Ranking of the best gloves for MMA and UFC in 2024

In mixed martial arts (also MMA), as in any field of combat sports conducted by the UFC fighting organization, equipment plays an important role. This is especially true for special gloves, which are pads for hands with open fingers: they soften blows, protect the hand from injuries, and allow you to fight without restriction of movement.

Here's a ranking of the best MMA and UFC gloves in 2024 based on athlete feedback.

How to choose gloves for MMA and UFC

The choice of gloves for MMA and UFC is important for any athlete to take seriously, paying attention to a number of nuances. Main selection criteria:

• category;
• the size;
• design characteristics;
• manufacturer.

Category

MMA gloves can be divided into two categories:

1. training;
2. fighting.

Training - for novice fighters, there are closed or open ones with an additional protective element on the thumb and fist. The impact surface is made solid, with a thick layer of foam filler to avoid injury. They have similarities with boxing, shell. Suitable for sparring, training on apparatus.

Manufacturers pay attention not only to striking ability, but also to the ability to practice wrestling skills. Therefore, the wrist area is protected from enemy blows due to dense padding.

Distinctive features of training models:

• more weight (9 ounces and above);
• round shape (for practicing the technique of the blow);
• separated fingers (for grappling, strangulation and gripping);
• maximum safety of the athlete and the opponent.

Combat - are intended for professional tournaments in the discipline, therefore they are compact, thin, lightweight. The filler layer is thinner, the protective surface is smaller, the fight is comfortable and the impact is greater. There is no emphasis on the safety of the enemy's appearance, therefore, in battle, you can get bruises, cuts in the skin of the face or a fracture of the nose.

In addition to the standard models with a closed thumb, under which you do not need to bandage your hand, there are open ones - professional for easy sparring with the practice of throwing and painful techniques. The palm is covered with material, which allows you to take the grip without interference. Models with an open palm are suitable for training sparring.

The protective thumb pad is either missing or mediocre, since it is made of the glove material. Foam padded protection between striker and retainer.

Characteristics of combat gloves:

• light weight (4-7 ounces);
• no additional protection (exceptions are pairs with a protected thumb);
• different styles with open phalanges;
• minimum enemy security.

The size

There are four sizes in the size line of gloves for MMA and UFC: S, M, L, XL. Universal ones are divided into two types:

• S / M - children and teenagers;
• L / XL - adults.

The size of the MMA gloves depends on the weight of the athlete. Since during manufacturing, an allowance of 1.5 cm is made to each size, then when choosing it is advisable to take those that are one size smaller than yours.

For children and adults weighing up to 75 kg, it is appropriate to choose sizes S, M. For adults weighing over 75 kg, models L are suitable, from 90 kg - XL. If you do not plan to bandage your hand, then backlash is not allowed.

A common newbie mistake is deliberately buying a larger size. This threatens with injuries (sprains, dislocations, fractures of the hand), gives a strong load, which ultimately interferes with the training process.
The second selection method is to measure the girth of the right hand. When measuring, the measuring tape runs along the tubercles of the line of the base of the fingers. The resulting number corresponds to the size:

The size	Girth, cm
S	15 - 18
M	18.5 - 20 .5
L	21 - 23
XL	23.5 - 25

Before purchasing, it is appropriate to measure the circumference of the wrist to compare with the length of the anchorage strap. For beginners, the optimal ratio is 1: 2, or even better 1: 3. This allows you to make 2-3 turns of the wrist strap, minimizing the risk of sprains.

Design features

Design features affecting the popularity of models:

• quality of materials;
• fixation.

The quality of the materials. Gloves depend on maneuverability, power of impact, performance of grips and wrestling techniques, in other words - the safety and health of the athlete. Therefore, you should not save on quality.

When deciding which one is better to buy, it is advisable to give preference to models made of natural high-quality materials. Main advantages: durability and safety.

Genuine leather is the most common material for making models for professionals. With high-quality processing, leather serves for a long time without losing its appearance and functionality, even under conditions of aggressive use in contact sports.

