Mixed martial arts (MMA) is one of the fastest-growing and most-watched combat sports in the world. The sport combines techniques from various martial arts and allows almost all techniques.
An essential part of an MMA fighter's equipment is the gloves. In this article we explore everything you need to know about MMA gloves, their evolution and why they are so important.
The evolution of gloves in the UFC
Since the founding of the UFC, fighters' equipment has changed significantly. In the early days you would still see fighters in speedos and without gloves facing athletes in a full judo suit.
From UFC 14 onwards, wearing gloves became mandatory, primarily for fighter safety. This prevented broken hands and unnecessary cuts to athletes' faces.
What type of MMA gloves does the UFC use?
MMA gloves are available in two variants:
- MMA sparring gloves
- MMA grappling gloves
During UFC fights, the fighters wear grappling gloves because they offer more freedom of movement than sparring gloves and have less padding.
You can recognise grappling gloves by the half fingers and the fact that they are quite thin and light. These gloves are designed with grip and control as the starting point.
During an MMA fight you naturally want to be able to grab your opponent properly, should you want to.
UFC competition gloves were always 4 oz until recently, but changed to 3 oz from UFC 302 onwards.
Are the MMA gloves used by the UFC made by Venum?
The short answer is: No. Many people think this is the case because Venum provides the official fighter apparel. But this is limited to clothing only. The MMA gloves used by the UFC were developed by the UFC themselves and Venum has nothing to do with them.
Venum does have its own MMA gloves and they are extremely good too. Curious? View all Venum MMA gloves here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use MMA gloves for heavy bag training?
For bag training it is better to use regular boxing gloves with thicker padding. These offer more protection for your hands, knuckles and wrists, and minimise the risk of injury.
What is the difference between MMA gloves and boxing gloves?
MMA gloves have less padding and open fingers, giving you more freedom of movement and allowing you to grapple. Boxing gloves, on the other hand, have more padding and are larger, providing better protection for heavy punches.
Can MMA gloves go in the washing machine?
We do not recommend cleaning MMA gloves in the washing machine, as this can damage the material. Clean them with a damp cloth, let them dry thoroughly and use an antibacterial spray to prevent unpleasant odours.
How often should I replace my gloves?
The lifespan of your gloves depends on how often and how intensively you train. Generally, well-maintained gloves last 6 to 12 months with regular use.
Look out for signs of wear such as thinning padding and tears in the material. Replace your gloves when they no longer provide sufficient protection to prevent injury.