So you want to get your hands on a pair of Muay Thai gloves that’ll help you protect your hands when doing one of the most dangerous combative sports globally. Indeed, Muay Thai is an exceptionally dangerous sport, which, let’s face it, is why we love it so much.
If you’re reading this article and you’re a beginner, you came just to the right place. While this article is also suitable for more advanced trainees, I’ll be reviewing the different pair of gloves and give you suggestions that are specifically suitable for beginners.
My goal is to help you kick off your Muay Thai journey on the right foot. One of your goals should be to stay consistent, which is fairly obvious. That’s why pairing yourself with a solid and suitable pair of Muay Thai gloves for YOUR specific needs, will be one of the best choices you make, which will also help you stay more consistent.
Throughout the article, I’ll be mentioning different products and companies that I trust. I saw all these gloves being used in real-time and I know they’ll provide you with a fun training experience and enough protection to keep your hands safe.
Before we dive in, I want to talk about glove sizes. It’ll be best if you pair yourself with either the 14oz or 16oz Muay Thai gloves. The reason for that is that the heavier the glove, the more padding it has. Therefore, the more forgiving it’ll be in a case where you throw a punch with improper technique.
So now, let’s dive into the best overall Muay Thai gloves I recommend you get.
Best Overall
Hayabusa S4 Leather Boxing Gloves
| Included Sizes | Includes Colors/Design | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| 10oz | Black | Made From Leather |
| 12oz | Brown | High Protection |
| 14oz | Blue | Durable |
| 16oz | Red | Reputable Brand |
| White | Breathable | |
| Comfortable |
Hayabusa is a well-known brand in the combat sports industry, and its products are generally considered to be of high quality. The Hayabusa S4 Muay Thai gloves are designed specifically for Muay Thai training and sparring. They are constructed with durable synthetic leather and feature multi-layer foam padding to provide protection and support for your hands and wrists.
Some potential advantages of the Hayabusa S4 Muay Thai gloves include:
- Durability: The synthetic leather construction is designed to withstand heavy use and last longer than some other materials.
- Protection: The multi-layer foam padding helps absorb impact and protect your hands and wrists during training or sparring sessions.
- Comfort: The gloves are designed to provide a secure and comfortable fit, with adjustable straps for added wrist support.
The S4 gloves are designed with a Velcro closure system, which is much better for beginners, as it’s simpler to use and secure tightly. However, there’s another closure system in gloves that’s considered better, which uses laces. However, it’s more complicated to use and I would generally advise you to stay away from it if you’re a beginner.
Lastly, let’s talk sizes. If you’re a beginner, you’re probably not thinking about competing soon. For that reason, buying either the 14oz or 16oz sizes—will be ideal. If you want to learn more about sizes and which serves which purpose, I wrote a complete guide to Muay Thai glove sizes you can read by following the link.
Best Budget
Sanabul Essential Gel Punching Bag Gloves
| Included Sizes | Includes Colors/Design | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| 8oz | Black | Cheapest One |
| 10oz | Black/Copper | High Protection |
| 12oz | Black/Green | Durable |
| 14oz | Black/Metallic Blue | Reputable Brand |
| 16oz | Black/Metallic Silver | Beautiful Coloring |
| Black/Orange | ||
| Black/Pink | ||
| Black/Red |
The Sanabul gloves are the absolute best choice for beginner Muay Thai fighters who (1) don’t want to invest as much money before kicking off their training, and (2) fighters who want to start off with just enough.
Let me explain myself. If you’re a beginner, it’s unlikely that you know which martial art you’ll be doing in the long term. I hope to think that you’ll do martial art in the near future. However, some beginners might quit Muay Thai altogether and not train in any martial art for the rest of their lives.
Therefore, these folks might be more hesitant to buy the more expensive and premium equipment, which is of higher quality. However, these Sanabul Muay Thai gloves give you exactly what you need and expect from a beginner-friendly product. They provide solid protection, which is the most important factor you need to be looking for in gloves.