PU leather is the second most popular glove material for MMA and UFC, mainly for training. Combines the qualities of genuine leather (strength, elasticity, breathability, hypoallergenicity) at a lower price. Models made of polyurethane leather are durable, comfortable, lightweight, do not cause sweating and allergies, which makes them different from other types of artificial leather.

For some reduction in price and affordability, a combination of natural (shock part) and polyurethane leather (Velcro, back side) is used. Such models have the advantage: moisture entering the polyurethane area is immediately removed.

Cheap leatherette (leatherette) - used in budget models. They are not of high quality and durability. Suitable for beginners who try their hand at MMA.

For the lining material, the main qualities are a snug fit of the hand and moisture absorption. Therefore, manufacturers more often use adsorbent germicidal materials. Thanks to this, athletes' hands do not sweat. To avoid unpleasant odors, some brands use a special antibacterial impregnation treatment with the function of absorbing odors.

As a filler, multilayer foam is traditionally used, which allows damping shocks and protecting the hands of athletes from damage and injury. Some models add gel-filled earbuds for better thumb and fist protection. In cheap models, the filler quickly knocks down, loses its elasticity, and its protective properties are significantly reduced.

Fixation. MMA gloves are fixed on the wrist with a special Velcro fastener, which provides a snug fit for the safety of the hands.

What are the clips:

• with single velcro - in most models;
• with double - the most reliable.

The latch allows you to freely perform the necessary techniques. This minimizes the risk of injury due to hand dangling inside the glove.

Manufacturer

Brand choice is important for athletes. The best manufacturers in this area:

1. Hayabusa is a manufacturer of premium leather gloves, the average price of which is very high due to the use of environmentally friendly quality materials. Models are sewn by hand.
2. Green Hill is a well-known brand. The popularity of the models is due to the high quality and reasonable price.
3. Venum - offers a huge range of products in various designs and colors. Models are sewn from genuine leather and inexpensive polyurethane.
4. RDX is a well-known English brand. Models with a wide range of colors. The quality has no complaints, the products serve for years.
5. UFC - quality is on the level, but prices are too high, so not all athletes turn to this brand. A small minus in the poverty of the colors of the produced models.

Which brand is better - the buyer decides, based on the purchase goals and advice of experienced fighters.

Recommendations when choosing gloves for MMA and UFC

Buying MMA gloves is an important step for an athlete. Recommendations for choosing:

1. The best way to choose a size is by fitting. Try to do this, if possible, giving preference to a real one, not an online store.
2. Pay attention to the fit of the hand: it should be free, without additional effort, clenched into a fist. At the same time, it should not be squeezed so that the blood flow is not disturbed.
3. When choosing models with a closed or open palm, it is preferable to choose the latter: during perspiration, it will not soak, accumulating unpleasant odors, it is easier and more convenient to fix the grip in it.
4. The velcro should be wide, strong and wrapped tightly in two to three turns around the wrist.
5. If you plan to bandage your hand, then the glove should sit loosely, but not dangle on your hand.
6. When choosing, give preference to models made of natural materials and high-quality synthetics. This will ensure a long service life of the product, prevent palms sweating, unpleasant odors and allergic reactions.

Rating of the best gloves for MMA and UFC

We offer a rating of high-quality popular models for MMA and UFC with a description of the advantages and disadvantages.

Green Hill Combat Sambo

A reliable training model for MMA and grappling made from a combination of genuine and PU leather. Strong, durable, with good thumb protection. Thanks to the open phalanges and the pad on the striking surface of the fist, they allow you to perform blows, grips, throws. Can be used in training, competition, in battles of any complexity.

Average price: 1900 rubles.

• durability, strength;
• elastic filler;
• moisture-absorbing skin;
• reliable thumb protection;
• maximum comfort when squeezing;
• price-quality ratio.

• fixing belt in one turn.

