Best MMA Gloves for Heavy Bag

MMA, or Mixed Martial Arts, is an evolving sport that demands the best equipment for optimal performance and safety. In 2023, several brands stand out from the rest, offering unmatched protection, durability, and comfort. Below we discuss some of the best MMA gloves for heavy bag training this year.

Quick Answer

Our Top Picks

Fairtex MMA Sparring Gloves – For professionals seeking top-tier quality and durability.
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Hayabusa T3 MMA Gloves – For fighters wanting optimal wrist support and knuckle protection.
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Venum Challenger MMA Gloves – For enthusiasts looking for a balance between cost and performance.
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RDX MMA Gloves – For budget-conscious practitioners prioritizing shock absorption.
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Everlast Mixed Martial Arts Heavy Bag Gloves – For those who trust legacy brands and require extended durability.
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Liberlupus MMA Gloves – For fighters who prioritize comfort and shock absorption.
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Brace Master MMA Gloves – For both men and women seeking an ergonomic fit.
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Hawk Sports Boxing Gloves – For those who want a combination of style and protection.
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Title MMA Command Bag Gloves – For practitioners who value established expertise and a comfortable fit.
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Combat Sports Pro Style MMA Gloves – For professionals aiming for a glove tailored to heavy bag workouts
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Best Gloves for Heavy Bag Bag Review

Fairtex MMA Sparring Gloves

Rating: 9.5*

Details:

The Fairtex MMA Sparring Gloves are the embodiment of excellence, meticulously crafted for fighters who demand superior protection during intense training sessions. Designed with the rigors of MMA in mind, these gloves boast a durable leather exterior, ensuring resilience against the toughest of strikes and longevity in the face of relentless use. Internally, multi-layered high-density foam offers impeccable shock absorption, safeguarding hands and wrists from potential injuries. The open-palm design ensures maximum flexibility, allowing for optimal grip and grappling techniques. An adjustable wrist strap guarantees a snug fit, adapting to individual preferences and ensuring stability during dynamic movements. Adorned with the revered Fairtex emblem, these gloves not only provide unparalleled protection but also exude a sense of prestige and commitment to the sport. For dedicated MMA practitioners, the Fairtex Sparring Gloves are a true mark of quality.

Specs:

• Genuine leather
• Velcro wrist strap
• Multi-layered foam padding

My experiment

Upon first wear, Fairtex’s craftsmanship was evident. The gloves molded comfortably to my hands, offering both protection and flexibility. Their quality leather construction ensured durability, while the wrist support kept me confident during intense sparring sessions. I did notice a brief break-in period, but once surpassed, they felt like an extension of my hands. Overall, the balance between protection and functionality was commendable, making these gloves a reliable choice for both training and sparring in MMA.

Hayabusa T3 MMA Gloves

Rating:9.4*

Details:

The Hayabusa T3 MMA Gloves represent the pinnacle of combat sports engineering, offering fighters an unmatched combination of protection, functionality, and style. Harnessing advanced technology, these gloves feature a multi-layered foam system that delivers superior shock absorption, ensuring hands are safeguarded even during the most rigorous heavy bag sessions. The unique ergonomic design ensures a natural hand alignment, reducing the risk of strains and promoting powerful punches. The gloves boast a premium leather exterior, guaranteeing durability and resistance against wear and tear. The adjustable dual-strap closure system ensures a secure, custom fit, minimizing unwanted movement. With their sleek aesthetic, accentuated by the iconic Hayabusa logo, the T3 MMA Gloves are not just about performance; they’re a statement of mastery and dedication. For those committed to excellence in MMA, these gloves are the ultimate choice.

Specs:

• Multi-layered foam padding
• Vylar leather exterio
• Dual-strap system

My experiment

Straight out of the box, the Hayabusa T3 gloves impressed with their sleek design. On testing, the multi-layered padding provided superior hand protection without compromising tactile feedback. The Dual-X closure system ensured a snug fit, giving my wrists additional support during intensive bouts. The engineered leather, although initially stiff, adapted well over a few sessions. These gloves not only excelled in protection but also in their ergonomic design, making transitions from strikes to grapples seamless. Overall, the T3 gloves are a testament to Hayabusa’s commitment to quality and performance in MMA gear.

