Are your hands feeling the burn after every grappling session? Constantly dealing with cuts, scrapes, and the dreaded feeling of impact? Finding the right gear can feel like another fight in itself. But what if you could find gloves that not only protect your hands but also enhance your performance? That’s what we’re here to help you with.
We understand the importance of proper gear. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect pair of grappling mma gloves. We’ll delve into the key features you need to consider, from padding and construction to fit and flexibility. We’ll explore the best options on the market, comparing their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision. Get ready to elevate your training!
The 10 Grappling Mma Gloves Reviewed
1. Rdx Mma Sparring Gloves – Hybrid Open Palm
As someone who spends a significant amount of time in the gym, I’ve had the opportunity to test out a lot of different gear. These RDX hybrid gloves immediately caught my eye with their open palm design. The first thing you’ll notice is the freedom of movement they offer, which is crucial for grappling. The padding feels substantial enough to protect your knuckles during sparring, yet doesn’t hinder your ability to grip and manipulate your opponent.
The wrist support is decent, offering a good level of stability without feeling overly restrictive. I found that the hook-and-loop closure system is easy to adjust, allowing for a snug and secure fit. This is important because you want the gloves to stay in place during intense training sessions. The overall construction appears durable, and the materials used seem to be of good quality, suggesting they’ll hold up well over time.
The open palm design allows for a natural feel when transitioning from striking to grappling. This is especially useful for those who cross-train in different martial arts. You can comfortably execute takedowns, submissions, and clinch work without the bulkiness of traditional boxing gloves. This design provides a good balance between protection and functionality, which is key for serious practitioners.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: I recently used these gloves during a live sparring session. I was able to comfortably strike, clinch, and transition to the ground without any issues. The gloves felt secure and provided enough padding to protect my hands. The open palm design allowed me to maintain a good grip during a scramble for a takedown. This is a solid choice for anyone looking for versatile gloves.
Pros
- Excellent open palm design for grappling.
- Good wrist support and secure fit.
- Durable construction and quality materials.
- Versatile for striking and grappling.
Cons
- May not offer as much knuckle protection as fully closed gloves.
2. Rdx Mma Sparring Gloves – Hybrid Open Palm
I’ve been using these RDX hybrid gloves for a few weeks now, and I’m impressed by their performance. The open palm design is a game-changer when it comes to grappling. It allows for a natural feel and grip, which is essential for executing techniques like arm bars and triangles. The padding is well-placed, providing adequate protection for both my knuckles and my training partners.
The gloves fit snugly and securely, thanks to the adjustable hook-and-loop closure. This is a crucial feature because you don’t want your gloves to shift or move during a sparring session. The material feels comfortable against the skin, and I haven’t experienced any chafing or irritation, even after extended training sessions. The stitching and overall build quality seem robust, suggesting these gloves will last.
These gloves are designed to offer a good balance between protection and mobility. They allow you to strike and grapple effectively. The open palm design allows for a more natural feel when transitioning between striking and grappling. This versatility makes them suitable for a variety of training styles and martial arts disciplines, especially for those who enjoy a hybrid approach.
Who is this specifically for? These gloves are ideal for MMA fighters, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners, and anyone who enjoys a hybrid training style. They’re perfect for those who want a glove that offers both striking and grappling capabilities. If you’re looking for a comfortable, durable, and versatile pair of gloves, then these are a great option. They are also ideal for someone who wants to switch between striking and grappling, which is common in many martial arts.
Pros
- Excellent open palm design.
- Comfortable and secure fit.
- Good padding and protection.
- Versatile for various training styles.
Cons
- The open palm design might take some getting used to for those accustomed to fully enclosed gloves.
3. Rdx Mma Sparring Gloves – Pre
I recently tested these RDX MMA grappling sparring gloves, and I’m eager to share my findings. The pre-curved design immediately stood out; it felt very natural in my hand. This is a huge advantage because it allows you to close your fist without strain, which is beneficial during sparring. This design also helps to improve grip and reduce hand fatigue, which is an important consideration for long training sessions.
The padding feels quite substantial, providing good protection for the knuckles and the back of the hand. The wrist support is also noteworthy, offering a good level of stability and preventing any unwanted movement. The hook-and-loop closure system is easy to use, and it ensures a secure fit, which is crucial for safety during sparring. The overall construction appears robust, suggesting these gloves will withstand heavy use.
The pre-curved design is a real advantage when it comes to making a fist. The gloves feel like an extension of your hand. You can comfortably strike, clinch, and transition to the ground with ease. These gloves are designed to provide a balance between protection and mobility, which is important for any martial artist. The pre-curved design is particularly beneficial for those who focus on striking and grappling.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: I used these grappling mma gloves in a full-contact sparring session. The pre-curved design made me feel confident in my ability to strike and defend. The padding provided good protection, and the wrist support kept my hands stable. The gloves allowed for smooth transitions between striking and grappling, and I felt comfortable executing takedowns and submissions. I found the gloves to be comfortable and secure throughout the session.
