Practitioners focused on combat sports like Muay Thai and kickboxing benefit from shin guards for lower body protection.
Whether Hayabusa S4 Youth Shin Guards or T3 Striking Shin Guards are the right choice for you depends on varying factors, such as protection, comfort, and training style.
While both are high-quality protective equipment, if you’re not familiar with the gear or are undecided about which will be the better fit, this shin guard comparison guide will help you pick the right pair.
Protection Levels
Both shin guard designs are lightweight, durable, and crafted to fully protect a fighter’s shins, but here are a few differences between the two options:
- S4 Youth Shin Guards
Beginner-friendly but with professional-level strength, these shin guards are designed with pre-curved shin-to-foot protective foam with hook-and-loop straps. This creates a customized fit and prevents any gaps in leg coverage.
Furthermore, with exterior PU-engineered material and underfoot elastic to keep foot pads in place, the performance is top-tier, keeping first-time fighters confident as they get used to the feel and safety these shin guards provide.
- T3 Striking Shin Guards
Extended outer padding contours to the shins perfectly with multi-layered foam to hold up against the toughest kicks. The exterior is made of Vylar engineered leather, creating a virtually indestructible layer to protect adult fighters of all levels.
The choice comes down to the level intensity, strength, and force used in kicks. The S4 option is good for beginner’s training, while the Hayabusa T3 Striking Shin Guards are better-suited for more seasoned fighters.
Hayabusa S4 Youth Shin Guards
Hayabusa T3 Striking Shin Guards
Hayabusa T3 LX Shin Guards
Hayabusa T3 Full Back Shin Guards
Fit & Comfort
Though the S4 Shin Guards are designed primarily for youth, they still may be the go-to option for teens and adults regarding preferred coverage and comfort.
- S4 Youth Shin Guards
In addition to the customizable fit offered by the adjustable straps, the Hayabusa S4 Youth Shin Guards were designed with kids in mind.
However, the sizing extends to a maximum shin length of 28 cm for the L/XL size, which is ideal for any fighter with shorter legs.
And although the exterior is made from PU-engineered leather that is virtually indestructible, the soft nylon lining of the interior provides an ultra-comfortable feel, great for those starting their exploration into combat sports.
- T3 Striking Shin Guards
An ergonomic fit with hundreds of silicone beads minimizes shifting and delivers a non-slip fit that’s comfortable and curved to the legs.
Additionally, the adjustable straps offer customization similar to the S4 Youth design with an instep elastic support for extra coverage.
Training Style Suitability
- S4 Youth Shin Guards
Built for beginners, the Hayabusa S4 Youth Shin Guards are perfect for the early stages of learning kickboxing, Muay Thai, and/or MMA.
They offer full coverage and protection so kids, as well as older, early-stage fighters, can feel confident in their movements without feeling uncomfortable.
- T3 Striking Shin Guards
Size-wise, the T3s are designed for adults from beginners to professionals alike, practicing the art of Muay Thai, engaging in kickboxing drills, and participating in intense striking sessions.
The comfort and durability of the construction and overall fit add to the performance they provide.
Picking a Winner No Matter What
Choosing between the S4 Youth and T3 Striking Shin Guards seems like an easy choice, as one is designed with kids in mind, and the other is built for adults.
However, when performing a shin guard comparison, factor in training intensity and protection, in addition to age, for maximum safety and comfort.
Either way, you know you’ll be training with the best materials, construction, and features available to advance your training.
Hayabusa has an extended collection of shin guards available, making it easy to find the ones that best suit your needs.
