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Best Gym Gloves
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Protection
The entire purpose of buying this type of glove, to begin with, is for the protection they provide to your hand.
Arguably the main reason you are even here is that you are fed up with blisters and calluses that can result after your long and grueling workouts. Indeed, one of the prominent functions of any gym glove is to protect your hands and they must do that efficiently. You see, blisters and calluses begin to form when there is excessive friction between your hands and the surface you are gripping. When you wear a glove that protects your hand, though, this risk is all but eliminated.
This then brings up the question, however, of how this is achieved. First off, the glove is going to absorb most of the pressure that can be involved with various workouts. Secondly, most of them will have integrated padding and this essentially adds a barrier between your hand and whatever piece of gym equipment you are using. Thus, this adds support and comfort at the same time. However, too much padding is also not necessarily ideal as this can restrict your flexibility. Finding the perfect amount is what you are after.
Effectiveness
Grip and flexibility are two crucial components and you need to keep both of them in mind.
If all your hands needed were protection then you could slap on any old pair of gloves on and be good to go. However, everyone knows that is not going to cut it here because the pair you invest in also needs to be effective. Two of the main areas to assess are the grip and the flexibility. Starting with the former, it really goes without saying that this is vital. Gym gloves that do not offer a secure grip will be more of a hindrance than an advantage and can also be considered safety hazards. Not only can you slip and fall as a result but any equipment you are holding (such as dumbbells) can slip and cause serious damage (depending on the weight).
As for the flexibility, this becomes important when you are performing different kinds of workouts. Depending on the exercise, you may not want to be at the mercy of the momentum unable to adjust your hands because of the stiffness of the gloves. Plus, you need to be able to wrap your hands around the bars on gym equipment. Also, one last thing, some options will also have built-in wrist straps and this can be ideal to provide much-needed support for your wrists when you lift heavier weights.
Breathability
You are going to sweat and that means the gloves need to be breathable.
Truth be told, you should not have to think real hard on this one. Anyone who understands basic human anatomy understands that when your body endures repetitive movements for extended periods of time or is exposed to hotter climates, sweating is the result. This is not going to be news for anyone and you may be pondering to yourself why it was even stated, quite frankly. Well, it is the primary reason why this section is so important and as obvious as it is, the breathability is going to be a major selling point.
In order for a pair of gloves to be more breathable, or any garment for that matter, one of two features needs to be present (or both). Either the materials themselves need to be able to wick away moisture from your skin or there needs to be implemented materials that allow for air circulation. For the latter, any type of mesh material is going to be ideal. Optimally, though, you should really look for both. A glove that can wick away moisture and allow for ample airflow is going to be that much more efficient when it comes to its breathability.
Materials
The importance of the quality of the materials can't be overstated enough.
There are some products out there where you can get away with going cheaper. For example, with some technology devices, you can opt for a cheaper model that lacks some of the top-end features of other models (but one that is still built well). However, that really is not going to cut it here. You see, you almost can’t go cheap because that will mean that the construction is cheaper. And, this will also mean that the designer will probably go with more cost-effective materials and construction methods. In short, this means you should not pay attention to the price and just focus on the quality.
Some common materials you will see are neoprene, leather and nylon. And, even though nylon is very tough and durable in its own right it is actually a step down in terms of quality (as compared to the other two). Top-end leather and neoprene are fantastic choices that should last quite a long time. Of course, you should also look for the seams to be double-stitched as they will be the area of the glove that will be prone to wear and tear.
Fit
You guessed it, the fit is essential. Plus, the performance is dictated a lot by the fit.
In order for you to obtain an optimal grip and therefore be satisfied with your new pair of gym gloves, they will need to fit you properly. But, how do you know what size to buy? It is easier with footwear as you can access the current shoe size you have and go by that. In this case, though, you will probably not need to worry about the length. Granted the pair you want is fingerless, you can simply focus on the width. As you would measure your hand for general gloves, do so in the same manner here. If you are unsure on how to do that, you can always access online tutorials.
However, and this is one of the most frustrating aspects about buying clothes, not all models will be sized accurately. This is where conducting a little research on your own can become useful. If you take some time to see what previous buyers have reported about the sizing, you can gauge how they will fit you. For example, if the general consensus is a specific model runs large, then you should probably order a size down.
OUR TOP PICKS FOR THE BEST GYM GLOVES
1. Bionic Premium
It is interesting to note that this is one of the few full gloves on this list and it happens to be the best. In spite of this, they remain breathable thanks to the superb craftsmanship.
Read moreProtection
Due to the genuine leather palms and the patented anatomical pad relief systems, these manage to displace the pressure that your hands will endure during your workout.
Effectiveness
To provide you with enhanced dexterity, these are designed with pre-rotated finger designs that will adapt to your hand’s natural curving motion.
