Key takeaways
- Best MMA shorts for grappling: six fight shorts compared for BJJ, wrestling and MMA, with fit, waistband, pocket and no-gi rule tips.
For most grapplers, the Gold BJJ Jiu Jitsu Shorts are the best overall pick in this group, because the listing says they are IBJJF approved for no-gi competition and they are built for rolling, wrestling and MMA rather than just striking. “Grappling shorts” means fight shorts that stay put when you shrimp, scramble and hit takedowns: a secure waist, a cut that lets the hips open, and no hardware that can snag a finger or scratch a training partner. The other five fit different needs, from striking-first trunks to budget gym pairs, and one of them has a pocket that makes it a runner-up for serious mat work.
Quick List
- RDX MMA Shorts (first listing) – best for a general training short that covers BJJ, kickboxing and cage work
- RDX MMA Shorts (second listing) – best for buyers who want the same brand in a different version of the design
- ROAR-INT MMA Fight Shorts – best for all-purpose gym use, including wrestling and running
- Gold BJJ Jiu Jitsu Shorts – best for no-gi competition where uniform rules matter
- SUOTF MMA Fight Shorts – best for a simple, no-frills fight trunk for sparring days
- LAFROI MMA Cross Training Shorts – best for boxing and cross-training, and a runner-up for grappling
Which One Is Right for You?
| If you… | Choose |
|---|---|
| Compete in no-gi jiu-jitsu and need a pair marketed as tournament approved | Gold BJJ Jiu Jitsu Shorts |
| Want one pair for BJJ, Muay Thai and cage work | First RDX MMA Shorts |
| Already like RDX and want to compare the second version | Second RDX MMA Shorts |
| Wrestle, lift and run in the same session | ROAR-INT MMA Fight Shorts |
| Spar mostly standing and want a classic trunk shape | SUOTF MMA Fight Shorts |
| Box or cross-train and like a drawstring waist with a pocket | LAFROI MMA Cross Training Shorts |
If most of your mat time is grappling, start with the Gold BJJ pair and treat the others as backups for striking days. If you only roll casually in your own gym, any of the pockets-free options will do, and the choice comes down to fit and fabric feel. The pair with a pocket is the one to skip for competition.
All 6 Picks in Detail
1. RDX MMA Shorts (first listing) – Best for All-Round Training
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This RDX pair is named for training and kickboxing, and the listing also calls out martial arts, cage fighting, Muay Thai, BJJ, boxing and grappling. That wide list makes it a sensible first purchase for someone who has not settled on one sport. It suits the gym regular who drills takedowns on Monday and holds pads on Wednesday and wants one pair to cover both.
- Marketed for training, kickboxing and cage fighting
- Listing also names BJJ and grappling use
- Brand: RDX, a combat-sports gear maker
- Fabric blend, waist style and inseam: confirm on listing
- Size options vary by listing; check the size chart before ordering
- Pocket and closure details: confirm on listing
In practice, a short like this earns its place by being forgettable. You want a pair that does not twist at the waist during a sit-out, does not flap open at the thigh on a high guard pass, and survives a few hundred washes. Because the listing leaves the construction details to the product page, spend a minute with the size chart and customer photos before ordering, and make a note of how the waistband closes. If you plan to enter a tournament in these, check the event’s short rules first, since a general training short is not automatically a legal one.
Pros:
- Broad sport coverage in one pair
- Familiar brand with several shorts designs
Cons:
- Not stated as approved for any no-gi ruleset
- Sizing details are not spelled out in the listing name
Compared with the Gold BJJ pair, this is the more flexible short and the Gold is the more competition-minded one.
2. RDX MMA Shorts (second listing) – Best for Comparing Another Version
The second RDX entry carries the same product name as the first, which usually means a different color, print or revision of the same family. The listing text names the same range of uses: martial arts, cage fight, Muay Thai, BJJ, boxing and grappling. Pick this one when the design or colorway appeals to you more, or when the first listing is out of your size.
