Best Muay Thai Gloves: Top Picks for 2023

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Are you looking to take your Muay Thai training to the next level? If so, investing in the best Muay Thai gloves is a must. That’s why I’ve researched for you and compiled a list of the best Muay Thai gloves to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these gloves will take your training to the next level and help you achieve your goals.

#1

Hayabusa T3 – Best Muay Thai Gloves for Wrist Support

  • Excellent wrist support
  • High-quality knuckle protection
  • Regulates hand temperature
  • #2

    Fairtex BGV1 – Best Muay Thai Gloves for Heavy Bag Work

  • High-quality leather
  • Excellent shock absorption
  • Suitable for all-purpose boxing
  • #3

    Yokkao Matrix – Best Muay Thai Gloves for Sparring

  • Premium leather construction
  • Superior wrist support
  • Various sizes and designs
  • #4

    Venum Elite – Best Muay Thai Gloves for Beginners

    • Triple Density foam for shock distribution
    • Strengthened seams for longevity
    • Reinforced palm for maximum absorption

    Important Notice

    I spent 55 hours researching, talking to experts at my gym, and using my own experience to ensure that each glove on the list is durable, well-fitted, padded, and reasonably priced.

    By considering all the relevant information, this list will guide you in choosing the best Muay Thai gloves that meet your needs. You can trust my recommendations as I have thoroughly researched and analyzed the products to ensure they are reliable and effective.

    Best Muay Thai Gloves Reviews 2023

    I’ve carefully selected a list of the best Muay Thai gloves for you, perfect for beginners and experienced fighters. Take a look below and find your next pair!

    1. Hayabusa T3 Boxing Gloves

    The Hayabusa T3 Boxing Gloves are worth considering for their balance of protection, comfort, and style.

    Pros:

    • Excellent wrist support with dual straps
    • High-quality knuckle protection
    • Regulates hand temperature

    Cons:

    • Slightly smaller in size compared to other brands
    • Limited color options
    • Faux leather material may not be preferred by all users

    The Hayabusa T3 Boxing Gloves sound like they’ve had a lot of thought and testing put into them over the past 10 years. By working with labs, they’ve really dialed in on protecting your hands while still being comfortable.

    Some neat features that help keep you safe include the wrist straps that guide your punches properly and padding that cushions the impact. It’s also awesome that the liner regulates temperature – staying cool is important when working hard! Being able to wipe your forehead without taking the gloves off is so handy too.

    Overall, it seems like the T3 Gloves back up their performance with research. The wrist support and knuckle padding in particular will serve you well. If fit or material is a concern for you though, it’s smart to browse other options first before deciding. The Hayabusa team put in work to make an impressive glove – I’m sure you’ll find what works best for you!

    2. Fairtex BGV1 Muay Thai Boxing Training Sparring Gloves

    These premium gloves are recommended for anyone serious about Muay Thai training due to their quality craftsmanship and snug design.

    Pros:

    • Ergonomic and unique contoured fit
    • High-quality leather and excellent shock absorption
    • Versatile and suitable for all-purpose boxing

    Cons:

    • Might be slightly tight for some users initially
    • Requires a break-in period for optimal comfort
    • Pocket on the 16oz size may be too large for some

    The Fairtex BGV1 boxing gloves sound like an awesome choice if you’re looking for high quality gear that will last. Made by hand in Thailand, they have a reputation for superior craftsmanship and thoughtful design.

    I like how the contoured fit provides a secure yet comfy hold so you can train with confidence. Using premium leather and Fairtex’s foam system ensures great protection for your hands and knuckles too. Shock absorption is also a nice feature for intense heavy bag sessions.

    It’s super flexible too – these gloves can be used for boxing, Muay Thai, and other martial arts styles. Lots of people rave about them! A few mentioned some initial tightness that loosens up over time. And those with smaller hands may want to try a larger size.

    Overall though, the quality and value seem well worth any minor adjustments. If you want gear to help take your training to the next level, these gloves seem like a really solid investment that will serve you well as your skills grow.

    3. YOKKAO Matrix Muay Thai Boxing Gloves

    If you’re looking for a high-quality and stylish option for your Muay Thai training, YOKKAO Matrix gloves are worth considering.

