Best MMA Gloves: Elevate Your Performance With The Right Gear

I have used tons of MMA gloves throughout my 15+ year career as a striker. From cheap MMA gloves for beginners to the best MMA gloves for an all-around fighter, I can confirm that every single pair of MMA gloves brings good and bad things to the game. At the end of the day, it’s all about your personal needs and preference.

Best MMA Gloves: Trainer’s Top Picks

Product	Combat Sports Max Strike	RDX MMA Sparring Gloves	Premier Delux MMA Gloves
Brand	Combat Sports	RDX	Revgear
Glove Type	Training	Sparring	Training
Size	Large	Small	Small
Material	Leather	Leather	Synthetic
Padding	2″ molded foam	Shock gel padding	Padding
Wrist Support	Wrap around wrist strap	Quick-EZ hook and loop	Ultra-Lock hook and loop
Palm Design	Fully open	Open cut	Open palms

Are you looking for a lovely pair of MMA training gloves? Would you like to take part in the tournament with a pair of MMA competition gloves? Do you prefer boosting your clinch game and grappling performance with MMA sparring gloves? No worries, the Way of Martial Arts got you covered for every single situation!

The best gloves for MMA are the ones that perfectly suit your needs. I have been a long-time fan of RDX MMA gloves because of their high-level airflow and the ability to get a good grip on the opponent during transitions. For me, it is one of the best all-around choices, for all kinds of fighters – wrestlers, grapplers, strikers… you name it!

My other two pieces of the best gloves for MMA are RevGear Premier and Revgear Pinnacle MMA gloves. RevGear Premier is a fabulous choice for beginners and you can easily say no to eye gouges as this MMA glove is similar to PRIDE-style pieces of equipment, while RevGear Pinnacle is a high-value pair of the best MMA gloves that pushes your quickness and position-changing to the next level.

I’ve got you covered for every single situation. Keep reading this article to deliver the best gloves for MMA for different purposes – heavy bag, grappling, transition session, training, or just an all-around session.

Best MMA Gloves – Complete List

• Combat Sports Max Strike
• RDX MMA Sparring Gloves
• RevGear Premier
• RevGear Pinnacle
• UFC 5oz MMA Gloves
• Venum Challenger MMA Gloves
• Fairtex FGV15
• Liberlupus for Men/Women
• ZooBoo
• Sanabul Essential

1. BEST MMA GLOVES FOR TRAINING

Combat Sports MMA gloves are some of the best choices for an all-around training session. Combat Sports Max Strike MMA are the best MMA gloves for ground-and-pound sessions and heavy strikes. Two inches of padding on the knuckles protect your hand, plus there are leather finger holes for enhanced durability and comfort.
Sports Max Strike MMA is a very smooth, PRIDE FC-style model. You can easily slip it into tight spaces. Yet, there is one downside – one protruding edge on the bottom side might give you a hard time when you’re fishing for an armbar, Omoplata, or hammerlock. Also, Velcro straps might deteriorate with time, but you can always fix them. Overall, a nice piece of MMA training gloves.

2. BEST MMA GLOVES OVERALL

I am a diehard fan of RDX MMA sparring gloves, I am using them myself and I can say it works very well when you’re mixing things up. All-around fighters will enjoy this model, as it lets you deliver strikes and takedowns in the same combo with ease. A very aesthetic model with a classic style RDX logo. If you grew up in the era of Georges St-Pierre and Anderson Silva like me, you will love this classic design.
Engineered with authentic cowhide durable leather, this model is built to last. Breathable pinholes in the finger area improve hygiene during your workouts. The Velcro strap goes twice around your wrist for extra support. The thumb area might be a bit uncomfortable for your grappling partners, but these are the best MMA gloves when you look at the price vs quality ratio!

3. BEST MMA GLOVES FOR BEGINNERS

RevGear Premier are definitively the best gloves for MMA beginners who have just started their mixed martial arts voyage. Open-palm design lets you control the clinch, grapple, and land strikes at the same time. The soft inner lining and snug fit boost the power of your grip, which is critical for beginners with horrible technique.
An affordable model with three designs, you won’t have to switch between the gloves in the middle of your training session. Robust stitching, light enough not to slow your striking down. You can tighten wrist straps to your preference. The fit for your pinky might be a bit weird, plus you can’t land big bombs in RevGear Premier due to the lack of protection on your knuckles.