When I began my Muay Thai training, I knew I was going to stay consistent with this for the rest of my life. Therefore, I wasn’t hesitant at all regarding which gloves I bought. Eventually, I bought a $50 pair, which is about the market’s average.
This pair is suitable for beginners who want to kick off their Muay Thai journey without having to invest too much. If you know you’ll stay consistent, I encourage you to buy another pair, which will provide better comfort, higher quality, and an overall better training experience.
Best Premium Gloves
YOKKAO Matrix Muay Thai Gloves
| Included Sizes | Includes Colors/Design | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| 8oz | Blue Nobility | Best Fit and Comfort |
| 10oz | Hot Pink | Heightened Protection |
| 12oz | Matrix Cerise | Durable |
| 14oz | Matrix Black | Premium Brand |
| 16oz | Matrix Island | Beautiful Coloring |
| 18oz | Matrix White | |
| orchid bloom |
Yokkao gloves are handmade in Thailand and are known for their craftsmanship and attention to detail. They use genuine leather or synthetic materials, depending on the specific model and price range. Yokkao is a premium company, which means that you should buy their products if you want to invest more in the best
Here are some advantages of Yokkao Muay Thai gloves:
- Quality materials: Yokkao gloves are often made with genuine leather, which is known for its durability and longevity. This can be beneficial if you plan to use the gloves frequently or for intense training sessions.
- Comfort and fit: Many users appreciate the fit and comfort of Yokkao gloves. They often feature a snug fit that allows for better hand dexterity and control during training or sparring. Proper fitting gloves can enhance your overall training experience.
- Protection and padding: Yokkao gloves typically provide adequate padding to protect your hands and wrists during impact. The padding is designed to absorb shock and reduce the risk of injury.
- Style and design: Yokkao offers a wide range of attractive designs and color options, allowing you to find a pair of gloves that suits your personal style.
I would recommend any Muay Thai trainee out there to get their hands on Yokkao’s gloves. However, I’m aware that for some beginners, this might be too much. And I absolutely get it; as I told you, I bought gloves that were priced somewhere at the average as my first pair, which served me perfectly.
And still, if you’re interested in getting premium Muay Thai gloves that will serve you for a long, long time, Yokkao is where you should be headed.
Best Under $50
RDX Boxing Gloves Maya Hide Leather
| Included Sizes | Includes Colors/Design | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| 8oz | Blue/Black | High Protection |
| 10oz | Gold/Black | Affordable |
| 12oz | Maroon | Well-Designed |
| 14oz | Pink/Black | Durable |
| 16oz | White/Black | Reputable Brand |
The next pair we’ll review is made by the hands of RDX, one of the most reputable companies in the punching gloves niche. These are suitable for beginners for two primary reasons: the first is that they’re affordable, which might be the leading factor for you. And second of all, they provide high protection, which is what you should solely aim to get.
- Durability: RDX claims that Maya Hide Leather offers good durability, making the gloves resistant to wear and tear over time. However, it’s worth noting that genuine leather gloves tend to have a reputation for superior durability compared to synthetic materials.
- Padding and protection: RDX gloves typically include multi-layer foam padding to help absorb impact and protect your hands during training or sparring sessions. Adequate padding is crucial to reducing the risk of injuries.
- Price: RDX Maya Hide Leather gloves are generally considered more affordable compared to genuine leather gloves from other brands. If you have a limited budget, they may be an option worth considering.
- Brand reputation: RDX has gained a decent reputation in the combat sports community, offering a wide range of equipment for various disciplines. While brand reputation alone doesn’t guarantee the quality of a specific product, it can provide some assurance.
Two last points I’d like to discuss. First, these gloves are more likely to be genuinely durable, as they’re made out of leather, which is known to have superior durability over synthetic materials.