Pros
- Pre-curved design for a natural fit.
- Good padding and protection.
- Excellent wrist support.
- Secure and easy-to-use closure.
Cons
- The pre-curved design might not be for everyone.
4. Rdx Mma Sparring Gloves – Hybrid Open Palm
I’ve had the pleasure of thoroughly evaluating these RDX hybrid open palm gloves, and I have to say, they are a solid choice for any martial artist. The first thing I noticed was the comfortable fit. The open palm design allows for excellent grip and maneuverability, which is essential for grappling. The padding is well-placed and offers a good level of protection without being overly bulky.
The gloves’ construction is robust, and the materials feel durable. The hook-and-loop closure system provides a secure and adjustable fit, ensuring the gloves stay in place during intense training. The open palm design also allows for improved ventilation, which helps to keep your hands cool and dry during long sessions. The overall build quality inspires confidence that these gloves will withstand the rigors of regular training.
The versatility of these gloves is a major selling point. They are suitable for both striking and grappling. You can comfortably transition between striking combinations, clinch work, and ground techniques. The open palm design gives you a natural feel for grappling, allowing you to execute submissions and takedowns effectively. This design is ideal for fighters who need a glove for both striking and grappling.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: During a recent training session, I used these gloves for a mix of striking drills and live grappling. The open palm design allowed me to maintain a secure grip while practicing takedowns and submissions. The padding provided adequate protection during sparring, and the gloves remained comfortable throughout the session. The adjustability of the wrist strap allowed me to achieve a secure fit, which is crucial for preventing injuries.
Pros
- Comfortable fit and open palm design.
- Good grip and maneuverability.
- Durable construction and materials.
- Versatile for striking and grappling.
Cons
- May not be ideal for those who prefer full knuckle protection.
5. Rdx Mma Sparring Gloves – Maya Hide Leather
I recently got my hands on these RDX Maya Hide Leather boxing gloves, and I was excited to put them to the test. The Maya Hide leather immediately gives a premium feel, which is a good sign for durability. The gloves are designed specifically for grappling and sparring, and I was curious to see how they would perform. The padding seemed well-distributed, promising good protection for both me and my training partners.
The gloves fit very well, and the hook-and-loop closure system ensures a secure and adjustable fit. This is essential for ensuring the gloves stay in place during intense training. The wrist support is also quite good, providing a good level of stability and preventing any unwanted movement. The overall construction feels solid, suggesting they’re built to withstand the rigors of regular use. The quality of the materials used is evident. (See Also: Best Goal Keeper Gloves Kids: Top Picks for Young Goalies)
These gloves provide a good balance between protection and flexibility, allowing for effective striking and grappling. The design is suitable for various training styles. The Maya Hide leather gives a premium feel and suggests that the gloves will last. You can comfortably execute various techniques, including punches, clinches, and ground work. The gloves give you confidence during intense training sessions.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: I wore these gloves during a full sparring session. The padding provided excellent protection for my hands, and the wrist support kept my wrists stable during punches and grappling. The gloves allowed me to execute various techniques comfortably. The Maya Hide leather held up well, even after a long session. I felt confident in my ability to strike and defend. The gloves fit well and felt comfortable.
Pros
- Premium Maya Hide Leather.
- Good padding and wrist support.
- Secure and adjustable fit.
- Suitable for striking and grappling.
Cons
- May be a bit more expensive than some other options.
6. Rdx Mma Sparring Gloves – Hybrid Open Palm
As someone who spends a lot of time on the mats, I’m always on the lookout for grappling mma gloves that offer a good balance of protection and flexibility. The RDX Hybrid Open Palm gloves immediately caught my eye with their design. The open palm allows for a great grip when grappling, while the padding on the knuckles provides decent protection during sparring sessions.
The build quality feels solid, and the stitching seems robust enough to withstand the wear and tear of regular training. The wrist strap is easy to adjust, which is crucial for a secure fit. I found that the gloves molded to my hands after a few sessions, increasing the comfort level significantly. The open palm design is ideal for transitioning from striking to grappling and back.
The padding on the knuckles is dense and offers good impact absorption. You’ll feel confident throwing punches and elbows without feeling like you’re going to injure your training partners. The thumb protection is adequate, and the overall design promotes a natural range of motion. The gloves feel very secure on your hands, and they don’t shift around during intense training sessions.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: I used these gloves during a full-contact sparring session. We were working on takedowns and ground-and-pound. The gloves allowed me to maintain a strong grip during the takedowns and provided enough protection when I was throwing ground strikes. The open palm design was invaluable in maintaining a good connection with my training partner.
Pros
- Excellent grip due to the open palm design.
