10 Best MMA Shorts For All Fighters - Grappling & BJJ No GI
Contents
- The 10 Best MMA Shorts Reviewed
- 1. Hayabusa Chikara 4 MMA Shorts
- 2. Diamond MMA Compression Shorts
- 3. RDX Training MMA Shorts
- 4. Elite Sports MMA Shorts
- 5. Venum Camo Hero MMA Shorts
- 6. Gold BJJ No-Gi BJJ Shorts
- 7. Meister MMA Board Shorts
- 8. Meister MMA Rush Compression MMA Shorts
- 9. Anthem Athletics Resilience MMA Shorts
- 10. Sanabul Essential MMA Shorts
- Styles Of MMA Shorts
- Board Style Shorts
- Vale Tudo Shorts
- Hybrid Shorts
- Why Do You Need MMA Shorts Instead Of Traditional Gym Shorts?
- Durability
- Flexibility And Mobility
- Comfort And Safety
- Conclusion
- Sources
Many beginners wonder whether they need MMA shorts or can just train in regular gym shorts.
Regular shorts work for a while, but proper fight shorts are safer, more comfortable, and more durable for MMA and no-gi grappling. They have no pockets or zippers to catch fingers and toes, and they are cut for kicking and rolling.
So, in this article, I’ll discuss what makes MMA shorts safer, more comfortable, and different. Then, I’ll explain its different styles to help you decide which one suits your personality and fighting style best.
Now, let’s get into the best MMA shorts review.
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Hayabusa Chikara 4 | 1. Hayabusa Chikara 4 Editor's Choice | Stylish Design - Impressive Mobility - Great For Tall Users - Size S-XXL - Long-Lasting | Check Current Price |
| 2. Diamond MMA Shorts | 2. Diamond MMA Shorts Most Comfortable | Athletic Compression - Groin Protection - Durable Spandex - Youth & Adult Sizes - Jockstrap & Cup | Check Current Price |
| 3. RDX Training MMA Shorts | 3. RDX Training MMA Shorts Most Affordable | Simple Yet Stylish - T3 Stitching - Stretch Polyester - Size S-XXL - Shorter Length | Check Current Price |
| 4. Elite Sports | 4. Elite Sports Best For Beginners | Great Value - Velcro & Drawstring - 150gsm Polyester - No-Chaf Fabric - Slits On Each Side | Check Current Price |
| 5. Venum Camo Hero | 5. Venum Camo Hero Best For Pros | Eye-Catching Design - 3-Way Velcro - Polyester - Reinforced Stitching | Check Current Price |
| 6. Gold BJJ No-Gi | 6. Gold BJJ No-Gi Most Lightweight | Versatile - Drawstring - Polyester - Comfortable Fit - Baggy Style | Check Current Price |
| 7. Meister MMA Board Shorts | 7. Meister MMA Board Shorts Best Breathable | Great Flexibility - Drawstring & Velcro - Polyester & Nylon - Double Stitched - White Only | Check Current Price |
| 8. Meister MMA Rush | 8. Meister MMA Rush Most Durable | Best Compression - Elastic Waistband - Lycra Microfiber - Double Stitched - In-Built Cup | Check Current Price |
| 9. Anthem Athletics Resilience | 9. Anthem Athletics Resilience Best In Style | Unrestricted Motion - Velcro & Drawstring - Tear-Resistant - Fast Drying - Many Designs | Check Current Price |
| 10. Sanabul Essential | 10. Sanabul Essential Best Mobility | Good Option - Drawstring & Velcro - 4-Way Stretch - Flat-Lock Seam - Anti-Microbial | Check Current Price |
The 10 Best MMA Shorts Reviewed
1. Hayabusa Chikara 4 MMA Shorts
Our Verdict: Best Overall
First on the list is the Chikara 4 MMA shorts by Hayabusa. Hayabusa is a well-known martial arts brand with a reputation for quality.
The Chikara 4 is one of several MMA shorts styles in Hayabusa's lineup.
As expected from Hayabusa, its design is top-notch. It has a minimalistic, yet attractive board style design that comes in four (4) colors to give you a variety of options.
Essentially, the shorts are made to take the worst beating from MMA, jiu-jitsu, or kickboxing training sessions. They are made with a tough, yet easy-on-the-skin fabric that has reinforced seams all-around the shorts to prevent ripping or fraying.
Also, Chikara 4 offers impressive comfort and range of motion on the mat. First, they are knee-length shorts, so fighters who don’t like revealing shorts can feel comfortable.
For in-fight effectiveness, it has a stretch panel that allows you to throw kicks without restriction. Plus, slits on each side of the shorts provide extra ease of movement.