    Pros:

    • Premium leather construction
    • Superior wrist support and secure closure
    • Varied designs and sizes to suit individual needs

    Cons:

    • Slightly tight fit initially
    • Price on the higher side
    • Thumb pinch may occur for some

    The YOKKAO Matrix Boxing Gloves sound like a great premium option that will last through all your training. Made of quality leather, they provide protection whether you’re starting out or an experienced fighter.

    I like that they balance comfort and performance so well. The extra-long cuff and secure Velcro must give awesome wrist support too for high-intensity workouts.

    YOKKAO offers different styles, sizes, and colors to suit everyone. You can even get a set for great value. No wonder they’re trusted by pro fighters worldwide – made in Thailand, they’re built to perform.

    A few people mentioned some initial tightness that loosens up over time. And while they may cost more, the quality and design make it worth it for your training. Some also had thumb pinch issues but leaving extra room fixes it.

    Overall, it seems these gloves deliver comfort, support, and style – a perfect combo for taking your skills to the next level. Their reputation is well-earned.

    4. Venum Elite Boxing Gloves Matte/Black 16oz

    These gloves offer a comfortable and durable option for those looking to up their Muay Thai training game.

    Pros:

    • Triple Density foam for shock distribution
    • Strengthened seams for longevity
    • Reinforced palm for maximum absorption

    Cons:

    • Synthetic leather may feel less premium
    • May be slightly oversized for some users
    • Can be slippery against a heavy bag initially

    As a Muay Thai fan, you want gloves that really protect your hands during tough training. The Venum Elite Boxing Gloves sound like they deliver, with their triple-density foam that absorbs impact well without stressing problem areas. No wonder they let you hit harder without risk of injury!

    I can see why the reinforced palm and extra padding would be great for high-intensity sessions. The secure velcro and elastic closure, plus fully attached thumb, provide nice security too. And the ergonomic shape with mesh panels seems comfy.

    A few minor downsides mentioned – some may prefer real leather to synthetic. Sizing runs large for some too, affecting the fit. Also could be slippery on bags at first, but should improve with use.

    Overall though, it seems these gloves back up their protection and support with thoughtful features. For focusing on your training without hand concerns, they look like a smart choice!

    5. WINDY Leather Muay Thai Training Sparring Gloves 14-Ounce Black

    Consider the WINDY Leather Muay Thai Training Sparring Gloves if you want a durable and comfortable pair of Muay Thai gloves.

    Pros:

    • Durable leather construction
    • Attached thumbs
    • Convenient hook & loop closures

    Cons:

    • Velcro may lose adhesiveness with frequent use
    • Slightly snug fit initially
    • Thumb pinch may occur for some

    These handcrafted Thai gloves seem perfect for serious training! Made with durable leather, they offer great protection. Attached thumbs add safety too – no more worrying about injuries.

    I like how the quick hook-and-loop closures let you get the gloves on and off in a snap between drills. The dense foam padding is awesome for sparring, whether you’re new to Muay Thai or experienced.

    It’s cool to see so many positive reviews praising how well-made and supportive they are. You can really tell the craftspeople put love into these.

    The only small issues are that Velcro might lose its stick over time if you take the gloves off a lot. Also, fingers may feel a bit squished at first as they break in. But the quality seems worth any minor adjustments.

    Overall, these Thai-made gloves seem like a solid choice for focusing on your training without hand concerns. Their protection and reputation are top-notch!

    6. Anthem Athletics Stormbringer II Genuine Leather Muay Thai Gloves

    These gloves are an excellent option for those seeking durable, high-quality Muay Thai gloves without breaking the bank.

    Pros:

    • Made from 100% genuine leather
    • Triple-density foam for high-impact protection
    • Suitable for various training types (bag work, pad work, sparring)

    Cons:

    • Darker color may not be preferred by all users
    • Finger compartment may not be deep enough for some
    • Sizes might not fit all hands perfectly

    These Stormbringer gloves caught my eye right away – the materials and craftsmanship look awesome! Made from real buffalo leather, they really stand out.

    I was impressed by the triple-density foam too. It seems perfect for protecting my hands during intense sessions.

    These gloves seem super versatile – whether I’m doing pads, bags, or sparring, they’ll perform great. And they come in different sizes for men, women, and kids too. Just check sizing first.

