How to Choose the Best MMA Shorts

Just like the sport of mixed martial arts has evolved, so has the competition gear athletes wear during combat. During its humble beginnings as an underground, bare knuckle, anything goes format, athletes wore whatever helped them survive and win. This included anything from going shirtless to wearing full martial arts gis. With the emergence of the UFC came a minimal set of rules and standardization of gear as well as a wider, much more accepting viewing audience. Now, standard protective equipment include a pair of fingerless 4oz. gloves, mouthguard and groin cup. The uniform seen worn by most fighter is simple… a pair of fight shorts. custom logo floor mats

With mixed martial arts being comprised of numerous fighting disciplines, apparel worn for practice and actual combat must have certain features to accommodate whichever style the athlete specializes in. Regardless of individual style preferences or what discipline the athlete may have started with, fight shorts must have features that will allow both grappling and high kicking. While some styles of shorts definitely work better for certain fighting disciplines, there are still some general features that are must-haves regardless of what your favorite moves are. For example good fight shorts must have exceptionally durable material to withstand being slid and scrubbed against the floor and cage walls of the ring. Look for shorts with material that has an elastic property that will stretch against the bends of the hips and legs for the best range of motion. Shorts with materials that have less give may be very limiting for certain techniques.

When shopping for fight shorts, choose above the knee lengths to avoid trapping the material within the knee joint when grappling and ground fighting. Fight shorts should not be tight (unless they are compression gear) and best if comprised of slick type material rather than rough, canvas type to prevent friction against the mat or your opponent. The waist of good fight shorts should be comfortable but above all secure so they stay put. Some shorts have elastic waistbands while others offer Velcro enclosures but all should have a draw string of some sort for a tighter, more adjustable fit. Do not wear shorts with pockets or loops of any kind or they can get snagged during combat. Good fight shorts will be smooth all over the sleekest action and best performance.