If you’re looking to protect your shins during CrossFit workouts, then you’re certainly in the right place. They can get all torn up during rope climbing, box jumps, deadlifts, or other kinds of exercises. You can find plenty of options from knee-high socks to Rock Tape to protect your shins, but we usually recommend a CrossFit shin guard.
Keep on reading for our top 10 picks for CrossFit shin protection, including the #1 option, Rocktape Rock Guards, Leg Compression Sleeves for Working Out and Injury Prevention, Protection Shin...
The Best CrossFit Shin Guards
We’ll get into our top choices for CrossFit Shin Guards, but here’s a sneak peak at some of our favourite products.
- RockTape RockGuards
- Burpee Box Jumps Shin Guard
- Knee High CrossFit Socks
- Goat Tape
- Knee Sleeves
- Bear Grips Shin Sleeves
- Unbroken CrossFit Shin Guards
- RxFit Neoprene Rope Climb Shin Guards
- ProForce Shin Protectors
- Calf Compression Sleeve
#1: RockTape RockGuards
- PROTECTION FROM ROPE CLIMBS AND BOX JUMPS - RockGuards are designed to protect your shins during...
- DURABLE SHIN GUARD - 3rd generation RockGuards are made with strong and protective 5mm neoprene...
- STAYS IN PLACE - Organically designed to conform and move with your body, with a silicone bead to...
- DRAINS & DRIES FAST - A mesh back and perforated neoprene front means you stay comfortable and dry....
- PERFORM YOUR BEST - Don’t stop training because of an injury - protect yourself before injury...
If you need some extra protection for the shins during your next WOD, then consider these RockTape Shin Sleeves. They’re some of the best in the business and many CrossFit swear by them for a variety of exercises, including rope work, deadlifts, or box jumps.
Here are just a few of the things that you’ll love about them.
Key Features of this CrossFit Shin Guard
- Made from super strong neoprene
- 4-way stretch Lycra for a great fit
- Designed to stay in place with the foot strap
- Quick drying
- Drains easily for something like a wet obstacle race
- Ideal for preventing injuries
- 2″ zipper makes them easy to put on and remove
Where Can I Get Rocktape Shin Guards?
Do they sound like the right CrossFit shin guard for you? Check them out for yourself on Amazon to find the best prices. And, don’t forget to check and see if they’re eligible for free shipping with a Prime membership:
#2: Burpee Box Jumps Shin Guards
If you’re looking for another top pick for shin guards for rope climbs and more, then consider the Burpee Box Jump ones. They’re strong, durable and fit most people very well. Just be sure to check the sizing chart carefully in order to find the best one for your needs.
Here are some of the things we love about them.
Key Features of these Box Jump Shin Guards
- 5 mm neoprene
- Ideal for CrossFit, weightlifting, rope climbs, box jumps and more
- Perfect for protecting the shins during a tough workout
- Durable and long-lasting
- Stays in place well
- Cool and comfortable to wear
Shop Now for this CrossFit Shin Guard
Do they sound like the right pair of shin protectors CrossFit for your needs? Then you’ll want to click the button below to learn more about them on Amazon:
Compare CrossFit Shin Guards
If you want to see the head-to-head comparison of our top options for box jump shin guards and shin protectors that are ideal for climbing, then you’ll want to check out this handy chart below:
#3: Knee High Socks
- No Swelling Any More - Compression socks will graduated compression from the Arch to Heel, up to...
- Providing Comfort to Calf - The compression socks for women circulation are best choice for those...
- Comfortable Material - Lightweight and durable 20-30 mmh compression socks are use the latest 3D...
- Suitable for All Seasons - Compression stockings 20-30 mmhg also can as soccer socks has amazing...
- Best Gifts & Satisfaction Guaranted - Compression socks xxl are easy to wash without losing...
If you find that shins are getting torn up, but you don’t need a ton of protection, then you’ll want to consider a pair of knee-high socks. Take a look around your local CrossFit box, or at the CrossFit Games, you’ll find that there are a ton of people wearing these things.
They do have the advantage of a CrossFit Shin Guard in that most people find them more comfortable to wear. They’re usually cool and something that you’re already familiar with wearing.