- Same stated uses as the first RDX listing
- Brand: RDX
- Differences from the first listing (print, color, cut): confirm on listing
- Fabric and stitching: confirm on listing
- Waistband style: confirm on listing
- Sizes: check the size chart on the product page
The reason to look at a second version at all is practical. Fight-short families often come in several cuts over the years: a shorter inseam, a different side slit, or a revised waistband. If the first listing is sold out in your size, or the colorway does not match your gym’s team colors, this entry gives you an alternative without leaving the brand. Read the size chart on this exact listing rather than assuming it matches the other one, because brands sometimes adjust sizing between revisions, and check the fabric description for any change in stretch.
Pros:
- Gives a second design choice within the same brand
- Same wide range of stated uses
Cons:
- Easy to confuse with the first listing, so double-check what you are adding
- No competition approval stated in the name
It is nearly interchangeable with the first RDX pair, so choose between them on appearance and availability, not on features.
3. ROAR-INT MMA Fight Shorts – Best for Mixed Gym Sessions
ROAR-INT markets this pair for grappling, kickboxing, Muay Thai, BJJ, gym training, running and athletic wrestling, which is the widest “gym” framing in the group. The listing shows a US alpha size in Large with a regular fit, so you can compare it to a size chart you already know. It suits the athlete who treats shorts as general fight-gym uniform and does not want a separate pair for cardio.
- Stated uses: grappling, kickboxing, Muay Thai, BJJ, gym training, running, wrestling
- US alpha sizing with a regular fit shown in the listing
- Brand: ROAR-INT
- Fabric, stretch and inseam: confirm on listing
- Closure and pockets: confirm on listing
- Color options: check the product page
The mention of running and athletic wrestling is worth noticing. Wrestling shorts and running shorts both reward light fabric and a clean waistband, which is also what you want in a conditioning-heavy class. Where this kind of short can fall short is in competition: a general gym short may carry a pocket, a visible logo that clashes with event rules, or a color that is not allowed. If you only train, that does not matter. If you compete, compare it with the Gold pair and read the event’s current rules before packing it in your bag.
Pros:
- Clear alpha sizing in the title helps with fit decisions
- Wide use list suits all-in-one gym bags
Cons:
- Lesser-known brand, so lean on the size chart
- Not stated as tournament approved
Pick it over the RDX pairs if you want a running-friendly short, and over the Gold if competition rules do not matter to you.
4. Gold BJJ Jiu Jitsu Shorts – Best for No-Gi Competition
This is the only pair in the group whose listing says IBJJF approved, and it is labeled a no-gi fight short for grappling, MMA, wrestling, Muay Thai and boxing. That is why it leads our overall recommendation. It suits competitors who want to walk into a bracket without worrying about a uniform check, and it is just as good for daily rolling.
- Listing says IBJJF approved, no-gi fight short
- Stated uses: grappling, MMA, wrestling, Muay Thai, boxing
- Color and size shown in the listing: black, medium
- Fabric blend and inseam: confirm on listing
- Closure style: confirm on listing
- Pockets: confirm on listing, though a competition short should not have open ones
The IBJJF reference matters because tournament check-in can be strict. Referees look at color, length, pockets and hardware, and a short that fails the check can cost you time or force a scramble to borrow gear. A pair marketed as approved takes some of that worry away, though you should still read the current rulebook, since rules and color requirements are updated from time to time. Black is the safest color, and it also hides sweat and wear well. For everyday rolling, the same simple design makes it easy to keep two or three pairs in rotation.
Pros:
- Competition approval is stated in the listing
- Black is a safe color under common no-gi color rules
Cons:
- Specific fabric and length details are not in the name
- Rules change, so verify the event’s current requirements
Against the SUOTF trunks, the Gold pair trades a simple look for clearer competition credentials.
5. SUOTF MMA Fight Shorts – Best for Simple Sparring Trunks
SUOTF sells this pair as MMA fight shorts and BJJ boxing trunks for men, with grappling in the name. The listing is short on detail, which tells you what it is: a plain fight trunk without much marketing. It suits the fighter who spars standing up most days and wants a lightweight short that does not feel heavy once it is soaked in sweat.