The second and last point is that these gloves provide more protection since they include multi-layer foam padding, designed for superior absorption and protection. Your hands are your weapon in combative sports. So you must strive to keep them as clean and unharmed as possible.
Hayabusa T3 LX Leather Boxing Gloves
| Included Sizes | Includes Colors/Design | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Brown | Exceptional Protection | |
| Crimson | Premium Quality | |
| 12oz | Indigo | Well-Designed |
| 14oz | Obsidian | Durable |
| 16oz | Obsidian/Gold | Reputable Brand |
| +3 Designs | Wrist Support |
Hayabusa T3 gloves are highly regarded in the combat sports community, known for their quality and performance.
Hayabusa is a reputable brand that emphasizes quality and innovation in its products. Here are some potential factors to consider when evaluating the value of Hayabusa T3 gloves:
- Quality materials: Hayabusa T3 gloves are typically constructed using premium materials, such as genuine leather. Genuine leather gloves are known for their durability and longevity, making them suitable for frequent and intense training sessions.
- Protection and padding: Hayabusa T3 gloves often feature multi-layer foam padding, designed to absorb impact and protect your hands and wrists during training or sparring. Adequate padding is crucial to reducing the risk of injuries.
- Comfort and fit: Hayabusa gloves are known for their ergonomic design and comfortable fit. The gloves are often designed to contour to the natural shape of the hand, providing enhanced dexterity and control during training.
- Brand reputation: Hayabusa has established itself as a trusted brand in the combat sports industry, with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction. Their products are frequently used and recommended by professional athletes and trainers.
- Technology and innovation: Hayabusa often incorporates innovative features into its gloves. For example, the T3 gloves may include features such as a Dual-X closure system for a secure fit and wrist support.
It’s important to note that Hayabusa T3 gloves are generally priced higher compared to entry-level or mid-range gloves. The cost may be justified by the use of premium materials, advanced features, and the reputation of the brand. However, it’s essential to consider your budget and how frequently you will be using the gloves before making a purchasing decision.
Ultimately, the worthiness of Hayabusa T3 gloves will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. If you prioritize quality, durability, and enhanced performance, and if the price aligns with your budget, the Hayabusa T3 gloves are definitely worth considering.
One last point, the Hayabusa T3 Muay Thai gloves are extremely protective and forgiving. They’ll provide you with enough wrist and hand support that it’s unlikely for you to ever injure your hands. There’s always some risk, of course. But if you make sure to punch with flawless technique, you’ll be good.
Fairtex BGV1 Muay Thai Gloves
| Included Sizes | Includes Colors/Design | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| 4-6oz (kids) | Pink | High-quality |
| 8oz | Red | Comfortable |
| 10oz | Yellow | Well-Designed |
| 12oz | Black | Breathable |
| 14oz | White | Reputable Brand |
| 16oz | 17+ Colors and Designs |
Fairtex is one of the leading companies when reviewing Muay Thai gloves. They’re a brand you can trust to purchase your protective equipment from, as they’ll provide you with all the protection you need.
Remember, because you’re a beginner trainee, you want as much padding while not jeopardizing mobility and comfort. Therefore, the size you choose will influence your training a lot! If you get the wrong size, you might end up injuring your hands, which is really the last thing you ever want to happen.
Because of that, I would recommend you get your hands on either the 14oz or the 16oz gloves. It’ll be worth not getting anything below that, as it’ll include less padding and you’ll have a higher likelihood of injuring your hands.
You’ll also want to use Hand Wraps, although many Muay Thai gyms won’t require you to do so. Using Hand Wraps will give you better wrist support to ensure your fist is as tight as it gets. So make sure to consider getting Hand Wraps as well. To get the best Hand Wraps, you can follow this link.
Anyways, these Muay Thai gloves by Fairtex are one of the best ones currently on the market. it also competes on price point by being close to premium quality at half the price. So if you want to invest more to get higher quality gloves, this pair by Fairtex can be a fantastic choice.
