Shin guards are among the most essential equipment for every kickboxer, Muay Thai fighter, or MMA fighter. At Fight2Win, you will find more than 50 models from all well-known brands, so you can always find the right protection for your build and budget. Read more
Shin guards are used in kickboxing, thai boxing and muay thai, as well as in MMA, Kyokushin Karate, Krav Maga and Taekwondo. Requirements may vary slightly by sport, but the same models are used in most martial arts.
In MMA (stand-up fighting section) and Kyokushin Karate (full-contact), the same shin guards as those used in kickboxing are generally worn.
In Taekwon-do, shin guards are always the type without a foot section and are worn under the trousers.
Every kickboxer—from beginner to professional—trains with shin guards to prevent injuries.
Fights are held without protective gear (except for youth), but training in preparation is always done with protection, sometimes even with additional protection shortly before a fight.
Fit: how should shin guards fit?
Good shin guards fit snugly around the lower legs and protect the entire shin up to approximately the knee. Don't choose sizes that are too large for slim legs—slipping during intensive use is uncomfortable and dangerous.
Nowadays, virtually all kickboxing shin guards have a foot section sewn onto the shin section. There is no fixed rule that the toes must be completely covered, since you should not kick with your toes anyway.
You want the vulnerable metatarsal bones to be well protected. Some brands (such as the King SG series) cover almost the entire foot, while with Twins, Booster, and XPRT, the toes often remain exposed—both are fine.
There is usually no difference between left and right; we preferably position the fastening on the inside of the leg.
What size shin guards?
Shin guards are usually available in S, M, L, and XL—sometimes also XS or youth sizes. Sizing varies greatly by brand, so never compare sizes between brands: for example, a King XL is much larger than a Twins XL.
Always consult the size chart on the product page for the model you want. Sizes M and L are by far the best sellers. In our showroom, you can try on all common models in S, M, L, and XL.
With hard shin guards, there are two closure systems:
Hook and loop (Velcro): fits more snugly and slides less during intensive use. The strap length does not need to be perfect—as long as enough fastening area remains.
Two-sided closure: almost always fits and is easy for everyone to put on.
Materials
Shin guards are available in different materials, depending on the type:
Synthetic leather / PU / Skintex: The most commonly used materials for hard, pre-shaped shin guards—including more expensive models. Genuine leather is rarely used, unlike with boxing gloves.
Polyester / cotton / denim style: Used for the most basic sock-style models. Affordable, easy to put on, and suitable for beginners and children.
There are considerable differences in thickness between brands. Thicker models provide more absorption — King (SG series) is known for extra-sturdy protection.
Please note: thickness alone does not always determine the quality of the cushioning.
Always take your shin guards out of your bag after training and let them dry thoroughly. Wiping them with a dry cloth keeps them clean. Regularly spray them with an antibacterial spray such as Sukkiri spray or FreshKO. Shin guards must absolutely not be put in the washing machine.
Good shin guards generally last longer than boxing gloves.
Vulnerable points include:
The stitching around the foot section
The elastic straps under the foot and behind the Achilles tendon
Keep in mind that these parts can wear out, stretch, and come loose. They are items that undergo regular use. However, you can influence their lifespan by not pulling the elastic straps too much and putting them on carefully.
We sell shin guards from all the leading brands. You can choose from more than 50 different models—and try them on in our webshop and showroom. Our stock is updated in real time, so you can see which sizes are in stock.
Shin guards are shipped from our own stock within 1 business day! We are the martial arts specialists and know everything about boxing gloves, kickboxing gloves, shin guards, handwraps, bag gloves, and other training equipment!
We have a huge selection of Protectors for children, women, and men in stock at our showroom! Visit us for expert advice and purchase your chosen item right away.
Curious about all our premium boxing and martial arts products? Explore our full range of martial arts equipment in the webshop.
Can I also come by to try on and buy shin guards from you right away?
Yes.
You can absolutely come by our showroom to try on shin guards and purchase them right away. That way, you’ll know 100% for sure that you’ll leave the showroom with the right shin guards! Our physical showroom has the same stock as our online store.
There is always a specialist available to help you choose the right shin guard for you and your budget.
Is there a difference between women's and men's shin guards?
No.
There aren't really separate women's or men's shin guards. Shin guards are unisex, but women usually just choose a slightly smaller size of shin guards. These are available in various color combinations.
Women are generally a little shorter than men, so naturally they also need a smaller (and shorter) shin guard.
How long do shin guards last?
With intensive use, most good shin guards last approximately 1 to 1.5 years. After that, most shin guards need replacing.
Their lifespan naturally depends on several factors: maintenance, the quality of the materials used, and the type of training. Cheaper shin guards will not last this long.
Heavy bag training shortens the lifespan of shin guards by an average of six months.
A vulnerable point of every pair of shin guards is the elastic straps. This material naturally stretches over time. It is therefore important to put on your shin guards carefully and not pull hard on the elastic straps.
How should a shin guard fit?
A shin guard should fit snugly around the shin to provide the most effective protection and mobility. A shin guard consists of a safety kick and a shin protector. The part that protects the shin should start just above the ankle and end just below the knee. Ideally, the top strap should sit on the calf, as placing it in the back of the knee can cause irritation or pain.
What does hook-and-loop fastening mean?
A hook-and-loop closure is used on various products in our range, such as punching mitts, body protectors, headgear, and shin guards.
Shin guards most commonly feature this type of closure. Hook and loop means threading a strap through a buckle or loop, then pulling it back and tightening it.
Key benefits:
Adjustable fit: Hook-and-loop closures provide a precise fit, accommodate different calf sizes, and ensure that the shin guard stays securely in place during movement.
Ease of use: These closures are easy to fasten, making them convenient for quick adjustments, especially during training.
Secure closure: When properly fastened, hook-and-loop closures provide a secure and reliable fit, preventing the shin guards from shifting or slipping during sports.
Durability: High-quality hook-and-loop closures, such as those on the Twins SGL7 shin guards, are often stitched multiple times for added durability and can withstand frequent use.
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