When it comes to martial arts, having the right gear is essential, and choosing the best martial arts shorts can make all the difference in training and competition.
From the secure fit of hook-and-clasp closures to the flexibility of Muay Thai shorts, each style is designed to meet the demands of specific martial arts. In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular types of martial arts shorts, their features, and what to consider when selecting the right pair for your practice.
1. Muay Thai Shorts
- Key Features: Short length, wide leg openings, elastic waistband
- Best For: Muay Thai, Kickboxing
Muay Thai shorts are crafted to offer maximum mobility for strikes and kicks. The shorter length and wide leg openings make high kicks easier, while the elastic waistband keeps them snug and secure. Some models even feature split seams along the sides, adding even more flexibility to the legs. With unique designs that often showcase bright colors, traditional Thai patterns, or symbols, Muay Thai shorts bring both function and style to the ring.
Why Choose Them: If you practice Muay Thai or kickboxing, these shorts are your go-to for flexibility and freedom of movement.
2. Vale Tudo Shorts
- Key Features: Tight fit, stretchy material, minimal design
- Best For: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, grappling
Named after the Brazilian combat sport, Vale Tudo shorts are designed to fit snugly against the body, making them ideal for grappling and ground fighting. Their compression fit helps reduce muscle fatigue and keeps your shorts from getting in the way during intense moves. Often made from spandex or similar stretchy materials, Vale Tudo shorts allow for a full range of motion and are less likely to be grabbed by opponents.
Why Choose Them: They’re ideal if you train in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), wrestling, or MMA and need a snug, minimalist fit that stays in place during ground work.
3. MMA Shorts (Hybrid Shorts)
- Key Features: Hook-and-clasp closure, stretch panels, longer length
- Best For: Mixed Martial Arts, cross-training
MMA shorts combine elements of Muay Thai and board shorts, often featuring a hook-and-clasp closure or Velcro fly for a secure fit. They’re made with stretch panels around the crotch and inner thighs to provide flexibility without sacrificing coverage. These shorts also often include reinforced stitching for durability, as well as slit seams to allow better movement for kicks and transitions.
Why Choose Them: For MMA practitioners or those who train across disciplines, these shorts offer a balance of coverage, flexibility, and security.
4. Boxing Shorts
- Key Features: High waistband, loose fit, breathable fabric
- Best For: Boxing, kickboxing, fitness training
Boxing shorts are designed to offer ease of movement, a loose fit, and high waistbands. They’re crafted with lightweight materials like satin or polyester, which provide breathability during long training sessions. While traditional boxing shorts don’t need as much flexibility as Muay Thai shorts, they still feature a wide-cut leg to allow footwork and quick movements.
Why Choose Them: Boxers and kickboxers who need a lightweight, comfortable option that doesn’t restrict movement will find boxing shorts ideal for their sport.
5. Custom High-Slit Martial Arts Shorts
- Key Features: High slits, choice of design, variety of closures
- Best For: Any discipline, especially for those who want a personalized fit and look
Custom high-slit martial arts shorts allow practitioners to design shorts based on their preferred fit and style. You can select features like rubber linings, hook-and-clasp closures, or specific slit lengths. Customization is especially popular among competitive fighters who want unique designs or logos on their gear.
Why Choose Them: Perfect if you want to tailor your shorts to match your style and performance needs.
6. Jiu-Jitsu Board Shorts
- Key Features: Longer length, durable material, reinforced stitching
- Best For: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, grappling
Jiu-Jitsu board shorts are designed specifically for grappling-based sports. They’re often made from durable materials with reinforced stitching to withstand the pressure of intense movements and grips. These shorts typically have a hook-and-loop closure system, with some including an internal drawstring for added security. The longer length provides coverage, while stretch panels allow for unrestricted movement during ground combat.
Why Choose Them: If you’re training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or grappling, these board shorts offer durability and coverage.
7. Training Shorts with Rubber Lining
- Key Features: Rubberized waistband lining, adjustable fit, anti-slip design
- Best For: MMA, wrestling, intense fitness training
Training shorts with rubber lining inside the waistband are designed to stay in place during rigorous training. The rubber lining prevents the shorts from slipping, even during sweats and high-intensity movements. Many of these shorts also come with a hook-and-clasp closure for additional support, making them ideal for wrestling and MMA training.
Why Choose Them: For intense sessions or sports where your shorts need to stay in place no matter what, the anti-slip rubber lining is a huge advantage.