Plus, you probably already have a pair in your drawer at home and you won’t have to go out and buy some CrossFit shin sleeves. It’s certainly worth a try before you go out and drop some cash on something else.
Which Knee High CrossFit Socks do you Recommend?
If you want to see our top picks for socks that do a great job at protecting the shins during CrossFit or deadlifts, then you’ll want to check this out:
The Best Knee High CrossFit Socks.
There are lots of people who find that their feet get too hot and sweaty wearing these high socks. A nice solution is to keep a pair in your gym bag and then just pull them out when you need a wee bit of extra shin protection. For example, when you’re doing the rope climb.
#4: Goat Tape for Skin Protection CrossFit
- Reduce Pain and Improve Performance
- Ultra-Strong and Sticky
- Hypoallergenic Adhesive
- Water & Sweat Resistant
- 97% Cotton, 3% Nylon
If you’re looking for protection during a CrossFit workout for any part of your body including the hands, shins, or anywhere else, then you’ll want to consider Goat Tape. The company calls it scary sticky, and in our experience, it’s some of the stickiest athletic tapes out there.
Try putting some on the area that usually gets torn up when you’re doing deadlifts, box jumps, or other exercises. Just a quick tip though. We recommend shaving that area first to avoid a lot of painful, ripping hairs out of the leg experiences when you’re taking it off.
If you find that the exact same spot on your shin gets ripped up when climbing a rope, for example, you probably don’t need something as robust as Rocktape Shin Sleeves and could get away with this cheaper, more convenient option.
Learn more about it here: Goat Tape for CrossFit Review.
#5: Knee Sleeves: Rope Climbing Shin Guards?
- ✅ PREMIUM 7MM KNEE SLEEVES (1 Pair): Featuring 7mm Neoprene Flex-Material designed for maximum...
- ✅ KNEE COMPRESSION & SUPPORT: Our 3-D design provides a contoured fit for perfect joint...
- ✅ ANTI-SLIP TECHNOLOGY: The knee sleeve is designed with a specialized friction material that...
- ✅ PREVENT INJURY: Knee sleeves reduce pressure and swelling during activity proven to promote...
- ✅ SIZING CHART: Please use sizing chart in listing images to order the correct size. You need to...
If you’re serious about weightlifting, you may already have a pair of knee sleeves in your gym bag. Or, you may have some old ones lying around the house that you could call into action to protect your shins.
Pay close attention to where your shins usually get busted up during rope climbs, for example, and move your knee sleeves down to that area. Your knees really don’t need protection and support during this kind of exercise, so one piece of equipment can actually do double duty.
Some people keep them in place if they’re going to be doing a lot of rope climbs, for example with a little piece of athletic tape. They are some of the cheapest rope climbing shin guards you can get and they make a really nice option for this activity.
We’ve done the hard work and found the best knee sleeves for you here. Check it out: The Best CrossFit Knee Sleeves.
#6: Bear Grips CrossFit Shin Sleeves
- 𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐍 𝐒𝐂𝐑𝐀𝐏𝐄𝐒 &...
- 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐋𝐄 𝐒𝐋𝐄𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐒...
- #𝟏 𝐂𝐔𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐑 𝐕𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐖𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓...
- 𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐓 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐅𝐄𝐂𝐓 𝐅𝐈𝐓 &...
- 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐓 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓: Feel the difference with...
If you want to keep your shins safe during a CrossFit workout, then you may want to consider these shin sleeves from Bear Grips. They make a ton of top-notch workout equipment and their shin guard sleeves are certainly no exception. Find out more about them here.
Key Features of these Rope Climb Shin Guards
- 5 mm thickness
- Ideal for rope climbs, box jumps, deadlifts, Olympic lifts, biking, etc.
- Available in a variety of colors
- XS-XL sizing options
- Easy fit zipper on the lateral side makes them easy to put on and take off
- Elastic foot harness ensures a great fit
- 60 day warranty
- Excellent customer service
What do People Think About Them?
—>See More Customer Reviews for these Shin Protectors<—
“Does an awesome job at protecting my shins when climbing ropes or doing box jumps. But, one small weakness is the zipper on the side. I wish it were a bit bigger so I could grab onto it more easily.”