4. BEST MMA GLOVES FOR BLOCKING/PROTECTION

RevGear Pinnacle is the classic-style, multi-layer foam padding piece of training equipment, designed to protect your knuckles by any means necessary. Very durable construction that secures your wrists even during the hardest hits. RevGear Pinnacle is the best MMA gloves if your parameter number one is blocking and eating shots. This is perfect for those who don’t move much and prefer controlling the central line.

Equal weighted foam distribution lets you grapple and throw strikes at the same time—high-value MMA glove, fair price, with enhanced thumb protection. But you must choose between one design and two sizes, which is a big downside. Also, it is a bit robust model, you might have a hard time during submission switches and transitions.

5. BEST MMA GLOVES FOR PROFESSIONAL

Are you looking for a realistic feel of the fight? UFC 5oz are the best gloves for MMA for those who plan to compete and simulate training matches. These competition gloves are approved and you can wear them in tournaments, plus there are five amazing designs. You can enjoy your MMA sparring sessions with these pro style MMA gloves!
Open palm model, great for grappling, level changes, and very comfortable due to soft finger department. Made of durable engineered synthetic leather. Yet, the main problem of this model is breathability – it gets stinky too easily, and you will have to wash them regularly.

6. BEST MMA GLOVES FOR GRAPPLING

Venum Challenger MMA gloves are good both for striking and grappling. Yet, due to the lack of padding on the knuckle, landing haymakers or other big shots might be hazardous for you. Venum MMA gloves work well for quick strikes, conditional sparring, grappling exchanges, and transitions from defense to offense and vice versa. Faux leather gloves with hook and loop closure.
Venum Challenger MMA is the best gloves for MMA when you’re trying to boost the speed of your strikes and grappling exchanges. These are fighting gloves, a layered foam model with a slim profile and a fair price-quality ratio.
Hint: If you have more money, you can always give Venum Undisputed 2.0 a shot.

7. BEST MMA GLOVES FOR CLINCH

Fairtex offers the number one clinch game pair of the best gloves for MMA in the market. Fairtex is known for Thai boxing models, but FGV15 is more suitable for grappling and clinching, plus there are no edges to get caught on anything. A high-quality Velcro surrounds the glove and makes it even better for transitions from the single-collar clinch to Muay Thai plum or over-under.
There is a lot of padding on the knuckles, so you can land some solid strikes too. Yet, they might need a bit more time to break in, which might be irritating. Yet, Fairtex will push your clinch game to the next level!

8. BEST MMA GLOVES FOR ALL-AROUND BEGINNERS

Liberlupus offers an all-around affordable choice – this could be the best gloves for MMA for fighters in the early stages of their MMA career who haven’t created their fighting style yet. You can use this model for sparring, grappling, clinching, and bag sessions. The thick 10 mm EVA fist padding plays a key role in efficient shock absorption, so your knuckles will stay protected.
The model offers enhanced grip and improved wrist flexibility, plus it won’t go anywhere thanks to the double closure system. Sufficient airflow will leave the palm dry during high-intense workouts. Stitch strings will start to hang after a while, and you can’t land very hard shots. Liberlupus could work for technical and all-around training sessions too.

9. BEST MMA GLOVES FOR FANS OF MODERN DESIGN

ZooBoo is one of the cheapest models in the market, but it offers pretty much decent quality. A good piece of MMA training gloves with multiple designs, made of faux leather with three layers of protection. Half-finger breathable model will put your punching bag game to the next level. Wristbands can be customized to ensure a comfortable fit.
ZooBoo are the best gloves for MMA for those who like to combine modern design, heavy strikes, and low budget. Yet, you’ll notice less protection on the sides of the glove, so you might hurt yourself when throwing haymakers. You’ll be fine as long as you throw straight punches and uppercuts. Also, these are not grappling gloves, they are a bit robust, so you might have a hard time controlling your opponent in the clinch.

