Monday, January 2, 2012

4 Things to Look for Selecting Kickboxing Shin Pads


Shin pads are widely used for kickboxing, mixed martial arts and muay thai. They are essential for protecting the delicate bones and nerves of the shins and are especially important for people who train for long periods at a time at high intensities. Kickboxing shin pads come in a variety of styles, qualities and brands, and can be purchased from most mixed martial arts and sporting goods stores.
Necessity
The lower leg has two bones: the fibula and the tibia. The tibia is the larger of the two and can withstand more force than the fibula. Compared to other bones, the shins and ankles do not have much fat or muscle protecting the bones, so the risk of bruising and breaking is significantly higher. The tibia is the most commonly broken bone in the body, according the Children's Hospital Boston website. When the tibia breaks, the fibula often breaks with it, and it is common for the bones to puncture soft tissues and protrude through the flesh. This can lead to permanent injury.
Types
Shin pads are made with a variety of materials, including, leather, cotton or synthetic leather. Cotton shin pads offer flexibility. They slip on easily and are often machine washable. Cotton shin pads are also the most affordable but are not typically recommended for high impact kicking. Leather and synthetic leather shin pads often have straps that connect behind the leg and feet. They are recommended for people who have a powerful kick and need extra protection. Shin pads are available in adult and children's sizes and are commonly priced at $20 and higher at the time of publication.
Fit
Shin pads are not meant to simply protect your shins; they also need to cover your ankles and the tops of your feet. They should fit tight enough not to shift or slip off during rigorous kicking, although they should not compromise the circulation to your lower legs. Your ankles should be able to bend. The padding on the top of the foot should lay flat and cover the foot to the base of your toes. Shin pads come in x-small and small for children and medium, large and extra-large for adults. For adult sizes, medium and large are often for people weighing 130 lbs. to 185 lbs., and extra-large is recommended for people weighing more than185 lbs.
Purchasing
Shin pads can be found online at numerous mixed martial arts equipment supply stores. Although some sites offer sizing assistance, it is a good idea to try on shin pads in person prior to ordering online. Shin pads can be found at most sporting goods stores, such as Dick's Sporting Goods and Sports Authority. Be sure you are purchasing the correct product. Shin pads are also made for hockey, baseball and soccer, so you make sure you are purchasing pads specifically designed for kickboxing.

 
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