“Super comfortable to wear and I’m able to forget about my shins during Olympic lifting. I used to come away from sessions all bloody and torn up but no more! Nice product for a very reasonable price.”
Get Yours Today
Do they sound like the right option for you? Many people swear by these shin sleeves, so you should certainly check them out for yourself. Click the button below to find the best prices and also to see if they’re eligible for fast, free shipping with a Prime membership:
#7: Unbroken Cross Fit Shin Guards
- ✅ SHIN CALF PROTECTION SLEEVE. No more bleeding and shin scars at the box. Unbroken Shin Sleeves...
- ✅ SPECIALLY DESIGNED with 5mm thick neoprene and 4-way stretch nylon for comfort to make sure the...
- ✅ BE COMFORTABLE AND PROTECTED while preventing injuries. It also helps to keep your calves warm...
- ✅ ENERGY FOR TRAINING. The compression and warmth of the sleeve will save energy, relieve pain...
- ✅ ONE SLEEVE. You can choose between two sizes: S/M or L/XL.
Next up are these shin protectors from Unbroken that are ideal for box jumps, rope climbs, dead lifts and more. They’re very reasonably priced but the thing to be aware of is that they’re sold with one sleeve only. This can make a nice solution if you only chafe and tear up one shin but not the other doing your workouts.
Features
- Made from neoprene
- Offers warmth, compression and support
- You can keep the bar close to your shins during Olympic lifting with no worries
- Stay dry—prevent chafing and skin irritation as they sleeve dries quickly and easily
- 4-way stretch material ensures a nice fit
- The rubber strap at the top and foot strap on the bottom keeps it in place
- Made in the USA
Customer Reviews for this CrossFit Shin Guard
—>Read More CrossFit Shin Protector Reviews Here<—
“Totally recommend these shin guards for rope climbs. It’s the first time I’ve done it without rubbing some part of my shins raw. Great fit and they shipped really quickly too. Certainly worth every single penny!”
“Nice design, super comfortable to wear and they stay in place easily without cutting off circulation. Very happy with them and use them for box jumps, deadlifts, clean & jerk, etc.”
Shop Now for this CrossFit Shin Guard
Do they sound like the right rope climb shin guards for your next workout? You can easily get them on Amazon. Click the button below to check for the lowest prices on all kinds of workout gear here:
#8: RxFit Neoprene Shin Protection CrossFit
If you’re looking for a way to keep your shins safe during box jumps, rope climbing or lifting during your next WOD, then consider picking up these guards from RxFit. They’re a company that makes some solid products for CrossFitters and this product is no exception.
Besides that, we love the donut pattern on them! It’s a fun juxtaposition to wear something like this to the gym and you’re sure to get some laughs! Read on for more details about one of our top options.
Features
- Can buy either a single or pair
- Donut pattern on them
- The company recommends opting for a smaller size if unsure
- 5 mm thick neoprene
- Lightweight nylon on the back
- Foot stirrups so they won’t ride up
- Zipper makes it easier to put on and take off
User Reviews for Shin Sleeves
“The perfect CrossFit shin guard for rope climbs during a WOD. They don’t get in the way at all and I often find myself just keeping them on for my entire workout.”
“Perfect for deadlifts and I love the donut pattern on them! It reminds me of why I do CrossFit every single time I look in the mirror. They’re reasonably breathable and I don’t find that my legs get too sweaty using these things, even for an hour or two during a workout.”
Where Can I Buy Them?
Do they sound like the ideal option for box jumps and rope climbs? They certainly are one of the most trusted names in CrossFit and athletic gear. Head over to Amazon to check for availability and the lowest prices:
#9: ProForce Shin Protectors
The main reason you’ll want to consider these shin protectors CrossFit from ProForce is the price point. They are half or one third the price of some of the shin guards with the big brand names and although they lack the cool design and all the bells and whistles, they will certainly get the job done.
Important Features
- Comes in a variety of sizes
- Covers from ankle to top of shin
- Plain black or white options
- Machine washable
- Sold in a pair
Customer Reviews for this CrossFit Shin Guard
“Not too thick or clunky and only takes a second to get them on and off. I just needed something simple for box jumps and these were exactly what I was looking for. I love the price too of course.”
