Choosing the right head guard is an important part of boxing, whether you're preparing for amateur competition, improving your sparring skills, or training several times a week.
Sting offers a range of head guards designed for different styles of boxing, from competition-approved models to training and full-face options that provide additional protection.
Understanding the differences between each model can help you choose the right head guard for your experience, training, and goals.
In this guide, we'll explore Sting's most popular boxing head guards, including the Sting IBA Competition Boxing Head Guard, Sting Orion Gel Open Face Head Guard, and Sting Armaplus Full Face Head Guard.
You'll learn the key features of each model, who they're best suited for, how to choose the right size, and what to consider before making your purchase.
Sting Head Guards for Boxing
Sting offers a range of boxing head guards designed for different styles of training and competition.
Below, we've reviewed three of the most popular Sting head guards to help you compare their features and choose the right model for your boxing needs.
Sting IBA Competition Boxing Head Guard
If you're looking for a head guard for amateur boxing competitions, the Sting IBA Competition Boxing Head Guard is one of the best options available.
Designed to meet competition requirements, it combines lightweight protection with an open-face design that gives you a clear view of your opponent.
Premium leather construction, gel padding, and a secure fit make it a reliable choice for both club and competitive boxers.
Key Features
- Competition-approved design
- Premium leather outer
- Neo Gel and Gel Fusion technology for shock absorption
- High-density padding around the brow, cheeks, and temples
- Open-face design for excellent visibility
- Adjustable hook-and-loop fastening
- Breathable Japanese Amara lining
Why We Like It
This head guard is built for competition without sacrificing comfort. The open-face design provides excellent visibility, while the gel padding helps absorb impact during bouts.
It also feels secure once adjusted, allowing you to focus on your performance instead of your equipment.
Best For
- Amateur boxing competitions
- Club boxers
- Competition-focused training
- Fighters who want excellent visibility
Sting Orion Gel Open Face Head Guard
The Sting Orion Gel Open Face Head Guard is designed for boxers who spend most of their time training and sparring.
It combines an open-face design with Neo Gel Fusion technology to provide a comfortable balance of protection, visibility, and freedom of movement.
If you're looking for a reliable head guard for regular gym sessions, this is a great all-round option.
Key Features
- Neo Gel Fusion technology for shock absorption
- Premium leather outer construction
- Open-face design for improved visibility
- High-profile protective padding
- Japanese Amara lining for comfort and breathability
- Secure fit for training and sparring
Why We Like It
The Orion Gel is built for everyday use. The open-face design gives you a clear view of your opponent, making it ideal for technical sparring and improving your defensive skills.
At the same time, the gel padding helps absorb impact, while the breathable lining keeps you comfortable during longer training sessions.
Best For
- Regular sparring
- Technical boxing training
- Intermediate and advanced boxers
- Fighters who prefer an open-face design
Sting Armaplus Full Face Head Guard
If facial protection is your top priority, the Sting Armaplus Full Face Head Guard is worth considering. Its full-face design provides extra coverage around the cheeks and chin while still offering good visibility, making it a popular choice for heavy sparring and demanding training sessions.
It's also a great option for beginners or boxers who simply want added confidence in the ring.
Key Features
- Full-face design for increased facial protection
- Durable SLV3 outer construction
- High-profile protective padding
- Fast hook-and-loop adjustment system
- Maximum visibility design
- Secure and comfortable fit
Why We Like It
The Armaplus offers more facial coverage than Sting's open-face models without feeling overly restrictive. It stays secure during movement and provides extra confidence when exchanging heavier punches in sparring.
If protecting your nose, cheeks, and chin is a priority, this head guard is an excellent choice.
Best For
- Heavy sparring
- Beginners
- Extra facial protection
- High-intensity boxing training
Sting Head Guard Comparison
Choosing the right Sting head guard depends on how you train and the level of protection you need.
| Model | Head Guard Type | Best For | Protection Level | Facial Coverage | Competition Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sting IBA Competition Boxing Head Guard | Open Face | Amateur Competition | Competition Protection | Forehead, Cheeks & Temples | ✔ IBA Approved |
| Sting Orion Gel Open Face Head Guard | Open Face | Training & Sparring | High Impact Protection | Forehead, Cheeks & Temples | ✘ Training Only |
| Sting Armaplus Full Face Head Guard | Full Face | Heavy Sparring | Maximum Facial Protection | Forehead, Cheeks, Chin & Jaw | ✘ Training Only |
Which Sting Head Guard Should You Choose?