10. BEST MMA GLOVES FOR BUDGET

Sanabul Hybrid are cheaper gloves than any other model on the list. But its quality is pretty much ok, you can expect miracles for a low price. These gloves are designed to endure and are made of Performance Engineered Leather construction. The model gives you modest dexterity during grappling. The hook and loop closure system won’t let these MMA training gloves slide anywhere.
The first problem is the finger stitching on the bottom edge of the knuckle padding, it might rip over time, especially when you grapple a skillful opponent. Sanabul is a good-looking, solid piece of training gloves, and it could be one of the best gloves for MMA for low-budget beginners and starters.

 Best MMA Gloves Buying Guide

I will guide you through the most important list of things when buying MMA gloves. Let’s kick-off!

How Does The Pair Of The Best MMA Gloves Work?

Best MMA Gloves are a very important part of your MMA gear. They are designed to protect the hands of the fighters during intense training sessions, sparring, and competition. They work by cushioning the impact of punches and strikes, reducing the risk of hand injuries, and improving the fighter’s overall performance.

Most MMA gloves have at least one layer to protect knuckles from heavy shots and collisions. The gloves typically have a padded exterior made of foam or gel, which absorbs the force of impact and disperses it over a larger area. This technique serves to prevent direct impact on the knuckles and other vulnerable parts of the hand, as this is not bare-knuckle fighting. The layer of padding reduces the force of impact on your opponent, making the fight safer and more controlled.

Now another protection tip. The pair of the best MMA gloves also enhances the fighter’s grip and allows for greater flexibility and mobility in the hands. It means you can easily perform a wide range of techniques – jabs, straights, hooks, uppercuts, overhands, or haymakers. The best MMA glove also promotes good hygiene and prevents the spread of infections by providing a barrier between the fighter’s hands and the opponent’s skin.

In addition, the best MMA gloves are an essential piece of MMA gear for all MMA fighters, beginners, or superstars, providing comfort, protection, and improved performance inside the cage. Remember, a high-quality pair of MMA gloves prevents your sparring partner and lengthens your fighting career.

The Reasons Why The Best MMA Gloves Are So Important In The Game

For example, the best budget MMA gloves might not protect you from heavy strikes, but the best training gloves will. Standard MMA glove is good for all-around performance while wearing hand wraps underneath creates another layer of protection between your knuckles and the opponent.

This paragraph will help you understand why the best MMA gloves matter and why you shouldn’t spare money when purchasing a pair.

Knockout Protection – What Makes MMA Gloves Essential For Hand Safety In The Cage?

When fists without the best MMA gloves or hand wraps meet the opponent’s head, it is a direct impact. On the other hand, MMA gloves with wraps reduce the chances of massive cuts and concussions because of layers of protection between the hand and the rival’s chin or forehead. Without proper protection, fighters are at risk of serious hand injuries that can hinder their performance and potentially end their career.

A better glove equals fewer chances of big knockouts and critical injuries. The gloves are designed to cushion the impact of punches and strikes, reducing the risk of hand injuries such as fractures, sprains, and bruises.

The padding on the gloves is usually made of materials such as foam or gel. It absorbs and disperses the impact over a larger area, and minimizes the damage caused by direct contact.

Glove Up For Clean Combat: How MMA Gloves Promote Hygiene In The Ring

The best gloves for MMA play an important role in maintaining good hygiene in the ring. The gloves provide a barrier between the fighter’s hands and the opponent’s skin.

MMA gloves, especially the ones made of genuine leather, decrease the spread of infections and diseases that can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. In mixed martial arts, there is a high risk of cuts, abrasions, and other injuries that can expose the skin to harmful bacteria and viruses.

MMA fighters who use high-quality MMA gloves minimize the risk of infections and promote a safer and healthier environment in the ring.

Maximizing Your Fighting Skills: How Top-Quality MMA Gloves Enhance Performance In The Ring?

