The Best Krav Maga Training Shorts for Flexibility and Comfort

The Benefits of Wearing Krav Maga Shorts

Krav maga has become an increasingly popular self defense system over the years. The martial art from Israel emphasizes real-world situations and efficient counterattacks. When practicing krav maga, it's important to wear the right clothing that allows free range of motion and breathability. Krav maga shorts are an ideal choice for training.

Optimal Movement

Krav maga relies heavily on kicks, knees, quick footwork, and other explosive movements. Long, baggy pants could potentially get in the way or cause you to trip during intense practice. Krav maga shorts allow for optimal movement so you can focus on technique instead of your clothing.

The right shorts have just enough length to provide coverage and prevent chafing when doing lots of kicking, but still remain above the knee. This allows you to freely swing your legs for roundhouse kicks or quickly sprawl without fabric resistance.

Stay Cool and Comfortable

Krav maga classes often involve high intensity interval training that raises your heart rate. All of the constant motion can quickly make you hot and sweaty if you're wearing thick pants and layers. The wrong clothing leads to discomfort, distraction, and fatigue.

Lightweight krav maga shorts help maximize air flow and cooling. The thin, breathable fabric wicks moisture well so you don't end up drenched in sweat, allowing you to comfortably sustain your energy and train harder for longer.

Better Grip and Traction

The right shorts for krav maga training should have a gusseted crotch and articulated design to prevent restricted range of motion. They’re often made of smooth fabrics that won’t restrict movement.

However, the slippery material can be problematic when attempting takedowns or grappling. Krav maga shorts with integrated grip panels help secure a firm hold on training partners during clinch work or ground fighting. Built-in compression liners also help reduce irritation and friction burns.

Key Features to Look For

There are a few key features that make shorts well-suited for krav maga training:

Flexible Material

Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics like nylon or polyester blends that offer four-way stretch. This ensures maximum mobility for high kicks, deep stances, and other techniques without restrictive compression around the thighs or knees.

Mid-Thigh Length

Proper coverage balanced with minimal fabric is ideal. Krav maga shorts should hit mid-thigh or slightly above the knee to allow great freedom of motion for the hips and legs.

Slit Side Seams

Side vents running up to the hip flexors allow for wider range of motion. Unimpeded high kicks are especially important for krav maga training.

Gusseted Crotch

A diamond-shaped panel in the crotch eliminates bunching and restriction during wide stances. Krav maga often incorporate low squatting positions as well.

Integrated Compression Lining

Smooth, breathable compression fabric lined inside the shorts provides both comfort and support during training. The tight fit also reduces irritation caused by excess movement.

Flatlock Seams

Exposed seams with dense stitching can cause chafing issues. Flatlock stitching lays flat against the skin for irritation-free training.

Waistband and Pockets

Convenient cargo pockets provide storage space for keys or an ID card. An elastic waistband with inner drawstring allows you to customize the fit.

Finding the Best Krav Maga Shorts For You

When shopping around for krav maga shorts, consider factors like your personal needs and preferences, body type, and training environment.

Identify Priorities

Think about the features that matter most to you - durability, maximum breathablity, or stylish colors? Do you need shorts with zippered pockets to securely hold essentials?

Understanding priorities like key characteristics, budget, and aesthetic can help narrow options.

Choose the Right Fit

Baggy shorts with excessive fabric can hinder technique and get in the way. However, shorts that are too tight will feel restrictive and uncomfortable, while also revealing too much.

The ideal krav maga shorts fit like a second skin while allowing free range of motion. Make sure any integrated liner shorts provide sufficient coverage as well.

Consider Environment

Do you train outdoors or in a humid climate? Look for very lightweight shorts that offer ventilation and sweat wicking capabilities. Colder environments may require base layer compression pants underneath for warmth without compromising movement.

Also assess padding needs. Thinner shorts work well for indoor training surfaces, while built-in foam pads provide protection on harsher outdoor environments.

Breaking In New Krav Maga Shorts

Brand new shorts may feel a bit stiff and restrictive until they get properly broken in. Here are some tips to speed up that process:

Train Consistently

Regular, active wear allows the shorts to mold to your body type and movements. The material starts to soften and stretch better over time through continual use.

Stretch Thoroughly Beforehand

Warming up with bodyweight squats, high kicks, and other expansive motions helps maximize the shorts’ range right off the bat. Dynamic movements break down the stiffness quickly.

Hand Wash and Air Dry

Machine washing and drying can break down elasticity prematurely. For longevity, hand wash shorts in cold water and let them air dry instead.

Proper care ensures krav maga shorts maintain both durability and flexibility as training progresses.

Choosing the Best Shorts for You

Finding a pair of high quality shorts designed specifically for krav maga’s explosive movements can elevate your training. Prioritize freedom of motion in a lightweight and breathable package. With the right shorts, you’ll stay cool and comfortable even during intense practice sessions.

FAQs

Why are krav maga shorts better than regular workout shorts?

Krav maga shorts are designed specifically for the martial art's explosive kicking, grappling, and takedown movements. They are made of flexible, breathable fabrics that don't restrict motion or cause discomfort when training.

What is the ideal length for krav maga shorts?

The best krav maga shorts hit mid-thigh or slightly above the knees. This length allows complete freedom of motion for the hips and legs while kicking or grappling.

Should my krav maga shorts have pockets?

Pockets are helpful for carrying small essentials like keys, ID, or lip balm. Zippered pockets ensure items stay securely in place even during intense sparring sessions.

How can I break in stiff new shorts faster?

Consistently train in the shorts to soften the material. Do dynamic stretches beforehand as well. Hand wash and air dry the shorts rather than machine washing to maintain elasticity.