Venum Challenger MMA Gloves

Rating: 9.3*

Details:

The Venum Challenger MMA Gloves stand at the intersection of innovation and tradition, crafted for fighters who seek both performance and style in their gear. Engineered with meticulous precision, these gloves offer a robust layer of protection, using high-density foam to shield hands from the harshest impacts during heavy bag workouts. The durable synthetic leather construction ensures long-lasting resilience against the demands of intense training. Their open-palm design promotes maximum flexibility, allowing fighters to transition seamlessly between striking and grappling. An adjustable wrist strap guarantees a tailored fit, ensuring stability and minimizing the risk of injury. Emblazoned with the distinctive Venum logo, these gloves not only offer top-tier protection but also exude a sense of prestige. For MMA practitioners aiming for the pinnacle of their craft, the Venum Challenger MMA Gloves are an indispensable ally.

Specs:

• Layered foam
• Synthetic leather
• Velcro strap

RDX MMA Gloves

Rating: 9.2*

Details:

The RDX MMA Gloves are the embodiment of combat precision and technological advancement, tailor-made for fighters who demand nothing but the best from their equipment. Crafted with elite materials, these gloves showcase a robust synthetic leather exterior, ensuring they can withstand the rigorous demands of both striking and grappling sessions. Internally, their multi-layered padding system guarantees optimal shock absorption, protecting hands from intense impacts while training on heavy bags. The open-palm design ensures fluidity in movements, allowing for unhindered transitions and grip. An ergonomically designed wrist strap provides a snug fit, ensuring the gloves remain steadfast during dynamic maneuvers. Adorned with the signature RDX branding, these gloves not only offer top-tier performance but also symbolize a commitment to excellence. For MMA enthusiasts, the RDX MMA Gloves stand as an unyielding benchmark in protective gear.

Specs:

• Gel foam padding
• Velcro wrist support
• Synthetic leather exterior

Everlast Mixed Martial Arts Heavy Bag Gloves

Rating: 9.1*

Details:

The Everlast Mixed Martial Arts Heavy Bag Gloves stand as a testament to decades of trusted expertise in combat sports gear. Designed specifically for the rigors of heavy bag training, these gloves provide fighters with the ultimate blend of protection and comfort. Made with a premium synthetic leather finish, they ensure durability and resilience against repeated impacts. Inside, the specialized foam padding offers superior shock absorption, safeguarding knuckles and wrists from potential injuries. The ergonomic design ensures a snug fit, allowing for precision strikes without hindrance. A secure wrist closure system guarantees stability, ensuring the gloves stay in place throughout intensive training sessions. Embellished with the iconic Everlast logo, these gloves not only deliver unparalleled performance but also resonate with a legacy of boxing and MMA excellence. For fighters seeking reliability and protection, these gloves are the gold standard.

Specs:

• Premium synthetic leather
• Full wrist wrap strap
• Enhanced knuckle padding

Liberlupus MMA Gloves

Rating: 9*

Details:

The Liberlupus MMA Gloves are a fusion of contemporary design and unmatched functionality, crafted for modern fighters who yearn for optimal performance. Built for intense combat sessions, these gloves are fabricated with a premium synthetic leather exterior, promising both durability and a sleek aesthetic. Internally, a multi-layer foam padding system ensures that every strike, whether on pads or heavy bags, is cushioned, minimizing the risk to knuckles and joints. Their open-palm design ensures unrestricted flexibility, allowing for seamless transitions between strikes and grappling. The adjustable wrist closure system promises a customized fit, reducing glove movement during high-intensity bouts. Emblazoned with the bold Liberlupus logo, these gloves are more than just protective gear; they’re a statement of ambition and prowess. For fighters keen on blending style with substance, the Liberlupus MMA Gloves are the perfect choice.

Specs:

• Multi-layered foam
• PU leather
• Velcro strap

Brace Master MMA Gloves

Rating: 9*

Details:

The Brace Master MMA Gloves stand as a paragon of protection and design sophistication, meticulously crafted for the dedicated fighter. These gloves offer an unparalleled layer of protection, constructed with a durable synthetic leather exterior designed to withstand the most demanding training sessions. Beneath the surface, a state-of-the-art foam padding system ensures that each strike, whether on heavy bags or opponents, is efficiently cushioned, safeguarding the hands from potential injury. The open-palm design provides fighters with the flexibility they need for both striking accuracy and effective grappling. A robust wrist closure system ensures a secure, snug fit, allowing athletes to train with confidence. Adorned with the distinctive Brace Master branding, these gloves exude professionalism and commitment to the sport. For MMA practitioners seeking both functionality and style, the Brace Master MMA Gloves are an unrivaled choice.

