Throughout my pro and amateur career, I've used my share of boxing gloves. Many were given to me as "sponsorship" others were "obligatory" purchases because that's the brand the gym endorses. Some gloves I didn't own myself but have tried them and you know when you are wearing something special. Now, as a coach, I frequently get asked for glove recommendations. Below is a snapshot of my top five glove brands I'd recommend.
Price Range: $400 - $700
My husband ordered me a pair of personalised Winning Gloves on one of his trips to Japan. They were an amazing surprise when they arrived with my signature AAA printed in gold on the backhand of the glove. Apart from the personalised touch, they are pretty much no frills. No flash designs or marketing gimmicks. Just high quality, superb craftsmanship. It's no wonder they're the choice of many top pro-boxers. They're made in soft leather - so no need to break them in and they're light on the hand. Great to work on your speed and they give very good protection. They also come with additional knuckle padding that you're meant to wear under your wraps. I do find them bulky to wear and I do like to feel the feedback from my punches so I only use the extra padding depending on my training.
Price Range: $299
I've always wanted a pair of Cleto Reyes. Everyone I know who's had a pair has loved them to death. They literally "fit like a glove" as if they were tailor-made to fit your hand. They are a puncher's glove so there is less protection across the knuckle area and do take a while to break in. But the quality is one of the best and everyone I've recommended these gloves to had no regrets about the purchase.
Price Range: $150 - $300
Hayabusa is a popular commercial brand in the MMA scene but I have to give them credit for their research and innovation to produce gloves with the appropriate protection. I particularly commend their wrist support. Having trained many ladies who complain about sore wrists because they are still learning to keep their wrist in alignment during a punch, Hayabusa's double strap closure helps to solve this problem.
Price Range: $149- $279
Starting in Muay Thai, Fairtex has a special place in my heart. They are a bulkier glove to wear and are very padded around the knuckles and thumb so you know you won't get any injuries there. They are very well made but are specific to Muay Thai. I found when I transitioned into boxing, the glove didn't offer adequate wrist support. The leather around the wrist is quite stiff which made it hard to tighten. But it's great for easily and quickly taking gloves on and off in between drills.
Price Range: $60 - $220
This brand is fairly new to the scene but what I've used so far has been nothing but quality. If you can't afford a top-line brand, Onward would be the place to start. Think of Onward as the brand for both the recreational boxer and the pro. They're sturdy, comfortable and they get the job done.
Special mentions
Price Range: $99 - $400
Punish were the first "proper" boxing glove I owned. I was given a pair of leather 10oz lace-up pro gloves by my first kickboxing coach and they've stood the test of time. These gloves are sentimental, yes, but I was proud to wear such a quality Australian brand. I still have this pair and still usable with little wear and tear.
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