The Best Martial Arts Shorts for Training and Competition

Martial arts shorts, often called fight shorts, are essential gear for any martial artist. Whether you’re into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, MMA, or another combat discipline, having the right pair of shorts can make all the difference during training and competition.

Your Guide to Martial Arts Shorts

With so many options on the market, how do you know which martial arts shorts suit you? This blog explains exactly what to look for when shopping for fight shorts.

What Makes Martial Arts Shorts Different?

Compared to regular gym or athletic shorts, martial arts shorts have a few unique features that make them ideal for grappling, sparring, and simulated combat:

• Durable Fabric – Martial arts shorts must stand up to pulls, abrasions, and all kinds of wear and tear. They are usually made of thick cotton, ripstop polyester, or polyester blends.
• Reinforced Stitching – With all the strenuous activity, the seams of good fight shorts are reinforced to prevent tearing or splitting. Critical areas like the crotch seam may even have double or triple stitching.
• Elastic Waistband – A partial or complete elastic waist is standard for martial arts shorts for a secure yet comfortable fit during constant motion. Drawstrings are also typical for further adjustability.
• Lightweight Design – The best martial arts shorts are lightweight and breathable to keep you cool and avoid restricting movement. They should never be bulky or hang too loose.
• Pockets – Most fight shorts will have at least one small secured pocket to hold a mouthguard, keys, or other necessities during a match. Some may have a large open pocket as well.

Choosing the Best Fabric for Martial Arts Shorts

Considering the frequent grappling and contact associated with martial arts, the fabric is probably the most critical factor when shopping for shorts. The best options include:

• Cotton – Known for its breathability, cotton is lightweight and comfortable. But it does absorb moisture and will wear down over time.
• Polyester – More durable and quicker drying than cotton, polyester fight shorts will hold up well to regular use and washing. But they lack some comfort and softness.
• Polyester Blends – By combining cotton and polyester plus a touch of spandex for stretch, these shorts offer the pros of both fabrics. The cotton brings comfort, while the poly provides durability.

Cotton blends are the top choice for hot martial arts like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai, with constant sweat and friction against training partners.

The soft cotton helps prevent any chafing or skin irritation in sensitive areas. And the added polyester preserves the structural integrity when the shorts get soaked with sweat daily.

Length and Fit Recommendations

Martial arts shorts come in various lengths, from short fight shorts to mid-thigh board shorts. Most martial artists prefer shorts to hit mid-thigh or slightly above the knee.

Shorter shorts can tend to ride up or shift when grappling, while longer shorts, like board shorts, can feel restrictive. Mid-length fight shorts around 8-10 inches inseam typically offer the best blend of coverage and manoeuvrability.

Regarding fit, martial arts shorts should be loose enough to allow free movement but not so baggy they get in the way. Having excessively tight or billowy shorts will negatively impact your technique and comfort on the mat.

The ideal is a trim yet flexible fit. They should be snug around your waist while allowing full mobility of your hips and legs. Most board shorts for surfing tend to have very full legs compared to standard fight shorts—so take note of this when sizing yourself.

Other Short Features to Consider

• Split leg openings – Some shorts have slits up the side leg openings to prevent restriction when kicking. Great for disciplines like Muay Thai and MMA.
• Velcro closures – Alternative to a drawstring, Velcro tabs at the waistband ensure a customised fit.
• Crotch gusset – Adds another panel of fabric to enhance durability and range of motion. Helps shorts keep their shape.
• Antimicrobial – Specialised fabrics like Microban prevent bacteria and odour build-up. Crucial for heavily sweated in shorts.
• Multiple colour options – Most fight shorts come in at least 3-5 colour options, from basic black to bright prints.

Popular Martial Arts Short Brands

There is no shortage of companies making specialised fight shorts for martial artists. When you’ve put as much time into honing your ground game as you have, you want a pair of shorts from a legitimate martial arts brand you can trust.

Some of the most popular and reputable names to look for include:

• Venum
• Hayabusa
• Fuji
• Tatami
• Sanabul
• Elite Sports
• Ring to Cage
• Jaco
• Kingz
• War Tribe

Of course, major athletic brands like Nike and Under Armour also offer their take on combat sports shorts. While their products feature the latest quick-dry textiles and sports technology, the overall durability is better with brands focusing specifically on martial arts and boxing gear.

The Takeaway

Finding the perfect pair of fight shorts comes down to the combo of fabric, fit, length, and features that match your martial arts needs. And don’t forget comfort!

Even the best short structure means nothing; if the fabric irritates your skin or the stitches scratch you mid-roll. Try your new shorts for a few practices before entering any competition.

Getting the right shorts dialled in plays a more significant role in your performance than you may realise.