most gyms have loan pairs, but having your own gives better comfort and hygiene

• Shin pads – protect your legs during kicking drills or sparring, most gyms have loan pairs

• Water bottle and towel – you’ll sweat more than you think!

And remember: Muay Thai is always trained barefoot, so no need for shoes on the mats.

Final Thoughts

Your first Muay Thai class should be about learning and having fun - not worrying about what you’re wearing. Choose pieces that help you feel confident, move easily, and stay cool.

If you’re looking for gear made specifically for women who train combat sports, explore Sabre Fightwear's Core Collection — women’s Muay Thai shorts that combine modern design with comfort and performance.