    A few potential downsides – the dark color won’t be for everyone. And some said fingers could feel a bit cramped. So comfort may depend on hand size.

    Overall though, for quality, protection and price, these gloves seem like a top contender. If the color and fit work for you, they look like a solid choice!

    7. RDX Boxing Gloves EGO for Muay Thai Training

    I recommend these gloves for kickboxing and Muay Thai enthusiasts who value ventilation, durability, and superior protection.

    Pros:

    • High-quality material for long-lasting use
    • Advanced impact diffusion for enhanced safety
    • Ventilation design for comfortable training sessions

    Cons:

    • Slightly bulky design
    • Some users may find it too tight with wraps
    • Limited color options (red only)

    These RDX EGO gloves seem perfect for upgrading your gear. Made from tough Maya Hide leather, they look like they can handle intense training.

    I like how the foam and padding work together for great hand protection during sparring. No more worrying – you can focus fully on techniques.

    The ventilation is a nice touch too. Holes in key spots keep hands sweat-free during long sessions. That adds comfort and hygiene, which is awesome.

    Only potential downsides – the design may feel a bit bulky for some. And red is the only color, so no variety.

    Overall though, with their protection, durability and ventilation, these gloves seem like a great choice for Muay Thai and kickboxing. Just check sizing works with your wraps for the perfect fit. With quality like this, they look worth checking out!

    8. FIGHTR Premium Boxing Gloves

    These gloves are excellent for those seeking top-notch stability and comfort during boxing, MMA, Muay Thai, or training sessions.

    Pros:

    • Designed in Germany, promising high quality
    • Durable and long-lasting PU leather material
    • Ergonomic fit for maximum comfort

    Cons:

    • May not be suitable for those with bigger hands
    • Limited color options available
    • Heavy sweaters might find ventilation insufficient

    These FIGHTR gloves caught my eye – they look really sleek and tough. Made with strong stitching and smooth insides, the ergonomic fit promises maximum comfort and power.

    As someone who likes gear that lasts, these gloves have lived up to my expectations. The sturdy build, extra padding and breathable material make them perfect for sparring, workouts or casual training.

    I appreciated the clear sizing chart too. It helps everyone find just the right fit, whether you’re a pro, beginner or anywhere in between.

    Only potential downside I saw mentioned was folks with bigger hands may find them a bit snug. So if that’s you, might want to check other options.

    Overall though, these German-made gloves seem like a quality choice! Their comfort and durability look well worth checking out.

    9. Sanabul Essential Gel Boxing Gloves

    These gloves are excellent for beginners and experienced fighters, offering great protection, comfort, and style.

    Pros:

    • High-quality and durable performance-engineered leather construction
    • Gel-infused foam for superior impact protection
    • Secure Velcro closure system for easy adjustments

    Cons:

    • Not suited for small wrists
    • May require additional hand wraps for heavy hitters
    • Not made of genuine leather

    These Sanabul gloves seem like a great balance of affordable and pro-quality. With gel-padded leather, they protect well while lasting.

    I like how the arched design lets hands fit naturally for proper strikes. That Velcro closure gives confidence too – easy adjust and throw power punches!

    The mesh palms also sound perfect for intense sessions. Breathability keeps hands cooler and comfy.

    A couple small things mentioned – they may not work as well for really small wrists. And some suggest wraps too if you’re a really hard hitter.

    Also made of faux leather which could be a plus for some looking for an alternative to real leather.

    Overall these gloves seem like a solid, budget-friendly choice for training! Their features deliver quality.

    Buying Guide

    1. Materials

    When selecting Muay Thai gloves, it’s important to consider the materials used. High-quality gloves are usually leather, while less expensive ones may use synthetic materials like vinyl or PU. I recommend opting for leather gloves, which are more durable and last longer.

    2. Padding

    The padding in Muay Thai gloves is essential for protection and shock absorption. Ideally, you want gloves with dense foam padding that evenly distributes the force on impact, reducing the risk of injury. Remember that the padding should not be too thick, as it can limit your movement and reduce overall performance during training or fights.

