Best Buy Guide: Mouthguards for Martial Arts

Boxing, kickboxing and MMA mouthguards

A good mouthguard stays in place without you having to bite down constantly. It fits over your teeth, has no uncomfortable pressure points and lets you breathe comfortably. A popular model or a high rating won’t help if the size or fit isn’t right for your teeth.

This buying guide compares seven different model categories. Colours and prints don’t count as separate technical options. The selection includes models that were in stock when this guide was put together; not every size or colour is therefore available.

Five criteria, up to 50 points

We assess fit, protection, fitting, comfort and price, each out of ten. The total score is the sum out of fifty; the average is the total divided by five. These are editorial assessments based on product information, customer feedback and available independent reviews. They are not the results of our own laboratory testing.

We assess protection based on construction, coverage and fit. A higher score is not a measured safety rating or a guarantee against injury. Customer ratings are not impact tests either: they mainly tell you how buyers find the ordering, moulding and wearing experience.

Which type of mouthguard is right for your teeth?

The main difference is the fit: a pre-shaped mouthguard already has its shape, a boil-and-bite mouthguard is adjusted according to the fitting instructions, and a custom-made mouthguard is made by your dentist. So, a store-bought mouthguard that you shape yourself is not the same as one made by a dentist.

The right size, a secure fit and careful molding matter more than the color or brand. If you wear braces, choose a suitable model and ask your dentist or orthodontist for advice about your situation. Never assume that every mouthguard for braces can be heated.

Research supports wearing mouth protection to reduce the risk of oral injuries, but it does not prove that one model in this comparison is the winner. A mouthguard is also no guarantee against concussion or other head injuries.

Clean your mouthguard according to the care instructions, remove any dirt and let the case dry too. A cleaning spray can be an additional option; an antimicrobial case does not automatically clean a used mouthguard. Research into a particular spray, cleaning method or EVA property does not provide evidence for all other products or models.

Read the full guide to types of mouthguards, fitting and care, including the relevant research and practical considerations.

Fit it first, then assess it

A boil-and-bite mouthguard takes more than a quick bite into warm plastic. Have the instructions for the exact model ready and work step by step. Water, temperature, timing and order vary between products. So don't use one general boiling time for all brands.

Check the fit after the mouthguard has cooled. Open your mouth: does it stay on your upper teeth? Check whether the edges press and whether the back causes unnecessary discomfort. Constantly biting down to keep a loose mouthguard in place is not a good solution. An adult should supervise children while they shape it.

A children's size is no guarantee that it will fit every child; the same applies to adult sizes. The width and shape of the teeth matter too. Don't force a size that's too small just because the age on the packaging seems right.

The SafeJawz Extro is our all-around pick. You get a moldable mouthguard with a relatively compact profile and the option to rework the fit. The different prints are a choice of appearance, not a reason to list the same model multiple times in the comparison.

Its strength lies in the combination of fit, ease of shaping, and wearing comfort. The independent review by Fight Quality also describes it as feeling less bulky than the Gel Max. That’s the reviewer’s experience, not proof that the Extro fits every set of teeth better.

Fit - 9/10

A properly molded Extro should stay around your upper teeth when you open your mouth. Customer feedback is generally positive about the fit, but some have found the size too small or had difficulty molding it. So don’t choose based solely on the age recommendation.

Protection - 8/10

The molded base and coverage around the teeth are the basis of our assessment. Jaw Secure is the name for the design on the underside; this does not make it a double mouthguard that encloses both rows of teeth.

Fitting - 9/10

Remodel Tech allows you to remold it. That’s useful if the first attempt doesn’t give you the fit you want. Follow the instructions on your packaging; don’t use water temperatures or timings from another brand.

Comfort - 9/10

Its relatively compact profile is why we give it a high comfort score. The right size is still key: the mouthguard should fit snugly without sharp pressure points, and without you having to keep biting down to hold it in place.

Price - 8/10

The Extro offers a strong combination of features for its place in the range. The Intro costs less, but we give the Extro more points for its combination of fit and comfort.