The best gloves for MMA are designed to enhance the performance of the fighter. They provide a better grip and allow for greater flexibility and mobility in the hands, enabling fighters to easily perform a wide range of techniques.

For example, the more flexible glove is critical when you’re switching from body lock to over-under or single-collar clinch, especially when you try to chain wrestle against a footwork specialist.

This improved performance can make a significant difference in the outcome of a fight. With better grip and mobility, fighters can execute their techniques more effectively and precisely, giving them a competitive edge over their opponents.

Another example. A glove that allows more mobility significantly affects your top control skills. A full wrist wrap strap model will help you control the hand that builds the posture when you’re in half-guard or mount.

Stay Safe And Sound: The Crucial Role Of MMA Gloves In Protecting Fighters In The Ring

The best gloves for MMA maximize safety by reducing the risk of serious injuries to both Octagon warriors. The layered foam padding serves to cushion the impact of strikes and punches, reducing the risk of concussions and other head injuries.

The gloves also protect the fingers and knuckles from getting caught in the opponent’s clothing or body. It could lead to very serious damage, but by minimizing the risk of injuries, MMA gloves promote a safer and more controlled environment. Fighters can focus on their technique and game plan without the fear of getting their knuckles bruised or cut.

Playing By The Rules: The Importance Of Regulation-Approved MMA Gloves For Safety And Fair Play In The Ring

Every sport offers a specific rule set. The rules governing the use of MMA gloves vary depending on the organization, but generally, the gloves must meet certain criteria such as weight, size, and padding thickness.

By adhering to these standards, MMA gloves help to ensure that the sport is played safely and fairly, promoting the integrity and reputation of the sport. The best MMA gloves are designed to meet the specific standards and guidelines of the regulatory bodies to maximize the safety of the Octagon warrior.

 Overall Performance – Why The Best MMA Gloves Matter?

I will try to describe the specific situations where the best gloves for MMA prevail. For example, if your pair of gloves sweats too much, your opponent gets the advantage in the clinch and close combat scenarios.

If your glove is too heavy, the rival will be faster and his strikes will be crisper. Unless you knock him out cold, he might outpoint you if the bout goes to the judges’ scorecards.

Finally, when trying to transition from offense to defense and vice versa, gloves with a bad grip are a horrible choice, because the opponent will easily defend your holds and control attempts.

Here Are The Best MMA Gloves

The best MMA gloves in the market and the best work boot in the game is – RDX MMA! Its open-palm design, affordable price, and the ability to swiftly transition from defense into offense put your new best fight buddy in the spotlight!

Types Of Best MMA Gloves

From beginners to pro style MMA gloves, each model offers a specific set of good and bad sides. Cheaper gloves can fit your needs, and the most expensive model doesn’t have to be the best choice. We recognize six types of MMA gloves.

Bag Gloves

Bag gloves are an essential piece of equipment for any fighter who trains on heavy bags or pads. These gloves are usually made of synthetic leather or other durable materials that can withstand the rigors of high-impact training sessions.

They feature extra padding on the knuckles and wrist to protect the hands and provide support during intense punching and striking drills. Molded foam padding mostly serves as an additional layer of protection between the mitt and your fist.

The best gloves for MMA heavy or standing bag work typically have a wider wrist strap than other gloves, which provides additional support and stability to the wrists during training.

Sparring Gloves

Sparring gloves are larger and heavier than bag gloves and are designed to provide maximum protection for the fighter and their sparring partner. You can wear them in an MMA training session, sometimes even in a competition.

They have more padding than bag gloves and often feature a thumb lock system that prevents accidental eye pokes or other injuries.

The best gloves for MMA sparring are typically used in controlled sparring sessions and are designed to minimize the risk of injury to both fighters. They offer excellent protection to the hands and wrists, allowing fighters to practice their techniques confidently and safely.

Competition Gloves

Competition gloves are specifically designed for use in MMA competitions. These gloves are lighter and smaller than training gloves, allowing fighters to strike with greater accuracy and speed. They have less padding than sparring gloves, allowing more precise striking techniques.