Breathability
Do not worry about overheating in these as they are optimized for breathability. This is possible thanks to the Cool-On material that is used for the back and the Lycra that is implemented between the fingers.
Materials
As mentioned before, the palms are made out of genuine leather. Due to the construction method that was used, this leather enhances the overall lifespan of these gloves.
Fitting
The general consensus is that the fingers are very tight and that they can be difficult to put on. To compensate, you could order a size larger but they may make the rest of the glove too large.
Overall
Do not be hesitant to buy these if you simply think your hands will overheat (as the breathable materials prevent that). And, as you can see, the performance provided is fantastic.
2. Achieve Fit
There is so much to talk about here that it is difficult to summarize the best features. That alone really does say it all, does it not?
Read moreProtection
The correct amount of padding has been integrated here to add comfort but to also reduce the chance of the padding bunching. This can be a major nuisance and it is nice that it is all but avoided.
Effectiveness
As with any excellent pair of gym gloves, you are provided with an optimal amount of grip with these. Even when your hands begin to sweat, your grip will not be compromised.
Breathability
Speaking of sweat, the materials that have been used here are breathable. What this means is when your hands do begin to sweat, they will not overheat.
Materials
If there is one thing you can take comfort in, it is that these are designed to last. This is thanks to the double-stitched seams that have been incorporated.
Fitting
Several previous buyers have advised new buyers to order a size larger than they typically would. Now, there is a sizing chart that you can reference to get a decent idea of the size you need.
Overall
Is it rare to find a superb product that is affordable? Yeah, you could say that but guess what, this is one of them. They do tend to run tight, though, so be cautious of that.
3. Grip Power Pads
The best word to describe these hand garments is heavy-duty. Only premium materials were used to design them and it really shows when you use them for the first time.
Read moreProtection
To prevent burns, blisters, and calluses, each glove has been equipped with rubber padding that adds extra insulation. In addition to this, each one sports long wrist straps that add further protection.
Effectiveness
To say these are optimized for grip is an understatement. Each glove is outfitted with rubberized pads and dots on the palm and this provides maximum control.
Breathability
The materials that are utilized are breathable and this makes the overall experience much better.
Materials
Without question, count on this. Only the most premium of materials have been utilized to craft these including genuine leather.
Fitting
There are actually four different sizing options to select from, which is nice. One thing to note, though, is the Velcro straps tend to struggle to hold their grip under heavy loads.
Overall
Yeah, the Velcro could have been a little better but that is looking at the glass half-empty. If you look at it half-full, then the rest is going to be history.
4. RIMSports Powerlifting
One thing is for sure; you can’t deny the success that RIMSports has achieved with their model here. Outside of the fact that the grip could be improved, everything else is nearly top-notch.
Read moreProtection
On both of the palms, there is sufficient padding integrated and this provides the cushioning you will need to protect your hands from injuries.
Effectiveness
There is good news and bad news here. The good news is there is no-slip contact padding implemented and this delivers a firmer hold. However, when it comes to dexterity, it is limited when you perform other exercises.
Breathability
These are fingerless, for the record. To make the breathability even better, the fabrics that are used are specially made to be breathable.
Materials
To ensure that these would last a very long time, the engineers incorporated genuine leather and spandex.
Fitting
These are snug but they seem to run somewhat true-to-size. There are multiple sizing options available, for the record, and also Velcro straps that hold the gloves securely in place.
Overall
When it comes to versatility, these are not the best because the dexterity provided is not the best. Then again, everything else is pretty much top-notch.
5. Trideer Padded
Generally speaking, it is hard to criticize this next pair of hand garments. Now, because there are only four other pairs that are superior to these that surely better be the case.
Read moreProtection
To say this is equipped with tons of padding is putting it lightly. Protection is offered for your fingers, palms, wrists and even the back of your hands.
Effectiveness
There are integrated wrist straps that add additional support for your workout. In addition, the silica gel palms enhance your grip and can increase your performance overall.
Breathability
One specific reviewer had claimed that they were concerned about the breathability but they pleasantly reported that it was not an issue with this particular model.
Materials
Not only does the superior customized material provide a strong three-dimensional sense but the double-channel sewing method ensures that these will last longer.
Fitting
Though it may be instinctive to order a size up if you are in-between sizes, the manufacturer here actually recommends doing the opposite. They advise this because their hand garments are designed to fit snug.
Overall
It is not too dumbfounding to see why this model is a top seller. It managed to secure a spot in the top five of this list for several of the reasons listed above.
6. Fit Active Sports
As you can see from the photos, these offer enhanced protection for your palms. But, all in the meanwhile, there is a lot of empty space as your backhand is not covered at all.
Read moreProtection
Some of you may believe that this design is pointless as it offers no protection for your fingers. However, in regard to your palms, the protection and padding are there.