Unlike regular board shorts, the crotch area of Chikara 4 MMA shorts is stretchy and ventilated, which is a very important feature.
On another hand, it incorporates a silicone waistband with a drawstring and a Velcro closure to make sure the shorts stay on your waist in the heat of a fight. The silicone material makes it snug as well as comfortable on the waist.
Pros:
- Stylish design
- Long-lasting
- Good for tall users
- Available in four (4) colors (Blue, black, grey, and red).
- Sizes range from S to XXL
- Impressive mobility and stability
Cons:
- Large name imprint might be a turn-off for some people
If you are looking to spend on a quality product, Chikara 4 MMA shorts is a good choice. These shorts are long-lasting and offer unrestricted movement during training, at a price that’s worth it.
2. Diamond MMA Compression Shorts
Our Verdict: Best in Comfort
Diamond MMA is best known for its compression shorts with built-in groin protection.
The Diamond MMA compression shorts pair compression shorts with a jock and cup, which makes them one of the most complete options for training.
Groin protection is required for men in MMA competition under the Unified Rules of MMA, and it's smart in training too.
Its strap system holds the cup in place so it doesn't shift during scrambles. The cup is made of polycarbonate, a tough, impact-resistant plastic.
Compression shorts give you a full range of motion, and buyers report these hold up well over time.
These compression shorts come in youth and adult sizes. Go up a size if you have large thighs, so they feel snug rather than tight.
A drawstring helps adjust the fit at the waist.
One minor issue is that, to some users, the cup might not be comfortable working around in, however it feels comfortable when using it on the mat or in training.
Pros:
- Built-in groin protection
- Comes with a jockstrap and cup
- Full range of motion
- Durable spandex material
- Wide range of sizes for young and older athletes
Cons:
- Expensive
- Limited colors
Despite its seemingly high price tag, one thing buyers almost always repeat is that the protection and comfort it offers is well worth it.
3. RDX Training MMA Shorts
Our Verdict: Best Affordable
RDX is another big name in martial arts gear, and its board-style fight shorts offer good quality for the price.
Like the Hayabusa Chikara 4***, the RDX board style shorts feature a design that’s simple, yet stylish. On the flip side, it has an imposing imprint of the brand name that might not take the fancy of some folks.***
The RDX Training shorts are, however, more affordable.
Nevertheless, its quality and functionality is enough reason to consider this product.
The RDX MMA Shorts use a durable micro-stretch polyester fabric with an anti-odor finish.
For better durability, the seams use RDX's reinforced T3 stitching.
The shorts are shorter than usual (mid-thigh length), and have ergonomic cuts on each side for fluid movement during training.
The crotch has a Lycra stretch panel, so you can kick high without the fabric pulling.
A Velcro closure with a drawstring keeps them on your waist through training.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Durable micro stretch polyester material
- Reinforced T3 stitching
- Wide size range (S-XXL)
Cons:
- Short length (half thighs)
All in all, the RDX training MMA shorts make a good option for beginners who want a taste of real fight shorts, since it’s very affordable.
4. Elite Sports MMA Shorts
Our Verdict: Best for Beginners
Elite Sports is known for affordable combat sports gear, and its MMA shorts offer good value.
Although these shorts are definitely not as good as a Hayabusa or Diamond MMA shorts, they get the job done. Most especially for a beginner or a person that hasn’t used top-of-the-line MMA shorts.
The Elite Sports MMA shorts have a plain design with short slits on each side of the leg. Its 150GSM polyester fabric is lightweight, and non-chaffing, with spandex in the thigh area for a deep range of motion.
Another simple, yet effective feature is its combination of a Velcro closure and drawstring to keep the shorts snug on the waist.
The only issue many customers complain about is that it’s undersized. Consider going up a size, especially if you have large thighs.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Plain design
- Flexible
- Two-fold Velcro closure with drawstrings
- Different color options
Cons:
- Unappealing design
- Measurement categories are undersized
Overall, the Elite MMA shorts offer awesome value for their price. It is a good buy for beginners and those on a budget.
5. Venum Camo Hero MMA Shorts
Our Verdict: Best for Professionals
Venum is one of the best-known MMA brands.
The Camo Hero shorts cost more than most, but they are built for serious training.
Just as its name implies, it has an eye-catching camouflage design that is also available in several colors.
The Camo Hero uses a durable, very light polyester micro fabric for comfort and mobility, with reinforced seams.
It also dries fast and breathes well.
Like with many other brands, its best to pick a size above your normal size if you have big thighs. In case you worry it might be too large for you, its Velcro closure makes it snug.
For a secure fit, it uses a three-way hook and loop closure.
