Best Muay Thai Gloves of 2023 (For Training & Sparring)
Our Top Picks:
Best Overall Muay Thai Gloves: Yokkao Matrix
The Yokkao Matrix gloves are a premium option made from high-quality leather by experienced Thai craftsmen. They offer a range of sizes for various types of training and feature double-stitched seams for durability and a secure hook and loop closure.
Best Looking Muay Thai Gloves: Venum Elite
The Venum Elite Muay Thai Boxing Gloves are the perfect combination of style and function. Handmade in Thailand using premium Skintex leather, these gloves not only look great but also provide the highest level of fighting experience.
Best Beginner Muay Thai Gloves: RDX Kara
The RDX Kara boxing gloves are an excellent choice for beginners looking to start their journey in Muay Thai or other combat sports.
If you’re serious about training Muay Thai, a good pair of Muay Thai gloves is essential. The right gloves can help improve your performance and protect your hands from injury. With so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why I’m here to share my personal recommendations for the best Muay Thai gloves on the market. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, I’ve got you covered.
Best 5 Muay Thai Gloves
Yokkao Matrix Muay Thai Boxing Gloves
- New YOKKAO boxing gloves collection release - high quality premium leather
- Embroidered YOKKAO logo patch - logo is attached at the bottom
- Handcrafted boxing glove by professionals in Thailand
The Yokkao Matrix Muay Thai Boxing Gloves are a top-of-the-line option for serious fighters.
These gloves are expertly made by artisans in Thailand with decades of experience using premium leather of the highest quality for longevity.
These gloves from YOKKAO are available in 2 oz increments ranging from 8 oz to 16 oz, making them ideal for both men and women training in Muay Thai, boxing, MMA, etc.
The gloves’ double-stitched seams provide additional reinforcement, and a hook and loop fastener makes them simple to put on and take off. This guarantees they will stay put during even the most rigorous training sessions.
The new foam padding on these gloves, which offers the best support and cushion for hard-hitting action on pads, bags, and sparring, is one of their most distinctive features. They add additional thumb support and safety.
Venum Elite Muay Thai Boxing Gloves
- Premium Skintex leather construction
- Integrated mesh panel placed under the fist for great thermal regulation
- Triple Density foam
The Venum Elite Muay Thai Boxing Gloves are the perfect choice for fighters who want a high-quality product that will last them a long time. These gloves are fully handmade in Thailand with a 100% Skintex leather construction, ensuring they are both durable and comfortable.
The triple-density foam in the gloves balances shock distribution and enables fighters to strike harder without experiencing too much impact.
Maximum absorption is ensured by the reinforced palm, and training or sparring injuries are prevented by the thumb’s 100% full attachment.
The gloves’ reinforced seams make them durable and able to withstand the strain of rigorous training.
The gloves have a substantial Velcro enclosure with elastic that keeps them firmly fastened throughout use. The Venum Elite is an excellent option for any fighter because they offer the ideal balance of performance, comfort, and durability.
Fairtex BGV1
- Made with premium quality leather for durability and longevity.
- Ergonomic design for maximum comfort and support. Lightweight for improved speed and agility.
- Multi-layer foam padding for superior shock absorption and protection
Fairtex BGV1 gloves are designed with ergonomics in mind, providing a secure and snug fit. The tight-fit design ensures that the gloves fit your hands firmly, and the weight is distributed evenly across the gloves, with a bit more padding around the knuckle area.
The Velcro straps are strong and will keep the gloves in place during your training, even after many uses.
The is made from premium genuine leather that feels nice to the touch, while the interior has a smooth, comfortable lining on your skin. The craftsmanship of these gloves is top-notch, with neat and seamless stitching that speaks to the attention to detail of the handcrafting process in Thailand.
The Fairtex foam system used in these gloves is three-layered, providing excellent shock dispersion and hand and knuckle protection.
These gloves are ideal for punching and clinching, as the unique padding distribution allows you to grip and grab effectively.
The classic design of the black BGV1 gloves is eye-catching, and they can be complemented by various other training equipment. Whether a beginner or a seasoned fighter, the BGV1 gloves are designed to be your reliable partner in your journey to the top.
