Key takeaways
- MMA shorts look like simple gym clothing until the first training session that mixes kicks, takedowns, and ground work.
MMA shorts look like simple gym clothing until the first training session that mixes kicks, takedowns, and ground work. A pair that rides up during a high kick, has a stiff waistband that digs into the hips in a guard, or catches fingers in an oversized pocket becomes a distraction in a hurry. The decision behind this keyword is about cut and closure as much as looks: do you need a long, loose board-style short for striking, or a short, stretchy, pocket-free fight short that stays out of the way when grappling?
This guide is for beginners joining their first MMA class, hobbyists who rotate between kickboxing and jiu jitsu, and anyone replacing worn gym gear. The picks below cover fight shorts with pockets, no-gi grappling shorts with Velcro closures, lightweight stretch fabrics, and a sun-protective model. Judgments rely on listing titles only, so check size charts, inseam length, and fabric content on each product page, since waist measurements vary by brand and fit. Use the guide to narrow options, then confirm the sizing before ordering.
Quick Picks
Our top picks
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
| Product | Best for | Key spec from the title |
|---|---|---|
| RDX MMA Shorts | Training and kickboxing | Fighting shorts for martial arts, Muay Thai, BJJ, grappling |
| SOTF Stretch Fight Shorts | Pocket-equipped gym wear | Stretch fabric, pocket, size L for waist 36-37 inch |
| LAFROI Cross Training Trunks | Boxing and cross training | Drawstring and pocket, Dragon design |
| ROAR-INT Fight Shorts | Wrestling and gym sessions | Grappling, kickboxing, Muay Thai, BJJ, running |
| Runhit Muay Thai Shorts | No-gi and cage training | MMA fight shorts for BJJ, wrestling, boxing, jiu jitsu |
| FUJI Baseline Grappling Shorts | Grappling and judo | Lightweight 4-way stretch, drawstring and Velcro closure |
| Poekuao MMA Shorts | Outdoor or sun-exposed training | UPF 50+, lightweight, BJJ and no-gi |
How to Choose
Pick a cut for striking or for grappling
Muay Thai and kickboxing shorts are usually shorter and wider at the leg opening, which allows high kicks without binding. Grappling shorts tend to be a bit longer, tighter, and free of loose parts that opponents can catch. MMA fight shorts sit between the two, with side slits or stretch panels for movement. Decide which side of the sport you spend more time on, or pick a stretch-fabric pair that handles both.
Fabric, stretch, and weight
Lightweight polyester blends dry quickly and feel comfortable in long rounds, while heavier fabrics last longer on mats but run warmer. Look for four-way stretch if the title mentions it, since movement in every direction is what separates good gear from stiff gear. UPF 50+ fabric, like the Poekuao listing mentions, helps if you train outdoors. Mesh panels add airflow, and flat seams reduce rubbing during long sessions on the mat.
Waistband, closure, and pockets
A drawstring paired with a Velcro tab, as listed on the FUJI shorts, keeps the waist secure when rolling on the ground. Pockets are convenient for casual gym wear, but in grappling they can catch fingers or toes, which is why many dedicated grappling shorts skip them. For sizes, go by the waist chart in inches rather than the letter alone; for example, the SOTF listing ties size L to a waist of 36 to 37 inches.
What to ignore and where budget models cut corners
Disregard logo-heavy designs that say little about construction. Budget shorts often cut corners on stitching at the crotch and side seams, leading to blowouts in the first months. Thin elastic and cheap drawstrings loosen after repeated washes. Look at care instructions, since many printed designs fade under hot water and high heat. In 2026, the practical test remains stitching, stretch, and a waistband that stays put through a full class.
The 7 Best Options
RDX MMA Shorts for Training and Kickboxing
The listing describes fighting shorts for martial arts, cage fighting, Muay Thai, BJJ, boxing, and grappling, aimed at both training and kickboxing. The wide discipline list suggests a design intended to handle strikes and ground work, which suits gym members who attend varied classes in a single week. A person who does pad work on Monday, open mat on Wednesday, and conditioning on Friday can rotate one pair through the entire schedule, which keeps the laundry pile manageable. Because sizing varies by brand, compare the waist chart in inches against a pair of shorts you already own.
- Strength: described for many disciplines, from Muay Thai to grappling.
- Strength: cage-fight styling suits MMA classes and competition-minded gyms.
- Trade-off: the title lacks fabric details, so check composition and the size chart.
Skip it if you want a specific no-gi or UPF fabric listed up front. Read the listing for fit and care guidance.
SOTF Stretch Fight Shorts with Pocket
This listing describes men’s MMA and boxing fight shorts in stretch sports fabric with a pocket, offered in gray and in black and red. The size note says L fits a waist of 36 to 37 inches, a useful anchor for sizing. It is a straightforward gym short for striking and general training. The colorways give some choice between a low-key gray and a louder black and red, and a pocket helps when a phone or key needs somewhere to go before class. Always take pocket contents out before sparring or rolling.
- Strength: stretch fabric helps with kicks and lunges.
- Strength: waist measurement in the title makes sizing easier.
- Trade-off: a pocket can snag during grappling or ground work.
Skip it if you mostly roll in jiu jitsu and prefer pocket-free shorts.
LAFROI Men’s MMA Cross Training Boxing Trunks
The LAFROI listing offers cross-training, boxing, and fight trunks with a drawstring and a pocket, shown in a Dragon design and size LG. The graphic look is meant for people who like a bolder style at the gym. The drawstring gives some control over fit at the waist. Beginners who feel self-conscious about technical-looking gear often like a pair with a recognizable pattern, since it feels more like a personal choice than a uniform. Check the fabric content and care instructions before assuming the print will survive many washes.
- Strength: drawstring closure allows waist adjustment.
