Jiu-Jitsu Head Gear Review: Cliff Keen Twister vs Asics Unrestrained
I posted a while ago about “Learning About Cauliflower Ears”. I got my first visible damage to a ear and it made me paranoid of getting cauliflower ears. I also have had very sore ears from practice. Its been a pain trying to find a way to sleep on my side at night. The solution was to find suitable protective head gear for rolling during BJJ practice.
I picked up a pair of Cliff Keen Twisters from MMAOutLet.com and a pair of Asics Unrestrained from my local sporting goods store. The Twisters cost me $31 and the Asics $24 (tax and shipping not included).
The Twister as you can see from the picture has 3 main straps. The Unrestrained has 5 or 6 depending on how you look at it. I’ll cut to the chase and give you the verdict Cliff Keen Twister won hands down! I couldn’t even make myself wear the Unrestrained. It gave me a headache just wearing it. Unrestrained? No, a better name would be headcrab.
Cliff Keen Twister
Pros:
- Larger straps spread out the pressure. It didn’t feel like I had anything on.
- The ear protectors are made of a flexible plastic that moves better with you.
- Minimal adjustment of straps was needed to get a comfortable fit.
- Plenty of ear space.
- Foam on ear protectors is light weight and has no construction edges that might rub.
- Detachable foam for cleaning or replacement.
- Snap-On-Snap-Off chin strap. One time adjustment is all that is needed.
Cons:
- Straps have rough ends that might rub during rolling. I had to mash my hair down on the front strap to make sure I had some protection. I didn’t get any rub.
Asics Unrestrained
Pros:
- Cheaper
Cons:
- Strap adjustment takes for ever!
- I felt like I was the man in the iron mask. It was giving me a headache no matter how I adjusted the straps.
- Ear space is acceptable but only after lengthy adjustment of straps.
- Very stiff and inflexible.
- It is all Velcro no snaps
- Top strap was like some one constantly pushing their thumb into the top of my head.
Jiu-Jitsu is Life and Life is Jiu-Jitsu
Top review subject, very helpful. I wear Brute Quad 3s and they are okay, but the Cliff Keen ones sound perfect.
I originally went looking for the Brute that I see you wear but couldn’t find them in the US. I’m really happy with my Cliff Keen Twister but I’m still going to try a few other pairs.