Best headgear for bjj | Most protective ear guards reviews 2021

BJJ Is a self-defence combat and martial arts sport which basically focuses on the techniques of taking a participant to the ground, controlling an opponent by grappling, ground fighting and submission holds.

The most competitive part of bjj is grappling and the ears are one of the sensitive body parts that really get the most beating during BJJ training or competition. In jiu-jitsu’s ground fighting is basically paired with the use of Gi which makes BJJ specifically uncomfortable on the ears without Ear Guards. That’s where BJJ headgear or BJJ ear guards comes and that’s where the Best Headgear for BJJ can affect vastly.

Like every martial arts game, the “tough guy” mentality accompanies by BJJ games also. It doesn’t matter really that a practitioner is polite and has a respectful manner, but in reality every gamer has a “want to win” mentality, there is where training or competition begins. Materials used in bjj training like gi,  belt, gloves, mouthguard, etc, are made of very tough materials. These materials may be tough but these aren’t for sensitive tissues of the face and you may invite disaster to both you and your training partners, there is where best Jiu Jitsu headgear is important.

Why do you need BJJ headgear

The main attributes that qualify a BJJ headgear among the existing bjj headgears are not hard to identify. Such as the ability of protection and comforts.

Protection: Protection is the fundamental thing you have to keep in mind about how well the  BJJ headgears are going to protect your ear and head. 

• Prevents Cauliflower ear: Cauliflower ear is known as perichondrial hematoma which is a deformity of the ear caused by trauma. Trauma affects the ear through strikes, frequent hard rubbing etc. and these are the things that can be experienced by BJJ. To prevent or heal cauliflower form from happening, it is necessary to wear a BJJ headgear or BJJ ear guard.
• Helps to prevent concussions: A concussion can affect your BJJ career and alter your quality of life. The symptoms of concussion are headache, feeling pressure in the head, stunned, nausea, vomiting etc. A high-quality BJJ headgear can help to prevent such head injuries from occurring.
• Partner’s safety: There is another facet of protection to take in consideration which is your opponent. A hard headgear for BJJ or fully plastic headgear for BJJ is going to be a real disaster for your partner to grapple.

Comfort: The second thing about Best BJJ headgear or Best ear guard is its comfort. Basically, BJJ headgear is built with nylon or Neoprene, or some notable plastic. In every Jiu Jitsu headgear and ear guards, foam is used to make the Jiu Jitsu headgears pleasant to wear. Apart from that, slippage is also a factor included in comfort. You need a best Bjj headgear which stay in place during combating and should not have to continually fine-tune the straps and their position.

Best BJJ Headgear 2021

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS
		Cliff Keen F5 Protective-Headgear	“Air Vent” Technology Better Audible Sound Tech Power Tab Strapping System Comfortable Adjust. Super Deep Cups for Ear	More Details
Amazon Choice	Amazon Choice	Cliff Keen Fusion Ear guard	3 straps with a chin strap pad “On-The-Fly” Strapping System Closed-cell FOAM Sleek-profiled ear cups	More Details
Best Seller	Best Seller	Cliff Keen E-58 Headgear	4 strap VNF foam SP94 chin strap pad and CSM chin cup	More Details
		Adidas Response Earguard (AE100)	Customizable 4 vinyl strap Includes both the chin cup and the strap holder Soft Chin Pad And Soft Foam Covered Ear Cups Injection-molded internal plastic ear cups	More Details
Amazon choice	Amazon choice	ASICS Unisex Gel Ear Guard	Frontal straps and chin straps attached with velcro strips GEL Technology Cushioning System Hard plastic in the design for ear cup	More Details
		Matman Ultra Soft Adjustable Headgear	Ultra-soft neoprene 2-strap headgear Velcro straps Two protective ear cups	More Details
		Venum Kontact Evo headgear	Molded shells Foam covering Comfortable neoprene 3-way closure systems and inner rubber band	More Details
		Gold Headgear for Jiu Jitsu, MMA	Adjustable velcro straps Ear guard with holes A reinforced chin strap and elastic headband	More Details
		Adapt Athletics Enhanced Ear guard	Hard EVA ear guards Extra-large vent holes Ultra-soft, breathable, antimicrobial cover Foam padding Triple stitched anchors for the chinstrap	More Details
		GR-9 Item: Brute Youth Headgear	Especially for small practitioners Polymer ear cups in EVA foam with compression molding Four strap adjusting system Lightweight	More Details

#1 Cliff Keen F5 Protective Headgear

Cliff Keen F5 Tornado headgear are well known worldwide for their air ventilation system for the ear. It is built with superior audible sound tech which is 80% greater than other Bjj headgear. This cliff keen f5 tornado also has a cooler force tab tying framework for a faster fit. Its storm four strap stock ear guard is fully adjustable in size which is 43% lighter than regular BJJ headgear.

