“Boxing trunks” and “boxing shorts” usually mean the same garment: high-waisted, loose shorts with a wide waistband, made for boxing. “Trunks” is the traditional term, especially in professional boxing. Muay Thai shorts are a different cut: much shorter, with very wide legs and side splits that leave room for kicks and knees.
The names are used loosely by brands and fighters, so judge a pair by its cut, waistband and leg opening rather than by its label. If the shorts are for competition, your organisation’s rules on length and waistband also matter.
Side-by-side comparison
| Boxing trunks / boxing shorts | Muay Thai shorts | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical length | Mid-thigh to just above the knee; professional trunks are often longer | Short, usually well above mid-thigh |
| Waist | High, wide elastic waistband that marks the belt line | Thick elastic waistband, often with a logo panel |
| Legs | Loose, straight or slightly flared | Very wide openings with side splits for kicks and knees |
| Common fabrics | Satin or polyester; lighter performance fabrics for training | Traditionally shiny satin; also sublimated polyester |
| Typical decoration | Name or logo on the waistband and leg; contrasting trim | Thai lettering, bold appliqués, piping and side panels |
| Best for | Boxing training and competition | Muay Thai and kickboxing, where kicks and knees need full leg movement |
Boxing trunks vs boxing shorts
In practice there is no fixed difference. “Trunks” is the older word and is still common in professional boxing, where fighters often wear longer, high-waisted satin trunks with their name on the waistband. “Boxing shorts” is the broader term and also covers training shorts in lighter, sportier fabrics. Amateur competitions may set their own limits. England Boxing, for example, requires shorts to be no shorter than mid-thigh and not to cover the knee.
What makes Muay Thai shorts different
The cut is built for kicking. Muay Thai shorts are short, with wide legs and side splits so the thigh can lift freely for kicks, knees and teeps. The thick waistband is traditionally decorated, and the shorts are often made of shiny satin with Thai lettering, appliqués and contrasting trim. Wearing boxing trunks for Muay Thai usually restricts kicks, while Muay Thai shorts may not meet a boxing competition’s length rules.
What about kickboxing and MMA shorts?
- Kickboxing shorts are usually close to Muay Thai shorts, sometimes a little longer.
- MMA shorts are longer, board-short style shorts with stretch panels and a secure fastening, designed for grappling as well as striking.
For more detail on each cut, see our guide to boxing shorts styles and the Muay Thai shorts guide.
Ordering custom trunks or Muay Thai shorts
PAILK makes custom boxing trunks, boxing shorts and Muay Thai shorts. Tell the designer which sport the shorts are for, the length and leg width you want, and any competition rules that apply. See the custom boxing shorts guide or contact PAILK for a quote.