Specs:

• Durable synthetic leather
• Breathable design
• Reinforced stitching

Hawk Sports Boxing Gloves

Rating: 9*

Details:

The Hawk Sports Boxing Gloves are a manifestation of precision engineering and meticulous craftsmanship, tailored for pugilists who seek excellence in every punch. Constructed using robust synthetic leather, these gloves promise enduring performance, resisting wear even after countless training sessions and bouts. Inside, multi-layered foam padding provides a fortress of protection, ensuring hands remain shielded from the harshest impacts. Their ergonomic design offers an intuitive fit, aligning naturally with the hand’s curvature and ensuring optimal power transfer with every strike. A robust Velcro closure system guarantees a snug and adjustable fit, ensuring stability and confidence in the ring. Embellished with the striking Hawk Sports emblem, these gloves are not just about protection—they’re a symbol of ambition and fighting spirit. For those who refuse to settle for second best, Hawk Sports Boxing Gloves are the ultimate choice.

Specs:

• Multi-layered padding
• PU leather
• Velcro wrist support

Title MMA Command Bag Gloves

Rating: 9*

Details:

The Title MMA Command Bag Gloves are where power meets precision, meticulously crafted for the modern MMA practitioner who demands excellence in their gear. Designed specifically for bag work, these gloves ensure maximum protection while delivering devastating blows. Constructed using high-quality materials, their exterior is both durable and resilient, built to withstand the continuous impacts of rigorous training sessions. Internally, a sophisticated padding system disperses shock effectively, safeguarding knuckles and ensuring prolonged hand health. The ergonomic design ensures a perfect fit, minimizing glove movement and enhancing strike accuracy. A reliable closure system guarantees ease of wear and a snug embrace. Adorned with the iconic Title MMA branding, these gloves radiate prestige and commitment to the sport. For those seeking to command their training sessions, the Command Bag Gloves are an unbeatable ally.

Specs:

• Genuine leather
• Multi-layered foam padding
• Full wrist wrap

Combat Sports Pro Style MMA Gloves

Rating: 9*

Details:

The Combat Sports Pro Style MMA Gloves stand as the epitome of professional-grade combat gear, blending classic design with innovative functionality tailored for elite fighters. Crafted for peak performance, these gloves boast a durable synthetic leather exterior that promises resilience against the trials of rigorous training and fierce bouts. Beneath the surface lies multi-layered foam padding, adept at absorbing and distributing the force of strikes, ensuring utmost protection for hands. The open-palm design provides fighters with the dexterity they require for intricate grappling maneuvers without sacrificing striking power. An adjustable wrist closure ensures a snug, custom fit, reducing any chance of glove shift during action. Embellished with the Combat Sports logo, these gloves are not only a mark of quality but also a testament to a fighter’s commitment to excellence. For the MMA professional, they are an indispensable tool in the arsenal.

Specs:

• Layered foam padding
• Leather construction
• Open palm design

How to choose the best mma gloves for heavy bag

Purpose

Understand that not all MMA gloves are designed the same. Some are for sparring, some for grappling, and others for bag work. For heavy bag training, you want gloves that offer maximum protection to your knuckles and wrist.

Material

• Leather: Typically the most durable and offers a snug fit. It might be more expensive but often lasts longer.
• Synthetic Leather: Usually more affordable than genuine leather but might wear out faster.

Padding

Look for gloves with dense padding, especially around the knuckles. This will protect your hands from the repeated impact against the heavy bag.

Some gloves offer gel padding which can provide superior shock absorption.

Wrist Support:

A good MMA glove for heavy bag training should provide excellent wrist support to prevent hyperextension and other potential injuries.

Look for gloves with a sturdy wrist strap or a dual-strap system.

Size and Fit

Gloves should fit snugly around your hand without being too tight.

It’s always a good idea to try them on before purchasing, especially if buying in-store. When buying online, ensure you measure your hand and compare it to the size chart provided by the brand.

Weight

MMA gloves are lighter than traditional boxing gloves. For heavy bag work, gloves ranging from 4oz to 8oz are common. However, the weight you choose might also depend on personal preference and the kind of training you’re doing.

Open or Closed Palm

Open palm gloves provide better ventilation and are good for transitioning between striking and grappling. However, for purely heavy bag workouts, closed palm designs might offer slightly better protection.

Ventilation

Look for gloves that have mesh or perforations, especially if you train for extended periods. Good ventilation prevents excessive sweating and reduces odor over time.