- Marketed as MMA fight shorts and BJJ boxing trunks
- Men’s cut; model code SU0DK2 in the listing
- Size shown in the listing: M
- Fabric and stretch: confirm on listing
- Inseam length and slit height: confirm on listing
- Waistband and closure: confirm on listing
Simple trunks have their own appeal. With fewer panels and less decoration, there is less to catch on a mat, and the pair dries quickly after a hard round. The tradeoff is that you get less information up front, so sizing deserves extra care: measure your waist, compare it to the chart, and think about how much room you want in the thigh. If you are new to fight shorts, buy one pair first and learn how you like the fit before stocking up on several.
Pros:
- Straightforward trunk style
- Covers striking and grappling uses in one title
Cons:
- Sparse listing details make careful size checking important
- No competition approval stated
It sits between the RDX all-rounders and the LAFROI boxing trunk in feel, closer to a fight short than a cross-trainer.
6. LAFROI MMA Cross Training Shorts – Best for Boxing and Cross-Training (Runner-Up for Grappling)
This LAFROI pair is described as MMA cross-training boxing shorts with a drawstring and a pocket. The pocket is the problem for grappling. Pockets can catch fingers and toes, and no-gi competition guidance summarized by gear retailers says pockets should be absent or sewn shut, so we place this pair as a runner-up for mat work. It is better matched to boxing, bag work and general cross-training.
- Described as cross-training and boxing trunks with fight wear styling
- Drawstring waist and a pocket, per the listing
- Dragon print and size Large shown in the listing
- Fabric and inseam: confirm on listing
- Pocket depth and closure: confirm on listing
- Competition approval: not stated
Pockets are the line between a training short and a competition short for many grapplers. In a boxing gym, a pocket is simply a convenience for a locker key or a mouthguard case. On the mat, a loose pocket can trap a toe in a scramble, and organizers often require pockets to be absent or sewn shut. If you love everything else about this pair, a tailor can close the pocket, but you would still have to confirm that it meets the rules for your event. Most grapplers will be happier with a pocket-free pair.
Pros:
- Pocket is handy for gym keys on striking days
- Bold print stands out in a fight gym
Cons:
- Pocket is a snag risk in grappling
- Drawstring styling is less secure than some fight-short waistbands for hard rolling
Choose it for boxing; for jiu-jitsu, the Gold BJJ pair is the safer match.
Specs Compared
| Product | Stated uses | Size in listing | Pocket / closure | Competition approval |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RDX MMA Shorts (first) | Training, kickboxing, cage fight, Muay Thai, BJJ, boxing, grappling | Confirm on listing | Confirm on listing | Not stated |
| RDX MMA Shorts (second) | Same as first RDX listing | Confirm on listing | Confirm on listing | Not stated |
| ROAR-INT MMA Fight Shorts | Grappling, kickboxing, Muay Thai, BJJ, gym, running, wrestling | US alpha Large, regular | Confirm on listing | Not stated |
| Gold BJJ Jiu Jitsu Shorts | Grappling, MMA, wrestling, Muay Thai, boxing | Black, Medium | Confirm on listing | IBJJF approved per listing |
| SUOTF MMA Fight Shorts | MMA, BJJ, boxing, grappling | M | Confirm on listing | Not stated |
| LAFROI MMA Cross Training Shorts | Cross-training, boxing, MMA | Large (dragon print) | Drawstring and pocket | Not stated |
How We Chose These
We built this list from the current catalog of men’s MMA and grappling shorts and compared what each listing states about intended sport, size options, closure and competition approval. We favored listings that name grappling or BJJ explicitly, then checked fit-related fields such as waistband style and pocket details. Where a listing does not state a value, we say so instead of guessing. We also read manufacturer and retailer descriptions plus summaries of common no-gi uniform rules to understand which features matter on the mat. Treat the picks as research-based starting points, then confirm size charts and details on each product page.
