Muay Thai Shorts vs. MMA Shorts – Key Differences

If you train in Muay Thai or MMA, you know that the right gear isn’t just about looking good—it’s about performance. The wrong shorts can restrict movement, feel uncomfortable, or even rip mid-fight.

Muay Thai and MMA shorts might seem similar, but they’re built for different fighting styles. Muay Thai shorts are designed for fast, powerful kicks, while MMA shorts offer striking, grappling, and groundwork flexibility.

So, which one is right for you? In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences to help you choose the best fight shorts. Plus, we’ll highlight top picks from FightCo, the UK’s go-to store for high-quality Muay Thai and MMA gear. Let’s dive in.

Design & Fit: Traditional vs. Modern Combat Wear

When it comes to fight gear, fit is everything. The right pair of shorts can make you feel light, fast, and unrestricted—or they can hold you back like an awkward first date. Whether you’re throwing a lightning-fast roundhouse or shooting for a takedown, your shorts need to move with you, not against you.

So, let’s break it down: Muay Thai shorts vs. MMA shorts—what’s the difference, and which one is right for you?

Muay Thai Shorts: Built for Power and Speed

If you’ve ever watched a Muay Thai fight, you’ll notice one thing right away—fighters don’t wear long, baggy shorts. That’s because Muay Thai is all about kicks, knees, and fluid movement. You don’t want anything getting in the way of your strikes.

Here’s what makes Muay Thai shorts unique:

• Shorter Length & Wide Leg Openings – These aren’t just for style. The shorter cut prevents fabric from restricting your kicks, while the wide leg openings let your strikes flow naturally. Imagine trying to throw a high kick in basketball shorts—it’s not happening.
• High Side Slits for Maximum Range – Whether you're launching a teep or a high kick to the head, side slits give your legs complete freedom. Fighters who use a lot of dynamic movement (like Saenchai with his signature cartwheel kicks) benefit from this open design.
  
• Elastic Waistband for a Secure Fit – Traditional Muay Thai shorts don’t use drawstrings or Velcro. Instead, they have a thick, elastic waistband that grips your waist without digging in. No distractions, no adjustments—just pure focus on your fight.

Top Picks for Muay Thai Fighters:

• Venum Classic Muay Thai Shorts – A sleek, no-nonsense design for serious fighters.
  

• TUFF Muay Thai Shorts - The Carcharodon – Inspired by the ferocity of a shark, these shorts scream aggression and power.
  
  

If you’re training Muay Thai, kickboxing, or even K1, these are the shorts you want. They enhance your movement, keep you cool, and let you train at your best.

MMA Shorts: Versatility for Strikers & Grapplers

Now, let’s switch gears. MMA shorts are a completely different beast. Unlike Muay Thai, MMA isn’t just about striking—you need to be ready to sprawl, wrestle, and defend submissions. That means your shorts need to handle EVERYTHING.

Here’s how MMA shorts are built differently:

• Longer Cut for Protection – MMA shorts reach just above the knee, offering a balance between mobility and coverage. The extra length prevents mat burns when grappling and keeps your thighs protected during scrambles.
  
• Tighter Fit with Velcro & Drawstrings – Unlike the elastic waistbands on Muay Thai shorts, MMA shorts use a Velcro closure + drawstrings for a super secure fit. Whether you’re throwing high kicks or rolling for a kneebar, these shorts stay locked in place.
  
• Stretch Panels for Grappling – MMA is unpredictable. One second you’re striking, the next you’re defending a double-leg takedown. That’s why high-quality MMA shorts have flexible stretch panels (usually on the inner thigh or crotch area) to help with ground transitions and explosive movements.

 Top Picks for MMA Fighters:

• Fairtex MMA Board Shorts Blackfeet – Classic, durable, and built for intense training sessions.
  
  

• Venum Camo Hero MMA Fight Shorts – Perfect for fighters who want both style and performance.
  
  

If you’re training MMA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or No-Gi grappling, MMA shorts are the way to go. They provide full mobility while protecting against rips, slips, and unnecessary distractions.

Which One Should You Choose?

• If you’re doing pure Muay Thai or kickboxing → go for Muay Thai shorts. They’re designed for strikes, keeping you fast and mobile in the ring.
  
• If you’re training MMA, BJJ, or a mix of disciplines → MMA shorts are the better choice. They’re more versatile and won’t limit your ground game.

But here’s the thing… some fighters mix both. Some strikers in MMA still prefer Muay Thai shorts for their striking-heavy style. Others might choose MMA shorts for Muay Thai training because they like the extra coverage.

At the end of the day, it’s all about what makes you feel comfortable, mobile, and ready to fight.

Ready to grab the best fight shorts in the UK? Check out FightCo’s latest selection of Muay Thai and MMA shorts here and step into training with confidence.

Purpose & Functionality – Why the Right Shorts Matter

Ever tried running in jeans? Feels awful, right? The same logic applies to fight shorts—wearing the wrong type can hold you back. Whether you're throwing kicks or scrambling on the ground, your gear needs to match your fighting style.

