How to Size for Shin Guards for MMA

Everything You Need to Know About MMA Shin Guard Sizing 

Built for Precision: The Ultimate Guide to Buying MMA Shin Guards

MMA fighters know that their legs are both weapons and targets. Strapping on the proper shin guards can mean the difference between grinding out extra rounds or sitting on the sideline icing your shins. In this guide, we’ll break down how to measure for MMA shin guards and what to look for when buying a pair, so you can train and spar with confidence, just like the pros. Get ready to turn your shins into leg armor that’s as elite and uncompromising as your passion.

Why Proper Sizing Matters

Wearing shin guards that don’t fit correctly is almost as bad as not wearing any at all. If they’re too loose, they’ll slip or rotate during kicks and checks, leaving parts of your shin or instep exposed. Too tight, and they can restrict circulation or limit mobility. Improper fit = improper protection, plain and simple.

Consider that leg injuries are common in combat sports – one analysis found about 27% of injuries in MMA are fractures, a higher rate than in boxing or kickboxing. The proper shin guards absorb and disperse impact, helping prevent those nasty bruises or worse. They also give you the confidence to throw kicks full force. As ONX founder (and 3X MMA Coach of the Year) Trevor Wittman says, gear that truly protects you lets you “train harder, longer”. In short, properly sized shin pads keep you in the fight.

How to Measure for MMA Shin Guards

Great shin guards are designed for a precise fit, so measuring yourself accurately is crucial.

Follow these steps to find your size:

1. Measure Your Shin Length: Use a flexible tape measure to measure the distance from the bottom of your kneecap to the top of your ankle bone. This is your shin length. (It helps to have a friend assist, so you can stand naturally.) Write down this measurement in inches or centimeters.
2. Consult the Size Chart: Sizes (e.g., Small, Medium, Large) are typically based on shin length, with height or foot length as secondary factors. For example, ONX Leg Armor shin guards are custom-fitted by both measurements. An ONX size Medium corresponds to roughly a 13" shin length, while Large is about 14". Always check the brand’s chart; one company’s “Large” could be another’s “Medium.”
3. When in Doubt, Size Up: If your measurement falls between sizes or at the upper end of a range, it’s wise to choose the larger size for more coverage. You can tighten the straps to adjust the fit, but a shin guard that’s too short won’t provide complete protection.

Shin Guard Sizing Chart

Measure from the bottom of your knee to the top of your ankle.

Tip: Reference the sizing image below before ordering to ensure accurate shin and foot measurements.

Fitting Tips: An appropriately sized shin guard should cover from just below your knee to the top of your foot without significant gaps. The padding should lie flat along your shin bone, and the instep guard (if included) should shield your foot’s bridge. When you move or throw a kick, the guard must stay in place; it shouldn’t spin around your leg or slide up and down. The fit should be snug and secure, but not so tight that it pinches or digs in painfully. You want firm contact so the pad absorbs impact, yet you should still be able to flex your foot and bend your knee naturally. Test this: put them on and throw a few light kicks in the air, they shouldn’t budge. If you feel your toes going numb, loosen up! The ideal shin guard feels like a natural extension of your leg, not an awkward foreign object.

Pro Tip: It’s worth taking the time to measure and get it right. “Measure carefully to find your perfect fit,” as the ONX sizing guide says. Don’t just guess your size based on your shoe size or height; use a tape measure for accuracy. This small effort pays off with gear that performs exceptionally well.

Key Features to Look For in Quality Shin Guards

Beyond size and style, pay attention to the build and materials of shin guards. Elite fighters and coaches look for gear that checks all these boxes:

Protection & Padding: Look for dense, multi-layer foam padding that can absorb heavy impacts. High-end guards use composites of foam (and sometimes gel) to dissipate shock, so your bones don’t have to. Ensure the padding covers the entire shin and, if necessary, extends over the knee and instep for comprehensive coverage. Example: ONX’s Elite Leg Armor has an extra layer of proprietary impact foam and even a built-in knee guard for full protection. The padding should be thick enough to cushion hard kicks but not so bulky that it’s like wearing a pillow.

Secure Fit (No Slippage): A shin guard isn’t effective if it constantly slides around. Prioritize designs with secure closure systems. For strapped models, this means strong Velcro that doesn’t wear out quickly, and possibly a non-slip lining on the interior. For sleeve models, look for a snug, ergonomic shape and consider silicone grips that prevent rotation. ONX guards, for instance, employ a custom size approach (based on shin and foot measurements) to ensure a “locked-in stability” fit. The guard should hug your leg contours. If it has straps, make sure their placement doesn’t create pressure points or interfere with your range of motion when kicking or checking.

Mobility & Comfort: Freedom of movement is crucial. You want a full range of motion to bend your knees and point your toes. Check that the instep section (foot guard) doesn’t dig into the top of your foot when you flex, and that the area behind your knee isn’t too high. Many modern shin guards are pre-curved to match the natural shape of your leg, which improves comfort. An inner lining of soft material (e.g. neoprene or moisture-wicking fabric) can prevent chafing and keep things dry. If possible, try mimicking fight movements while wearing them: you should be able to bounce, kick, check, and sprawl without feeling like the gear is hindering you. The best guards manage to protect without restricting you.

Durability: MMA training is grueling – your gear needs to withstand numerous kicks and intense sweat sessions. Quality shin guards utilize durable outer materials, such as genuine leather or high-grade engineered leather, that won’t crack or tear with repeated impact. The stitching should be robust (double-stitched seams in high-stress areas). Cheap foam can break down quickly, whereas superior foam will maintain its shape and density longer. As a reference point, ONX gear is known to be 3X more durable than standard equipment, while that’s brand-specific, it’s a reminder that investing in durability pays off. Inspect any guard for signs of flimsy construction. If a pair of $30 pads lasts 3 months vs. a $100 pair lasting 3+ years, the long-term value lies in the quality.