What to Look For
Rules first: pockets, hardware and length
If you plan to compete, start with the rules. Summaries of IBJJF no-gi guidance from gear retailers say shorts should have no pockets, or pockets stitched shut, and should avoid buttons, exposed drawstrings, zippers and any metal or plastic that could hurt an opponent. Length matters too: the commonly cited rule is that shorts cover at least halfway down the thigh and stop short of the knee, within roughly six inches of it. Colors are also limited at many events, with black, white or belt-rank colors the usual options. Rules differ between organizations and change over time, so read the current rulebook for the event you enter. For gym training, you can relax, but a pocket-free, hardware-free short is still the kinder choice for your training partners.
Waistband and closure
The waist is where grappling shorts fail. A drawstring alone tends to loosen when you scramble, and a knotted string can dig into your stomach during guard work. Look for a wide elastic waistband with a hook-and-loop flap or a stitched-in internal tie so nothing dangles. A fold-over flap closure sits flat against the body and is less likely to snag a gi-less grip. If a listing does not describe the waistband, check customer photos on the product page and prefer designs where the closure is covered.
Fabric, stretch and side slits
Fight shorts are usually polyester or a polyester blend with some stretch. Four-way stretch fabric moves with deep guards and high kicks, while a rigid weave can ride up the thigh when you shrimp. Side slits help with hip mobility, but very high slits can be a problem if the short flares open on a bridge. Lightweight fabric dries fast, which matters if you train twice a day. Mesh or perforated panels help airflow but can catch toes, so mat-focused athletes often prefer solid panels. For no-gi, avoid rough stitched graphics that can cause friction on skin; sublimated prints are smoother than heavy appliques.
Fit and sizing
Fight shorts should sit at the waist without sliding and should allow a full squat or butterfly guard without pulling at the crotch. Most brands use alpha sizing (S, M, L, XL) based on waist measurements, but cuts run differently, so compare your measured waist and thigh to each chart. A short that fits snugly through the waist and loosely through the thigh is easier to move in than one that is baggy everywhere, because loose hems give opponents something to grab. If you are between sizes, size up for MMA with kicks and size down for tight grappling cuts.
A simple rule of thumb
Match the short to the hardest thing you do in it. If you roll or compete, pick a pocket-free pair with a secure waist and a mid-thigh length. If you mostly strike, comfort and kick range come first. Example: a competitor who trains no-gi four nights a week and enters a tournament twice a year should buy two matching pairs of competition-friendly shorts, rotate them for washing and keep one fresh for event day. A striker who spars lightly can buy one cross-training short and enjoy the pocket.
Questions
Do grappling shorts need to be IBJJF approved?
Only if you compete in IBJJF events or others that follow its uniform rules. For regular classes, your gym’s rules decide, and most gyms simply ask for no pockets or hardware.
Are board shorts or fight shorts better for no-gi?
Both are common, and the choice depends on the rules and your preference. Fight shorts usually have a stretchier cut and a more secure waist, while board shorts can be longer and have different closure styles. Check what your competition allows.
Should I wear compression shorts underneath?
Many grapplers do, for coverage and comfort. Gear-retailer summaries of no-gi rules also mention that approved compression shorts can be worn under board shorts, so a pair underneath is a safe habit.
How should fight shorts fit?
Snug at the waist, roomy enough in the thigh for a deep squat, and long enough to stay at mid-thigh when you move. If the waist slides down during drilling, go down a size or look for a different closure.
Can I use the same shorts for Muay Thai and BJJ?
Yes, if the pair has no pockets and enough stretch for kicks. Short Muay Thai trunks have very high slits that can be a nuisance on the mat, so many people keep two pairs.
How do I keep fight shorts from fading or smelling?
Wash them soon after training in cold water, turn them inside out, and air dry them. Heat from a dryer can wear out the stretch fabric and prints faster.
Update History
- October 20, 2026 – Initial publication; product set drawn from current catalog listings.
- Check the product page for current specifications and availability before buying.
Sources
- Manufacturer product and listing pages for RDX, ROAR-INT, Gold BJJ, SUOTF and LAFROI
- Retailer listing titles and specification fields
- Gear-retailer and training-blog summaries of IBJJF no-gi uniform guidance (pockets, hardware, length, colors)
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