Price and Brand Reputation

While it’s not always the case, price can sometimes be an indicator of quality. More established and renowned brands in the MMA world usually have a history of producing quality gloves.

Read reviews and maybe even consult with trainers or fellow practitioners for recommendations.

Maintenance and Longevity:

Consider how easy the gloves are to clean and maintain. Some materials might require specific cleaning methods or products.

Check the stitching and overall construction. Well-made gloves will typically last longer and withstand the rigors of heavy bag training.

Heavy Bag Training and its Specific Needs

Heavy bag training is a staple exercise in the regimen of many athletes, especially those in combat sports such as boxing, Muay Thai, MMA, and kickboxing. The benefits of heavy bag training range from developing power and technique to improving cardiovascular endurance. However, to maximize its potential and avoid injury, one should understand its specific needs.

Benefits of Heavy Bag Training

• Power Development: Regular training on a heavy bag helps develop punching and kicking power by allowing for full force strikes.
• Technique Refinement: It provides an opportunity to repetitively practice and refine techniques, leading to muscle memory and technical proficiency.
• Cardiovascular Conditioning: Continuous rounds on the bag can improve cardiovascular endurance, making it a valuable tool for high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
• Stress Relief: Physically hitting an object can be therapeutic, providing a means to release pent-up stress and tension.

Specific Needs for Effective Heavy Bag Training

Proper Equipment:

• Heavy Bag: Bags come in various weights and materials. A common weight for general use is around 70-100 pounds, but this varies based on the athlete’s weight and strength.
• Gloves and Hand Wraps: Proper gloves and hand wraps are crucial to protect hands and wrists from injury. The wraps provide additional wrist support and padding, while the gloves offer cushioning for knuckles.
• Appropriate Footwear: For those practicing kicks or footwork, appropriate shoes or barefoot (if the training area permits) is essential.
• Technique: It’s crucial to use proper form and technique when hitting the bag. Incorrect technique can lead to injuries, particularly to the wrists, hands, and shoulders.
• Consistent Routine: For noticeable improvements, a regular and consistent training routine should be established. This could be several times a week, depending on individual goals.
• Warm-up and Cool Down: As with any workout, begin with a warm-up that involves some light cardio and dynamic stretches. After the session, cool down with static stretches to relax the muscles and aid recovery.
• Variety: Incorporate various drills, combinations, and tempos. This keeps the workout interesting and challenges different muscle groups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-hitting: It’s not about how hard you can hit, but how correctly you can hit. Always prioritize technique over power.
• Lack of Movement: Standing stationary in front of the bag is a common mistake. Incorporate footwork, angles, and head movement to simulate a more realistic scenario.
• Hitting With Wrists: Ensure that punches are thrown with knuckles landing flat on the bag, and the wrist remains straight. Bending the wrist upon impact can lead to severe injury.

Safety Tips

• Inspect Equipment: Regularly check the bag, chains, mounts, and gloves for any signs of wear or damage. Replace if necessary.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after the session to stay hydrated.
• Listen to Your Body: If something feels off or painful (beyond the usual workout discomfort), stop and assess. It’s crucial not to push through pain, as this can exacerbate injuries.

Why Gloves Matter

Gloves, in various forms and materials, have been utilized across diverse activities and professions for centuries. From healthcare to sports, from manual labor to fashion, gloves play a crucial role in safeguarding individuals and ensuring the efficient execution of tasks. Below are the reasons why gloves matter

Protection:

• Physical Injury: In manual labor, construction, and many sports, gloves protect the hands from blisters, abrasions, cuts, and impacts.
• Chemical Exposure: In industries that handle chemicals, gloves shield the skin from harmful substances that can cause burns or allergic reactions.
• Temperature Extremes: For those exposed to extreme cold or heat, gloves provide thermal insulation, preventing frostbite or burns.
• Infectious Agents: In healthcare settings, gloves prevent the transmission of pathogens between healthcare providers and patients.

Enhanced Grip

• Whether it’s holding a tool, swinging a bat, or gripping a steering wheel, gloves can provide an enhanced grip, preventing slippage, which can be crucial in both performance and safety.

Hygiene

• In many professions, especially healthcare and food service, gloves ensure a hygienic environment, minimizing the spread of germs and contamination.

Performance

• In sports, the right gloves can significantly impact an athlete’s performance. For example, boxing gloves can protect hands during a match, and weightlifting gloves can prevent painful calluses that might hinder training.

Regulation and Standards

• In some professions, wearing gloves is mandated by industry regulations to ensure safety standards are maintained.

