A shin guard is a very important piece of equipment in MMA fights. From the amateur level itself, you would need a shin guard to not be exposed to fatal injuries or even light ones from your opponent. As you become more advanced, the type of shin you use also changes.
If it is time to change your shin guard and look for good options, this article will provide a good guide. Here you will find the best MMA shin guards review, which includes their features, pros, and cons that will help make your decision.
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Top Picks For the Best MMA Shin Guards
Venum Elite Stand-up Shin Guards
Venum started in 2004 when Frank Dupuis established a French-based e-commerce website that dealt with combat sports and martial arts. Frank started the company with the vision to make sporting equipment easily accessible. With time the company reached a much larger audience.
The Venum Elite Standup Shin Guard is a premium product of the company and is highly recommended by professionals. Made from Skintex leather, the material is highly durable and has no slipping problems. The fitting of the shin guard is exceptional, and it is also very comfortable.
The high-density three-piece foam helps protect the shin and a 3 piece set, which is essential for instep. With thick padding, the shin guard provides optimum protection.
Pros
- It takes the shape of the foot
- Lightweight
- Fitting is amazing and does not slip away from your legs
- Thick padding gives great protection
- Durable
Cons
- The Skintex leather may become smudgy after a certain time
Fairtex SP5 Competition Shin Guards
Fairtex is a sports and clothing brand based in Thailand, which was founded in the year 1958 by Philip Wong. Today, the company deals with various boxing, mixed martial arts, and Muay Thai equipment of premium quality.
Fairtex SP5 competition shin guards are a high-quality product that gives tough competitor to the Venum Elite. Made from Syntek leather, which means synthetic leather, the shin guards have high durability. The lining inside the guards are very smooth, and the lack of stitches gives no irritation to the user.
Four straps help in keeping the guards in place. These straps can be adjusted according to the user’s comfort without restricting their movement or giving them the feeling of tightness.
Pros
- Foam is double-layered for optimum protection
- Lightweight but sturdy padding
- Four adjustable straps
- Perfect fitting
- Flexible shin guards
Cons
- The Velcro straps can wear out with time
- Some people have reported scuffs from the shin guards
Hayabusa T3 Striking Shin Guards
Hayabusa is a Japanese word that means peregrine falcon. This company was established by David Zikakis, Ken Clement, Luke Harris, and Craig Clement in 2006. Products specially designed for martial arts, fitness enthusiasts, and boxers are available in this company.
Hayabusa T3 is another very durable and very high-end product. Inside the shin guards, there is a fabric lining present with tiny grip dots, which will keep your shin guards fit and prevent slipping off the shin guards.
The most attractive feature in the shin guards is their padding, which gives the users optimum comfort. There are several segments in the products which ensure that your foot is saved from any heavy impacts.
Pros
- Fabric lining is comfortable with tiny grip dots
- Knee protection is very good
- Design is very classic and eye-catching
- The padding of the shin guards provide optimum protection
Cons
- Pricey product
- The fabric does not dry very quickly
Things to Consider While Buying the Best MMA Shin Guards
When you are buying the best MMA shin guards, then there are certain things that you need to look into. These considerations will ensure that you choose the right product and can enjoy the sport effectively.
Type
Many types of shin guards are available in the market. Some of the common types of shin guards are striking shin pads, grappling shin protectors, hybrid shin guards, and competition shin guards. The striking shin guards are specially designed for Muay Thai. These help the fighter attack their opponent using their feet and shins and block any low attacks.
Grappling shin protectors are designed for fighters who are involved in mixed martial arts. They help the fighter grapple and stand-up strike alternatively without having to take the shin guards off. Hybrid shin guards are a combination of grappling and striking shin guards and are perfect for both.
Competition shin guards are made only for amateur competitors. These shin guards are very lightweight and also do not provide optimum protection like the other shin guards. You should only choose this if you are an amateur. The other shin guards would be a much more suitable option for professionals depending on their preference and need.
Fit and Size
The size and fitting of shin guards should ensure that the fighter does not experience any discomfort. If the shin guard keeps slipping off or is too tight, it would create a hindrance in effective training or a negative aspect during competitions.
You need to choose the perfect size of the shin guards – Medium, Large or Extra Large. It is better to choose a shin guard that is heavy and large since these are the ones that provide ultimate protection from injuries. However, you need to ensure that they are not so bulky that they possess a problem for you.
Material
The material of the shin guard is a very important consideration. Depending on the type of shin guard that you are choosing, the material could vary. Most of the shin guards are either made from synthetic materials or pure leather. Generally, the more the shin guard’s price, the better would be its quality and material used.
Price should not be the only factor when you are looking at the material. You also need to see if the material of the shin guard is comfortable and durable. There is no use investing in a shin guard that would wear out after a few extensive fights.
Wrapping Up
Finding the right shin guard for you is very important during practice and professional fights. You also need a shin guard that not only offers you protection but is also very comfortable. This is because you will not be able to fight efficiently if your gear is not in sync with your body.
You can look into the different shin guards mentioned in the guide or look beyond them to other good options. No matter which shin guard you choose, make sure that they are suitable for you.