Not only do they look cool, they also protect very well! Thick padding throughout and the straps do hold them in place. I use them while grappling and they hardly get in the way! The length of the straps are a plus for people with smaller calf muscle. Side note, I have a pair of elite shin guards and these are more thick and slightly slimmer profile along the sides.

Felt great in sparring and mauy thai drills. It does dig into the back of the knee a little bit if i lift up my leg to defend but, these are really stylish and feel good.