If you're still deciding, here's a quick recommendation based on your training goals.
- Choose the Sting IBA Competition Boxing Head Guard if you need a competition-approved head guard with excellent visibility for amateur boxing.
- Choose the Sting Orion Gel Open Face Head Guard if you want an all-round head guard for regular boxing training and technical sparring.
- Choose the Sting Armaplus Full Face Head Guard if extra facial protection is your priority during heavier sparring sessions.
Sting Head Guard Size Guide
A head guard should feel secure without being uncomfortable.
If it's too loose, it may move during sparring, affecting your vision and reducing the protection it provides. If it's too tight, it can create pressure around your head and become uncomfortable during longer training sessions.
When choosing your size, it's also worth considering factors such as your head shape, hairstyle, and whether you'll be wearing the head guard for extended periods.
Selecting the correct size also helps maintain the shape and durability of the head guard over time.
How to Measure Your Head
Before choosing a size, measure the circumference of your head using a flexible tape measure.
- Wrap the tape around the widest part of your head.
- Position it about above your eyebrows and just above your ears.
- Keep the tape level without pulling it too tightly.
- Compare your measurement with Sting's size chart below.
Sting Head Guard Size Chart
All Other Sting Head Guards
| Size | Head Circumference (cm) | Head Circumference (in) |
|---|---|---|
| Small (S) | 50–52 | 19–20.5 in |
| Medium (M) | 52–56 cm | 20.5–22.1 in |
| Large (L) | 56–59 cm | 22.1–23.2 in |
| X-Large (XL) | 59–63 cm | 23.2–25 in |
Sting Armaplus Head Guards
| Size | Head Circumference (cm) | Head Circumference (in) |
|---|---|---|
| Small (S) | 51.5–55.5 cm | 20.5–22.0 in |
| Medium (M) | 55.5–59.5 cm | 22.0–23.5 in |
| Large (L) | 59.5–63.5 cm | 23.5–25.0 in |
| X-Large (XL) | 63.5–67.5 cm | 25.0–26.5 in |
How to Check the Fit
After putting on your head guard, make sure it fits correctly before training.
Adjust the Chin Strap
Fasten the chin strap so the head guard feels secure without being restrictive. You should be able to open your mouth and breathe comfortably while preventing the head guard from moving during punches.
Adjust the Top and Rear Straps
Use the top and rear adjustment straps to position the head guard evenly on your head.
Once tightened, the head guard should stay in place without sliding forwards, backwards, or side to side as you move.
Check the Ear Position
The ear padding should line up with your ears while leaving the ear openings clear enough for you to hear instructions during training.
If your model includes ear straps, they should sit comfortably across the centre of each ear.
Make Sure Your Vision Is Clear
Your forehead, the back of your head, and—depending on the model—your cheeks should all be protected without restricting your field of vision. You should be able to see clearly in front of you and to either side.
Signs Your Head Guard Doesn't Fit Properly
Too Loose
- Moves or rotates during sparring
- Slides forwards or backwards after impact
- Requires frequent adjustment
- Feels unstable during movement
Too Tight
- Creates pressure around the forehead or temples
- Causes discomfort after a short period of training
- Leaves deep pressure marks on the skin
- Feels difficult to fasten correctly
Test the Fit Before Training
Before using your head guard in sparring or competition, spend a few minutes checking that everything feels secure.
Move your head from side to side, look in different directions, and throw a few light punches to make sure the head guard stays firmly in place.
If you notice any movement or discomfort, adjust the straps before starting your session. Taking the time to achieve the correct fit will help you stay comfortable and get the best protection from your Sting head guard.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Sting head guard comes down to your training style, the level of protection you need, and finding the correct fit. Whether you're preparing for competition or regular sparring, Sting offers a head guard to suit every stage of your boxing journey.
Explore our range of Sting boxing equipment, including boxing gloves, groin guards, and training gear. You may also find our guides on types of boxing headgear and boxing sparring essentials helpful when choosing your boxing equipment.
