The invention of MMA gloves was prompted by the necessity for a glove that was tailored to the specifics of mixed martial arts. These open-fingered gloves are made exclusively for MMA athletes. In MMA, the hands do more than just deliver strikes to the opponent’s face and body; yet, mastering the technique requires the proper equipment. MMA gloves are a must-have item for any MMA fighter. They protect the knuckles when the combatant uses strikes to daze the opponent. Our testers scoured the industry to compile this list of the most dependable MMA gloves you can buy.
Our Top Picks: MMA Glove
Zoobo MMA Glove
If you’re seeking for great gear on a budget, Zoobo MMA gloves might become your go-to boxing gloves. They’re composed of breathable material and provide great hand protection. A velcro strap secures the bracelet and provides improved wrist support.
PROS
- Three layers of padding
- Is available in eight colors
- It leaves the thumb uncovered, giving the fighter more control when grappling
- Adjustable velcro wristband
- Available in multiple colors
CONS
- Not washable
RDX MMA Glove
The RDX MMA glove is comprised of high-quality synthetic Maya hide, which guarantees durability. It’s perfect for sparring or practicing on heavy bags. The MMA gloves are available in four sizes to fit varied hand sizes, as well as a variety of colors.
PROS
- Dual stitched
- Available in 4 colors
- Open palm design ensures breathability
CONS
- Sizes can run big
Liberlupus MMA Glove
The Liberlupus is a one-size-fits-all lightweight MMA glove. Male and female boxers can use the glove for heavy bag training and sparring. The MMA gloves are composed of synthetic leather, which is both durable and easy to clean. It includes a 10mm cushion that provides good shock absorption. The back’s cross-cut design offers enough airflow.
PROS
- Has synthetic leather
- Adjustable wristband for custom fit
CONS
- Not ideal to use against heavy bags
- Inadequate knuckle protection
Everlast Pro Style MMA Gloves
Tired of your boxing gloves stinking up the place after a few sparring sessions? Everlast Pro’s EverDri technology keeps moisture from entering the glove. This will keep your hands fresh after each boxing practice and resist any nasty odors. The MMA glove is composed of synthetic leather, which is both durable and soft. It also offers a lengthy wrist strap for a tight fastening and additional wrist support against impact.
PROS
- Has Synthetic leather
- Adjustable wrist strap
CONS
- Sizes may run big
Brace Master MMA Glove
The Brace Master MMA glove is thickly cushioned to protect the fighter’s knuckles while they practice their skill. It’s composed of high-quality leather that won’t crack or peel after a lengthy time of use. It has an open-palm design to allow for airflow, and the foam padding inside provides excellent shock protection for the fighter.
PROS
- It is available in different colors
- Open palm design allows airflow
- Excellent padding for shock protection
CONS
- Might be rough on knuckles
Buying Guide For MMA Gloves
MMA gloves are a mixed martial what boots are to a soccer player: vital equipment that protects the wearer and ultimately improves performance. You’ve seen the various brands and types of MMA gloves available in the market thanks to our review of the finest MMA gloves.
With so many alternatives available, you may find it difficult to choose just one. This shopping guide provides extensive explanations and advice to assist you in selecting the best MMA glove. The guide also includes a section that answers frequently asked questions concerning MMA gloves.
What Are the Differences Between Boxing Gloves and MMA Gloves?
Boxing and MMA gloves are intended for use in combat sports. However, the characteristics of each combat sport vary. The two gloves’ differences will be addressed under two headings: design and padding.
Design
Boxing gloves are full gloves that completely cover the palms and fingers. MMA gloves, on the other hand, do not cover the fighter’s complete palms and fingers because MMA involves grappling. To grapple opponents, an MMA fighter must have his or her fingers exposed.
Padding
Boxing gloves are thicker and more cushioned than MMA gloves. Boxing gloves have greater padding because boxing solely involves punching, whereas MMA involves kicking, punching, and wrestling.
What Are the Types of MMA Gloves?
There are three primary varieties of MMA gloves based on their purpose: fighting gloves, grappling gloves, and sparring gloves.
Fighting gloves
Fighting gloves are also referred to as competitive gloves. They are used in competitive battles and have less cushioning than other varieties of MMA gloves. They are typically 4 ounces in weight and are designed to sting the opponent with each punch.
Grappling gloves
This glove type allows for more finger movement and padding than fighting gloves. Grappling gloves are used for grappling and clinching on the ground.
Sparring gloves
Sparring gloves are used during sparring matches between two people. They contain more padding to protect both fighters and are frequently heavier than ordinary gloves. To avoid injuring the sparring partner, fighters should not use any other sort of MMA glove for sparring.
What Are the Things to Consider Before Buying MMA Gloves?
There are several aspects to consider while purchasing long-lasting MMA gloves. These considerations, when thoroughly analyzed, will assist you in making an informed purchasing decision.
Comfort
When shopping for MMA gloves, the first thing you should look for is comfort. The level of comfort is determined by how well the gloves fit your hands. An enormous set of gloves will make the boxer clumsy, increase their chances of injury, and take the sting out of their punch.
Aside from the apparent pain of wearing tiny gloves, there is also the possibility of restricting the fighter’s hitting and grappling range. As a result, having the perfect size is critical when purchasing MMA gloves.
Purpose
This is perhaps a more obvious factor. Your response to the question ‘what do I need the MMA glove for?’ will assist you in selecting the best glove. For example, if the glove isn’t designed for a competitive fight, it’s either a sparring glove or a grappling glove. The decision between the two will now be based on the circumstances of your training.
Type of material
The material utilized to create the MMA gloves has an impact on their durability. MMA gloves are typically composed of either genuine leather or synthetic leather. Natural leather is the preferred material of the two, but it is more expensive. Synthetic leather, on the other hand, is far less expensive and nearly equivalent to genuine leather. MMA gloves are made from a variety of synthetic leathers. Buyers should seek out the highest quality to ensure long-term durability.
Lace-up gloves vs. Hook and loop gloves
Another consideration is whether to use lace-up MMA gloves or hook and loop gloves for connecting the gloves to the wrist. Lace-up gloves, like shoes, include laces that provide the combatant complete control over the tightness of the gloves.
The disadvantage of lace-up gloves is that they require an extra pair of hands to tighten. Velcro gloves are another name for hook and loop gloves. They are hold together by pushing two sides of a fastening fabric together.
A fighter, unlike lace-up gloves, does not require additional hands to fasten. Hook & loop gloves are also easier to put on because they do not require the complicated selecting of laces to tighten. However, one advantage of lace-up gloves over hook and loop gloves is their increased stability.
How Much Do MMA Gloves Cost?
MMA gloves can cost as little as $15 or as much as $250. Durability and overall efficiency rise in direct proportion to price. Low-end gloves sold for $15 are not likely to last as long as high-end gloves sold for $200. With MMA gloves priced between $50 to $150, one can find a happy medium between cost and durability.