“No complaints at all for use during a deadlift. They are slightly less breathable than you’d perhaps want but it’s not a big issue if you wear them for half an hour or whatever. I do like how well they wash up in the machine and then you can just air dry them in the sun and they have no odour at all after that.”
Shop Now for Shin Protection CrossFit
If you’re looking for a nice way to protect your shins from abuse while doing deadlifts, box jumps or rope climbs, then you may want to opt for this pair from ProForce. They are one of the most economical options on this list and can be an ideal choice for people on a budget.
#10: Shin Compression Sleeves
- Instant Stamina and Recovery Boost - You will feel the difference immediately. Durable, professional...
- Lightweight and Breathable - Some compression calf sleeves are too hot, too tight or too bulky. Why...
- Unmatched Quality and Comfort - Get ready to be amazed at the quality and durability of our...
- Incredible Performance - Loved by men and women who need comfortable support and shin splint relief...
- 100% "Perfect Fit" Assurance - Your comfort is our passion! Use our size chart to choose the best...
Although originally designed for people who suffer from something like shin splints, this super economical option is great for people who just want a thin later of protection during CrossFit WODs. They’re light in weight, breathable, fit into a tiny corner of a gym bag and are easy to wash.
One thing to consider is that they do lack padding so if that’s what you’re after, then don’t choose these ones! However, they will prevent friction burns from a rope for example and they will help the bar slide down your calves more easily during weight training.
Key Features
- Available in a variety of colors
- Reasonably priced
- Machine washable
- Made from breathable lycra
- 100% perfect fit guarantee
Rope Climb Shin Guard Reviews
“Comfortable with great support. I didn’t want something all big and bulky on my legs during workouts and these did the trick.”
“Quite snug if you order according to the sizing chart. However, consider ordering a size larger if you’re just using them for shin protection during rope climbing for example because they’ll be a bit more comfortable and you probably don’t need all that support.”
Buy these Shin Protectors
Do they sound like the right CrossFit shin protection for your needs? You can easily find them on Amazon by clicking the button below:
The Takeaway on Which CrossFit Shin Guard to Consider
Shin protection f0r deadlifts or CrossFit workouts is serious business. If you don’t take care of this important thing, you might find that your shins are left bloody, torn up and in bad shape. Not to mention bruised and sore!
It makes sense to use some sort of shin protection. But, as far as Goat Tape, knee-high socks, knee sleeves or shin guards go, you’ll have to find the one that works best for you.
Our best advice is to try what you already have. Most people have a pair of high socks at home. Or, some athletic tape like Goat Tape. You might already be using knee guards that could do double duty as shin guards. Some people even find that a pair of soccer shin guards work well if you have these at home already. Try out these options and see if they do the job for you.
If not, then consider buying a pair of Rock Guards or other shin guards. Although not cheap, these options work very well. They stay in place easily and offer a ton of protection, but are very comfortable to wear.
What are some Factors to Consider When Buying CrossFit Shin Guards?
When buying shin guards for CrossFit, here are some factors to consider:
- Protection: Look for shin guards that provide adequate protection for your shins during CrossFit workouts. They should be designed to absorb impact and minimize the risk of injury from barbell contact, box jumps, rope climbs, or other exercises that may potentially cause shin scrapes or bruises.
- Fit and Comfort: Choose shin guards that offer a secure and comfortable fit. They should stay in place during movements without sliding or shifting. Look for adjustable straps or closures that allow you to customize the fit to your leg size and shape.
- Material: Consider the material used in the shin guards. Look for durable and abrasion-resistant materials such as neoprene, nylon, or reinforced fabrics that can withstand rigorous workouts and protect your shins from friction and impact.
- Breathability: CrossFit workouts can be intense and sweaty, so it’s important to choose shin guards that offer breathability. Look for designs with breathable mesh panels or perforations that allow air circulation to keep your legs cool and reduce discomfort from excessive sweating.
- Flexibility and Range of Motion: Ensure that the shin guards allow for a full range of motion, allowing you to perform movements like squats, lunges, or running without feeling restricted. Look for designs that are lightweight and flexible, providing freedom of movement.
