How To Find Martial Arts Supply Stores

Whether you are an instructor, a student or just someone who wishes to buy martial arts supplies, knowing how to find martial arts supply stores can be as simple as one, two and three. The first thing you should consider, however, is why you need the supplies. If the supplies are only for decorum or looking cool in front of your friends, make a list of what you're hoping to purchase. If the supplies are for teaching or training, make a list of what you need.

1. Consult your local phone book under "Martial Arts Supplies." This seems like a relatively straightforward instruction, but it can be surprising how many people forget the phone book even exists anymore.  
2. Conduct an internet search for "Martial Arts Supplies (your nearest major city)." By adding your nearest major city, you increase the likelihood of finding not only local shops, but local shops with websites you can browse before taking a trip.
3. Call other local martial arts school. Surprisingly, other schools, though competing with each other, will often be willing to tell you where they purchase their supplies because they have been in your situation and may know how to get good deals. In addition to martial arts schools, you can contact local gyms, YMCA branches, fitness centers and similar locations to see where they purchase their supplies.

Tips:

• If you live near a major city that has a Chinatown, you will most likely find at least a dozen very cheap martial arts supply stores there. Uniforms, gis, hakamas, weapons, training gear, sparring pads and even martial arts style clothing (e.g. silk kung fu outfits) can usually be purchased in Chinatown from martial arts supply stores at very reasonable prices.