Effectiveness
In addition to the silicone neoprene that is used for the palms to enhance the grip, there are also built-in wrist straps that add even more support.
Breathability
One of the advantages to this design is there is a lot of open space to allow for ample airflow. While this is not sufficient when it comes to padding, these are about as breathable as it gets.
Materials
The neoprene that is utilized for the palms is a premium material that is resistant to water, oils, heat and any dangerous chemicals.
Fitting
As with most gym gloves on the market, these are equipped with Velcro straps that allow you to personally adjust the comfort and fitting levels.
Overall
Is this option going to be for everyone? No, and that is due to the design. Some of you will love the extra breathability but others will be disappointed with the lack of protection.
7. Harbinger Power
Not all of these options need to be costly and this is a great example of that. Though you will have to compromise with the quality a tad, these can be worth it for the right folks.
Read moreProtection
Although the seam on the inner thumbs can cause discomfort, the leather palms protect your hands and there is open cell foam that cushions your fingers.
Effectiveness
First off, the half-finger length increases your grip and secondly, the StretchBack mesh on the back enhances your flexibility.
Breathability
As you probably guessed, the same StretchBack mesh that is used on the back of these enhances the breathability. That is the power of mesh material, ladies and gentlemen.
Materials
Let’s address the elephant in the room. The leather that is utilized is fantastic but the black dye that was used tends to bleed. As for the actual durability, though, the leather is doubled and the thumbs are reinforced.
Fitting
As you can see, there are adjustable wrist closures that allow for easier fitting. These are designed to fit snug so do not be shocked if the fit is tight.
Overall
Are there some slightly annoying caveats to this design? Yes, looking at the bleeding dye and the seams on the inner thumb area, there are. But, that does not ruin the overall performance too much.
8. Contraband Pink Label
For whatever reason, the thumbs of these have a ton of wiggle room. As a whole, though, it is tough to go wrong with the design that is on display here.
Read moreProtection
Admittedly, there is an adequate amount of padding present here but there could have been more. As one user pointed out, it does not have as much padding as other models.
Effectiveness
Instead of using leather for the palms, Contraband decided to go with silicone rubber. They claim this is superior to leather and, overall, it allows for excellent grip and flexibility.
Breathability
There is mesh implemented at the top and this does a superb job of preventing heat buildup. What also helps are the breathable materials as they pull sweat away from your hands.
Materials
Of the majority of the reviewers that have left their remarks on the durability, most of them have commented that the quality is good to great.
Fitting
Do be aware that some buyers have noted that the sizing chart is incorrect and this makes achieving the perfect fit much more difficult. Also, the thumbs are huge.
Overall
As you can see, there is a lot to love about this design. Sure, more padding would have been nice but the optimal grip and the flexibility ensure the performance is optimal.
9. Mava Sports
Thanks to the integrated wrist straps, you are offered even more protection with these hand garments. Now, with these, your thumbs are completely exposed so be cautious of that.
Read moreProtection
Much like with the last model, there is a limited amount of protection here (specifically with the thumbs). However, there is neoprene and reinforced leather in the palms to add protection.
Effectiveness
Thanks to the additional layer of silicone added to the palm area, the grip is enhanced even further. Also, there are integrated wrist straps that offer superior support.
Breathability
The neoprene material is also an anti-sweat material. So, it is going to keep your hands dry and wick away moisture. This will also prevent overheating, which is fantastic.
Materials
In spite of the double-stitched seams and the premium materials that are used, one buyer did note that these lasted a mere three weeks before tearing at the seams.
Fitting
The hook and loop closure straps do help with the adjusting process. However, be cautious that various users have noted that these tend to run small.
Overall
The one caveat to these is the fact that your thumbs are completely exposed. This is clearly intentional so it is safe to say that some of you will not be appealed to this design.
10. Nordic Lifting
There is probably not going to be a single person to argue that this is the best option on the market. Though it is the caboose on this list, there are a lot of great features that deserved to be discussed.
Read moreProtection
To provide protection against calluses and blisters and all sorts of potential bumps and bruises, each glove included here is outfitted with an optimal amount of padding.
Effectiveness
Though these are designed with sturdy leather at the palms for enhanced grip, various users have criticized them for being too smooth and lacking the advertised grip.
Breathability
If Nordic could do it over, they would have probably designed their gloves with materials that breathe better. So, when your workout has concluded, these will need to be washed right away.
Materials
A few users have experienced tearing at the seams but most consumers concur that these are crafted with durability in mind. The premium leather and reinforced stitching can be attributed to that.
Fitting
An ideal amount of sizing options is available for you to choose from and this all but guarantees you will be able to find the right fit for you.
Overall
In spite of the issues that are in play, the positive feedback that has been garnered can’t be denied. Simply put, too many users have complimented this design for it not to deserve some praise.