Thickness guide

Standard or extra thick?

Every gumshield we make comes in two thicknesses. Here's how to choose — and remember to pick your sport when you order, so our technicians can build it to suit.

Standard cross-section
Most popular

Standard

Slimmer and lighter, so it's easier to talk, breathe and drink with it in. The everyday choice for team sports, grappling and juniors.

Best forRugby, hockey, grappling, lacrosse and most junior players
Extra thickness cross-section
For striking sports

Extra thickness

More material over your teeth for extra cushioning against repeated blows. Slightly bulkier, but still a close custom fit.

Best forBoxing, MMA, Muay Thai, kickboxing and heavy sparring

By sport

What we usually recommend.

A starting point from our lab — your own playing level and comfort matter too.

Extra thickness
Cushioning for repeated blows in sparring and bouts.
Extra thickness
Strikes on the feet — most fighters go extra.
Extra thickness
Knees, elbows and clinch work.
Extra thickness
Heavy hands and kicks in sparring.
StandardorExtra
Standard for most players; some forwards prefer extra.
Standard
Slim enough to call for the ball all game.
Lacrosse
Standard
Protection without the bulk.
American Football
StandardorExtra
Standard for most; extra if you want more cushioning.
Standard
Slim for kumite and kiai.
Standard
Comfortable and easy to breathe through on long rolls.
Standard
Slim and secure for randori.
Wrestling
Standard
Low-profile for grappling.
Skateboarding
Standard
Everyday protection against falls.
Juniors (any sport)
Standard
Easier to wear — and they'll outgrow it each season anyway.

Whichever you choose, it's made from an impression of your own teeth by our technicians in Dorset.

Still not sure?

Ask yourself this.

Are you taking repeated blows to the head or jaw? If you spar or fight in a striking sport, go extra thick.
Do you need to talk or call plays? Standard is slimmer and easier to speak through.
Is breathing and comfort your top priority? Standard is lighter — great for long sessions and endurance.
Ordering for a child? Standard is usually best, and is easier for them to keep in.

Still torn? Tell our lab team your sport and level and we'll recommend one.

Ask our lab

Questions

Thickness FAQs.

Can't find what you need? Our lab team is happy to help — including team orders of 5+.

Does extra thickness cost more?

No — choose Standard or Extra thickness on any gumshield page at no extra cost.

Can I change thickness after ordering?

Yes, as long as we haven't started making your gumshield. Get in touch as soon as possible with your order number.

Will extra thickness affect my breathing?

It's slightly bulkier than Standard, but because it's custom-made from your own impression it still fits closely and is far easier to breathe through than a boil-and-bite.

Why do you ask which sport it's for?

Your sport helps our technicians build the right coverage and fit for how you'll use it — so please choose it under 'Used For' when you order.

Decided?

Build yours now.

Order today and your impression kit ships next working day. Custom gumshield at your door in 10 days or less.

  • Free UK shipping
  • 100% fit guarantee
  • 14-day satisfaction policy