Read the full review of Fairtex BGV1 here
Twins Muay Thai Gloves
- Twins Boxing Gloves with special design hook-and-loop wrist strap for full security, ideal for quick...
- Handcraft from premium 100 percent Thai leather.
- Available in 8 oz, 10 oz, 12 oz, 14 oz, 16 oz, and 18 oz.
Twins Muay Thai Gloves are made from the highest quality cowhide leather and are handcrafted in Thailand, where the art of building boxing gloves has been honed for decades.
The gloves come with a special design hook-and-loop wrist strap, making them ideal for quick wear and take off.
Available in various weights ranging from 6 oz to 18 oz, these gloves are perfect for everyone, from kids to heavyweight fighters.
The extra padding provides great protection for training with heavy bags or sparring partners. The gloves are designed to offer full support.
If you’re looking for a pair of gloves that are both stylish and practical, Twins Muay Thai Gloves are definitely worth checking out.
Read the full review of Twins Muay Thai gloves here
RDX Kara Muay Thai Gloves
- RELIABILITY AND RESILIENCE Use of Maya Hide ConvEX Skin Leather in the Kara Series boxing gloves...
- IMPROVED ALIGNMENT The single piece LOMA Tech design of the palm area and thumb helps create an...
- IMPACT DISPERSION Force of impact is dissipated across the structure of the gloves due to the...
The RDX Kara gloves are a solid choice for beginner fighters looking for a comfortable and durable glove.
The Maya Hide leather is durable and flexible, and the padding offers decent protection without feeling too bulky.
Thanks to the Quick EZ Hook-and-Loop closure system, the gloves fit snugly and are easy to put on and take off. The design is sleek and stylish, with multiple color options. Overall, a great value for the price.
Buying Guide
If you’re in the market for a new pair of Muay Thai gloves, it’s important to consider a few key factors before purchasing. Each element can impact your performance and comfort during training, from the size and material to the shape and design.
In this buying guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before deciding, including the differences between Muay Thai gloves and other types, such as boxing and MMA gloves. So, let’s get started!
Size
Size is an important factor to consider when purchasing Muay Thai gloves. The circumference of your hand, as measured at its widest point, should be used to determine the size of your gloves.
Before purchasing, check the manufacturer’s size chart, as different brands’ sizing may vary slightly.
In general, smaller hands should wear gloves between 6 and 10 ounces, while larger hands use gloves between 12 and 14 ounces.
If you plan on sparring, 16oz (14oz for smaller people) gloves are the standard size used universally for sparring at fight gyms. It’s important to note that wearing too small or too big gloves can lead to discomfort and even injury, so it’s crucial to find the right size for your hand.
Muay Thai Gloves Size Chart
| Gloves Size | Figthers Weight (Pounds) | Figthers Weight (KG) | Palm size Circumference (Inches) | Palm size Circumference (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 oz. | < 80 lbs | < 36 kg | < 5.5 inches | < 14 cm |
| 6 oz. | < 80 lbs | < 36 kg | < 5.5 inches | < 14 cm |
| 8 oz. | 80 – 110 lbs | 36 – 50 kg | 5.5 – 6.5 inches | 14 – 16.5 cm |
| 10 oz. | 110 – 130 lbs | 50 – 59 kg | 6.5 – 7.5 inches | 16.5 – 19 cm |
| 12 oz. | 130 – 165 lbs | 59 – 75 kg | 7.5 – 8.5 inches | 19 – 21.6 cm |
| 14 oz. | 165 – 190 lbs | 75 – 86 kg | 8.5 – 9.5 inches | 21.6 – 24 cm |
| 16 oz. | > 190 lbs | > 86 | > 8.5 inches | > 21.6 cm |
Material
The two most common options are synthetic leather and real leather.
While synthetic leather can be a more affordable option, we prefer real leather gloves.
Real leather gloves are more durable and provide better hand protection, making them a worthwhile investment. Additionally, they tend to be more comfortable and offer better breathability, which is crucial during long training sessions.
While synthetic leather gloves may be a good option for those on a budget, investing in high-quality, real leather gloves is well worth it in the long run.
Padding & Support
Look for gloves with ample padding around the knuckles, thumbs, and wrists, as these areas take the most impact during training.
It’s also important to consider the gloves’ level of wrist support. Some gloves feature a longer cuff that can support your wrist, while others may have a shorter cuff that allows for greater mobility.
