I’ll save the photos and video of me strapped into one of these traditional Mongolian Bokh wrestling outfits until it’s absolutely necessary, but for edification purposes I’ve gone ahead and introduced the outfit by name and function. I’m back in Ulan Bator for the weekend to film the Mongolian World Team Trials and do some reporting. I head back into the countryside on Monday for more training and eating. In the meantime upload as much information as possible and try to keep my sanity in this city.

Jodag and Shuudag: The tight collarless jacket (jodag) comes in either blue or red and is tight fitting around the shoulder sto prevent your opponents from grabbing under your sleeve. The briefs are equally tight fitting and only allow for a little bit of cloth to be grabbed. In both cases, the tighter you can stand, the better your chances of not being flipped atop your melon, or made to take a ride through the air.

Gutal: Theses boots were made for wrestling. The classic upturned toe is indicative of wrestling, while the straps help keep the feet tight. There is an internal sock as well as a rope that ties around the middle of the shin and attaches a leather adornment (also pictured). The wrestling boots don’t have any markings on the leather while other similar styled riding boots come with plenty of design.

Malgai: You wear this coming into the ring and place back on your head once you’re finished competing.