- Size and Length: Consider the size and length of the shin guards. They should cover the areas most prone to impact and scraping without being too long or cumbersome. Measure your shin’s length and refer to the manufacturer’s sizing chart to find the appropriate size for your legs.
- Easy Maintenance: Check if the shin guards are easy to clean and maintain. Look for options that are machine washable or can be easily wiped clean to keep them fresh and hygienic.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research and choose shin guards from reputable brands known for their quality and durability. Read customer reviews to gain insights into the performance and durability of the shin guards.
- Price: Set a budget for your shin guards. Consider investing in a quality pair that offers the desired protection and durability. However, ensure that the price aligns with your budget and the value you expect from the product.
By considering these factors, you can find shin guards that provide adequate protection, comfort, and durability for your CrossFit workouts, helping to prevent injuries and keep your shins safe during various exercises.
How do I Prevent my Shins From Getting Torn Up in the First Place?
When you’re doing CrossFit, the most common exercise to tear up your shins doing is the rope climb. However, experienced CrossFitters often don’t have the same problems with this as newbies. This is because they’re usually using the proper technique and don’t always have to rely on something like Rocktape shin guards.
Check in with your coach, or watch some videos on YouTube about the correct way to do this exercise and you’ll find that it’s not as hard on your body. Also, rope choice plays a role in this too. Some are certainly softer than other ones. Check out our top picks here: CrossFit Climbing Ropes.
Bloody shins from deadlifts are another common problem. But again, this is often caused by incorrect technique more than anything else. Check in with your trainer for some help with this and you’ll find that many of these problems disappear.
CrossFit Rope Climbing Techniques
If you’re looking for some shin protectors CrossFit, it may be because your legs are getting all torn up when doing the rope climb. You are certainly not alone in this and many people suffer from the same problem.
However, much pain can be averted by using proper technique during this exercise. Check out this short video for everything you need to know about rope climb technique:
Shin Protection CrossFit FAQs
There are a number of common questions that people have about protecting the shins during CrossFit workouts. Here are the answers to some of the most popular ones.
What do Shin Guards Protect?
Shin guards help protect the shins from soft tissue and bone damage due to external impact. They provide some degree of shock absorption as well as help dissipate energy from an impact. This assists in reducing the risk of serious injury from a trauma to the lower legs.
Why do People Wear Shin Protection During CrossFit Workouts?
There are a few different situations in which you might want some shin protection during a CrossFit workout. Consider the following exercises:
- Rope climbs
- Box jumps
- Lifting weights
Rope climbing can tear up your lower legs so it’s best to use shin guards to reduce friction. Box jumps and things like deadlifts can result in impact trauma to the leg bones.
Are Shin Guards Necessary For CrossFit?
There are certainly some people who never use shin guards during a CrossFit WOD. And there are some people who swear by them and never get through a workout without pulling them out. It mostly depends on your personal preference and technique for things like the deadlift and rope climbing.
How do you Avoid Rope Burn in CrossFit?
The best way to avoid rope burn in CrossFit is to cover up sensitive areas that commonly come in contact with clothing (knee high socks) or some kind of protection (gloves, shin guards). You could also consider your rope climb technique as some result in more rope burn than others.
I’m Sure What Shin Guards for Rope Climbs Are Right For Me!
Not to worry. We’ve got you covered and honestly, you can’t go wrong with our top-rated option:
- PROTECTION FROM ROPE CLIMBS AND BOX JUMPS - RockGuards are designed to protect your shins during...
- DURABLE SHIN GUARD - 3rd generation RockGuards are made with strong and protective 5mm neoprene...
- STAYS IN PLACE - Organically designed to conform and move with your body, with a silicone bead to...
- DRAINS & DRIES FAST - A mesh back and perforated neoprene front means you stay comfortable and dry....
- PERFORM YOUR BEST - Don’t stop training because of an injury - protect yourself before injury...
Have your say about the Best Shin Guards for CrossFit
What’s your top pick for CrossFit Shin Protection? Are you considering one of the options from this list, or do you have another one? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you.
Also be sure to give this article a share on Facebook, Pinterest, or Twitter. It’ll help other CrossFit enthusiasts, like yourself find this useful resource.
Last update on 2023-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API