Muay Thai Shorts: Built for Striking

Muay Thai is all about fluid movement, powerful kicks, and clinch work. That’s why Muay Thai shorts are designed to be:

• Lightweight & Non-Restrictive – No heavy fabrics weighing you down. Just smooth, fast movement.
  
• Sweat-Wicking & Breathable – Keeps you cool during long, intense training sessions. Because let’s be real, Muay Thai sessions get sweaty—fast.
  
• Optimized for Kicks – The high-cut design means nothing blocks your kicks, knees, or pivots. You don’t want fabric limiting your range when you're going for a head kick.

Top Picks for Muay Thai Fighters:

• Venum Classic Muay Thai Shorts – Classic design, made for elite-level striking.
  

• TUFF Muay Thai Shorts - The Carcharodon – Shark-inspired aggression meets top-tier mobility.
  

MMA Shorts: Built for Versatility

MMA is a different game. You’re not just striking—you’re shooting for takedowns, clinching, and rolling on the ground. That means your shorts need to handle everything.

• Made for Grappling & Wrestling – Reinforced stitching means they won’t tear when you sprawl, shoot, or scramble.
  
• Flexible & Durable – Stretch panels let you move freely, whether you’re throwing punches or defending a submission.
  
• Sweat & Friction Resistant – MMA training is high-contact—your shorts need to survive tough sparring, mat work, and clinches.

Top Picks for MMA Fighters:

• Fairtex MMA Board Shorts Blackfeet – A battle-tested design that’s built to last.
  

• Venum Camo Hero MMA Fight Shorts – Tough, stylish, and perfect for striking or grappling.
  
  

The bottom line? Choose shorts designed for your discipline. If you’re a Muay Thai striker, go with Muay Thai shorts. If you’re training MMA or grappling, stick to MMA shorts—they’ll hold up under pressure.

Can You Use Muay Thai Shorts for MMA?

Technically? Yes. But should you? Not really.

Here’s why:

❌ No Flex Panels for Grappling – Muay Thai shorts are great for striking, but they lack the stretch and reinforcement needed for wrestling and jiu-jitsu.

❌ Less Durability for Ground Work – The thin, lightweight fabric is perfect for kicking—but it won’t survive the constant friction of grappling.

❌ Slippery Fit – The elastic waistband is great for Muay Thai but can shift around during takedowns and scrambles in MMA.

MMA Shorts Are a Better Choice – They’re designed to handle everything from striking to submissions, so you won’t have to worry about rips, slips, or discomfort.

So, while you can wear Muay Thai shorts for MMA, if you’re serious about training, invest in proper MMA shorts. Your training partners—and your comfort—will thank you.

Need the best fight gear? Check out FightCo’s collection of Muay Thai & MMA shorts and train with confidence. 

Comparing Muay Thai Shorts vs. Boxing & BJJ

Not all fight shorts are created equal. Here’s how Muay Thai shorts stack up against boxing and BJJ shorts:

Muay Thai vs. Boxing Shorts

• Boxing shorts are longer and looser, built for upright movement—not kicks.

• They have a thick waistband for stability but lack the flexibility needed for knee strikes and leg movement.
  

Muay Thai vs. BJJ Shorts

• BJJ shorts are grappling-focused—they’re reinforced, flexible, and friction-resistant for ground fighting.

• No high slits, since kicks aren’t the priority—durability and grip resistance are.
  

So, while they all serve their purpose, Muay Thai shorts are the clear choice for striking-heavy sports.

Can You Wear Muay Thai Shorts Casually?

Absolutely. Many fighters rock Muay Thai shorts outside the gym because they’re

• Super comfortable – Lightweight, breathable, and easy to move in.
  
• Stylish – Brands like TUFF and Venum offer bold prints that stand out.
  
• Great for hot weather – Short length + breathable fabric = perfect summer wear.

Want to train hard and look good while doing it? Check out the latest styles from TUFF and Venum at FightCo.

Choosing the Best Muay Thai & MMA Shorts in the UK

With so many options, picking the right shorts can be overwhelming. Here’s what to look for:

For Muay Thai Fighters – Go for high-slit, lightweight shorts designed for striking.
Top Picks:

• Venum Classic Muay Thai Shorts – A timeless choice for Muay Thai practitioners.
  

• TUFF Muay Thai Shorts - Autumn Sunray – Bold style meets top-tier performance.
  
  

For MMA Athletes – Look for durable, flexible shorts with reinforced stitching.

Top Picks:

• Fairtex MMA Board Shorts Blackfeet – Built for striking and grappling.
  

• Venum Camo Hero MMA Fight Shorts – Tough, flexible, and ready for battle.
  
  

At FightCo, we’ve been sourcing the best Muay Thai and MMA gear since 2011. Whether you’re looking for durability, style, or peak performance, we’ve got you covered.

Choosing the right fight shorts can make all the difference. Whether you're training for Muay Thai or MMA, your gear should support your style—not limit it.

Need top-quality fight shorts? FightCo stocks the best Muay Thai and MMA shorts in the UK from brands like Venum, Fairtex, and TUFF.

Find the perfect shorts for your training today at FightCo!