Why Revisit the Scramble Rainbow Spats?
Spats have become a staple in the wardrobes of grapplers, wrestlers, and MMA fighters worldwide. They offer compression, protection against mat burns, and a sleek base layer under shorts or gis. Scramble's Rainbow Spats caught attention for their bold, colorful graphics inspired by psychedelic patterns. But how do they perform over time? In this revisited look, we'll dive into extended use across Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) rolls, wrestling drills, and MMA training, sharing insights on material quality, fit adjustments, and overall value for combat sports enthusiasts.
These spats aren't just about looks—they're engineered for high-intensity sessions where mobility and durability matter most. Whether you're a beginner building your gear kit or a seasoned competitor refining your setup, understanding their strengths and limitations can guide your next purchase.
Design and Aesthetic Appeal
The standout feature of the Scramble Rainbow Spats is their eye-catching design. Featuring a spectrum of rainbow hues with swirling, tie-dye-like patterns, they make a statement on the mats. The graphics are screen-printed with high-quality inks that resist cracking or fading even after dozens of washes and sweaty sessions.
In combat sports like BJJ and wrestling, where uniformity isn't always the goal, these spats add personality. Pair them with a neutral rash guard for Muay Thai clinch work or under fight shorts for MMA rounds. The full-length coverage ensures no skin exposure during guard passes or takedown defenses.
Real-world scenario: During a no-gi BJJ tournament prep camp, the vibrant colors helped distinguish partners in low-light gym settings, making it easier to track movements in scrambles.
Material Composition and Comfort
Crafted from a premium blend of 82% polyester and 18% elastane, these spats deliver four-way stretch for unrestricted movement. The fabric is lightweight (around 200gsm), breathable, and moisture-wicking, pulling sweat away from the skin to keep you dry during prolonged grappling exchanges.
Key benefits in training:
- Compression without constriction: Provides muscle support for legs and hips, reducing fatigue in wrestling shots or BJJ berimbolos.
- Anti-chafing: Smooth inner lining prevents irritation during high-rep leg raises or sprawls.
- Quick-dry properties: Ideal for back-to-back classes in humid gyms or outdoor Kickboxing sessions.
After six months of regular use (4-5 sessions weekly), the material shows minimal pilling on high-friction areas like the inner thighs. Compared to cheaper alternatives, the Scramble spats maintain their shape without sagging.
Sizing and Fit Guide
Proper fit is crucial in grappling sports to avoid bunching during hip escapes or guard retention. Scramble recommends sizing based on waist and height:
| Size | Waist (inches) | Inseam (inches) | Best For |
|------|----------------|-----------------|----------|
| S | 28-30 | 27 | Shorter athletes, 5'4"-5'8" |
| M | 30-32 | 28 | Average build, 5'8"-6'0" |
| L | 32-34 | 29 | Taller frames, 6'0"-6'2" |
| XL | 34-36 | 30 | Larger builds, 6'2"+ |
| XXL | 36-38 | 31 | Heavyweights |
Tip: If you're between sizes, size up for wrestling or MMA where extra room aids explosive movements. For pure BJJ, true-to-size works best. Always check Apollo MMA's size charts for precise measurements, as brands can vary slightly.
In practice, the medium fit perfectly for a 5'10", 170lb fighter—snug at the waist with graduated compression down the calves, no riding up during double-leg takedowns.
Performance in Real Training Scenarios
BJJ Rolling Sessions
Over 50+ rolls, the spats excelled in open guard play and bottom positions. The grip-resistant surface deterred opponents' handholds, aiding escapes. No rips from knee cuts or heel hooks.Wrestling Drills
In freestyle wrestling practices, they withstood chain wrestling and sprawls. Compression helped with endurance during 5-minute rounds, mimicking the demands of MMA ground-and-pound defense.MMA and Kickboxing Integration
Layered under 4oz shorts for sparring, they provided rash protection from clinch knees. The rainbow pattern popped under fight lights, boosting confidence without distracting.Potential drawback: After heavy friction (e.g., repeated guard passes on rough mats), minor lint balls formed on the thighs—but easily brushed off, no impact on performance.
Durability and Longevity
Initial reviews praised the spats' newness, but longevity is the real test. Post-revisit:
- Wash test: 50+ cycles on gentle cycle, cold water—no color bleeding or shrinkage.
- Abrasion resistance: Holds up against standard BJJ mats; avoid lava-rock textured surfaces.
- Seam strength: Flatlock stitching prevents chafing and bursting under tension.
Compared to other brands like Sanabul or RDX, Scramble's premium fabric edges out in fade resistance. Expect 1-2 years of heavy use before considering replacements.
Maintenance tips:
- Wash inside out.
- Air dry to preserve elasticity.
- Avoid fabric softeners to maintain wicking.
Who Should Buy These Spats?
Ideal for:
- No-gi BJJ practitioners seeking style and function.
- Wrestlers needing base layers for folkstyle or freestyle.
- MMA fighters wanting versatile compression gear.
- Kickboxers or Muay Thai enthusiasts for shin protection under shorts.
Not ideal if you prefer maximalist minimalism—subtle designs might suit you better.
Final Verdict
The Scramble Rainbow Spats earn a solid 9/10 for blending aesthetics with athletic performance. They've proven reliable companions through tournaments, camps, and daily grinds. For fighters prioritizing gear that looks as good as it performs, these are a top pick.
Ready to upgrade your base layer? Browse quality Scramble apparel and other premium MMA gear at Apollo MMA to find the perfect fit for your training needs.
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