Apart from that Cliff keen used Ultra-deep cups for the ear which provide maximum protection and comfort. The Cliff Keen F5 Tornado ear guard helps to fight against the bacterial boost-up and also comprises some of the substantial components that exist in order to assure incredible durability. The F5 is free of hassle and adjusts comfortably.

It has some fitting issues but we prefer this if you are looking for a good air ventilation system and superior audible system for your ear.

Features:

• “Air Vent” Technology
• Better Audible Sound Tech
• Power Tab Strapping System
• Comfortable Adjust.
• Super Deep Cups for Ear to Provide Maximum Protection and Comfort

#2 Cliff Keen Fusion Ear guard

The strap design and its comfort are one of the reasons amongst various features in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu headgear which is looked by every training individual. Cliff keen clicked on that particular feature and engineered it uniquely with 3 straps with a pad of chin strap for a secure and comfortable fit. Their Fusion Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Headgear adjusts properly and snuggly for its “On-The-Fly” Strapping System. Cliff Keen Fusion BJJ ear guards are built with closed cell FOAM which is soft as well as protective.

If we talk about the inner shell of this Bjj headgear, it is a pliable and super-light shell made out of state-of-the-art materials for a lighter, stronger, and long lasting BJJ headgear. Apart from that its sleek-profiled ear cups give enough space, air ventilation, and protection for the ears to adjust comfortably.

It is very simple to clean, simply can be wiped with water & soap or antibacterial wipes. And it comes in one size, it adjusts to fit with youth sizes also.

Features: 

• 3 straps with a chin strap pad
• “On-The-Fly” Strapping System
• Closed cell FOAM
• Sleek-profiled ear cups

#3 Cliff Keen E-58 Headgear

Cliff Keen E58 Headgear is well known for its comfortable fit as well as its ability to reduce erosion on the mat, if you are looking for such features then E58 Bjj headgear will be best for you. Cliff Keen E-58 ear guard built with the 4 strap VNF foam and this is the foam from “Signatures” which boasted its qualities.

Apart from that, they included SP94 chin strap pad as well as a CSM chin cup included to get a more adjustable fit which can be adjustable for youth also, you can use anyone between the strap and the cup.

This Headgear is favorite for many experts for one of its overwhelming features which is its reduced friction with the mat. It is a lightweight and comfortable fit BJJ headgear.

There are few contradicting issues about its loose fit but we prefer it for you if you are eyeing for comfortable fit and reduced abrasion on the mat.

Features:

• 4 strap VNF foam
• SP94 chin strap pad and CSM chin cup

#4 Adidas Response Earguard (AE100)

Adidas response BJJ headgear is one of a few branded ear guards which provides high quality materials in the product. Adidas designed this with the customizable 4 vinyl strap which gives a comfortable fit. It includes both chin cup and strap holder, For this chin cup it often allows it to fit comfortably without any razor burn or choking.

This ear guard is built with a shell which is made of soft and sleek foam cover, low profile ear cup, and soft chin pad for comfortable foam padding. To increase more protection in the ear, they have used injection molded internal plastic ear cups.

It has slightly poor durability according to experts but it is the best for ear protection according to them also.

Features

• Customizable 4 vinyl strap
• Includes both the chin cup and the strap holder
• Soft Chin Pad And Soft Foam Covered Ear Cups
• Injection molded internal plastic ear cups

#5 ASICS Unisex Gel Ear Guard

One of the best creations of ASICS is their protective ear guard which is also called as ASICS Unisex Gel Ear Guard. It is basically designed for the beginners who are not used to regular training and wearing the ear guard. 

If we talk about the straps of this ear guard, It is basically a series of straps which are attached to the ear guards. The ASICS Unisex protective ear guard has frontal straps and chin straps attached with velcro strips that make not only fitting really easy but also easy to adjust.

