Equipment
The 10 Best Shin Guards For Muay Thai/Kickboxing Training
What are the best shin guards for Muay Thai?
When training for Muay Thai, there’s no more important piece of equipment than shin guards.
As you learn to navigate the ring, training shin guards will help protect your legs, ankles, and feet during training sessions.
In this article, we’re covering the best Muay Thai shin guards for beginners, amateurs, and professionals.
The 10 Best Shin Guards For Muay Thai
When researching the best shin guards for Muay Thai, we considered durability, protection, mobility, and price.
In doing so, we hope to provide the best shin guard recommendations for athletes of all skill levels.
Here’s our list of the 10 best shin guards for Muay Thai:
In A Rush? Here’s Our Top Pick:
10. RDX Shin Guards Kickboxing Muay Thai
Enjoy upgraded impact dispersion with the RDX shin guards for kickboxing and Muay Thai. Honing your conditioning skills has never been easier than with Muay Thai shin guards.
Padded layers defuse any impact during combat, allowing trainees to develop their skills without fear of injury.
Whether you’re a participant in BJJ or karate, these durable shin guards will keep the legs protected.
Pros
- Made from Maya hide leather
- Hook and loop closure
- Used for training in kickboxing, MMA, and Muay Thai
- Foam with spongy black fabric for optimal shock absorption
- QD-1 lining offers sweat absorption
- Quality construction makes these ideal for long-term use
Cons
- The velcro straps move around more than most users prefer
Bottom Line
For thick yet lightweight shin pads to use during Muay Thai training, RDX provides adequate protection for beginners to the sport, as well as more seasoned athletes.
The synthetic leather and design of these shin guards will protect you from bruising and other injuries.
Heat up your Muay Thai sparring sessions by wearing shin guards so your training partners can go all out.
9. Contender Fight Sports Grappling MMA Shin Guards
For the grappler, constant contact means you’ll need quality shin pads to protect your legs and knees from kicks and other movements.
For youth athletes and beginners to MMA, the Contender Fighter shin guards are great for consistent contact and intense training sessions.
You may need to use a vibrating foam roller after a training session to ease your sore muscles, but you’ll have minimal bruising or leg pain from combat.
Pros
- Affordable price tag
- Made from stretchy, durable neoprene
- Strategic shock-absorbing foam for optimal protection
- Designed specifically for grappling
- Ideal for MMA, kickboxing, and Krav Maga
- Easy to slide on and off
Cons
- Not the best choice of shin guards for Muay Thai, ideal for other MMA
Bottom Line
For shin pads that stay up during sparring sessions, these Contender Fight MMA shin guards will allow you and your training partners to get comfortable being physical during training.
Protect your shin bones, legs, and knees with these stretchy, durable shin pads. Combat sports gear doesn’t have to be expensive to be quality, and Contender Fight walks the walk.
8. Meister Edge Leather Instep Shin Guards
The Meister Edge leather shin guards provide a secure fit with genuine leather for an elevated fit.
Leather shin guards provide the ultimate protection as you navigate the ring or the mat.
Three feet straps, including rubberized dots for traction, ensure these shin guards won’t move or slip around during training.
Just like the best weightlifting shoes hold you in place during heavy lifts, these instep shin guards will prevent any slipping on the legs.
Pros
- Hook and loop closure
- Contours to legs for an ideal fit
- Gel padding on your feet provides maximum protection from striking
- Made from cowhide leather and high-density impact foam
- Curved inner liner molds guards to the instep
- 10 ounces per guard for a lightweight feel
- 3 feet straps for easy on and off
Cons
- Other products have better padding. These may be better for shin conditioning
Bottom Line
If you’re concerned about strike absorption, rest easy knowing the multi-layered padding in the Meister shin guards is some of the best protection offered in the sport.
The adjustable straps on the feet create a custom fit, while the quick strap system makes them easy to get on and off.
7. FIVING MMA Martial Arts Shin Guards
Protect your legs during the toughest workouts with the FIVING MMA Martial Arts shin guards.
Made from faux leather and lightweight construction, these shin guards are helpful with shin conditioning and improve mobility and performance.
Pros
- Double velcro straps and elastic strap on the feet
- Molded foam improves fit
- Made from high-quality synthetic leather
- Available in three sizes and colors
- Great price point
Cons
- Sizing is difficult; users recommend sizing down
Bottom Line
For a contoured snug fit, FIVING MMA shin guards will hug your legs and protect each shin bone during training.
These may be the right shin guards for you if you’re looking for a product that provides an abundance of freedom of movement while wearing them.
You’ll be quick to forget you’re even wearing shin guards when you slip these on, and the shock absorption will knock your socks off.
