Savate, also known as French kickboxing, is a striking martial art that combines kicks, punches, and footwork, and is unique for its incorporation of high, precise kicks and the use of footwear during combat. Unlike other martial arts like Muay Thai or traditional kickboxing, where practitioners fight barefoot, Savate requires fighters to wear shoes, which adds a distinct element to the kicks, particularly the "Chassé" (side kick) and "Fouetté" (whip kick). The art emphasises the use of the feet, legs, hands, and fists in a highly fluid manner, combining agility with powerful striking techniques. Savate is also known for its distinctive system of defensive manoeuvres, such as evading, blocking, and counter-attacking, which often relies on quick, precise footwork. This balance of agility, technique, and controlled power makes Savate stand out among other striking-based martial arts.

Savate originated in France in the early 19th century, although it traces its roots to older French street fighting techniques and military combat training. Originally known as La Savate, it was developed by French sailors and soldiers who combined their regional fighting styles with boxing techniques, often on the streets of Paris. By the early 1800s, it evolved into a more structured and refined martial art, influenced by English boxing, with a particular emphasis on using both hands and feet. The term "Savate" literally means "old shoe" in French, which refers to the use of footwear in the martial art, distinguishing it from other kickboxing styles. In the late 19th century, Savate became more organised as a sport, and formal competitions were introduced, with distinct rules and regulations. It gained popularity throughout France, and while its mainstream recognition declined in the 20th century due to the rise of other combat sports like boxing and kickboxing, Savate still enjoys a dedicated following in Europe and has seen a resurgence in global recognition, especially in the context of MMA training.

Savate competitions primarily involve full-contact sparring, where fighters face off in a ring similar to boxing or kickboxing matches. Competitions are usually held in three rounds, each lasting around 2 to 3 minutes, and are judged on the effectiveness and control of strikes using both punches and kicks. Savate competitions place strong emphasis on the precision of techniques, particularly the use of the feet and shoes for effective kicks. Fighters are awarded points for successful strikes to the opponent’s body and head, and clean kicks to the head or body are considered highly valuable. There are various weight divisions in competitions, and fighters are often required to demonstrate both offensive and defensive skills, with emphasis on fluid footwork and the ability to combine different strikes in rapid succession. Additionally, there are sub-categories within Savate, such as Savate Défense (self-defence) and Savate Fitness (for non-competitive practice), but the primary competitive focus remains on Savate Boxe Française (French boxing), which is the most well-known form of the martial art used in competitive settings.