Muay Thai Shorts Sizes & Care Explained: Everything you need to know
Muay Thai, also known as the ‘art of eight limbs’, is not only well known for its intense physical and mental demands, but also for its unique sense of traditional style when it comes to apparel, specially its Muay Thai shorts. These shorts aren’t just a typical item of clothing when training or competing, they symbolize the sport’s heritage and deep rooted history. So, here’s everything you need to know about Muay Thai shorts, right from the way they should fit down to how to take care of them.
What are Muay Thai Shorts?
Muay Thai shorts are specially designed for the movements required in Muay Thai boxing. You’ll notice they are much shorter than your usual athletic shorts, this is due to them requiring a shorter length for high kicks and deep knee strikes which are used throughout Muay Thai fights. They are traditionally more vibrant and bold in their choice of patterns, as they reflect the energetic heritage of Muay Thai.
How to Wear Muay Thai Shorts
How Should Muay Thai Shorts Fit?
Muay Thai shorts should fit well and secure around the waist and you shouldn’t feel any kind of restrictions when doing a wide range of motion. They should sit high around the thigh for maximum flexibility when training or competing. Ensuring you have proper fitting shorts will mean they will stay in place and will provide you with maximum comfort for rigorous sessions. Refer to the sizing guide below to find your perfect fit.
Muay Thai Short Sizes (Inches)
| Shorts Size | Shorts Length (Inches) | Waist Size (Inches) |
| XS | 12 | 28.3-29.9 |
| S | 14.1 | 10.3-31.9 |
| M | 13.5 | 32.3-33.9 |
| L | 14 | 34.3-35.8 |
| XL | 15 | 36.2-37.8 |
| XXL | 16 | 38.2-39.8 |
Muay Thai Short Sizes (CM)
| Shorts Size | Shorts Length (CM) | Waist Size (CM) |
| XS | 30 | 72-76 |
| S | 32 | 77-81 |
| M | 34 | 82-86 |
| L | 36 | 87-91 |
| XL | 38 | 92-96 |
| XXL | 40 | 97-101 |
How to Tie Muay Thai Shorts?
Making sure you are tying your shorts correctly is essential for making sure they don’t fall down or shift during sessions. So, here’s a simple, but effective way to tie your shorts:
- Start by holding the waistband behind you, ensuring the drawstring is even on both sides.
- Wrap the waistband tightly around your waist. Cross the strings in front of you like an X, pulling them back to the front from underneath.
- Tie a secure bow in the front. Make sure the knot is tight so the shorts stay in place without digging into your skin.
Care Guide: How to Wash Muay Thai Shorts
Taking proper care of your Muay Thai shorts will ensure their longevity and will keep the colours and material from deteriorating over time.
Step One: Prepare for Washing
Turn your shorts inside out to protect the colours and designs. Remove any items from pockets and close all Velcro fasteners to prevent snagging.
Step Two: Washing
Wash your shorts in cold water with a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners as they can degrade the fabric and affect the elasticity and colour of your shorts. It’s best to hand wash your shorts if possible to preserve the quality of the material and print.Step Three: Drying
Air dry your Muay Thai shorts by hanging them in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Avoid using a tumble dryer as the intense heat can shrink and damage the fabric. Air drying helps maintain the shape and elasticity of the shorts.Why Are Muay Thai Shorts So Expensive?
The cost of Muay Thai shorts can reflect the quality of the Muay Thai shorts, low long they last, materials used to craft them and the cost of importation. Shorts that are cheaper will usually be mass produced in warehouses outside of Thailand, where very little care of how they are made is involved. You’ll notice cheaper Muay Thai shorts will fate faster, the material will deteriorate after a few wears and their colours will bleed out. Whereas, authentic Muay Thai shorts from Thailand will be handcrafted, designed by Muay Thai specialists which are made with care and come from the heartland of Muay Thai, which is why the price point can be on the higher side.
It’s important to understand all the important aspects of Muay Thai shorts so that you make the right choice when purchasing a pair for yourself. Muay Thai shorts are an essential part of Muay Thai gear and are the forefront of the sport. They are what sets itself apart from other combat sports, along with its rich heritage.