6. Champs MMA Shin Guards
Take blows like a pro with these Champs MMA shin guards for mixed martial arts, kickboxing, and Muay Thai.
Shielding bones and joints is critical during any MMA training; with the curved instep cushions in these shin guards, you’ll be completely covered.
You’ll be able to enjoy your training, develop your skills, and work on powerful kicks and movements.
Pros
- Velcro straps with an easy pull-on style
- 1.5-inch thick padding
- Secure nonslip grip
- Protection from the shin down to avoid injuries
- Variety of sizes for men, women, and youth
Cons
- Expensive price for PU leather
Bottom Line
Champs MMA offers the perfect shin guards for athletes who are ready to take their training to the next level.
Each shin guard offers full foot protection and a non-slip grip on the leg, so it will never move around during use. Snug, adjustable straps keep you feeling safe and secure every time.
5. Combat Sports MMA Kickboxing Shin Guards
Want to go the traditional route with your kickboxing shin guards? The Ringside Combat Sports MMA kickboxing shin guards fit the bill.
With a clean synthetic leather material and hook and loop closure, your shins and feet will be protected from all the leg kicks and blows you endure.
As you build leg strength through a consistent strength training program, these shin guards will keep your legs protected and secure.
Walk into the ring with confidence every time with the Combat Sports MMA kickboxing shin guards on.
Pros
- Made from synthetic leather
- Dual hook and loop closure
- Elastic foot piece stretches and holds the foot securely
- Ergonomic shape for less movement and a better fit
- Can adjust to fit most legs and feet
Cons
- None
Bottom Line
For the old-school martial arts shinguards, look no further than the Ringside Combat Sports product.
The strap hook closure guarantees ample protection during use, and a secure fit gives you the confidence to participate in all forms of conditioning.
4. TOP KING Boxing Muay Thai Shin Guards
Protect the important leg muscles and knee caps with these TOP KING Boxing and Muay Thai shin guards.
This product offers more focused protection than other shin guards do; these MMA leg guards will prevent injury or stress on the bones or joints during training.
As you learn to navigate the ring, these shin guards specialize in shock absorption and will help you adjust to the sport.
Pros
- Lightweight and not bulky
- Easy sizing for a perfect fit
- Made from synthetic leather
- Made to last with
Cons
- Not the best shin guards for beginners
Bottom Line
Top King shin guards are renowned around the world for their quality, perfect fit, and durability.
If you’re looking for a custom fit with minimal bulk, you’ll have to find out for yourself what the hype is all about. Many users love Top King shin guards for their fit, style, and affordability.
3. Fairtex Competition Muay Thai Shin Guards
Fairtex Competition Shin pads will blow you away with their quality, durability, and custom fit.
With high-impact protection foam and full shin/ instep protection, athletes will love the protection these shin guards offer.
These Muay Thai shin guards are designed for maximum comfort and utility. Multiple layers of padding don’t feel bulky; on the contrary, it’s a very lightweight option.
Pros
- Made with durable synthetic leather
- Elastic straps and velcro closures
- Multi-layered padding for maximum protection offered
- No metal components or sharp edges like other shin guards have
Cons
- Some users think these shin guards are too bulky
Bottom Line
Fairtex shin guards will lock in place on your legs, protecting your shins and feet from injury.
Thoughtful features include an open system between the shin and instep, along with a raised top to avoid rubbing on the knees during use.
The extended in-step protection on these shin guards guarantees the best fit, while the foot protector can fit any size foot properly.
2. YOKKAO Muay Thai Vertical Shin Guards
Battle it out with high-impact shock absorption in these YOKKAO vertical shin guards.
During any Muay Thai training session, you’ll be confident in the protection these shin guards provide.
Enjoy the feel of quality microfiber leather and breathability as you train to take down the biggest opponents.
Pros
- Made from genuine leather
- Triple-layer shock-absorbing foam
- Stress-resistant closure straps
- Non-slip interior for extra stability
- Protection from the knees to the feet
- Handmade in Thailand
Cons
- Expensive price point
Bottom Line
Achieve peak performance and optimal mobility that is provided by these lightweight shin guards.
When working with training partners, you want to improve your skills, from grappling and kicking to floor work.
The best Muay Thai shin guards will support you in those endeavors, and the YOKKAO shin guards do just that.
1. Venum Elite Standup Shin Guards
Without further ado, our top choice of the best Muay Thai shin guards is the Venum Elite Standup Shin Guards!
The Venum Elite Standup shin guards are light, protective, and ergonomically designed.
These are our number one choice for numerous reasons. For one, they’re a quality pair of professional shin guards that won’t hurt your wallet in the process.