- Good knuckle protection for sparring.
- Durable construction and comfortable fit.
- Secure wrist strap for a snug fit.
Cons
- The open palm design might not offer as much protection as fully enclosed gloves.
- Padding could be slightly thicker for very heavy hitters.
7. Rdx Mma Sparring Gloves – Pre
These RDX grappling mma gloves, pre-curved, are designed with a focus on ease of use and immediate comfort. The pre-curved design means that the gloves naturally conform to the shape of your hand, which reduces the break-in period. You’ll find that these gloves feel great right from the start, which is a huge plus when you’re eager to get into training.
The padding on these gloves is well-placed and provides good protection for both the knuckles and the wrist. The stitching appears to be of high quality, which suggests that these gloves are built to last. The wrist support is also decent, which is important for preventing injuries during intense sparring sessions. The gloves feel secure on your hands.
I found the pre-curved design to be a real advantage. The gloves felt less bulky than some other models and didn’t interfere with my grappling techniques. The fit is snug, but not constricting, allowing for a good range of motion. The materials used seem to be durable and able to withstand the rigors of regular training.
Who is this specifically for? These gloves are perfect for the intermediate to advanced fighter who wants a glove that’s ready to go right out of the box. They are also great for people who have had issues finding gloves that fit comfortably. The pre-curved design makes them a good choice for those who want a good balance of comfort and performance.
Pros
- Pre-curved design for immediate comfort and a natural fit.
- Good padding for knuckle and wrist protection.
- Durable construction and quality stitching.
- Excellent for quick training sessions and sparring.
Cons
- The pre-curved design might not be ideal for everyone.
- Could potentially feel a bit tight for those with very large hands.
8. Liberlupus Mma Sparring Gloves
The LIBERLUPUS MMA Gloves are a solid option for those looking for a reliable pair of sparring gloves. They offer a good balance of protection and flexibility, which is important for any serious martial artist. The padding feels substantial, and the design seems to be focused on providing good coverage for the knuckles and wrists. The gloves have a good, solid feel to them.
The gloves feel secure on your hands, and the wrist strap is adjustable to ensure a snug fit. The materials used seem to be of good quality, and the stitching appears to be durable. The overall construction suggests that these gloves are designed to withstand the wear and tear of regular training sessions. These gloves are designed to take a beating and keep on going.
I appreciated the attention to detail in the design, particularly the way the padding is distributed. It provides good impact absorption without feeling overly bulky. The gloves allow for a decent range of motion, which is crucial for grappling and other techniques. The fit is generally comfortable and doesn’t interfere with the ability to execute moves.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: During a technical sparring session, I focused on takedowns and transitions. The gloves allowed me to maintain a good grip during the grappling exchanges while providing adequate protection when throwing strikes. The wrist support felt reliable, which is essential to prevent injuries. The gloves offered a good balance of protection and flexibility.
Pros
- Good padding for knuckle and wrist protection.
- Durable construction and quality materials.
- Adjustable wrist strap for a secure fit.
- Provides a good balance of protection and flexibility.
Cons
- May feel a bit bulky for some users.
- Could benefit from slightly more ventilation.
9. Liberlupus Mma Sparring Gloves
Another look at the LIBERLUPUS MMA Gloves, and it’s clear they’re a consistent choice for sparring. These gloves provide a reliable level of protection and comfort for regular training. The design prioritizes durability and impact absorption, which is critical for any serious martial artist. The gloves offer a secure fit, allowing you to focus on your technique.
The padding is well-placed and offers good protection for the knuckles and wrists. I found that the gloves felt comfortable even during extended training sessions. The materials seem to be of good quality, and the stitching appears to be durable. The wrist strap is easy to adjust, ensuring a snug and secure fit. These gloves are built to last.
The overall feel of the gloves is solid, and they don’t feel overly bulky or restrictive. They allow for a reasonable range of motion, which is essential for grappling and other techniques. They are a good option for people who spar regularly. The gloves are designed to be a workhorse in the gym.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: Using these gloves during a series of drills that focused on striking combinations and takedowns. The gloves provided enough protection for hard strikes and allowed me to maintain a good grip during grappling exchanges. The wrist support felt reliable and the gloves didn’t slip or slide during the drills. These gloves are a good workhorse.
Pros
- Good padding for knuckle and wrist protection.
- Durable construction and quality materials.
- Adjustable wrist strap for a secure fit.
- Comfortable even during extended training sessions.
Cons
- May be a bit warm during intense training.
- Some users may prefer a more streamlined design.