Everlast Pro Style Grapping

Reliable combat gloves in an updated design have already become popular among buyers. Quality PU leather and ergonomic design ensure functionality and durability. Velcro strap contributes to the comfortable fit and fixation of the wrist. An open palm allows you to perform various wrestling techniques and grips. A special padding of elastic gel reliably protects the fist from injury.

Average price: 2500 rubles.

• quality materials;
• hygroscopic and antibacterial lining;
• dense gel filler;
• open palm;
• price-quality ratio.

• there is no thumb protection;
• fixing belt in one turn.

Venum Challenger Neo Black

Perfect for fighting and training. Crafted by hand from durable PU leather. Combination closure on wide, adjustable strap with two Velcro straps secures your wrist securely. High density foam will provide protection against injury.

Average price: 4500 rubles.

• aggressive style;
• a light weight;
• open palm is comfortable for gripping;
• secure closure with adjustable long Velcro cuff;
• material strength, strong double seams;
• correct anatomical shape;
• multilayer foam filler.

• not found.

RDX Leather Gel Tech Grapping Gloves

One of the most popular training models of a renowned brand due to its increased comfort and excellent functionality.High-quality natural materials are used: coarse-grain leather and an absorbent lining with an antibacterial effect. The three-layer, integrated gel filling perfectly protects the thumb and fist from injury, absorbing even the most powerful blows of the enemy. The hand in them does not sweat, does not slip, does not feel discomfort. The wrist is secured with a long Velcro strap. Powerful firmware ensures long service life.

Average price: 6280 rubles.

• quality materials;
• durability;
• reliable fixation in several turns;
• antibacterial lining;
• powerful shock absorption of the gel filler;
• ergonomic design provides comfort.

• not found.

Hayabusa Tokushu 4OZ Hayglove027

Many athletes choose this model. It is distinguished by its exclusive design, perfect fit on the hand in any position. Soft piping provides a snug fit and comfort around the thumb. The filler is positioned in segments, which facilitates free fist clenching. The absorbent material of the lining completely absorbs moisture, and the natural leather from which the gloves are made allows them to breathe, preventing the appearance of unpleasant odors inside. A secure fit system stabilizes the wrist.

Average price: 6900 rubles.

• wear resistance, durability;
• exclusive design
• high-quality filler and lining material;
• filler segmentation;
• soft edging of seams adjacent to the skin;
• secure fit with a long Velcro strap is adjustable;
• stretching along the arm provides comfort in use.

• no thumb protection.

Title MMGBG

The training model is suitable for sparring and training on apparatus. Handcrafted from durable genuine leather for durability, extra protection. The Enforced Lining gel filler has excellent shock-absorbing properties while protecting the joints of the toes. Freedom of movement of the hand is provided by the segmented structure of the filler on the back of the hand.

The model with open fingers and a palm promotes airing of the hand, the free performance of wrestling techniques. A convenient part of the glove is a special elastic bar at the base of the fingers. The leather strap with Velcro strap helps control the fit and provides additional protection for the wrist.

Average price: 3990 rubles.

• natural materials;
• durability and strength;
• segmented filler structure;
• the presence of a bar for a fist;
• long velcro strap.

• fixing belt in one turn.

Venum attack gloves

Comfortable and reliable gloves for training and sparring made of high-quality polyurethane leather. The fixing system deserves special attention. It consists of several Velcro fasteners: one secures the wrist in size, the second and the third when wrapping the strap around the wrist. Thumb and impact protector made of high density foam. The seams are made with extra strong threads. The model is distinguished by its original design. The company logo is depicted in the form of a print on the top and a 3D design on the cuff.

Average price: 7750 rubles.

• high quality polyurethane leather;
• moisture-absorbing quick-drying lining;
• high density foam filler;
• thumb protection;
• reliable fixation system of several fasteners;
• high degree of comfort during operation.

• high price.

The proposed review of the most popular models of gloves for MMA and UFC will help in answering the question of how to choose the best ones, how much this or that model costs, what advantages it has and what disadvantages you should pay attention to.