8th degree Tae Kwon Do black belt Grandmaster Soo Se Cho began Macho Martial Arts in 1980 after recognizing a need for greater safety in martial arts training and competition. For over 35 years, Macho has been setting the standards for the martial arts industry. But what is it that sets Macho apart from the rest? Here are a few things you probably didn’t know about Macho products.
1. The finger grip design you see on most punches today is a Macho innovation that was patented in 1981. Other design innovations that have earned us bragging rights: Signature ear-release canals on headgear, signature laceless criss-cross strapping on kicks, tear-resistant vinyl reinforcements at critical stress points, and shock absorbent foam inserts on Macho Shin Guards for additional protection and comfort.
2. In 1984, the Director of Training for the Secret Service was using Macho gear for his training program. He approached Macho about making a special line of training equipment for law enforcement.
Today, we have a complete division, RedMan Training Gear, dedicated to serving law enforcement with the most protective, defensive tactics training gear in the world.
3. 9x World Champion, Christine Bannon-Rodrigues, joined the Macho family in 1993 when she arrived for her first photo shoot. Twenty three years later, we are honored that she has chosen the path to continue to work with Macho on product design and business development. Her insights and connection with the martial arts community has led Macho to develop two of our top-performing products, the CBR Sport Chest and CBR Universal Face Shield.
4. In 2002, Macho set up its own on-site testing lab and used the proposed ASTM standard as well as other testing methods to test its gear and modify its designs for optimal safety. At Macho, we believe one injury is one too many. Especially if the injury could have easily been prevented with the right gear and proper instruction.
With Macho, you get the gear you can trust. It’s more than a brand name, it’s safe and consistent.
5. Macho evaluated roundhouse kick velocities, key strike zones and tolerance levels to optimize the protective levels of its chest gear. Through this extensive research and testing, Macho chest guards feature innovative safety designs that make Macho’s line the most sought after by leading martial artists.
6. Macho introduced a new line of MMA gear, Seven, with enhanced safety and performance features in 2012. Seven gear unifies the seven disciplines of mixed martial arts: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, Muay Thai, Karate, TaeKwonDo, Judo and Boxing.
The Seven Give-N-Take was designed in collaboration with Tony Chung and was the first training product to function as a target and a glove.
7. In order to design the high quality line of uniforms Macho is recognized for, Macho went to a nationally recognized third party testing lab to ensure reporting accuracy of fabric weight, weave, breaking and tear strength. Macho’s uniform line is recognized for its consistency. Whether you select a lightweight starter or a top level heavyweight, we’re confident you’ll never look back.