Fight shorts go through the wars with you and are as important for comfort as for something that will last years.
These aren't some everyday shorts that you just walk around in—though you could—but the material, fit, and heck, even the type of waistband make all the difference in choosing the right shorts for your next fight.
We'll walk you through our favourite fight short picks along with purchase considerations for the best fight shorts.
Be sure to have several pairs of fighting and training shorts, either you train twice a week or daily!
What are Hybrid Fight Shorts?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's talk about these fight shorts with a dual-layer design.
These hybrid fight shorts offer the perfect blend of two worlds.
They provide the comfort and flexibility you'd expect from regular 5-inch shorts, while also incorporating some of the benefits of compression gear. It's essentially a two-in-one package!
Key Features of Hybrid Fight Shorts:
Dual Layer Design: The 2 in 1 short design ensures that fighters have the flexibility of regular shorts with the added benefits of compression wear underneath.
Compression in hybrid shorts offers:
Reduced Muscle Fatigue: Helps in longer training sessions.
Strain Prevention: Protects muscles during intense workouts.
Lower Risk of Muscle Soreness: Ensures quicker recovery post-training.
Pro Tip: Always look for hybrid shorts with sublimated printing to ensure longevity of the design.
Top 6 Dual Layer Fight Shorts
1. Fumetsu Icon Dual Layer Fight Shorts
To start off our list of the best hybrid fight shorts, we have one of the newer releases from Fumestu: the Icon Fight Shorts.
And they have done it once more with the perfect choice for combat sports and high-intensity training.
Made out of the four-way stretch material, it ensures ultimate comfort no matter what you wear.
But do not worry; the insides of these have drawstrings and an elastic waistband to ensure the shorts do not budge, no matter how hard you work in them.
These are considered regular fitting, so we recommend taking your normal size when ordering these.
Size Options: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Colour Options: Sand, Black, White, Navy
Material: Polyester
What We Like:
- Hand-drawn artwork designed in the UK
- A wide variety of colour options
What We Don't Like:
- If you prefer a looser fit, consider choosing a size up, as these tend to run slightly smaller.
2. Progress Bengal Hybrid Shorts
Moving onto another definite favourite among No-gi and MMA enthusiasts – the eagerly awaited Bengal Hybrid Shorts. Founded in 2012, Progress has swiftly earned a reputable status within the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) sector.
These shorts not only provide maximum comfort but also boast a clean and stylish design featuring the classic Progress branding, making them a versatile choice for any training session.
Size Options: XS, S, M, L, XL
Colour Options: Black/Green, Black/White
Material: Polyester
What We Like:
– Unmatched Comfort: Soft lycra fabric delivers superior comfort without compromising on durability or transparency.
– No More Pilling: These shorts feature anti-bobble technology, ensuring they stay smooth and pristine, free from fabric pilling.
What We Don't Like:
– Quality Comes at a Price: While these Fight Shorts may be on the higher end of the price spectrum, it's a fair investment for top-notch quality.
– Limited Color Choices: Currently, there are only two available color options. Hopefully, we'll see more variety soon!
Note: For the best fit, we recommend following the size guide and considering sizing up if you have a more muscular build or prefer a looser fit.
3. Scramble Logotype Combination Shorts
Moving along in our lineup of top hybrid fight shorts, let's introduce the Black/White Scramble Logotype Combination Shorts.
These shorts come with a slick 'Scramble everywhere' inner Lycra layer, and are versatile for Jiu Jitsu, no-gi grappling, running, and intense gym workouts.
Size Options: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Colour Options: Black/White
Material: Polyester
What We Like:
– Versatile Performance: Ideal for Jiu Jitsu, no-gi grappling and super comfy for running, and intense gym workouts.
What We Don't Like:
– These men's hybrid shorts, being top-tier fight gear, skip the whole pocket thing.
- Currently only 1 colour way
4. Fumetsu Anaconda Fight Shorts
At number 4, we are proud to present the all-new Fumetsu Anaconda Range. Another pair with fully sublimated graphics, more hand-drawn artwork to represent your fight personality through your shorts.
