Introduction
If you're new to combat sports, you might wonder why MMA fighters and boxers wear different gloves. While both protect the hands and opponents, their designs serve distinct purposes. Understanding the differences between MMA gloves and boxing gloves can help you choose the right gear for training or competition.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences in design, padding, weight, and usage. Whether you're a fighter, trainer, or just a fan, knowing these details will help you appreciate each sport's unique demands. Plus, if you're looking for high-quality gloves, be sure to check out our store for the best options!
1. Design & Shape
MMA Gloves
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Open-finger design: MMA gloves have exposed fingers, allowing fighters to grapple, clinch, and submit opponents.
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Minimal padding: Focuses on protecting knuckles while keeping hands free for wrestling and submissions.
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Flexible wrist strap: Provides support without restricting movement.
Boxing Gloves
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Closed-finger design: Fully padded to protect both the wearer’s hands and the opponent’s face.
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More structured shape: Curved to help form a proper fist for punching.
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Secure wrist support: Often includes laces or Velcro for maximum stability.
Key Takeaway: MMA gloves prioritize mobility, while boxing gloves focus on punch protection.
2. Padding & Protection
MMA Gloves
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Thinner padding: Usually between 4oz to 7oz, designed to allow strikes without hindering grappling.
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Less face protection: Since MMA includes grappling, the lighter padding reduces injury risk during submissions.
Boxing Gloves
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Heavier padding: Ranges from 8oz to 20oz, absorbing impact to protect both fighters.
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More face & hand safety: The extra cushioning reduces cuts and hand injuries from repeated punches.
Key Takeaway: Boxing gloves offer more padding, while MMA gloves balance striking and grappling needs.
3. Weight & Sizing
MMA Gloves
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Lighter (4oz to 7oz): Used in professional fights (often 4oz) and training (up to 7oz).
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Snug fit: Must stay secure during grappling exchanges.
Boxing Gloves
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Heavier (8oz to 20oz): Sparring gloves are usually 16oz for safety, while competition gloves may be lighter.
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Bulkier feel: The extra padding adds weight but reduces punch impact.
Key Takeaway: MMA gloves are lighter for versatility, while boxing gloves are heavier for protection.
4. Purpose & Usage
MMA Gloves
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Multi-functional: Used for striking, clinching, takedowns, and submissions.
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Not ideal for heavy bag work: Lack of padding can hurt hands during prolonged punching.
Boxing Gloves
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Striking-focused: Designed purely for punching, making them better for bag work and sparring.
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Not suitable for grappling: The bulkiness makes gripping impossible.
Key Takeaway: MMA gloves adapt to mixed techniques, while boxing gloves specialize in punching.
5. Which One Should You Choose?
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For MMA training/fights: Go with MMA gloves for flexibility.
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For boxing/sparring: Boxing gloves provide better protection.
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For general fitness: If you’re hitting bags, boxing gloves are safer.
Looking for top-quality gloves? Browse our store for the best MMA and boxing gloves tailored to your needs!
Conclusion
MMA gloves and boxing gloves serve different purposes based on their design, padding, weight, and usage. MMA gloves are lighter and allow grappling, while boxing gloves focus on punch protection with heavier padding.