Apart from that they use a unique gel to cushion the ear to make a protective vest as well as comfortable. It is a lightweight and ventilated Bjj headgear. The ear cups of this ear guard are made out of real hard plastic in the design and have holes which allow you to hear.

It might have uncomfortable straps issues but experts refer to this for the best protection for the ear

Features:

• Frontal straps and chin straps attached with velcro strips
• GEL Technology Cushioning System
• Hard plastic in the design for ear cup

#6 Matman Ultra Soft Adjustable Headgear

Matman Ultra Soft headgear is the best headgear for Bjj in terms of protection for your head and ear. It adjusts easily and prevents unsightly cauliflower ear. Matman designed a strap specially to fit perfectly in your head without removing the headgear which can give you strong protection along with comfort.

As far as the concern of durability, Matman ultra soft neoprene in the BJJ headgear can absorb the roughest abuse on mat. To make the ear guards both antimicrobial and breathable, It uses ultrasoft neoprene. This Two straps classic headgear is the softest version of Matman. Matman’s headgear comes in velcro straps, it is both comfortable and snug fit.

Apart from that, it can absorb excess moisture from your head. The 2 protective cups prevent impact with your ears, the cup has 3 ventilation holes each. The ear cup has vent holes to make it easier to hear, it also keeps the ear cool. It comes in 8 color options, you can choose any one headgear among Black, gold, red, royal blue, navy blue, purple, green and brown.

It can be a bit uncomfortable to wear but experts prefer Matman’s headgear for maximum protection if your concern is also protection.

Features:

• Ultra-soft neoprene
• 2-strap headgear
• Velcro straps
• Two protective ear cups
• Colors: Black, gold, red, royal blue, navy blue, purple, green and brown

#7 Venum Kontact Evo headgear

Venum Kontact Evo Ear protectors are the best headgear for Bjj to keep your ear in shape. Venum Kontact Evo’ ear protector is designed to ensure perfect protection of your cartilage. It will help you to reduce the hazard of cauliflower ears. For enhanced protection against impacts and rubbing, it used molded shells.  

Apart from that, it is covered by foam to absorb shock during the training and disperse shock completely. To increase lightness and comfort during training, it uses neoprene. It has a soft outer fabric which reduces skin aggravation for training partners.

The closure system of venum kontact evo has Three-way conclusion framework and internal elastic groups, this closure system gives an adjustable and secured fit to maintain the security during the groundwork.

Many experts reviewed and commented on the little unpleasant strap issues but they still give preference to select Venum Kontact Head and Ear Guard to protect the ear and keep the ear in shape.

Features:

• Molded shells
• Foam covering
• Comfortable neoprene
• 3-way closure systems and inner rubber band

#8 Gold Headgear for Jiu Jitsu, MMA and Wrestling

Gold BJJ ear guard is the best headgear for Bjj for cauliflower ear protection, these ear guards keep the ears safe while you practice Jiu Jitsu. This gold bjj Jiu Jitsu headgear uses adjustable velcro straps that protect the ears from impact.

They designed their Jiu Jitsu headgear with holes which provide you good air vent system and hearing support so that your ear remains fresh and dry as well as you can hear your trainer clearly.

Apart from that Gold BJJ Headgear is built with reinforced chinstrap and elastic headband which gives you a comfortable fit around the head.

Though gold bjj headgear has issues of being small in size but it can be a better choice for the safety of your cauliflower ear.

Features:

• Adjustable velcro straps
• Ear guard with holes
• Reinforced chinstrap and elastic headband

#9 Adapt Athletics Enhanced Ear guard for BJJ, Wrestling, MMA

Adapt Athletics Enhanced Headgear is basically produced for protection and comfort for both head and ear, this Brazilian Jiu Jitsu headgear prevents the cauliflower ear with the easiest to adjust. Adapt Athletics Enhanced Headgear is made out of hard EVA ear guards which can prevent tough abuse without deforming and it has extra-large vent holes for better air ventilation and hearing.

Its design allows it to fine tune to without removing the headgear for maximum protection and comfort. Apart from that, this Jiu Jitsu headgear is built with ultra soft, breathable, antimicrobial cover to avoid the irritation to you or your training partners.

Additionally, Adapt Athletics Enhanced Headgear has foam padding which is able to eliminate discomfort from the chinstrap and buckle. Its triple stitched anchors for the chinstrap ensure it remains fit for the toughest situation.

It has velcro fitting issues which leads many experts to dissatisfaction and experts demotivate to buy this headgear.