Another recent release by mid 2024 in which they dropped another colourway.
These shorts were created with inspiration from the anaconda choke BJJ submission.
The Fumetsu Anaconda Dual Layer fight shorts are designed in 4-way stretch material.
The black overshort with khaki undershorts are teamed up with the coolest part, featuring the snake pattern on the inner layer.
Size Options: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Colour Options: Black/Khaki, Black/Red
Material: Polyester
What We Like:
– Hand-drawn artwork designed in the UK.
– The Fumetsu Dual Layer is lightweight, flexible, and comfortable made with moisture-wicking material.
– Matching Rash Guard and other items from that collection.
What We Don't Like:
– If you're the type who loves having pockets packed with goodies, these shorts might not be your go-to choice since they don't come with any pockets.
5. Progress Academy+ Hybrid Shorts
Incredibly comfortable hybrid shorts that you can even wear at the gym.
Premium build at an amazing price point. The inner material is super flexible Lycra for a full range of movement, while the exterior material is classic Progress board short cut.
They wouldn't be complete without the elasticated waistband combined with a drawstring to making them the comfiest around – guaranteed.
Another reason they are, of course, our favourite is the use of Italian ink sublimation. It won't run or fade, and it's our strongest lycra material produced.
As worn here by the head of ZR team Europe, Max Carvalho.
Size Options: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Colour Options: Black, Khaki
Material: Polyester
What We Like:
– Customisable Comfort with Elasticated Waistband and Drawstring.
– Premium build at an amazing price point
What We Don't Like:
– Limited colour options
6. Fumetsu Berserker Dual Layer Fight Shorts
After the huge success of the Berserker Boxing Gloves, Fumetsu has now rolled out a line of No-Gi and training gear.
They've adorned these items with hand-drawn artwork depicting the legendary dual Berserker axes from Norse Mythology.
Light, flexible, comfortable, moisture-wicking, and indeed, just about right for any kind of activity. They have an inner short—a gentle compressive fit to the thighs—and an upper short, with a comfortable, flexible waistband that inspires security and comfort.
Dont forget the matching Fumetsu Berserker Rash Guard!
Size Options: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Colour Options: White/Black, Black/Red
Material: Polyester
What We Like:
– Hand-drawn artwork designed in the UK by the Fumetsu team.
– Mix and match: Combine with the Rash guard or t-shirts
What We Don't Like:
– The inner layer is not as visible due to the similar colours.
- The white pair is more prone to showing stains.
Click here to view the Progress Fight Shorts size guide
The Surge of Hybrid Shorts in Combat Sports
The popularity of hybrid shorts for combat sports is on the rise, and for good reason. They offer Reduced Muscle Fatigue, Strain Prevention, and Improved Perceived Exertion. The double layer shorts design ensures that fighters get the benefits of compression without compromising on the flexibility of regular fight shorts.
Choosing the Perfect Pair: A Fighter's Guide to Hybrid Fight Shorts
Selecting the right fight gear is crucial. It can be the difference between a good training session and a great one. With the rise of hybrid fight shorts, fighters now have more options than ever. But with choice comes confusion. How do you pick the perfect pair? Let's break it down.
1. Understand Your Needs
Before looking into the vast ocean of options, take a moment to understand what you're looking for. Are you seeking more compression benefits like Reduced Muscle Fatigue and Strain Prevention? Or is the flexibility of the 4 Way stretch material your primary concern? Knowing your priorities will help narrow down your choices.
2. Brand Matters
As we've seen, brands like Progress, Fumetsu, and Bytomic have set themselves apart with their commitment to quality and innovation. When choosing hybrid shorts, it's wise to invest in brands with a proven track record.
3. Fit and Comfort
When it comes to men's fight shorts, you'll find a variety of lengths to cater to your specific needs.
The 5-inch mens shorts provide a classic and shorter design, ensuring you have maximum freedom of movement during your combat sports activities. If you're looking for a bit more coverage, the 6-inch shorts strike a balance between style and protection. For those seeking extra leg coverage and comfort, the 7-inch mens shorts are the way to go.