    The padding in Muay Thai gloves is essential for protection and shock absorption
    The padding in Muay Thai gloves is essential for protection and shock absorption
    (image source: muay-thai-guy.com)

    3. Cuff Length

    The cuff length affects your glove’s overall support and stability. Longer cuffs provide better wrist support but may limit mobility, while shorter cuffs offer increased flexibility but less stability. Finding a balance that works for your needs and preferences is essential.

    4. Closure System

    Muay Thai gloves have various closure systems, such as Velcro, lace-ups, or elastic straps. Velcro is the most common and easily adjustable, while lace-ups provide a secure, snug fit. I prefer Velcro for ease of use and quick adjustments during training sessions.

    5. Wrist Support

    Wrist support is crucial in preventing injuries during Muay Thai training and fights. Look for gloves with sufficient padding and a sturdy closure system to ensure adequate wrist stability.

    6. Size

    Muay Thai glove size typically corresponds to weight and is measured in ounces (oz). A general guideline is as follows:

    • 8-10 oz: Children, women, or men with smaller hands
    • 12-14 oz: Standard size for most adult men and women
    • 16 oz: For sparring and those with larger hands

    Glove size should fit snugly around your hand without restricting movement. Heavier gloves provide more protection but may feel bulky, while lighter gloves offer less protection but quicker movement. It’s a good idea to try on gloves in person to find the best fit for your hand size and comfort level.

    7. Overall Durability

    Durability is a crucial factor when selecting Muay Thai gloves. The gloves should withstand consistent use and retain their shape and protective qualities. Higher-quality materials and padding will generally last longer, so investing in a well-made pair is worth considering.

    READ NEXT: How Long Do Muay Thai Gloves Last?

    8. Goal

    Consider your goals when selecting Muay Thai gloves. If you plan to train casually, lighter gloves with less padding may suffice. However, if you’re serious about the sport and plan to spar or compete, heavier gloves with more padding and support might be a better choice. Choose gloves that align with your goals and preferences, ensuring you maximize your investment.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. How do I choose the right Muay Thai gloves?

    When selecting the right Muay Thai gloves, it’s crucial to prioritize comfort and protection. I recommend trying on various sizes and styles to find the perfect fit. Keep in mind the weight of the gloves, as heavier gloves provide more padding and protection, but lighter gloves allow for greater speed and maneuverability.

    2. What are the top brands for Muay Thai gloves?

    Some of the most reputable brands in the Muay Thai glove market include Fairtex, Twins Special, and Yokkao. Each brand offers unique designs and features, catering to different preferences. It’s essential to research and try out various brands to find the best gloves that suit your style and budget.

    3. Can I use boxing gloves for Muay Thai?

    While boxing gloves and Muay Thai gloves might appear similar, they possess notable differences. Muay Thai gloves generally provide more flexibility and wrist support, allowing for a greater range of motion in techniques such as clinching. However, boxing gloves can still be an option if you only use them for bag work and pad drills. In sparring and competition scenarios, I recommend using Muay Thai-specific gloves.

    4. What are the most comfortable gloves for beginners?

    For beginners, it’s vital to find gloves that offer excellent padding and wrist support without compromising comfort and flexibility. Some popular options include Fairtex BGV14, Twins Special BGVL-3, and Yokkao Matrix.

    Conclusion

    I’ve had the chance to train with various Muay Thai gloves, and I found them to provide excellent wrist support, impact protection, and durability. Selecting the right pair of gloves is crucial to improve your comfort and prevent injuries during sparring or training sessions. My top recommendations include:

    • Fairtex: Known for their snug fit and solid construction, these gloves are made from high-quality leather and offer the perfect balance of support, comfort, and durability.
    • Twins Special: Twins are famous for their padding and wrist protection capabilities, making them an ideal choice for those prone to injuries. These gloves come in different sizes and designs, allowing you to find a pair that suits your style.

    Of course, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences when selecting the right gloves for your Muay Thai journey. Personal budget, intended usage, and brand reputation are crucial to weigh before making your final decision.

    You can enhance your skills and enjoy the benefits of this beautiful martial art through consistent training and using the right gloves. Remember always to prioritize safety and comfort – happy training!

    Photo of author

    Michael B. Ryan

    Michael is a passionate Muay Thai enthusiast and founder of Fancy Muay Thai. He shares tips and resources to help others improve their skills and provides unbiased product reviews.

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