Competition gloves are heavily regulated by the athletic commission and must meet specific criteria regarding size, weight, and padding thickness to ensure the safety of the fighters. The pair of the best gloves for MMA competition is essential for any MMA fighter who wants to compete at a high level.

Hybrid Gloves

Hybrid gloves are a versatile and flexible option for fighters who need gloves that can be used for both training and sparring.

They offer more padding than competition gloves, making them suitable for sparring sessions, but less padding than sparring gloves, which allows for greater flexibility and precision during training drills.

Hybrid gloves (the best gloves for MMA all-around workout) often feature an open-palm design that provides greater grip and flexibility for grappling, submission techniques, and clinch game. They also have a wrist closure system that provides extra support and protection to the wrists, making them an excellent choice for fighters who want a glove that can be used in various training settings.

Best MMA Gloves For Beginners

These gloves are designed specifically for new fighters just starting to train in mixed martial arts. They are usually lighter and more affordable than other gloves and often have extra padding to help protect the hands during training sessions.

Gloves for beginners typically have a simpler design than other gloves, making them easier to take on and off. The best gloves for MMA newbies are an excellent choice for anyone who is just starting in MMA and wants a glove that is both affordable and functional.

Custom-Made MMA Gloves

Have you ever heard of a special model of custom-made MMA gloves for the needs of a specific fighter? For example, some professionals demand specific MMA competition gloves that fit the shape of their hands or wrist. They are also known as the best gloves for MMA professionals or very advanced athletes.

Features To Look For When Buying The Best MMA Gloves

There are many tricky parameters when you’re buying MMA gloves. Sometimes the difference between MMA grappling gloves and the greatest heavy bag model is very small. We will guide you through the list of qualities you should be looking for when you decide to obtain your new gloves.

Pro-Grade Padding

The padding on MMA gloves is an important feature to consider. It protects the knuckles and back of the hand from impact during sparring, heavy bag training, and competition. How to recognize your candidate for the best MMA gloves?

Good quality gloves will have multiple layers of foam padding, which can absorb shock and distribute it evenly across the glove’s surface. Some gloves have additional padding around the wrist and thumb areas, which can help protect these vulnerable areas from injury. I say you should give an advantage to multiple layers of padding.

Custom Contouring

A good fit is essential for comfort, performance, and safety. YOUR best gloves for MMA should fit snugly but not so tight that they cut off circulation or cause discomfort.

The thumb should be positioned correctly, and the fingers should be able to move freely without slipping around inside the glove. Some gloves come with adjustable straps or closures, allowing a customized fit and extra support (my favorite pick).

Battle-Tested Durability

MMA gloves take a lot of abuse, so choosing a pair that can hold up to frequent use is essential. Look for gloves made from high-quality synthetic leather, durable and resistant to wear and tear.

The best gloves for MMA offer good-quality stitching and reinforcement in high-stress areas, such as seams. It can also improve the gloves’ lifespan.

Breathable Comfort

MMA gloves can get hot and sweaty during training and competition, which can lead to discomfort and skin irritation. Gloves with breathable materials and ventilation holes can help keep your hands cool and dry.

Are you looking for a pair of the best gloves for MMA? Look for the ones that are designed with mesh panels or perforations that allow for airflow and moisture-wicking.

Rule-Compliant Design

If you plan to compete in MMA, choosing gloves that comply with the regulations set forth by the athletic commission is crucial. These regulations typically specify the gloves’ size, weight, and padding thickness.

It’s essential to select the best gloves for MMA that meet these criteria to ensure you can compete safely and legally. Additionally, some gloves may be approved for use in certain promotions or organizations but not in others. Please check the specific rules and regulations that apply to your situation.

Common Questions About The Best MMA Gloves

Enjoy Your New Best MMA Gloves

RDX MMA is the quality-price ratio emperor on our list of the best MMA gloves and a lovely pick for all-around fighters and fans of classic UFC and MMA.
Built to last with breathable pinholes and extra support around your wrist, this model saves your budget and lets you progress and improve the speed of your strikes, techniques, throws, and transitions. RDX are the best MMA gloves for fighters who don’t want to change gear all the time in the combined training session.