The best shorts in the world won't do you any good if they don't fit right. Look for features like an internal drawstring for adjustability and ensure the shorts offer a Regular fit.
4. Material and Durability
Understanding the material of your fight shorts is the first step to ensuring they last. Most hybrid shorts are made from a combination of materials, each with its unique properties:
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Polyester: Durable and quick-drying, polyester is commonly used in modern hybrid fight shorts!
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Satin: Known for its smooth texture and sheen, satin is often used in traditional Muay Thai shorts. It's soft, lightweight, and allows for fluid movement.
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Nylon: This synthetic material is known for its resilience and ability to wick away moisture. However, it's essential to be cautious when cleaning as it can be sensitive to high temperatures.
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Cotton: Breathable and soft, cotton is often found in the inner lining of hybrid shorts, providing comfort during intense training sessions.
5. Aesthetics
While performance is paramount, there's no harm in looking good while you train. Brands offer a plethora of designs, from the sleek Fumetsu Berserker shorts to the vibrant Progress Mexicana Hybrid Shorts. Choose a design that resonates with your style.
6. Price Point
While it's tempting to opt for the most expensive pair, it's essential to ensure you're getting value for your money. Sometimes, mid-range hybrid shorts offer the same features and quality as their pricier counterparts.
Cleaning Process: The Do's and Don'ts
When it comes to cleaning, always start by checking the care label. This small yet crucial tag provides valuable insights into how to best care for your shorts.
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Hand Wash vs. Machine Wash: While many prefer the convenience of a machine wash, hand washing is gentler on materials like satin. If you do opt for a machine wash, ensure it's on a gentle cycle with warm water.
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Detergent: Always use a mild detergent. This ensures the colors remain vibrant and the material doesn't degrade.
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Avoid Bleach: Bleach can be harsh on materials and might cause discoloration. Instead, opt for natural cleaning agents if you need to tackle stubborn stains.
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Drying: Always air dry your shorts. Avoid using a dryer as the high heat can damage the elastic waistband and side slits. For best results, turn your shorts inside out to preserve their color and design.
FAQs on Hybrid Fight Shorts
Are hybrid shorts and dual layer shorts the same?
Yes, hybrid shorts often refer to dual layer shorts. The dual layer design typically consists of an inner compression layer and an outer layer that resembles traditional fight shorts. This combination offers both the benefits of compression and the functionality of regular fight shorts.
Can I fight with dual layer shorts when competing?
According to the IMMAF (International Mixed Martial Arts Federation) rules, fighters must wear competition shorts made of durable material designed so they cannot inflict injury on either athlete. While the rules don't explicitly mention hybrid or dual layer shorts, as long as they adhere to the safety and material guidelines, they should be permissible. However, always check with the specific competition's guidelines in the UK before competing or ask your coach.
Do Hybrid fight shorts have drawstrings?
Yes, many hybrid fight shorts come with an internal drawstring to ensure a snug fit and prevent them from sliding down during intense movements.
What is the best way to wash hybrid fight shorts?
It's best to wash hybrid fight shorts in cold water and let them air dry. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners as they can degrade the material over time.
What's the difference between regular shorts and hybrid shorts?
The primary difference is the dual layer design in hybrid shorts. They have an inner compression layer that offers muscle support and an outer layer that provides functionality and aesthetics similar to traditional fight shorts.
How do hybrid shorts help in sweat absorption during training sessions?
Hybrid shorts, especially those made of polyester, are designed to wick away sweat, keeping the athlete dry and comfortable during intense workouts.
Can you wear hybrid fight shorts for all combat sports training?
Yes, hybrid fight shorts are versatile and can be used for various combat sports training, including MMA, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and more.
Are hybrid shorts a good option for the gym?
Absolutely! The compression layer offers muscle support, which can be beneficial during weightlifting or cardio exercises. Their sweat-wicking properties also make them suitable for intense gym sessions.