Features:

• Hard EVA ear guards
• Extra-large vent holes
• Ultra soft, breathable, antimicrobial cover
• Foam padding
• Triple stitched anchors for the chinstrap

#10 GR-9 Item: Brute Youth Headgear

Brute GR-9 Youth Headgear is built specially for small practitioners, it won’t fit adult wrestlers. The GR-9 brute headgear is basically produced for comfort and protection for both head and ear which also has a contemporary styling.

In Brute GR-9 Youth Headgear, it is built in EVA foam with compression molding and polymer ear cups which provide less protection. Its air vent holes are given for flowing the air and better hearing. Additionally a 4 strap adjusting technology is used for easy and quick closure. It is a lightweight headgear.

Apart from that many users as well as experts demotivate to buy this for its fitting issues. But still it works well as compared to its low budget.

Features:

• Specially for small practitioners
• Polymer ear cups in EVA foam with compression molding
• Four strap adjusting system
• Lightweight

Buying guide: What to consider before buying

Protection

The first condition of a good ear guard that you have to ensure is its head guard. A best Jiu Jitsu headgear must have protectability for both you and your training partner.

To ensure your safety you have to confirm that it is built with good cushioning which can absorb blows. The best Jiu Jitsu headgear must be able to provide abrasion protection which just doesn’t allow scraping against the mat and getting your partner injured.

To buy the best Jiu Jitsu headgear you have to take into consideration keeping your partner’s safety as well. There are few headgears existing in the market that are made with a hard plastic shell, and that could hurt your partner which isn’t an ideal way of protection.

Materials and comfort

The second thing after head guard that you have to determine by its components from which the headgears are made. Basically, Jiu Jitsu headgear is built of both softer and harder materials. The softer materials are Nylon or Neoprene and the harder material is from hard plastic.

Brajilian Jiu Jitsu Headgear which is made from comfy material which is lightweight and more comfortable. These materials are good to absorb soft blows. 

Headgears which are made from harder materials are also great if you’re scraping against the mat or your partner more often. But you also have to think about your partner’s comfortness.

Sometimes hard plastic of bjj ear guards can injure opponents.

Fitting

Another thing that you need to look at how it fits in your head. Your headgear may slip out of place and can mess with your straps while you try to stop getting slammed.

You need a best Jiu Jitsu headgear which has a proper hard ear case which will fit your ears prominently and a chin strap which will be able to tighten in your head properly.

There are different types of ear guards like soft shell, hard shell, exposed plastic, fabric covered, and 2/3/5 straps. Soft shell ear guards are mainly preferable for BJJ.

The Cauliflower ear: How to prevent them perfectly

Cauliflower Ears

Cauliflower ears are a sort of trademark in combat sports in grappling. Cauliflower ears become a more noticeable facet of the sport, especially in bjj. Some practitioners believe this as a badge of honor, but other practitioners don’t want that.

WHAT CAUSES to grow the cauliflower ears?

Cauliflower ears grow when the soft bone of the ears bends at the mark of breaking. It might be caused from repeated abrasion which can occur from a multitude of training and exercises routines like triangle and armbar drills. It can also result from a dreadful impact.

HEALING PROCESS

The ear will try to go through to build the ‘bend’ as possible as it can. The ear tissue can bleed internally which can be easily noticed by the injury. When healing the ear itself, it will start developing such a ligament scar over the harmed territory. With the presence of these injured tissues and healed on its top results your ears will look the same as cauliflowers. The most typical problem among practitioners is not providing sufficient time to heal the affected ear.

PREVENTION

To prevent the injury should be the primary step to prevent cauliflower ears. By wearing convenient headgear whilst participating in martial art sports prevents cauliflower ears. A best headgear will decrease the risk of developing the cauliflower ears.

But if the cauliflower ear develops because of an injury then it can be prevented by taking appropriate medication. However, many athletes may not simply grasp the seriousness of the injury, but they should take it seriously.

If a practitioner suffers trauma to the outer side of the ear, it is essential to consult with a doctor as early as possible.

Final thought

Cauliflower ear is a serious issue and bjj headgear is a must if you want to be prevented from this. There are many practitioners who think and promote it as a kind of badge of honor, but this is not that light. It is very much undeniable that it will lead the victim to a pointless concussion. The well-known BJJ practitioners always do what is necessary to protect their ears from this kind of pointless damage.