What kind of shorts do I need for MMA?

Any shorts that have a drawstring, no pockets, and no metal or plastic on the outside are perfectly fine. The drawstring will keep your shorts secure. Pockets are dangerous because somebody’s fingers or toes can get caught in them. And any metal or plastic can cut or hurt your training partner.

Then what is so special about MMA shorts?

They are better than regular shorts because they are made specifically for MMA. Most have a much more secure drawstring system, quick drying fabric, and even split seams and flex panels.

What are split seams and why do I need them for MMA?

Split seams are a seperation down the leg of the shorts. These are helpful when you are grappling as they give you more mobility. They are helpful for striking as they do not restrict you when throwing knees or high kicks. If your shorts never hinder you than you do not need split seams. They are usually for people who have thick thighs.

What about flex panels?

Flex panels are stretchy material, usually in the crotch area and sometimes on the sides of the shorts. They serve the same purpose as split seams, helping you gain better mobility.

You said not to have pockets on your shorts, but this pair of MMA shorts I am looking at has a pocket?

Some MMA shorts do indeed have an outside pocket, but they will be very small and will be secured with strong Velcro to insure that they will not come open during training. These pockets are usually for holding your mouthguard when not in use.

What about grip panels? Do these really work?

Grip panels are the newest technology for fight shorts. They are rubber sections that are covering the inside thighs to help secure an opponents limb from slipping. They DO work, but it is almost a negligible difference. If you have a good submission locked on, it isn’t going to matter if you have the grip panels. If your opponent escapes, chances are that the grip panels wouldn’t have made a great difference.

What should I look for when I buy my own shorts?

First decide on what closure you want, there are many different types. For example, Nogi offers only a drawstring, while Sprawl offers a drawstring and elastic waistband. It is mainly personal preference and once you training you won’t really notice, just as long as the shorts stay up and secure.

Decide if you want flex panels or not. Consider them if you feel your mobility is limited.

Make sure there are no outside pockets on the shorts. If there are, they absolutely have to have some securing device like Velcro to insure the pocket will not open up during training.

Lastly, chose a design that you like! A nice solid color is always good, but there are crazy designs out there by shorts like Tapout and Venum.

Under this relationship, TapouT Accessory Group will design, distribute and market an array of men’s, women’s and children’s headwear, knit headwear, backpacks, gear bags, fashion bags, belts, buckles, wallets, small leather goods, jewelry, hosiery and timepieces.

“TapouT is thrilled to be working with TapouT Accessory Group to extend our accessories to fans across the country,” said Mask, TapouT Founder. “TapouT is all about expressing your passion and attitude, and whether it’s through our clothing or accessories, we want our company to help take that emotion to the next level.”

“We are extremely excited to be working with TapouT in the further development and expansion of their accessory program,” said Sandy Schonwald, CEO of TapouT Accessory Group, Inc. “We envision a comprehensive line of unique and inspiring TapouT branded accessories that appeals to both the dedicated TapouT follower, as well as the broader sport-minded consumer base.”

About TapouT

Tapout is a $100 million empire that operates without concern for competition because they’ve been at the forefront of Mixed Martial Arts since its inception, representing some of the biggest MMA superstars including Chuck Liddell and Anderson Silva. What began as a hobby has turned into a full-on underground culture and apparel monopoly.

The TapouT Crew, Mask, Punkass and Skyskrape, appear at the most extreme events, supporting the fighters and offering the clothing line that reflects the brand’s iconic status. TapouT, “an expression of combat known worldwide,” produces the hottest, edgiest apparel for guys and girls and their distinctive logo graces everything from clothing, accessories, and gear, to bottled water and a magazine. The TapouT logo has become so noteworthy that its most devoted fans are tattooing it on their bodies, demonstrating the ultimate in commitment.

TapouT is also the exclusive apparel sponsor for Spike TV’s “The Ultimate Fighter” through 2011.

The Eternal Unlimited Buddha is the shirt Miguel Torres wore in his defense of WEC 37 Bantamweight Championship, where he defeated Manny Tapia in the second round via TKO. This MMA t-shirt is built for ultimate comfort, with “water based and discharged ink for a smooth feel”. While the Buddha design is very refreshing, it contrasts the dark (and scary!) designs common to popular t-shirt styles like Affliction or Warrior wear.

Click Here to Buy The Eternal Unlimited Buddha T shirt

The clothing company RVCA has introduced its new version of the famous BJ Penn fight short. These MMA shorts feature microfiber material, a velcro (hook and loop) closure and screen printed RVCA logo patches. Of course, the short is completed with the signature black belt that is sewn into the material. The BJ Penn shorts are priced at around $61. Check out the new BJ Penn fight shorts at RVCA.

A representative from Fight Soap contacted MMAgearguide.com and sent us a sample of their product for our review.

“Fight-Soap: the world’s ultra premium lineup of soap made for MMA fighters, strikers, and grapplers. Made with high quality, eco-friendly, and vegan ingredients. Each soap contains essential oils known to have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties.”

First, we would like to thank Fight-Soap for their sending us a sample “Dirty Jersey” soap slug. The soap we received was excellent, it met and surpassed every expectation, and is a high quality product.

After several tests, the soap was exactly what you need after training or a workout. Unlike normal soaps, Fight Soap rinsed really well and we especially liked the smell. It was just right, not overpowering but had a very refreshing fragrance.

In our opinion, the soap is perfect for fighters because it gives you a “peace of mind” that you are taking the precautions to prevent any skin diseases common to MMA Training (MRSA, Staph, Ringworm, Impetigo, and Herpes). The natural ingredients promote the skin’s natural defenses against infection.

Check out more at Fight-Soap.com

Do you have a product that you would like MMAgearguide.com to review? Drop us a line: email us.

UFC fighters Lyoto “the Dragon” Machida and Houston “the Assassin” Alexander are now sponsored by the shoe company Lugz. The fighters have their dedicated page on the Lugs.com website complete with thier MMA profile background. This sponsorship with a non-MMA apparel company can show how the sport of MMA continues to grow and flow into the mainstream.

The Gameness Pearl is similar to the Koral Gi, it has a rubber collar and is a lightweight and durable weave.

Unfortunately there is no picture at this time, but you can check out more details here.

Triumph United has released a whole new line of t-shirts, with cool designs such as a dragon themed muay thai shirt, and a sweet Japanese rising sun shirt.

As a bonus, most of their old line is insanely discounted, it’s a great time to stock up on your favorite shirts!  Triumph United is printed on American Apparel t-shirts.  Check out the new line here

Buy Everlast Randy “The Natural Couture” T-Shirt