Cultural and Fashion Significance

• Beyond their practical uses, gloves have cultural and fashion importance. They can signify elegance, status, or be symbolic in certain cultural or religious ceremonies.

Specialized Tasks

• Certain activities require specialized gloves. For example, electricians might need gloves that insulate against electric shocks, while deep-sea divers might require gloves that can withstand high pressures.

Sensory Feedback

• Some modern gloves are designed with technology integration, allowing wearers to operate touchscreens without removing them, ensuring continuous protection or warmth in cold environments.

Environmental Protection

• When handling sensitive ecosystems or objects, gloves can prevent contamination. This is crucial in areas such as coral reef conservation or when handling invaluable artifacts in museums.

Comfort

• For many, wearing gloves provides comfort. This could be from the cushioning they provide or the protection against environmental elements like cold or wet conditions.

Types of MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) Gloves

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a fast-paced, full-contact sport that combines striking and grappling techniques from various combat sports and martial arts disciplines. Due to the diverse range of techniques involved, there’s a need for specialized gloves that offer both protection and functionality. Here are the main types of MMA gloves

Competition Gloves

• Purpose: Specifically designed for professional and amateur MMA fights.
• Features: These gloves have open fingers to allow for grappling. They typically weigh around 4 ounces for professional bouts, but this might vary for amateur competitions. The padding is focused on the knuckle area to protect both the fighter and the opponent.

Sparring Gloves

• Purpose: Used for training with a partner.
• Features: They’re heavier than competition gloves, usually weighing between 7 to 10 ounces. This is because they have extra padding to ensure the safety of both the wearer and the sparring partner. The fingers remain open for grappling, but there’s usually a thicker layer of protection around the knuckle and backhand area.

Grappling Gloves

• Purpose: Tailored for athletes who want to focus on the grappling aspect of MMA, such as submissions, takedowns, and clinch work.
• Features: These gloves are similar in weight to competition gloves but might offer a bit more mobility in the fingers. They’re designed to offer minimal interference when trying to grip an opponent or apply a submission.

Hybrid Gloves

• Purpose: A blend between regular MMA gloves and boxing gloves, suitable for those transitioning between the two sports or those who want a bit more protection during stand-up striking drills.
• Features: These gloves look like a trimmed-down version of boxing gloves with segments cut out to expose the fingers. They offer more padding than typical MMA gloves, making them suitable for heavy bag work, pad work, and some light sparring.

Bag Gloves

• Purpose: Specifically designed for striking heavy bags or pads. They’re not meant for sparring since they lack the necessary protection for safe partner training.
• Features: Bag gloves are lightweight with open fingers. They provide ample knuckle padding, ensuring the fighter doesn’t hurt their hands when hitting the bag or pads.

Conclusion

Selecting the perfect best gloves for heavy bag training isn’t just about aesthetics or brand reputation. It’s akin to a musician choosing their instrument; the feel, functionality, and personal connection matter immensely. Your individual needs—size, flexibility, and comfort—must resonate with the glove’s features, be it padding, wrist support, or material. Think of this journey as more than a purchase; it’s about aligning your ambitions with the right gear. As you explore options, let this guide be your beacon. Here’s to powerful, precise punches backed by the ideal pair of gloves!

FAQs

Why can’t I use regular boxing gloves for heavy bag training in MMA?

While boxing gloves offer excellent protection, they are generally bulkier and don’t provide the flexibility MMA gloves offer. MMA gloves allow for a more natural hand movement, better suited for the diverse techniques in mixed martial arts.

How often should I replace my MMA gloves?

The lifespan of your gloves depends on the material, quality, and frequency of use. On average, with regular use, quality MMA gloves should last anywhere from 1 to 3 years. However, if you notice the padding thinning or any damage, it’s time to replace them.

Can I use my heavy bag MMA gloves for sparring too?

It’s not recommended. MMA gloves for heavy bag training typically have denser padding designed to protect your hands from the bag. Sparring gloves are constructed to protect both you and your partner.

How do I clean and maintain my MMA gloves?

After each use, wipe them down with a cloth to remove sweat. For a deeper clean, you can use disinfectant wipes. If they’re leather, consider occasionally conditioning them. Always let them air dry; never use a heater as it can damage the material.

Are leather MMA gloves better than synthetic ones?

Leather gloves generally offer more durability and a better fit over time compared to synthetic ones. However, synthetic gloves can still be of high quality and are often more affordable.