MMA gloves are the specific type of glove to wear when practising or competing in Mixed Martial Arts.
Unlike boxing gloves, MMA gloves have a much thinner padding and are designed so that the fingers are splayed apart to allow for grappling, takedowns, submissions and grappling, while still providing the necessary protection during striking.
Whether for training or competition, nowadays all amateur and professional MMA fights are fought with gloves, leaving behind the mythical and wild Vale-Tudo era.
In RoninWear you will find the largest selection of MMA gloves on the market, with the best brands and models both professional and sparring.
Not all MMA gloves are the same. The type you need depends on how you are going to use them:
These are the gloves you see at UFC, Bellator, ONE Championship and the major MMA organisations. They typically weigh 4 ounces, have minimal padding and usually have a fully open palm for easy gripping. They are intended for competition and bag work and it is not normal or recommended, although some do, to use them for sparring between partners.
If you train MMA on a regular basis and spar with partners, you need sparring gloves. They are thicker than professional gloves (usually 6 or 7 ounces), protect your knuckles more and often include thumb protection to prevent eye injuries. They are somewhat less comfortable for pure grappling, but the extra protection makes up for it and is necessary to be able to train harder without the need to destroy your partner.
| Pro Gloves (4 oz) | Sparring Gloves (6-7 oz) | |
|---|---|---|
| Padding | Minimal (real impact) | Dense (increased protection) |
| Thumb | Generally open | Protected (prevents eye injuries) |
| Palm | Open (better grip) | Partially covered |
| Ideal use | Competition, bag, Body Combat | Daily sparring, technical classes |
If you are just starting out in MMA, never use 4 oz gloves for sparring with sparring partners. They are competition gloves designed for KO, with minimal padding. For everyday training, invest in a good MMA sparring glove with thumb protection. Your training partner will thank you and you will avoid unnecessary hand and wrist injuries.
Unlike boxing gloves which are chosen by weight (ounces), MMA gloves are usually sized by standard sizes: S, M, L, XL, or double sizes such as S/M and L/XL and these measurements are based on the size of your hand circumference. Each brand may size a little differently (Venum is not the same as Leone or Fairtex), so always consult the specific sizing guide for the model you are interested in or ask us if you have any questions. The fit must be tight: a glove that dances during combat can lead to finger or wrist injuries.
In most MMA gyms, no bandages are worn under the gloves. The space inside the gloves is limited and the wraps restrict the gripping ability, which is essential in grappling. It is only recommended to use a specific bandage or tape for very intense punching sessions where the wrist is going to suffer a lot of stress.
Yes, in Body Combat (Les Mills' fitness programme) or similar activities such as David Lloyd's Blaze, many practitioners use MMA pro gloves (4 oz). As there is no contact with an opponent, only strikes in the air or against the bag, lightweight competition gloves are the most comfortable and practical option for this type of training.
At RoninWear we work with the most recognised brands in the industry. Venum is the official UFC supplier and offers gloves with injected foam technology. Fairtex is an absolute reference in Muay Thai and MMA with decades of experience. Leone 1947 is a classic Italian choice with excellent value for money. Hayabusa stands out for its anatomical fit and premium materials. And brands such as RDX, Ringhorns or Buddha offer very competitive options for those looking for quality without a high budget.
At RoninWear we have been equipping fighters in MMA, BJJ and other combat disciplines since 2007. Our selection of MMA gloves includes professional and sparring gloves from the best brands in the world, with a wide variety of designs and sizes. If you have any doubts about which MMA gloves to choose according to your level, discipline or type of training, contact our team: we practice martial arts and we know what we're talking about.
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