These customer stars are separate from our five rating scores. Most buyers are positive about the shaping and fit. There are also experiences of a size running too small and a less-than-ideal fit. The Marvel versions are listed separately below.

SafeJawz Marvel: choose your favorite design

Would you rather have Venom, Spider-Man, or Black Panther on your mouthguard? With the Marvel series, you can choose the look that suits you. Just like the Extro, it’s a moldable mouthguard that fits well and stays comfortable during training. First choose the right size, then your favorite hero.

Buyers give the Marvel mouthguards an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 10 reviews. They mention the fit, comfort, and eye-catching designs.

8.6 / 10

43 out of 50 points. Our all-round choice.

The Shock Doctor Gel Max is our alternative if you’re looking for a mouthguard with a softer, moldable inner layer and a sturdier outer shell. The Gel-Fit liner molds to your teeth, while the outer construction gives the mouthguard structure. It’s a clearly different design from a simple mouthguard made from a single material.

The trade-off is the bulk. Fight Quality describes the model as a bit fuller in the mouth than slimmer alternatives. Customer reviews show many satisfied users, but also differences in how the fit feels. That makes trying it on and molding it carefully more important than choosing a popular brand name.

Fit - 8/10

The Gel-Fit inner layer can provide a secure fit. Reviews mention both a snug fit and sizing issues. A junior or adult designation is therefore a starting point, not a guarantee.

Protection - 8/10

The combination of a moldable inner layer and a sturdier outer construction contributes to our score. This rating is a buying recommendation within this selection, not a measured impact value or a guarantee against injury.

Fitting - 8/10

Shape the model according to the included instructions. Pay attention to its position before cooling it: a mouthguard that sits crooked or remains too loose will not improve on its own during training.

Comfort - 7/10

According to many customer reviews, the inner layer feels comfortable. However, this is still a bulkier model. If you are mainly looking for a low-profile option, also compare the Extro or Ultra Micro-fit.

Price - 9/10

The Gel Max combines an affordable purchase price with a clearly designed inner and outer construction. That is the basis for our high price score, not the star rating alone.

Most buyers rate the Gel Max positively. Experiences do vary: along with a comfortable fit, some mention sizing issues and difficulty molding it. Previous Air, Fusion, and color versions are included; the Gel Max Power is not. Customer ratings are not a measured protection score.

8.0 / 10

40 out of 50 points. A solid-feeling alternative with plenty of customer reviews.

The Gel Max Power is the more advanced option alongside the regular Gel Max. The product information describes a multilayer construction with a moldable Gel-Fit inner layer. This guide covers the Carbon version. Carbon is the version name here; we do not infer proven material reinforcement or greater safety from it.

The extra cost is mainly worthwhile if this model’s shape fits your mouth better. Two customer reviews are too few to draw a broad conclusion. A higher model position within a brand does not automatically mean it will be a better fit for every set of teeth.

Fit - 8/10

The moldable inner layer is a good starting point, but it needs to fit snugly after molding. A more elaborate construction does not compensate for a loose fit.

Protection - 8/10

We appreciate the combination of the outer construction and inner layer. We do not award extra points based on the name Power or Carbon alone, and we do not present this model as proven to be safer than all other mouthguards.

Fitting - 7/10

One customer reports difficulty getting a proper fit; the other review is positive but not very specific. That is not a broad testing base. Take your time when molding it and follow the exact product instructions.

Comfort - 8/10

The construction is designed to balance structure with a comfortable feel. When trying it on, check that the front does not press unnecessarily against your lip and that the mouthguard stays in place without biting down.

Price - 7/10

The purchase price is higher than that of the regular Gel Max. The extra cost only makes sense if you prefer the fit and feel, not simply because it is a higher-end model.

Two reviews do not yet provide a broad picture: one buyer is satisfied with the quality, while the other reports difficulty with the fit, keeping it in place, and parts coming loose. Both experiences count toward the stars above; they do not turn our editorial scores into test results.

7.6 / 10

38 out of 50 points. More extensive construction as an alternative to Gel Max.

