Choosing the right fight shorts can completely change how you move, how you feel, and how long you stay comfortable on the mats. The right pair lets you scramble without friction, sit into your guard work without restriction, and strike or sprawl without tugging at your waistband every other minute.
As a family-owned brand built on long nights of testing gear during real rolls and real training, CRUZ CMBT designs shorts with performance in mind first. Once you understand what actually matters in a pair of fight shorts, choosing the right style becomes simple.
Why the Right Shorts Matter
Movement and Mobility
Your shorts should help you move freely. Whether you are defending a takedown, scrambling for position, or transitioning through guard work, your shorts need to follow you. When shorts restrict your hips or catch your knees, it affects your flow. The right pair gives you smooth, unrestricted motion.
Durability and Construction
Combat training is tough on fabric. You need shorts that handle friction, sweat, and high intensity without falling apart. Reinforced stitching and durable materials matter more than most people realize. A good pair should survive long rounds, hard rolls, and your weekly training schedule. And because we spent years tearing through gear before learning how to build it right, we back every pair with our Roll for Life Guarantee. This guarantee covers repairs for rips, tears, holes, or split seams. All you need to do is send us a photo, proof of purchase, and a freshly washed pair. Once we receive it, we repair the damage and return it to you in about 14 days. You take care of the training and we will take care of keeping your gear alive.
Comfort During Training
Comfort keeps you focused. Lightweight materials, smooth seams, and breathable fabric help you stay cool and fully locked in. When your shorts feel good, you train better.
Different Types of Fight Shorts
Shorts for BJJ
BJJ shorts need to be flexible, secure, and built for ground movement. Most athletes prefer shorts with stretch panels, soft fabrics, and moisture-wicking properties. Nothing slows down guard work faster than stiff or restrictive clothing.
Shorts for MMA
MMA shorts require a blend of durability and mobility. Since MMA mixes striking, scrambling, and grappling, these shorts must stay secure while allowing full range of motion. Lightweight designs, flexible gussets, and strong materials are essential in MMA training.
General Training Shorts
Some athletes want a pair they can use for strength work, conditioning, open mats, and technical sessions. These shorts need to be versatile, comfortable, and consistently reliable. This is where the Base Collection FC shines. CRUZ CMBT FC shorts are offered with, or without pockets.
Key Features to Look For
Cut and Fit
The cut of your shorts should match your training. Grapplers often prefer mid length cuts with stretch zones. MMA athletes usually choose our compression vale tudo shorts, or our FC short with a spartan cut. No matter what, your shorts should never limit your hips or pull during transitions.
Material Quality
Quality matters. Look for lightweight, flexible fabrics that handle sweat, grip contact, and repeated motion. CRUZ CMBT shorts are engineered for high-performance training with materials that last.
Waistbands and Closures
A good waistband keeps your shorts locked in place. No velcro on any of our shorts. Just an elastic waist with an interior drawstring, for added security. The last thing you want is adjusting your shorts when you should be defending a double.
Key Features to Look For
Cut and Fit
Choose a cut that matches your training style.
- Grapplers prefer mid-length cuts with flexibility.
- Strikers often want more freedom for kicks.
No matter the sport, your shorts should never fight your movement.
Material Quality
Lightweight, durable, sweat-resistant materials keep you comfortable and keep your shorts intact. All CRUZ CMBT collections use performance-engineered blends designed for real training pressure.
Waistband and Security
Your shorts should stay put. Look for secure waistbands, drawstrings, or hybrid closures that keep everything in place during scrambles and transitions.
Final Advice for Finding the Perfect Pair
The best fight shorts are the ones that match both your training needs and your style preference.
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Go with DXW if you want bold prints and expressive designs.
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Choose CCFC if you like that structured, soccer-kit aesthetic.
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Pick the Base Collection if you want clean, everyday essentials with no distractions.
No matter which collection you choose, you’ll get the same level of performance, durability, and comfort that CRUZ CMBT athletes trust.
Find the pair that fits your vibe, and step onto the mats ready to move, train, and push harder.