With high-density foam padding and velcro straps to prevent movement, what more can you ask for from a Muay Thai shin guard?
We’ll tell you – soft lining and dual straps for the most premium fight gear that money can buy.
Beginners may not realize how busted your legs can get during training if you aren’t properly outfitted. Avoid that painful scenario entirely by investing in the best shin guards for Muay Thai.
These Venum shin guards offer maximum protection in MMA, Muay Thai, kickboxing, and other combat sports.
Pros
- Made from premium Skintex leather construction
- Lightweight design for improvements in agility and speed
- Large velcro straps for minimal movement
- Wide assortment of colors and patterns
- Unisex fit
- Elastic bands for easy on and off
Cons
- These shin guards run large
Bottom Line
For all skill levels, the Venum Elite Standup shin guards check so many boxes.
Foot and leg protection? Check. Foam padding and an easy on-and-off closure? You got it. Stylish design and durability? We have a winner!
FAQs About Shin Guards For Muay Thai
Choosing shin guards can be daunting if you’re a beginner or are feeling overwhelmed by all the options that are available on the market.
In this section, get all your questions answered about Muay Thai shin guards so you can make an informed decision when you’re ready to click “Purchase.”
Q: What size shin guards should I get for Muay Thai?
When shopping for Muay Thai shin guards, consider the size of your shin bone and how much protection you want.
If you are new to the sport, you may want to buy a bulky shin guard in order to allow your legs to get used to all the contact.
Thinner shin guards with less padding can often lead to bruises and scratching, which is painful if you aren’t used to it yet.
Be sure to read the manufacturer’s size guide, read reviews, and even reach out to the brand itself to ask for a size recommendation if you aren’t sure what would be the best choice.
Q: How should Muay Thai shin guards fit?
Because of their purpose, Muay Thai shin guards should be molded to the legs to absorb shock from combat.
The standard straps are usually made from velcro and should hold the guards tightly and securely to the legs.
A snug fit is ideal because it prevents any movement during combat, preventing any potential injuries from occurring.
During training, shin guards help develop pain tolerance and build leg strength, so it’s important that they fit snugly to protect the legs.
Q: Can you use MMA shin guards for Muay Thai?
MMA shin guards should not be used interchangeably with Muay Thai shin guards for a few reasons.
Most importantly, MMA guards are not nearly as padded or protective as Muay Thai shin guards are.
Particularly for beginners or those who are new to shin conditioning, using the correct shin guards during training will help improve your pain tolerance and build lower body strength through kicking.
MMA shin guards are designed for more mobility, which is necessary during grappling and kicking. Muay Thai shin guards are often too bulky for MMA-style fighting.
Q: How long do Muay Thai shin pads last?
Despite the intensity and health benefits of Muay Thai combat, quality shin guards should last you for several years. If you choose to invest in the best quality, you’ll enjoy using them for many years.
Because they’re protecting the legs from impact, they may show wear over time, depending on how hard and how often you are training.
You can use worn shin pads for a long time without needing to replace them. Once the velcro starts to unstick or the guard as a whole becomes less snug, it may be time to invest in a new pair.
Q: Do you need shin guards for Muay Thai?
Just like boxing gloves, when training in Muay Thai, shin guards are a great piece of equipment to have as you build a tolerance and learn about the contact involved in mixed martial arts.
Because Muay Thai is a heavily kicking combat sport, buying shin guards is critical as you gain skills through training.
Combat sports like Muay Thai are another form of high-intensity interval training, and they have incredible health benefits for athletes of all ages and skill levels.
There are some physical risks associated with Muay Thai, and shin guards help to prevent any serious injury to the legs or feet.
Summary
Finding the best shin guards for Muay Thai takes a bit of research, patience, and understanding of which features and level of protection you’ll need.
As you shop around, be sure to keep in mind your skill level and if your MMA journey is a hobby or becoming a more serious part of your life.
This will likely change how much you’re willing to spend on shin guards. If you choose any of the products on this list, however, we know you’ll be satisfied with the choice you made.
Here’s a quick recap of the 10 best shin guards for Muay Thai:
- Venum Elite Standup Shin Guards
- YOKKAO Muay Thai Vertical Shin Guards
- Fairtex Competition Muay Thai Shin Guards
- TOP KING Boxing Muay Thai Shin Guards
- Combat Sports MMA Kickboxing Shin Guards
- Champs MMA Shin Guards
- FIVING MMA Martial Arts Shin Guards
- Meister Edge Leather Instep Shin Guards
- Contender Fight Sports Grappling MMA Shin Guards
- RDX Shin Guards Kickboxing Muay Thai