Materials & Weight: For most, the choice between synthetic (PU) leather and genuine leather comes down to preference and budget. Real leather is traditionally lauded for longevity and a classic feel; synthetic leathers today, however, can rival leather in toughness and have the bonus of easier care (no conditioning needed). What’s more important is the overall design. Some elite shin guards incorporate multiple materials: a soft neoprene sleeve for comfort, with a leather striking surface for durability best of both worlds. Also consider weight: lighter guards will allow you to move faster and keep your legs fresher in long sessions, whereas very heavy-duty guards might tire you out more quickly. Tip: pick the lightest guard that still meets your protection needs. Advanced foam tech has made it possible to have lightweight, slim guards that still eat up big kicks.

Design for MMA Versatility: If you’re purely focused on Muay Thai or kickboxing, any good shin guard will do the job. But if you train MMA (mixed disciplines), look for features that accommodate grappling as well. For instance, a bulky outside ridge might protect well but could catch on your training partner’s clothing when clinching or wrestling. ONX shin guards were designed by people who understand MMA footwork and transitions, so they emphasize a no-slip, no-distraction fit that stays put even as you shoot for a takedown or scramble on the ground. Features such as a fully attached foot cover (as opposed to a flapping foot pad) and integrated padding can aid in rolling. The bottom line: the guard should be stable in stand-up and on the mat.

Coach & Fighter Feedback: This is more of a qualitative measure, but it speaks to brand trust. Gear that’s designed or tested by real fighters and coaches tends to have smart details. (E.g., extra padding over the instep so you don’t break a foot on someone’s elbow, or a certain strap angle that a coach insisted on so it doesn’t slip.) ONX was founded by Coach Trevor Wittman, and the gear was refined with input from professional fighters. That’s the kind of pedigree that ensures the product addresses real training needs, not just marketing hype. So when shopping, it’s worth considering brands with a strong reputation in the fight community. Read reviews, ask teammates, and notice what the athletes at your gym are wearing. Trusted by champions? That’s a good sign.

Keep these features in mind and use them as a checklist when comparing shin guards. High-performance gear isn’t just about fancy looks or logos; it’s about function and fight-proof construction. The best shin guards protect like a shield, fit like second skin, and last through countless battles.

Additional MMA Shin Guard Buying Tips 

You’ve measured your leg and identified a few good options – now a few extra tips to help you make the smartest purchase:

1. Match Your Guard to Your Training Intensity: Be honest about how you’ll use these shin guards. If you’re sparring hard three times a week and prepping for amateur fights, invest in top-tier guards that can take a beating (and dish one out). If you’re mostly hitting pads and doing light technical sparring, you might opt for a slightly lighter or mid-range pair that prioritizes mobility. Always err on the side of more protection if you’re not sure. As the saying goes, “train hard, fight easy” and training hard means using gear that lets you go all-out safely.
2. Invest in Quality (It’s Cheaper in the Long Run): It can be tempting to buy inexpensive shin guards when you’re just starting out, but cheap gear often needs to be replaced frequently, or worse, it could fail when you need it most. A well-made pair might cost a bit more upfront, but it will last for years and save you from injuries (or replacement costs). In MMA, “cheap gear costs more when it breaks down – or breaks you down,” as one coach bluntly put it. Your shin health is worth the investment.
3. Try Before You Buy, If Possible: Nothing beats actually trying on the shin guards with your gear. If you have a local shop or a teammate with a pair in your size, test them out. Throw some kicks, move around. Does the size feel right? Do they stay snug? Many online retailers offer flexible return policies, allowing you to order two sizes and return the one that doesn’t fit as well. The effort is worth it to ensure you get that Goldilocks fit.
4. Ask Coaches or Teammates: Tap into the experience around you. Your coach has seen every kind of gear over the years and probably has specific recommendations for brands or models that hold up well. Teammates can tell you how certain guards have worked for them (e.g., “Brand X’s straps wore out fast,” or “Brand Y has great protection but runs small, go one size up”). This kind of insider information can help you make the right decision. In martial arts, the community loves to share tips – use that resource.
5. Check for Required Gear in Competition: Planning to compete? Note that some amateur leagues require specific types of shin guards. For example, amateur Muay Thai competitions require shin-instep guards for all fighters (usually the thinner cloth type for fairness and mobility). Amateur MMA smokers or tournaments often require at least shin guards for novices. Make sure your gear meets any competition regulations before you buy; you don’t want to find out last-minute that your fancy guards aren’t allowed in the ring.
6. Maintenance and Care: Finally, factor in how you’ll care for the guards. Good hygiene will prolong their life (and keep your gym partners happy). After training, dry them out, pull them out of your bag to air, or use a boot dryer if you have one. Wipe down leather with a damp cloth, and use disinfectant spray on the interior to keep bacteria at bay. Never leave wet, sweaty shin guards trapped in a closed gym bag for days (common rookie mistake – that funk is hard to undo). Also, avoid machine washing unless the manufacturer explicitly says it’s okay. Proper care adds years to your equipment.

With these tips, you’ll make a well-informed purchase that suits your needs and budget. 

Remember: the right shin guards are an investment in your training and safety. When you lace them up (or slide them on) and forget they’re even there while you train, you’ve found the ones. That’s money well spent.