Collection: MMA Shorts

What Are MMA Shorts?

MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) shorts are shorts designed for the unique demands of MMA training and competition. They can be adapted to other combat sports like kickboxing, Muay Thai, boxing, and no-gi grappling/BJJ.

Generally, they are designed to offer a high degree of flexibility, durability, and comfort, allowing fighters to perform a wide range of movements such as high kicks, grappling, and general athletic movements. Unlike regular gym shorts, MMA shorts are built to withstand the rigorous conditions of both training and fighting.

What Makes MMA Shorts Different From Regular Gym Shorts?

Shorts designed for the gym and for fighting can be quite similar, as they are both used for physical activity and need to share certain characteristics like moisture wicking materials since sweat is involved.

The biggest difference between fight shorts and regular gym shorts is that MMA shorts are designed to accommodate a wider range of movements. While regular gym shorts only take gym activities like squatting, leg presses, jogging, and other movements involving the legs in singular plane movements, MMA shorts need to cater to the dynamic and fast movements generated by combat sports.

They typically feature reinforced stitching and more durable materials that can endure the rigors of combat. This ensures that fighters can move freely without worrying about their gear holding up.

What Are The Different Types of MMA Shorts?

There are several types of shorts for combat sports, each tailored to specific needs and preferences:

• Traditional MMA Shorts: These resemble board shorts for swimming. They offer a moderate degree of freedom of movement freedom while wicking sweat with water-resistant materials. They're great for grappling as they reduce the risk of an opponent grabbing the fabric. They typically have adjustable waistbands with a velcro logo on the beltline.
• High Cut Gladiator Shorts: Popularly worn by top fighters like Jon Jones, Max Holloway, and Charles Oliveira, these shorts offer the greatest degree of motion due to their high side splits. The high split style allows for ease of hip abduction for a variety of kicks as well as grappling positions requiring higher degrees of flexibility like rubber guard. They also display the sides of the legs more, typically with compression shorts to offer unique color combinations.
• Vale-Tudo Shorts: These are tight-fitting and similar to cycling shorts. They offer maximum movement freedom with compressive fabric that stays close to the skin and allows for sweat to pass freely through it. They're great for grappling as they reduce the risk of an opponent grabbing the material to use for leverage.
• Compression Shorts: Often worn underneath other types of shorts, compression shorts wick moisture very effectively and help keep the skin cool. They are also very stretchy and one of the best types of shorts for performance and mobility. They can also be worn very stylishly with the right types of shorts worn as a secondary layer on top such as high-cut gladiator shorts, as they can provide a contrasting color as a base layer.

Where To Buy MMA Shorts

Finding the right fight shorts is essential for anyone training in combat sports. They can be purchased from a variety of places:

• Brand Websites: Many MMA brands sell their gear directly through their own websites, like right here at Kickin' Combat.
• Specialty Combat Sports Stores: These stores often have a wide selection of MMA gear, including shorts, and knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the right pair. Physical brick and mortar stores also offer the advantage of allowing you to try on the pair of fight shorts before you buy.
• Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon offer and extensive array of options and brands with user reviews to help you make an informed decision.

Choosing the right pair of MMA shorts can make a significant difference in your training and performance. With the right blend of flexibility, durability, and comfort, you'll be well-equipped to take on any challenge in the ring or the gym.