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, but also in MMA, Kyokushin Karate, Krav Maga, and Taekwondo. The requirements may vary slightly per sport, but most martial arts use the same models.
In MMA (stand-up fighting part) and Kyokushin Karate (full-contact), generally the same shin guards as in kickboxing are used.
In Taekwon-do, the shin guards are always the type without foot support and are worn under the trousers.
Shin guards are used in kickboxing, thai boxing, and muay thai, but also in MMA, Kyokushin Karate, Krav Maga, and Taekwondo. The requirements may vary slightly per sport, but most martial arts use the same models.
Why do you wear shin guards?
Every kickboxer — from beginner to pro — trains with shin guards to prevent injuries.
Matches are fought without guards (except for youth), but training is always done with protection, sometimes even with extra protection just before a match.
Every kickboxer — from beginner to pro — trains with shin guards to prevent injuries.
Fit: how should shin guards fit?
Good shin guards fit snugly around the lower legs and protect the entire shin bone up to about the knee. Do not choose sizes that are too large for slim legs — slipping during intense use is uncomfortable and dangerous.
Nowadays, almost all kickboxing shin guards have a footbed stitched to the shin section. There is no strict rule that the toes must be completely covered, as kicking with the toes is not allowed anyway.
Good shin guards fit snugly around the lower legs and protect the entire shin bone up to about the knee. Do not choose sizes that are too large for slim legs — slipping during intense use is uncomfortable and dangerous.
Shin and instep protection
You want to have the vulnerable metatarsal bones well protected. Some brands (like King SG series) cover almost the entire foot, while with Twins, Booster, and XPRT the toes often remain free — both are fine.
There is usually no difference between left and right; we prefer to keep the closure on the inside of the leg.
You want to have the vulnerable metatarsal bones well protected. Some brands (like King SG series) cover almost the entire foot, while with Twins, Booster, and XPRT the toes often remain free — both are fine.
What size shin guards?
Shin guards are usually available in S, M, L, and XL — sometimes also XS or youth sizes. The sizing varies greatly between brands, so never compare sizes between brands: a King XL, for example, is much larger than a Twins XL.
Always consult the size chart on the product page of the model you want. Sizes M and L are by far the most sold. In our showroom, you can try on all common models in S, M, L, and XL.
Shin guards are usually available in S, M, L, and XL — sometimes also XS or youth sizes. The sizing varies greatly between brands, so never compare sizes between brands: a King XL, for example, is much larger than a Twins XL.
Types of closures
There are two closure systems for hard shin guards:
Hook & loop (Velcro): fits tighter and slides less during intense use. The length of the strap does not have to be perfect — as long as there is enough adhesion left.
Two-sided closure: fits almost always and is easy for everyone to put on.
There are two closure systems for hard shin guards:
Materials
Shin guards come in different materials, depending on the type:
Synthetic leather / PU / skintex: the most commonly used materials for hard, pre-formed shin guards — also in more expensive models. Genuine leather is hardly used, except in boxing gloves.
Polyester / cotton / jeans-style: used in the most basic sock models. Cheap, easy to put on, and suitable for beginners and children.
Shin guards come in different materials, depending on the type:
Thickness and level of protection
There are considerable differences in thickness between brands. Thicker models offer more absorption — King (SG series) is known for extra sturdy protection.
Note: thickness alone is not always indicative of the quality of the cushioning.
There are considerable differences in thickness between brands. Thicker models offer more absorption — King (SG series) is known for extra sturdy protection.
Price ranges & quality
Unlike boxing gloves, shin guards do not come in models costing hundreds of euros. In our assortment, there are three segments:
Budget: adequate protection for beginners and recreational athletes
Mid-range: better fit, more comfort, and longer lifespan
Higher segment: maximum protection, premium materials — but still very affordable
The better models truly deserve attention: they offer more comfort, better protection, and last longer.
Our favorite in the higher segment are the Twins shin guards— excellent fit, sturdy protection, and proven durability.
Unlike boxing gloves, shin guards do not come in models costing hundreds of euros. In our assortment, there are three segments:
Maintenance & durability
Always take shin guards out of your bag after training and let them dry thoroughly. Wiping them with a dry cloth keeps them clean. Spray them regularly with an antibacterial spray such as Sukkiri spray or FreshKO. Shin guards should absolutely not be put in the washing machine.
Good shin guards generally last longer than boxing gloves. Vulnerable points are:
The stitching at the foot section
The elastics under the foot and behind the Achilles tendon
Always take shin guards out of your bag after training and let them dry thoroughly. Wiping them with a dry cloth keeps them clean. Spray them regularly with an antibacterial spray such as Sukkiri spray or FreshKO. Shin guards should absolutely not be put in the washing machine.
Women, men & children
Shin guards are unisex — women simply usually need a smaller size than men. There are no separate women's models.
For children:
Small children: we always recommend a sock-style shin guard — cheap, easy to put on, and provides sufficient protection
You can choose from more than 50 different models — you can try them on both in our webshop and in our showroom.
We sell shin guards from all well-known brands:
Shin guards, available directly from stock
Shin guards are shipped from our own stock within 1 business day! We are the martial arts specialist and truly know everything about boxing gloves, kickboxing gloves, shin guards, handwraps, bag gloves, and other training equipment!
We have a huge range of Protectors for children, women, and men in stock in our showroom! Visit us for optimal advice and purchase your chosen item directly.
Can I also try on shin guards at your place and buy them immediately?
Yes.
You can absolutely come try on shin guards with us and purchase them immediately. That way you know 100% for sure that you walk out of the showroom with the right shin guards! We have the same stock in our physical showroom as in the webshop.
There is always a specialist available who can 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 specific 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 bit shorter than men, so it makes sense that they also need a smaller (and shorter) shin guard.
With intensive use, most good shin guards last about 1 to 1.5 years. After that, most shin guards need to be replaced.
The lifespan obviously depends on several factors: maintenance, quality of the materials used, and the type of training. Cheaper shin guards will not reach this lifespan.
Heavy bag training shortens the lifespan of shin guards by an average of six months.
A vulnerable point on every pair of shin guards is the elastic bands. Naturally, this material will stretch over time. It is important to put on the shin guards carefully and not to pull hard on the elastic bands.
How should a shin guard fit?
A shin guard must fit correctly on the shin to provide the most effective protection and mobility. A shin guard consists of a safety kick and the shin protector. The part that protects the shin should start just above the ankle and end just below the knee. You ideally want the top strap of the closure to be on the calf, because if it falls in the back of the knee, it can cause irritation or pain.
What does hook & loop closure mean?
A hook & loop closure is used in various products in our range, such as punching mitts, belly protectors, headgear, and shin guards.
This type of closure is most common with shin guards. Hook and loop means threading a strap through a buckle or loop and then pulling it back tight.
Main advantages:
Adjustable fit: hook & loop closures provide a precise fit, are suitable for different calf sizes, and ensure 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 applied, hook & loop closures can offer a safe and reliable fit, preventing the shin guards from shifting or slipping during sports.
Durability: High-quality hook & loop closures, such as those on the Twins SGL7 shin guards, are often double-stitched for extra durability and withstand frequent use.
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