How to Wear Boxing Shorts
At Sports Maxx, besides selling boxing protective equipment and martial arts equipment, we are proud to sell clothing for martial artists looking to get the most out of their training.
One of our popular items is our boxing shorts. In this article, we will be explaining how to wear boxing shorts whilst highlighting the differences and effectiveness of this sought-after clothing item.
With sports and physical activity being a major boost to the economy along with your physical health and mental health, it is no wonder why people are going out of their way to procure sporting equipment and clothing. So what makes boxing shorts so special?
Understanding the function of boxing shorts

For any boxing fan, you would recognise the trademark shorts worn by boxers. Though the patterns and colours may vary, the constant theme of a large majority of them is their baggy aesthetic and slight upwards crop on the sides.
The baggy look is not for fashion, but rather for function. This is because tight pants would restrict the amount of motion and footwork possible, whilst being uncomfortable for the fighter.
The bagginess of the pants also helps regulate the temperature of the lower regions, as long-term heat stress can cause damage to the reproductive system in men. In consideration of this, it is important to wear pants that allow for air regulation, especially in a situation where you exert yourself like training or fighting.
The slight crop on the sides of the shorts also aids in granting more leg movement. Essentially by giving the leg slightly more space to move forward or back, without putting pressure on the seams of their shorts.
The elasticated top area of boxing shorts also serves as a ‘border’ for the opposing fighter. By this, we mean that opposing fighters will try not to hit below the elasticated top out of fear of hitting ‘below the belt’ which could lead to serious injury, point deduction or disqualification if their hit connects.
Interestingly enough, Boxing shorts were the precursor to boxers (the underwear) as the creator Jacob Golomb (the founder of Everlast) wanted to create shorts for athletes that did not hinder their movement and would replace the old traditional leather style trunks.
Men’s Boxing shorts
As part of the wide array of items we supply for fighters and sports enthusiasts, our clothing section contains Men’s Muay Thai shorts. Our Muay Thai shorts (also known as Thai Boxing shorts) provide the elasticated comfort and freedom of movement expected in top-quality boxing shorts.
Even though our shorts may say ‘Kick Boxing or ‘Muay Thai’ in their name, rest assured these can be used by any practising fighter of any discipline, whether it be boxing, Jiu-Jitsu, Taekwando and so on.
Though we must clarify these are perfectly acceptable to practice and train in, other fighting disciplines may require a different uniform for official matches or belt grading. An example would be wearing a Gi for Karate.
Our range is affordable, made to the highest quality and holds a diverse range of patterns and colours guaranteed to appeal to you. Browse our range here.
How to wear boxing shorts

Although this may seem like a very straightforward process, the Sports Maxx team want all of our readers to be able to use our equipment and clothing properly for the best results.
- Before buying, pick the correct size for you.
- Shorts that are too big will not fit securely around your waist
- Shorts that are too small will constrict your waist and lower regions, making it uncomfortable and difficult to stretch whilst wearing them.
Once you have confirmed the right size for your shorts when wearing them you should:
- Put the shorts on, making sure the elasticated waistband is on your waist or just below, this is different for everybody. Too high and you will constrict your lower regions, too low and the pants may fall off.
- Practice kicking, or moving as you would whilst training. These shorts should not hinder your movements or cause you to be uncomfortable. If so, try a different size.
Do I actually need boxing shorts?
To understand if you genuinely need boxing shorts, take a look at these questions and answer yes or no.
- Are your legs uncomfortably sweaty during or after training?
- Have you ripped your pants when exercising your flexibility?
- Do you spar with other people?
- Are you training professionally or as part of a certified class?
- Are your pants generally uncomfortable while training?
- Do you find yourself adjusting your pants while training? Whether that be pulling them up or adjusting their tightness to your waist.
- Are your lower regions uncomfortable when training?
If your answer is yes to these questions, then ideally you are in need of boxing shorts.
Here are some factors for those who may not need boxing shorts.
- You train occasionally and casually.
- You don’t exercise your footwork or flexibility
- You are not part of a class or professional training setup
- You do not spar
- You aren’t pursuing contact sports professionally
- Your current training clothes cause no discomfort or restriction whatsoever.
More than just shorts

We at Sports Maxx are proud to say we also supply protective equipment to go along with your clothing. Our training gear is designed to bring the best out of you. With a wide array of products and even helpful blogs that show you the benefit of these items, we have you covered.
Let’s take a brief look at some of the supplementary training and protective equipment we offer.
Head guard
A head guard provides protection to the head, temple and chin for anybody engaging in contact sports where you have to spar against one another. The padding will reduce the pain and damage from impact taken to the head. We always recommend the use of a head guard unless you are having a professional fight where head guards are not worn.
Gel chest guard body protector
The gel chest guard body protector is worn as a vest, though this vest is reinforced, which grants protection to the chest, stomach, sides and back.
The function of this vest is usually employed by a trainer, the trainer will allow you to hit the parts being protected by the vest. In time this can help you increase your precision and technique. Taking hits whilst wearing the vest can also aid in conditioning.
Maxx boxing metal groin
The metal groin guard we offer is a groin guard that uses metal rather than leather, with coverage only being prominent at the groin itself.
Maxx Inspire curved focus pads with gloves and free hand wraps
Our Pad, glove and handwrap set is a perfect option for any beginner.
Hand wraps are going to stabilise your knuckles, wrists and hands, whilst the boxing gloves will cushion your hands from the punches you throw.
Boxing gloves come in different weights, we suggest starting with a lightweight, once you are able to punch freely without your shoulders aching you have the option to buy a heavier pair of gloves to further develop your strength and speed.
Maxx gel kick shield strike pad
The kick shield we offer provides a safe way to condition your shins and feet, whilst developing your kicking technique. This piece of equipment should be used with a partner present. It can be held at different heights in order to test and develop your kicking flexibility.
The reason you should have a kick shield specifically for kicks, and not use focus pads for kicks is that kicking generally has more force and destructive capability. Kick shields have a wide surface area specifically to absorb the impact of a kick.
Maxx grip training fight socks
Grip training fight socks provide a vital benefit for anybody who has issues being barefoot on smooth surfaces. Ideal for anybody with hyperhidrosis or extremely dry feet. These socks will grant you the grip you need when training.
Even with prices soaring nationally, SportsMaxx acknowledges that getting started in the world of boxing can be expensive, with many pieces of equipment needed to make a significant impact.
That’s why they offer a range of products at all different price points to accommodate everyone and do their part to make the sport more accessible to the majority.
Need shorts? Equipment? Or information?
A family-run business established in 2000, Sports Maxx is the UK’s top boxing equipment supplier. Find out more about Sports Maxx by visiting our website here.
We hope we have provided the answers on how to wear boxing shorts, whilst also helping you understand their function. Whilst showing you other protective gear we offer to help you perform safely.
To browse our collection of kids’ punch bags, visit our webpage here.
We sell a variety of products for your training needs, from adult punch bags, boxing gloves and hand wraps, to Speedballs and protective gear.
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For more information on all things sports, health and fitness, read more articles on our blog here.