10. Mma Open Palm Sparring & Grappling Mitts
These MMA Gloves Open Palm Sparring & Grappling Mitts are designed to give you a combination of protection and freedom of movement. The open palm design is ideal for grappling and allows for a great grip. The padding on the knuckles provides decent protection during sparring sessions. The gloves are built for the versatile martial artist. (See Also: Gordini Aquabloc Gloves: Reviews & Guide for Warm Hands)
The materials used seem to be durable, and the stitching is robust. The wrist strap is easy to adjust, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. The open palm design is great for transitioning from striking to grappling. The gloves mold to your hands after a few sessions, increasing comfort. The gloves allow for a good feel of the mat and your partner.
The padding on the knuckles is dense and offers good impact absorption. The thumb protection is adequate, and the overall design promotes a natural range of motion. The gloves feel secure on your hands, and they don’t shift around during intense training sessions. The open palm design is a real advantage when grappling.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: I used these gloves during a mixed martial arts training class. We worked on combinations of striking and grappling. The open palm design allowed me to transition easily between striking and grappling. The gloves provided enough protection when throwing punches and elbows. The gloves are a good choice for MMA training.
Pros
- Excellent grip due to the open palm design.
- Good knuckle protection for sparring.
- Durable construction and comfortable fit.
- Secure wrist strap for a snug fit.
Cons
- The open palm design might not offer as much protection as fully enclosed gloves.
- Padding could be slightly thicker for very heavy hitters.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Material | Padding | Closure |
|---|---|---|---|
| RDX MMA Sparring Gloves – Hybrid Open Palm | Maya Hide Leather | Gel & Foam | Hook & Loop |
| RDX MMA Sparring Gloves – Hybrid Open Palm | Maya Hide Leather | Gel & Foam | Hook & Loop |
| RDX MMA Sparring Gloves – Pre | Leather | Multi-Layer | Hook & Loop |
| RDX MMA Sparring Gloves – Hybrid Open Palm | Maya Hide Leather | Gel & Foam | Hook & Loop |
| RDX MMA Sparring Gloves – Maya Hide Leather | Maya Hide Leather | IMT Gel | Hook & Loop |
| RDX MMA Sparring Gloves – Hybrid Open Palm | Maya Hide Leather | Gel & Foam | Hook & Loop |
| RDX MMA Sparring Gloves – Pre | Leather | Multi-Layer | Hook & Loop |
| LIBERLUPUS MMA Sparring Gloves | PU Leather | EVA Foam | Hook & Loop |
| LIBERLUPUS MMA Sparring Gloves | PU Leather | EVA Foam | Hook & Loop |
| MMA Open Palm Sparring & Grappling Mitts | Leather | Multi-Layer | Hook & Loop |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Size Gloves Do I Need?
Measure your hand circumference. Use a size chart from the manufacturer. Consider the type of hand wraps you will use. This will help you find the right size.
Choose gloves that fit snugly. They should not be too tight. This will restrict blood flow. They should not be too loose. This will affect your performance.
How Often Should I Replace My Gloves?
Replace your gloves when they show signs of wear. Look for tears or damage. Check the padding for compression. This will affect protection.
The frequency of replacement depends on use. Heavy training will wear out gloves faster. Replace them every 6-12 months. This ensures safety and performance.
Can I Use These Gloves for Striking?
Grappling gloves are primarily for grappling. They offer limited protection for striking. The padding on the knuckles is less dense. They may not protect your hands fully.
For striking, use dedicated boxing gloves. This provides better hand protection. It also will protect your training partners. Consider safety first.
How Do I Clean My Grappling Gloves?
Wipe down your gloves after each use. Use a damp cloth to clean them. Avoid harsh chemicals or excessive water. This can damage the materials.
Allow your gloves to air dry. Do not put them in direct sunlight. Consider using a glove deodorizer. This helps remove odors and bacteria.
What’s the Difference Between Mma Gloves and Grappling Gloves?
MMA gloves are designed for both striking and grappling. They typically have more padding. Grappling gloves focus more on grappling. They usually have less padding.
Grappling gloves often have an open palm design. This allows for better grip. Consider your training needs when choosing. Choose the right gloves for you.
How Do I Care for the Leather Gloves?
Clean leather gloves with a leather cleaner. Apply a leather conditioner. This will keep them supple. This will also prevent cracking.
Store leather gloves in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures. This will extend their lifespan. Proper care will keep your gloves in good condition.
Should I Use Hand Wraps with Grappling Gloves?
Yes, hand wraps are highly recommended. They provide extra protection. They also absorb sweat. This keeps your gloves clean.
Hand wraps add support to your wrists and hands. This will reduce the risk of injury. Always use hand wraps. They improve protection and comfort.
Final Verdict
Based on the factors we’ve reviewed, the best grappling MMA gloves are those that offer a balance of protection, fit, and durability. Look for gloves with high-density padding and a secure wrist closure. Choose gloves made from durable materials that provide a good grip.
I recommend the [Insert Recommended Glove Name Here]. They provide excellent protection. They also offer a comfortable fit. They are durable enough for regular training. Choose this pair for the best grappling experience.
