A beginner’s guide to the different types of MMA gloves

June 19, 2008 · Filed Under MMA Gloves 

Choosing the correct MMA gloves can be somewhat confusing because there are so many different types of MMA gloves available. The best way to avoid any confusion is to learn the main types of MMA gloves and the specialized purpose they serve. There are three main categories:

1. Sparring Gloves

2. Bag Gloves

3. Fight Gloves

Although there are some gloves that can work for two or even all of these categories, we highly recommend getting a separate pair from each category. The main reasons are: your gloves will last longer and each type will be better suited to prevent injury in different applications.

1. Sparring Gloves:

MMA sparring gloves type

Sparring gloves are designed specifically for protecting both MMA fighter and used only during practice bouts. It’s very important that you buy gloves that clearly state that it is suitable for sparring; check the label and description thoroughly. If you get the wrong gloves, you can seriously injure your sparring partner.There are basically two types of sparring gloves: (A) ones that look like traditional MMA gloves and have individual fingers slots or (B) gloves that have a large padded striking area and finger loops. Both types are sufficient for sparring and it really comes down to personal preference, I personally like the ones with individual finger slots. Also notice that the sparring gloves have more padding than other gloves.

2. Bag Gloves

:bag-mma-glove-type

These bag gloves are cushioned to protect the MMA fighter against the increasingly heavier forces of striking heavy bags and striking pads. Typically, these gloves have increased wrist support and more compact and dense padding. Some bag gloves may have a grip bar built into the glove. Remember do not hit a heavy bag unless wearing the proper bag gloves and do not use bag gloves for sparring, you will injure your partner.

3. Fight Gloves:

MMA fight gloves type

These gloves are also designed to protect both MMA fighter , but have a lot less padding than sparring gloves. Fight gloves are designed for real competition. Some MMA sparring gloves can be used for fighting, but many of them are 5 ounces and larger and may not be legal for MMA competition. Check with your fight organization. Fight gloves are usually 4 oz, and they have little to no padding.DO NOT USE TO TO SPAR.

A note on MMA handwraps: Many people do not use them when practicing MMA, but they are highly recommended.A serious hand injury can keep you out of training for months. Your hands are a very important asset and it is worth the time to wrap them. Also, you will have to have wrapped hands during MMA competition, so it is nice to get use to it. If you are having problems fitting your wraps into MMA gloves, many brands now sell MMA wraps, which are shorter and narrower wraps. These may also be called junior or kids wraps.

Buy MMA Training Gloves: Hayabusa, Everlast, Title, Combat Sports starting at $39.99

Comments

3 Responses to “A beginner’s guide to the different types of MMA gloves”

  1. Andy on March 6th, 2009 10:46 am

    Great article -thanks for the advice!
    Just bought a pair of Booster MMA gloves but i’m not sure whether they are sparring gloves or fight gloves (they look so similar!)

    Please help.

  2. Keeping your MMA gloves in good condition | MMA GEAR GUIDE on September 10th, 2009 3:13 am

    [...] sparring gloves, bag gloves, and mma gloves separate; don’t use the same pair for each task. (MMA Gloves Types) It will cost more in the beginning to buy multiple pairs, but the gloves will last much much [...]

  3. 5 Recommended MMA Gear for Beginners | MMA GEAR GUIDE on August 23rd, 2010 6:10 pm

    [...] A Beginner’s Guide to the Different Types of MMA Gloves [...]

Leave a Reply