Photo Review: Fairtex Super Pro Shin & Instep Guards SP5

[firstDan]

These shin guards are pictured with: TOP TEN Muay Thai Training Shinguards
for comparison purposes. Both are size Large.
The Fairtex measure 15.5" x 6".
(My buddy ordered the mediums which are 15" x 6" which I thought was odd seeing that the only difference was .5" in length).

Impressions
These things are quality. Believe the Fairtex hype. I've owned other Fairtex gear over the years and all the pieces have been well constructed.

They're easy to put on, very comfortable, provide good coverage, and don't shift when in use.

The foam is actually pliable. Whereas my Top Ten shin guards are like armor, these are softer and better for sparring. I wouldn't feel bad kicking someone in the head with these, whereas with the Top Ten I'd only do it if they are wearing head gear. Much like the difference between sparring gloves and bag gloves.

That being said, if you're a trainer and checking kicks all day long, you probably want a shin guard that's denser as these are meant for sparring.

Verdict
For $23.99, it's a no brainer. Even at full price I'd say they're worth it.

Enjoy the photos.

 

[DogMan]

I've replaced my Boon shin guards with SP5's earlier this year and I love them.They are light weight quick and easy to put on and off and don't shift at all.They aren't the thickest guards out there but provide plenty of protection especially if you have fairly conditioned shins.
I like them so much-I picked up a pair from the title sale to replace the ones I'm using now when then wear out.

 

[Harukaze]

I almost bought a pair of those a few months ago in Bangkok because I had good experiences with the old Fairtex pro model, but went with the Twins slim model instead because of its all-leather construction and a superior hook-and-look system. The vendor also said that she has had better feedback on the Twins than the Fairtex (at least for these two models).

 

[MEGAhorse]

Not to go off point here, but those top tens look really sleek and nice. I have slimmer legs, so they look like a nice fit. Are you happy with them?

 

[firstDan]

They're just okay.
Two things I don't like about them:
-Quality wasn't that great. After just a few rounds the stitching on the elastic came loose and I had to sew them back on.
-I don't like the strap over strap velcro system. It takes more time to get them tight versus something with a D-ring.

The things I like about them:
-They are built like tanks, with the gel insert you barely feel anything.
-The instep provides good coverage, for the foot. I wear a size 10 and you barely see the tips of my toes.
-They hardly move if you tighten them correctly.
-They are light for a full coverage shin guard.

Not to go off point here, but those top tens look really sleek and nice. I have slimmer legs, so they look like a nice fit. Are you happy with them?

 

[FUFC]

I see you got a large. What are your measurements? it's hard to find sizing for these online, and the two charts i found have conflicting info.

i'm 5'10 13.5" shins
one chart says small and one says large
thanks for the review!

 

[Harukaze]

I see you got a large. What are your measurements? it's hard to find sizing for these online, and the two charts i found have conflicting info.

i'm 5'10 13.5" shins
one chart says small and one says large
thanks for the review!

I'm 6'1", 185lbs (without a shin measurement handy off the top of my head or a ruler at my fingertips right now, unfortunately), but L fit me perfectly.

 

[FUFC]

I'm 6'1", 185lbs (without a shin measurement handy off the top of my head or a ruler at my fingertips right now, unfortunately), but L fit me perfectly.

Thanks. Went ahead and ordered a medium, if i don't like them off to craigslist they go.

 

[Harukaze]

Thanks. Went ahead and ordered a medium, if i don't like them off to craigslist they go.

That sounds about right to me. Good luck, hope they fit you well!

 

[nomilkforsanta]

http://www.muaythai-fighting.com/fairtex-competition-shin-pads-sp5.html


Size

Long (shin area)

Long (foot protector)

S

13.5"

5.5"

M

15"

6"

L

15.5"

6"

XL

16.5"

6.5"

 

[firstDan]

These are 15.5". I believe the chart nomilk linked to is accurate. I double checked with a measuring tape.

I see you got a large. What are your measurements? it's hard to find sizing for these online, and the two charts i found have conflicting info.

i'm 5'10 13.5" shins
one chart says small and one says large
thanks for the review!

 

[nomilkforsanta]

The conflicting info is because there are 2 different measuring systems for Fairtex Shin-guards.

Some ask for height and weight, while others ask for shin length.