The SafeJawz Intro is our affordable entry-level option. It also features Fluid Fit, Jaw Secure and Remodel Tech, but it is the simpler version compared with the Extro. You’re mainly buying an accessible, boil-and-bite mouthguard without having to choose a bold print.

A beginner doesn’t automatically have a different-shaped mouth or less need for a good fit. So choose the Intro for its combination of price and features, not because every entry-level mouthguard is right for every beginner.

Fit - 7/10

The moldable construction provides a useful starting point for a personalized fit. Check the fit after molding rather than assuming it will match an earlier mouthguard just because it has the same size letter.

Protection - 7/10

Protection depends on coverage, material, and fit. We consider the Intro the more basic option in this selection, without suggesting that price is a medical protection rating.

Fitting - 8/10

The ability to remold it is a practical advantage. Follow this model’s instructions and, once it has cooled, check that the mouthguard stays in place when you open your mouth.

Wearing comfort - 6/10

We give the Intro fewer comfort points than the Extro. If you’re sensitive to bulk or pressure points, that’s a reason to compare both designs—not to keep wearing a poorly fitting mouthguard.

Price - 10/10

The low purchase price is its strongest point. That’s why the Intro gets our highest price score. It doesn’t mean it matches a more expensive model on every other criterion.

As of this date, there are no customer reviews available for this model. Therefore, we do not show an average customer rating or a quote. This is not a negative review of the product.

7.6 / 10

38 out of 50 points. Our affordable entry-level pick.

The Shock Doctor Ultra Micro-fit is all about a slim profile. That makes it a good option if you find the full feel of a traditional mouthguard uncomfortable. The I-Mold design is intended to mold the mouthguard to your teeth.

We separate that concept from customer ratings: there are only two reviews, with mixed experiences. That is too few to make a general judgment about whether the model fits well or poorly. It does show why careful molding and checking the fit are important.

Fit - 7/10

The slim profile allows for a good fit, but doesn't guarantee one. One customer likes it, while another reports that it won't stay in place. We don't attribute the latter to incorrect molding without evidence.

Protection - 7/10

Thin doesn't automatically mean unsuitable, and thick doesn't automatically mean safer. Our score reflects the overall design and fit, not shock absorption measured by us.

Fitting - 6/10

Fitting requires care. Follow the instructions for this specific model, and don't use the molding procedure for the Gel Max or another mouthguard.

Comfort - 9/10

Its low profile is the main selling point of this model and the reason for our high comfort score. That advantage only counts if the finished mouthguard stays securely in place without constant biting down.

Price - 9/10

Its current position in our range makes this an affordable way to choose a slimmer design. The high price score is independent of the small review sample.

The two experiences differ: one buyer calls it a comfortable mouthguard, while the other reports that it does not stay in place well and is dissatisfied with the protection. The latter is that buyer’s experience, not an impact measurement. Take the fit seriously and do not continue using a poorly fitting mouthguard.

7.6 / 10

38 out of 50 points. For those who value a slim profile.

The Nano Double Fight is an alternative to a single mouthguard: its double design covers both the upper and lower teeth. That distinction is a reason to discuss it separately, not to automatically call it the safest option for every athlete.

The trade-off is mainly about use and bulk. There is more material in the mouth, and talking or drinking is less straightforward than with a compact single mouthguard. Choose this model deliberately for its double design, not just because the name suggests extra protection.

Fit - 7/10

With a double design, both rows of teeth need to fit properly. Check the final fit carefully; choosing the right age-based size alone is not enough.

Protection - 10/10

Coverage of both the upper and lower teeth is the strongest protection argument for this model in our selection. That’s why the double design gets our highest score for this criterion. The 10 is an editorial rating for coverage and construction, not a measured safety rating, a guarantee against injury, or proof that this model offers better protection for every mouth.

Fitting - 7/10

The Gel-Fit inner layer requires a proper molding process. Follow the instructions for the Nano Double Fight itself: using a single mouthguard as a guide may not be appropriate here.

Comfort - 5/10

The extra material is a clear trade-off. This isn’t our first choice for anyone mainly looking for a lightweight feel that’s barely noticeable. Also consider how comfortably you can breathe while moving.