Additionally, some gloves may feature specialized padding, such as gel padding, to offer even more protection and shock absorption.
Finding a balance between comfort and support is key, so try different gloves and pay attention to how they feel during use.
Shape and design
The shape and design of your Muay Thai gloves can impact your performance, comfort, and even your personal style. Look for gloves specifically designed for Muay Thai, as they will offer the right shape and structure for the movements and techniques used in this martial art.
When it comes to design, there are various options, including different colors, patterns, and even customization options. While the aesthetics of the gloves may not impact their performance, choosing a pair you like the look of can help motivate you during training.
Ultimately, finding gloves with the right shape and design is a matter of personal preference and what works best for your training style.
Lace-up vs Velcro strap
There are two main types of closures: Lace-up and Velcro strap.
Lace up
Lace-up gloves offer a more customized fit, as they can be adjusted to your exact specifications. They also offer a secure and snug fit that can help prevent injuries. However, they can be time-consuming to put on and take off, and may require assistance from a training partner. They may not be the best option for beginners who are just starting out with Muay Thai.
Velcro Strap
Velcro strap gloves, on the other hand, are more convenient and easier to put on and take off, making them a good choice for beginners who may not have as much experience with the sport. Additionally, velcro strap gloves still offer a secure and snug fit, which is important for injury prevention.
While more experienced fighters may prefer the customization and security of lace-up gloves, we generally recommend velcro strap gloves for beginners.
Difference between Muay Thai Gloves, Boxing Gloves & MMA gloves
| Key Aspect | Muay Thai Gloves | Boxing Gloves | MMA Gloves |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier | Lighter |
| Flexibility | More flexible | Less flexible | Most flexible |
| Thumb Curve | Less pronounced | More pronounced | Less pronounced |
| Padding | Less around wrist | More around wrist | Less around knuckles |
| Wrist Support | Less | More | Less |
| Finger Coverage | Full | Full | Open fingers |
| Intended Use | Striking | Striking | Grappling and striking |
Muay Thai Gloves
While Muay Thai gloves and boxing gloves may look similar, there are some small differences between the two.
Muay Thai gloves are generally lighter and more flexible than boxing gloves, allowing for greater hand and finger dexterity. They also feature a less pronounced thumb curve, which is necessary for the clinch techniques used in Muay Thai.
Muay Thai gloves often have a more compact design, with less padding around the wrist, allowing for greater mobility and range of motion.
Boxing Gloves
Boxing gloves are typically heavier and more rigid, with a more pronounced thumb curve suited for punching.
They also have more padding around the wrist, which provides additional support and protection for boxers.
Related: Check out our list of best boxing gloves
MMA gloves
MMA gloves are a hybrid between boxing gloves and traditional fingerless grappling gloves. While they are similar in size and shape to boxing gloves, they feature open fingers and a lighter-weight design, allowing for greater hand and finger dexterity. This is essential for the grappling and submission techniques used in MMA.
Related: See our recommended MMA gloves
FAQ
What gloves do you use for Muay Thai?
It is recommended to use gloves that are specifically designed for Muay Thai, as they offer the right shape and structure for the techniques used in this martial art.
Are Muay Thai gloves different to boxing?
Muay Thai gloves are generally lighter and more flexible, with less padding around the wrist and a less pronounced thumb curve, while boxing gloves are heavier and more rigid, with more padding around the wrist and a more pronounced thumb curve.
What oz gloves are best for Muay Thai?
The best oz gloves for Muay Thai will depend on the size of your hand and the level of protection you need. Generally, gloves ranging from 8-10oz are suitable for smaller hands, while gloves between 12-14oz are better for larger hands. However, if you plan on sparring, 16oz gloves are the standard size used universally for sparring at fight gyms.
Are boxing gloves OK for Muay Thai?
While boxing gloves may be used for Muay Thai training and competition, they are not the same as traditional Muay Thai gloves. Boxing gloves are designed specifically for punching, with a more pronounced thumb curve and more padding around the wrist.
Mantas Admin
Mantas is the Founder of MMAGearAddic.com and has a passion for all martial arts and travel. You can find him on Twitter @MantasLang or mantas@mmagearaddict.com
