Our Story

Built on the Mats. Driven by the Desire to Keep Training.

For over 25 years, the mats have been my second home.

It started with a decade of Taekwondo, where I learned the discipline of the strike. That evolved into a 15-year obsession with the complex puzzles of Grappling and MMA. But like anyone who has dedicated their life to combat sports, my journey wasn't just measured in belts and victories—it was measured in scars.

We all know the feeling. You’re in the flow of a great sparring session, sharpening your skills, and pushing your limits. Then, in a split second, an accidental eye poke or a preventable injury happens. Suddenly, you’re not thinking about your next technique; you’re thinking about doctor visits, missed matches, and weeks—or months—away from the gym.

I’ve been the one injured, and I’ve been the one who accidentally caused an injury. Both feel terrible. I realized that while sparring is the most vital tool we have for growth, it is also the most dangerous.

That is why I founded SPARS in Osaka, Japan. SPARS is an acronym that stands for “Finish Sparring Safely.”

I didn't want to just create "another gear brand." I wanted to solve the problems that standard equipment ignored. I spent years analyzing why these accidents happen and collaborated with elite professionals—like former UFC fighter Motonobu Tezuka—to engineer solutions that actually work.

Our mission is simple: To make sure every martial artist can finish their session exactly how they started—healthy and ready for the next day.

From our innovative shock-absorbing gel technology to designs that respect the tradition of the arts, SPARS is built for the fighters or athletes who want to train hard, train smart, and train forever.

We don't just sell gear. We protect the passion that keeps you coming back to the mat.

Welcome to SPARS. Spar harder. Stay healthy.

MIKI | SPARS FOUNDER