- Strength: bold graphic styling stands out in the gym.
- Trade-off: printed designs can fade over time with hot washes.
Skip it if you want a plain, understated design or a hook-and-loop waist tab.
ROAR-INT MMA Fight Shorts
ROAR-INT lists shorts for grappling, kickboxing, Muay Thai, BJJ, gym training, running, athletic use, and wrestling, in US Large, Regular. The versatile description fits students who like one pair that can move from the mat to the treadmill. Sizing is tied to the US alpha scale, so confirm the chart. The running and wrestling mentions point to a flexible cut that works for conditioning days as well as technique classes, which is handy for people who split time between a gym and a track. Test the length by squatting and kicking at home before the first class.
- Strength: broad use list makes it a flexible all-rounder.
- Strength: fits athletes who cross-train outside of martial arts classes.
- Trade-off: a do-everything short may not match a specialist cut.
Skip it if you want a short built only for striking or only for grappling.
Runhit Men’s Muay Thai Shorts
The Runhit listing frames these as MMA fight shorts for BJJ, wrestling, boxing, no gi, jiu jitsu, training, cage fighting, grappling, and kickboxing, in black and size L. It leans toward a grappling-friendly crossover while still carrying a Muay Thai label, which makes it a practical choice for students who attend both styles. Wrestling and no-gi classes can be hard on seams, so the quality of stitching at the crotch and side panels deserves a look in the product photos. A dark color also hides mat marks and sweat patches better than a light shade after a long session.
- Strength: aimed at both striking and no-gi grappling.
- Strength: black color is easy to coordinate and hides wear.
- Trade-off: the title does not state closure type or fabric weight.
Skip it if you need specific details like a Velcro tab before buying.
FUJI Baseline Grappling Shorts
FUJI lists these as grappling shorts for MMA, BJJ, judo, and jiu jitsu, in black size 34, with lightweight 4-way stretch fabric and a secure drawstring and Velcro closure. The closure is a standout for anyone who rolls often and dislikes shorts that shift. The size 34 listing offers a direct waist reference. Judo and jiu jitsu clubs often hold long drilling sessions with lots of hip movement, and a stretch fabric with a reliable closure makes those hours more comfortable. If you are between sizes, read the waist chart carefully because Velcro closures allow little adjustment.
- Strength: 4-way stretch fabric supports movement in every direction.
- Strength: drawstring plus Velcro helps keep the waist secure on the mat.
- Trade-off: the shorter focus on grappling may feel restrictive for high kicks.
Skip it if your classes center on Muay Thai kicks.
Poekuao Men’s MMA Shorts
Poekuao lists men’s shorts for MMA, BJJ, no gi, jiu jitsu, wrestling, Muay Thai, boxing, training, grappling, cage and kickboxing, with UPF 50+ and lightweight construction, shown here in black, size M. UPF 50+ is a sun-protection label that matters for anyone who trains outdoors, runs on a field, or sits near bright windows at a sunlit gym. Summer bootcamps, backyard drilling, and park sessions are where a light, breathable short earns its keep, though sun protection should still include sensible habits such as shade breaks and water.
- Strength: UPF 50+ listing suits outdoor or bright-light sessions.
- Strength: lightweight fabric feels cooler in warm rooms.
- Trade-off: the title gives no information about closure or pocket design.
Skip it if you want a documented Velcro waist tab or a heavier, more durable fabric. Check the size chart, since only medium appears in the title.
Which One Fits Your Situation
You mostly roll in no-gi jiu jitsu
The FUJI Baseline shorts with a Velcro closure or the Runhit pair keep things secure on the mat.
You split time between kickboxing and gym work
The SOTF stretch shorts or the ROAR-INT all-rounder give room to kick and a pocket for casual use.
You train outdoors or in bright light
The Poekuao UPF 50+ lightweight shorts fit sun-exposed workouts, while a pocket-free design suits mat work.
You want a bold look with a drawstring
The LAFROI Dragon trunks or the RDX fight shorts bring the styling and the adjustable waist for general training.
Common Mistakes
- Choosing by letter size without checking the waist chart in inches.
- Wearing pocketed shorts to a grappling class, where fingers and toes can catch.
- Washing printed shorts in hot water and drying them on high heat, which fades graphics and wears the elastic.
- Picking heavy fabric for hot gyms, then overheating mid-round.
- Ignoring inseam length, which affects kicks and mat comfort.
Related guides
- 16 Oz Boxing Gloves For Heavy Bag Training
- Chest Protectors For Sparring
- Groin Protectors For Sparring
Frequently Asked Questions
Do MMA shorts need a built-in liner?
Most fight shorts do not include one, so many athletes wear compression shorts or a fitted brief underneath. Check the listing for liner details and follow gym rules on protective gear.
What is the difference between fight shorts and grappling shorts?
Fight shorts are typically looser for kicks, while grappling shorts are shorter or closer fitting, often with a Velcro closure. Many people choose one pair for each discipline.
How should MMA shorts be washed?
Wash in cold water, avoid heat drying, and follow the care instructions. This keeps graphics intact and extends the life of the elastic and stitching.
Are sizes consistent across brands?
No. Use the brand size chart and the waist measurements in inches. The SOTF and FUJI titles include waist references, which can help.
More from Amazon
Programs that pair well with the guide above. Offers and eligibility are set by Amazon and may change.
Free shipping on eligible items, Prime Video and more. Eligible new members can start with a free trial.
Start a Prime free trialAudiobooks and podcasts to listen to on the go. Eligible new members can start with a free trial.
Try Audible freeAd-free music streaming. Eligible new subscribers can start with a free trial.
Try Music Unlimited freeA free business account with business pricing and bulk-buying tools for work, shop or home office.
Create a business accountAs an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Write Your Review
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!