You're looking for a new set of shin guards, but what should you actually look for when choosing the right shin protection?
Shin guards made of real leather, synthetic leather or cotton?
If you search the webshop for all shin guards, you'll quickly see the different materials. There are shin guards made of cotton, synthetic leather and real leather. The biggest quality difference is between cotton and synthetic leather (PU) shin guards. Cotton shin guards are often softer and not pre-shaped. These shin guards are ideal for children and for training on the punching bag. Synthetic leather shin guards are perfect for sparring sessions and training with hard contact. Nowadays there are very few shin guards made of real leather. The difference between real leather and synthetic leather is minimal.
I only train on the punching bag and have problems with my shins, which shin guards should I use?
In this case it's best to choose cotton shin guards. These shin guards are often thinner but still provide enough cushioning.
View the best shin guards for training on the punching bag here.
I've just started kickboxing but will start sparring sessions straight away, which shin guards should I use?
Pre-shaped shin guards with a Velcro closure are the best choice for you in this case. A pre-shaped model of shin guards stays in place better during contact training and also has the right protection, both on the shin and on the foot section.
View the range of good shin guards between €50 and €100 here.
View the range of very good shin guards between €100 and €120 here.
I'm looking for the very best shin guards, which should I choose?
For hard training sessions you need the best materials. A professional shin guard needs a strong closure, ergonomic fit and of course the best protection. Think of foam padding consisting of multiple layers. The foot section must also be long enough to protect your toes as well.
View the range of professional shin guards here.
What size shin guards do I need?
In our kickboxing shop in Amsterdam you can easily try them on and be sure you're going home with the right size. Using the size chart below you can get an idea of which size you need. Can't quite work it out? We're here to help both by phone (+31 85 06 06 340) and by email (support@thefightcompany.co.uk)!
The size chart below is a guide and varies with calf circumference, height and weight.
| Shin guard size | Length of your shin | Length of your foot |
| XS | < 32.5 cm | < 14 cm |
| S | 32.5 cm - 34.5 cm | 14 cm - 15.8 cm |
| M | 34.5 cm - 37 cm | 15.8 cm - 17 cm |
| L | 37 cm - 39.5 cm | 17 cm - 18.3 cm |
| XL | > 39.5 cm | > 18.3 cm |
How do I know if the shin guards fit properly?
- The most important thing about a shin guard is of course (the name says it all), the protection of your shins. The shin guard must therefore not be too short, but certainly not too long either! That's why we always say that the right size shin guards should come to just below the knee. This allows you to move freely and prevents irritation.
- If your calf circumference is smaller, the shin guards may shift easily or the Velcro closures may stick out a lot. This can lead to irritation and even injuries. In this case you can choose to wear a thin shin guard under your regular shin guards. This inner shin guard fills the space and provides extra protection during a kickboxing training session.
View the range of thin shin guards to wear under your regular shin guards here.