By Sue F. Barajas
Mixed martial artists living several thousand years ago cared not to wear a stitch (not even fight shorts!), save a laurel wreath upon the head after victory. Nevertheless, if ancient Greek warriors wore fight shorts, the expectation for a high performance garment would be entrenched in mythology and recorded history. And if you are training for an upcoming MMA match, we’re sure you feel this way, too.
Firstly, it is understood that mixed martial artistry is all about movement — movement that is swift, exacting and capable of quickly subduing an opponent. And in accordance with these movement techniques — grappling (throws, takedowns and sweeps, and submission, clinch or pinning holds) and striking (knees, elbows, punches and kicks) — your shorts require a flexible construction. Besides, a Spartan warrior wouldn’t waste time worrying about inflexible clothing, so why should you?
Okay, okay, so the Greek warriors of antiquity hadn’t a need or desire for fight shorts, but if they had, they’d likely have shopped for the following kinds of shorts.
Comfort: Your shorts (all clothing for this matter) should be comfortable, featuring fabric with waistbands that are chafe-resistant, and drawstrings, Velcro or other components that provide for additional security. And don’t forget one of the most important features of comfort: moisture absorption. There’s nothing like sweating profusely during a match in shorts that are restrictive or doesn’t breathe.
Tear resistance: Many things will be torn inside the ring and your shorts should not be the only thing. Besides, lest you not forget that this is hand-to-hand, head-to-head and shoulder-to-shoulder combat, leaving no room for clothing that cannot withstand several hundred tugs.
Durability: You want to be able to wear your shorts multiple times without the worry that comes from purchasing a cheap variety. This sport requires that your shorts be constructed of quality fabric, featuring extra stitching to the groin area, waistband and seams. And as an added bonus, many shorts feature an internal pouch for mouth guard safekeeping outside the ring.
Appeal: As an MMA artist, you take pride in the appearance and conditioning of your physique. Naturally, this pride will extend to your fighting gear. Many online retailers offer numerous styles and brands, including Jaco Resurgence, Triumph and more, so you’ve got not excuse for entering the ring looking shoddy.
From the time of the formidable Spartan masters to the contemporary MMA fighters we have today, the long and the short of it is this: your fight shorts should give you an advantage over your opponent by being comfortable, breathable, durable and flexible.
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