Pros:
- Unique design
- Durable and ultra-lightweight fabric
- Three-way Velcro closure system
Cons:
- Expensive
- Sizing issues
The Venum Camo Hero is the right choice for those who will spare no costs to get a quality product. It is suitable for training sessions, as well as competitive matches.
6. Gold BJJ No-Gi BJJ Shorts
Our Verdict: Best Lightweight
The Gold BJJ no-gi shorts are not regular MMA shorts but work just as fine for MMA, Muay Thai, wrestling, and other combat sports.
The listing describes them as IBJJF-approved, and they cost less than many competitors.
It has a simple design with the name and logo of the brand imprinted on minimally on both legs. The logo holds up well to washing.
The shorts are free (baggy) but do not get in the way in training, and it ends just above the knees. Like regular MMA shorts, they have side slits on each side but are shorter than that of MMA shorts.
Also, it doesn’t have a Velcro strap and uses only a drawstring and an elastic waistband, to stay snug on the waist.
Pros:
- Cheaper than its closest competitors
- Listed as IBJJF-approved
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Long-lasting graphic imprint
Cons:
- Baggy style
- Drawstring only
The Gold BJJ shorts are made with a super light polyester blend that dries fast and wicks sweat off. The 4-way stretch fabric moves with you when you roll, grapple, or kick.
7. Meister MMA Board Shorts
Our Verdict: Best for Breathability
Meister MMA is a popular MMA gear brand, and the Dragon Hybrid are their main MMA fight shorts.
Like you’d expect, it has a large Dragon graphics on one leg with athletic cuts on each side for fluid movement. The shorts are also knee-length, which is good but is only available in white.
The shorts are typically board shorts with a polyester and nylon blend that guarantees durability, flexibility, and breathability. The material holds its shape, and the inside of each leg has nylon flex stretch panels for better mobility.
Although it has double-stitched seams for a firm hold, a few users have complained that it has a rough finish.
Like most MMA shorts, it has a drawstring, a Velcro closure, and an elastic waistband to stay snug.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Good material
- Drawstring and Velcro closure with elastic waistband
- Its dragon graphic will not crack or peel from a few washes
Cons:
- Available in only one color – white
The Meister Dragon Hybrid offers all the necessary features you hope to find in MMA shorts and at an affordable price. The main decision for you to make is if you can live with its design and one-way color (white).
8. Meister MMA Rush Compression MMA Shorts
Our Verdict: Best in Durability
The Meister MMA Rush compression shorts are a popular budget pick.
They are versatile, working as shorts or as an under layer for MMA, no-gi BJJ, and other sports.
Also, it has a lycra microfiber material that is not only stretchy but also able to withstand all the beating it will take during fights. Plus, its seams are double-stitched for even more durability.
As you’d expect from compression shorts, the Meister shorts fit tightly and have an elastic waistband for a more comfortable fit around the waist.
The fabric wicks sweat and resists odor. However, it is important you wash the red version separately, even before use because it bleeds badly on other clothes.
They also have a built-in cup pocket with a Velcro closure that fits most cups. Despite this, many users have had minor issues with the pocket not keeping a cup well in place.
Pros:
- Great value for money
- In-built cup compartment
- Sleek and stretchy fabric
- Double-stitched for improved durability
Cons:
- Available in only black and red
- Red color bleeds badly
- In-built pocket doesn’t hold cups perfectly
Finally, what makes the Meister Rush compression pants really popular is how cheap they cost for so much value.
9. Anthem Athletics Resilience MMA Shorts
Our Verdict: Best in Style
The Resilience MMA Shorts from Anthem Athletics are popular and well reviewed.
They also come in more designs than anything else in this review.
The shorts are classic board style MMA shorts and its sewn with durability in mind. Its material is tear-resistant, wicks off moisture, and the Anthem Athletics logo won’t peel or crack anytime soon.
For flexibility and unrestricted range of motion, it has long side slits on each side and also has a 4-way stretch crotch area.
With its two-fold Velcro closure and long drawstring, the shorts always stay on the waist even under intense grappling and rolling sessions.
The only issue, which is also common in other MMA shorts, is its sizing. They are designed to fit your true size and not pant size. In most cases, you have to order a size up to get your perfect fit.
Pros:
- Many designs available
- Long-lasting material
- Fast drying and anti-moisture
Cons:
- Fabric feels flimsy to some users
Regardless, the overall design of the Resilience shorts makes them suitable for MMA, jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, CrossFit, and a host of other sports. On another hand, these quality shorts won’t put a hole in your pocket.
10. Sanabul Essential MMA Shorts
Our Verdict: Best for Mobility
The Sanabul Essential MMA shorts are inexpensive and a good choice for beginners.