Twins Boxing Muay Thai Punching Gloves
| Included Sizes | Includes Colors/Design | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| 8oz | Black | High-quality |
| 10oz | Black/Yellow | Comfortable |
| 12oz | Blue | Well-Designed |
| 14oz | Brazil | Breathable |
| 16oz | China | Reputable Brand |
| 18oz | 19+ Colors and Designs | High Protection |
The last pair we’ll review (It has been a great journey thus far) is going to be from the hands of Twins Boxing, a trustworthy and highly respected martial arts brand.
These Muay Thai gloves are fairly close to being premium quality, just like the previous pair. They also sit at about a similar price range to the previous Fairtex pair. Therefore, I would say that both are viable options for beginners who want to get a lot of protection and keep their hands and wrists intact.
These gloves are made from leather, which as I previously mentioned, provides superior durability. So you’ll be able to keep these gloves for longer.
Twins Boxing’s Muay Thai gloves have a hook and loop closure system, which provides a secure, simple fit. I absolutely love this pair, as It’ll provide you with excellent quality while not being as expensive as other, more expensive, brands. I would encourage you to get either the 14oz/16oz for beginners, as it’ll provide you with the padding and protection you so need.
Which size Muay Thai gloves are suitable for beginners?
14oz and 16oz are the most suitable sizes for beginners, as they provide more padding, protection, and wrist support. Beginners will punch improperly more often than more advanced trainees. Therefore, extra padding and protection are critical for them, so to keep their hands healthy.
How do I choose a boxing glove for beginners?
Choosing the right boxing gloves for beginners is important to ensure comfort, protection, and a positive training experience. Here are some factors to consider when selecting boxing gloves for beginners:
- Size and Weight: Boxing gloves come in different sizes and weights. Typically, beginners should choose gloves between 14 oz and 16 oz. Heavier gloves provide more padding and protection, while lighter gloves offer increased speed and agility. The size and weight of the gloves should comply with the regulations of your training or competition.
- Type of Training: Consider the type of training you’ll be engaging in. Different glove styles are suitable for various training activities. For general boxing training, gloves with good padding and wrist support are recommended. If you plan to focus on bag work or sparring, you want to get your hands on 14-16oz gloves.
- Material: Boxing gloves are commonly made of either genuine leather or synthetic materials. Genuine leather gloves generally offer better durability and quality but can be more expensive. Synthetic gloves are more affordable and can still provide adequate protection and performance.
- Fit and Comfort: Proper fit is crucial for comfort and safety. Boxing gloves should snugly fit your hand without being too tight or loose. Consider the closure system, such as Velcro straps or lace-up, and choose what works best for you. Trying on gloves or referring to size charts provided by manufacturers can help you determine the right size.
- Brand and Reputation: Established brands often have a reputation for producing high-quality gloves. Research customer reviews and recommendations to assess the overall reputation of the brand and the specific model you’re considering.
- Budget: Determine your budget range and look for gloves within that range. While quality and durability are important, it’s also essential to consider what you can afford.
- Seek Advice: Consult with trainers, coaches, or experienced boxers who can provide guidance and recommendations based on their expertise and knowledge. Reading this article is a fantastic way of seeking advice!
All of the gloves I listed in this article are suitable for beginners. If you decide to buy one, get either the 14oz or 16oz size for optimal protection while not jeopardizing mobility.
Final Words
This has been the seven best Muay Thai gloves for beginners. I’m confident that whichever gloves made it to this list are one of the best ones that are currently available on the market.
Of course, there are many other brands that you might want to look into. That said, these are some of the leading ones that I’m confident you’ll find (1) protective (2) effective (3) comfortable, and (4) high-quality.
So if you’re interested in protecting your hands while doing one of the most dangerous sports in the entire globe, make sure to buy one of these gloves.
Here are other articles you’d enjoy reading if you’re interested in Muay Thai gear and the necessary protective equipment you must have to start doing Muay Thai.