To choose the best groin protector, you have to understand which model will fit best into your active lifestyle. Groin protectors work by shielding the groin and testicles from collisions and contacts, protecting against serious injuries that could cause permanent damage in this sensitive area. Groin protectors tend to go by a number of different names, including athletic cups, sports cups, and groin guards. Selecting the best groin protector usually comes down to comparing the many designs available to find a cup that offers the right fit and comfort level for advanced fortification from a groin injury.
For the most part, groin protectors are worn by athletes participating in contact sports. In some contact sports, specific types of groin guards are available that are designed to protect against the type of groin injuries that could occur in that sport. Take Muay Thai boxing for instance; more often than not, a groin protector designed for this sport is made out of steel to help prevent the groin from being crushed or pinched from a powerful but misplaced kick. For contact sports where trunk contact frequently occurs, groin protectors with wider waistbands may offer shock absorption, offering protection to the hips and abdomen, and may possibly shield the internal organs from some damage.
General groin protectors may be ideal for men who participate in several sports or in sports where physical contact is not a major concern, such as running. In these types of sports, the goal of a groin protector may be just to prevent general discomfort and pain that can occur if the groin is unsupported. Take a tuck-in groin protector as a model; the design helps to keep the groin close to the body to minimize bouncing and might help reduce injuries caused by strain.
Sports cups are available for both men and women. For men, the typical groin protector is cup-shaped, while designs for women are generally flatter in appearance and conform to the female groin muscle. With either gender, the best groin protection is usually one with a waistband that does not ride up too high on the backside and consists of straps that are not too rigid across the hips that can restrict leg rotation and movement. Typically, protectors work best when they are secured to the genital region. They also usually feature elastic straps at the waist, lace-up designs, or fabric hook-and-loop fasteners to adjust the snugness of the fit.
Ultimately, picking the best groin protector may come down to trying on various products. Some sporting goods stores might allow customers to try on groin protectors over other clothing. Protectors come in multiple sizes capable of fitting children to adults, and by trying on protectors it may be easier to select an accurate size. In general, protectors that are too small may be too restrictive and cause irritation, while oversized groin protectors, on the other hand, may shift when in use and could be difficult to keep in place.