Price - 7/10

The price reflects a more specialized double design. You’re paying for a different concept, not automatically getting a better buy than with the lower-priced single models.

As of this date, there are no customer reviews available for this model. Therefore, we do not show an average customer rating or a quote. This is not a negative review of the product.

7.2 / 10

36 out of 50 points. Double model for deliberate coverage of both rows of teeth.

The Bytomic Basic is the simple, basic choice: a moldable plastic mouthguard without the more extensive inner and outer construction of models such as the Gel Max. We discuss the adult and children’s versions together as one model group.

For anyone looking for a simple mouthguard, it’s an accessible option. The differences compared with more advanced models lie in the construction, the fit after molding, and the feel when worn. A color you like is a nice bonus, but a good fit remains more important.

Fit - 6/10

The simple moldable design scores lower than models with a more developed inner layer. Check the fit after molding: the mouthguard should not sit loose in your mouth.

Protection - 5/10

This is our basic choice in this comparison. The lower score is not a measured percentage of protection, nor does it mean that every more expensive mouthguard works better for every set of teeth.

Fitting - 7/10

Mold it according to the instructions provided. Even with a simple model, following the correct process is important; treating it for too long or at too high a temperature can spoil the fit.

Comfort - 6/10

Customer feedback includes several positive comments about the fit. You can still feel the material. If you’re looking for a lower-profile option, the Ultra Micro-fit is a different alternative.

Price - 9/10

The affordable price suits a simple design. Also compare the Intro: our choice of Bytomic is based on the combination of simplicity and construction, not a claim that it is the lowest-priced option in every color.

The adult and children's versions are listed together. Buyers mention a good fit and a simple standard mouthguard. There is also criticism of the price, and one buyer reports that the children's mouthguard lost its shape during molding. The star ratings do not indicate how the mouthguard will fit your teeth.

6.6 / 10

33 out of 50 points. Simple basic choice.

Mouthguards for people with braces

If you wear braces, choose a suitable mouthguard. The models below are listed separately from the seven ranked mouthguards, without a ranking number or editorial score. Check with your dentist or orthodontist which type is suitable for your braces, and follow the instructions for the exact model. Not every mouthguard for braces is heated.

The SafeJawz Ortho Marvel Venom is the brace-compatible version featuring the Venom design. Choose it because it’s suitable for your braces, not just because you like the print. A regular Marvel mouthguard is not automatically an alternative to an Ortho version.

Check the product instructions for fitting and care. Your teeth may shift during orthodontic treatment, so keep checking the fit while using it.

At Shock Doctor, you’ll find Braces, Double Braces and Smoke Black Braces. The difference between a single and double design is a specific choice based on the coverage you need, not the next level in a standard ranking.

Compare the individual product information and check which version is suitable for your braces. Don’t follow the molding instructions for a regular sports mouthguard: use only the instructions for the braces model you choose.

Cleaning, drying and storage

Rinse the mouthguard after use and clean it according to the brand’s instructions. Let it and the Protective case dry thoroughly before putting them away. Leaving a wet mouthguard sealed in your gym bag is not a good care routine.

For daily cleaning, don’t use hot water that could unintentionally reshape it. A spray specifically intended for mouthguards can be part of your care routine; follow the dosage and instructions for use. A spray is no substitute for removing dirt and drying it thoroughly.

Check regularly for cracks, bite marks and changes in fit. A mouthguard that used to fit well may no longer fit because of wear or changes to your teeth. Don’t use a fixed replacement schedule as an excuse to ignore visible damage.

Our picks at a glance

Start with the SafeJawz Extro for an all-round combination, or the Gel Max if you like a sturdier, fuller design. The Intro is our budget-friendly entry-level pick. Choose the Ultra Micro-fit for its slim profile, and the Nano Double Fight for its double design. The Gel Max Power has a more advanced construction than the Gel Max; the Bytomic Basic remains the simple basic option.

What matters most isn't the print or the highest score, but a well-fitting mouthguard that stays securely in place and feels comfortable during training.