The Sanabul Essential MMA Shorts have an almost plain design with only small sublimated graphics of the brand name and their logo.
The shorts are less baggy than traditional shorts but not as fitted as most MMA board shorts. But they are designed to fit without hindering movement. Consequently, its side slits are cut very short, since there is already enough mobility.
For flexibility and longevity, the shorts are made with a thick 4-way stretch fabric, which is tough, but comfortable enough to use in any combat sports. Flat-lock seams help prevent ripping and fraying.
The fabric also has an antimicrobial treatment, but you still need to wash the shorts after every session.
For a snug fit on the waist, it uses the popular combination of a drawstring & hook and loop closure.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Tight fit
- Thick and flexible build
- Available in seven (7) colors
- Drawstring and Velcro closure for a snug fit
Cons:
- Different size issues
Overall, these shorts are ideal for beginners and even more experienced users who don’t fancy the screaming designs in more expensive MMA shorts.
Styles Of MMA Shorts
Board Style Shorts
Board-style shorts are the most popular kind of MMA shorts and are standard in pro fights.
Typically, they look just like board shorts used for surfing but have been specially modified for use in combat sports.
First, they have no zippers or pockets. The Unified Rules say fight shorts shall not have exposed Velcro, pockets, or zippers, and the hem can't go below the knee. The waist, sometimes elastic, usually has a drawstring and Velcro closure, to ensure it stays up in workouts or matches.
Vale Tudo Shorts
Vale Tudo shorts are very similar to compression pants or shorts with only minor alterations made to them.
More specifically, MMA Vale Tudo shorts usually have more attractive designs and also have cup compartments. Sometimes, some brands sell them alongside cups and jockstraps.
Vale Tudo shorts are great for no-gi grappling since there is no loose fabric to snag. They work for MMA training too.
Hybrid Shorts
As the name suggests, it is a combination of the two MMA shorts styles we mentioned above.
It combines the elasticity and tight-fitting of Vale Tudo shorts, with the flamboyant design and fastening of board shorts.
Hybrid shorts offer flexibility, comfort, and a full range of motion.
If you like the flexibility of Vale Tudo shorts, but prefer if it were a little baggier for convenience, then hybrid MMA shorts are just what you need.
Why Do You Need MMA Shorts Instead Of Traditional Gym Shorts?
MMA shorts aren't strictly required for practice, but competition rules restrict what fighters can wear.
There are good reasons to train in MMA shorts rather than regular gym or basketball shorts.
And same with any other sports like with a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi, it's an important factor to gear up with the right outfit for some important reasons, too.
Durability
First, regular shorts aren't made for grappling. Train in typical running or basketball shorts, and they will soon show wear and tear; the same way as in considering the difference of MMA gloves from regular boxing gloves.
Flexibility And Mobility
MMA shorts are built with combat in mind, that is, kicking, rolling, grappling, and others, which all require a free range of motion.
Unlike most regular shorts, they usually have athletic slits on each side of the leg that gives more mobility. Also, the gusset or crotch area, which is usually prone to ripping in regular shorts is elasticated.
This gives the wearer unrestricted movement with only a little chance of ripping the shorts during training or workouts.
Comfort And Safety
If you’ve practiced with traditional shorts, then you’ll know they don’t stay up well in fights.
That said, the key factor that makes MMA shorts and/or even Muay Thai shorts stand out from regular shorts is safety and protection; the same way Muay Thai shin guards protect your shin from injury. Fight shorts are designed to reduce the risk of injuries to you and your opponent.
They have no pockets, because fingers and toes can catch in them, and no zippers, which can cut or scrape skin. Of course, this is also true with a pair of boxing shorts.
So before we get to the end of this review, check out this video for some footwork basics:
Conclusion
MMA shorts give you better mobility, comfort, and safety than regular shorts.
The options above cover a range of budgets and styles, though pricier pairs usually last longer.
That being said, if you want to go for the best MMA shorts available, I’ll recommend the Hayabusa Chikara 4. They are knee-length board shorts with side slits so they don't restrict your movement.
Designed for comfort and quality, the polyester fabric has stretch panels and reinforced seams for flexibility and durability. Also, the shorts use a drawstring and Velcro closure system, coupled with a silicone waistband to allow it to stay snug and non-chaffing on the waist.
All in all, the Hayabusa Chikara 4 shorts are great for people who like loose knee-length shorts and want top quality.
Whatever you choose, wash your shorts after every session. The CDC advises athletes to wash uniforms and clothing after each use and not share them.
Sources
- Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts, Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports
- Athletes: MRSA Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
