Three types of fighting bottoms. Three different jobs. Which one you need depends entirely on what you are training - and the wrong one makes a noticeable difference when you shoot for a takedown.
Grappling shorts - built for the mat
Grappling shorts are designed specifically for BJJ and No-Gi grappling. No pockets, no zippers, high secure waistband with a drawstring that stays put through takedowns and guard passes. IBJJF-legal construction for competition.
Default choice for anyone training BJJ or submission grappling. Available in the Tabia Jungle, Tabia Sand and Senshi Black colourways from €54.99.
MMA shorts - built for kicking
MMA shorts are engineered for both striking and grappling. 4-way stretch panels allow high kicks and side-kicks that grappling shorts restrict. Gusseted crotch design allows hip rotation without fabric pulling during striking range.
If you are training Muay Thai, kickboxing or MMA - or if your sessions combine striking with takedowns - MMA shorts are the right choice. They are not ideal for pure grappling: the extra fabric and fit can bunch during guard work.
Spats - the third layer
Spats are compression leggings worn either alone or under grappling shorts. They serve three purposes:
- Skin protection: A fabric layer between your skin and the mat dramatically reduces exposure to ringworm, staph and mat burn.
- Muscle compression: Keeps hip flexors and hamstrings warm between rounds, reducing injury risk during explosive movement.
- Hygiene: Less skin contact with training partners means less spread of skin infections across the gym.
Spats are IBJJF-legal under grappling shorts in competition. See our BJJ Spats - available in long and short cut from €39.99.
| Training type | Recommended bottoms |
|---|---|
| Pure BJJ / No-Gi | Grappling shorts + spats |
| MMA / Striking + Grappling | MMA shorts (+ spats optional) |
| Cold gym or long sessions | Spats + grappling shorts |
| IBJJF competition | Grappling shorts + spats (belt colour) |
| Wrestling or submission only | Grappling shorts alone |
Tabia Jungle No-Gi Rashguard
No-Gi Competition Rashguard · Short Sleeve · €49.99
Pair with Grappling Shorts and Spats for the complete No-Gi setup. Ships from Vienna in 2-4 days.
Shop Tabia JungleFrequently asked questions
Can I wear MMA shorts for BJJ training?
Yes for casual training - most academies allow it. For IBJJF competition, MMA shorts are typically not legal due to pockets and different cut. Always check your event rules before competing.
Do I need to wear both grappling shorts and spats?
Not required - many academies allow spats alone for training. For competition, most rulesets require shorts to be worn over spats. Shorts plus spats is the most common and practical combination.
Are spats worth it for beginners?
Yes, from day one. Skin infections are a real risk in any combat sport. The protection spats offer costs significantly less than one trip to the doctor for ringworm treatment.
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