“Muay Thai Gloves for Bag work” Photos by Hala Cherradi
Heavy bag work is one of the most important aspects of many martial arts training, including Muay Thai. While it is certainly not the one-size-fits-all solution to training Muay Thai, it is an invaluable tool to improve offensive skills -if properly utilized.
However, there are possible risks of injury involved due to the impact and hardness of heavy bags. It is thus important to exercise due diligence and take precautionary steps to avoid injuries, such as hand-wrapping and using gloves with proper protection.
The best Muay Thai Boxing Gloves for bag work should ideally have adequate padding for impact absorption to protect knuckles and hands; as well as sufficient wrist support. I would advise beginners to start with at least 14oz gloves for that additional padding.
In a hurry? Take a quick look at my top 5 picks of the best Muay Thai gloves for bag work:
Preview
Editor's pick 
Fan pick
Budget option
Model
Twins Special Air Flow
Fairtex BGV9
Top King
Hayabusa T3
Title Pro Style
Rating
Price
Price not available
$99.99
Price not available
$159.00
$44.99
Details
Editor's pick
Preview
Model
Twins Special Air Flow
Rating
Prime
-
Price
Price not available
Details
Preview
Model
Top King
Rating
Prime
-
Price
Price not available
Details
Budget option
Preview
Model
Title Pro Style
Rating
Prime
-
Price
$44.99
Details
Benefits of training with heavy bag
There is a plethora of benefits from training with heavy bags. Here are some reasons why bag work is a staple on all fighters’ training program:
Sharpen Techniques
We have all been there before. A badly executed kick can result in a lot of agony for the shin bone, or top of the foot. So can a poor punching form wreck your hand and wrist.
Maybe you are not turning your hips enough when you kick; or maybe you are not keeping your wrist and forearm straight when you punch.
The solidity of heavy bags will force you to work on perfecting your techniques and form by giving you instant feedback. Regular, intense training on the bag will sharpen your form that will follow you through sparring and actual fights.
Increase Striking Power
Bag work is a great way to work on your striking power. Repeatedly punching and receiving the impact from the heavy bag aids in the strengthening of a wide range of muscle groups.
At the same time, regular bag work can increase bone density and strengthen muscles and tendons in your hands, wrists and forearms, allowing you to withstand the impact of your punches and gradually throwing more powerful punches.
The same goes with your kicks as your shin gets conditioned. Also, as you refine your techniques, understanding the importance of twisting your hips, pivoting with the toes and ball and swinging your leg like a baseball bat: you will be able to throw harder and faster kicks.
Improve Stamina
Go 3 rounds of non-stop 3-minute intense striking on the heavy bag and you will see why bag work is one of the best and direct ways to train your fight stamina.
Sure, you can take it slow and chat with your mate beside you while you throw half-assed punches. But if you want to improve your endurance, you should go all out like your life depends on it.
You may not last more than 1 round at first. But as you keep pushing your boundaries, things will get easier and you will last longer than you did before.
Improve Coordination
As you incorporate movement into your bag workout, -and not just standing stationery- you will improve coordination and balance. This is accomplished as you need to work on stability with each kick and punch especially when the bag swings back at you.
Knowing when to kick and punch with a swinging heavy bag will test your coordination and technique as striking at the wrong moment can be a painful experience.
Combos
Heavy bag doesn’t only train your strength, power and endurance. Like shadow boxing, bag work trains you to be a thinking fighter. It trains your brain as much as your muscles. Instead of the usual 1-2 punches, get creative and try out as many combinations as your mind can conjure. The idea is to build up your arsenal of trickeries so as to be as unpredictable as possible.
Stress Relief
We all have our down days when we feel crushed and defeated, because life isn’t always easy. If you had a particularly difficult day at work or home, unleash your fury, anger, frustration and any negativity you are carrying onto the bag.
The heavy bag will take your beating without retaliating. And feel your heart getting lighter, as your low spirits dissolve with every punch and every kick.
How to prevent boxing (hand) injuries
The hand is made up of many tiny bones and soft tissues and this makes them prone to injuries if not adequately protected.
It is common for beginners to experience knuckle bruises but the good news is that they will harden up fairly quickly. However, joint sprains, finger/hand fractures and wrist injuries are more serious conditions that result from inadequate protection or poor techniques.
Here are some ways to prevent hand injuries from punching bags:
Stretching Exercises
Do not underestimate those subtle wrist stretches that you perform at warm-up. Proper and regular wrist stretching will improve their flexibility. Boxing with inflexible wrists increases the risk of wrist ligament tear. So be sure to do your wrist stretches diligently.
Work on Your Techniques
Many people start out over-enthusiastically especially when it comes to unleashing their fury at the heavy bag. It feels good as a way of destressing but the aftermath can cause you some physical stress instead.
Start with light punches and then slowly build up your speed and power. Make a fist firmly and land your punches correctly with maximum contact on your first two knuckles.
Also make sure your wrists and forearms are straight/aligned and not bending at awkward angles.
Strengthening exercises
A stronger wrist is vital not only for more powerful punches, but also for withstanding the impacts of your punches. You can promote wrist strength by performing exercises such as knuckle push-ups, wrist curls, and wrist grips.
Besides wrists, working on strengthening the forearms will also help to minimize wrist injuries
Hand Wraps
Hand wraps are not optional, they are mandatory! Certainly so if you want to avoid any hand or wrist mishap. Hand wraps are worn to hold and compress your knuckles, wrists, tiny bones and the soft tissue, keeping them in place and lessening the impact of your punches on them.
Muay Thai Gloves for bag work
You need gloves with good shock absorption qualities and proper wrist support. This is especially recommended if you are just starting out but is as valuable for experienced fighters.
Using gloves with appropriate protection will go a long way in minimizing hand and wrist injuries given the high impact nature of Muay Thai, preventing any unnecessary, premature retirement from the sport.
Best Muay Thai Gloves for Bag Work
The first thing when it comes to buying gloves is to choose the right weight. Punching gloves sizing are measured in terms of weight and run from 8oz to 20oz.
Generally speaking, heavier gloves equate to more padding which offers better overall hand protection so you can see how this is important when it comes to bag work. Heavier gloves will slow you down but they will lessen the impact of your punches and decrease the risk of injuries.
Additionally, they are good for conditioning and building arm strength. For added protection, here is a recommended general guide for sizes based on body weight:
| Body Weight | Recommended Gloves Size |
| 100lbs & below | 8oz – 10oz |
| 100lbs – 125lbs | 8oz – 12oz |
| 125lbs – 150lbs | 10oz – 14oz |
| 150lbs – 180lbs | 10oz – 14oz |
| 180lbs & above | 12oz – 16oz |
For the best in hand and wrist protection, here’s a list of our top recommendations to get you started:
Fairtex Mexican Style Boxing Gloves BGV-9
Fairtex Muay Thai Boxing Gloves BGV9 - Heavy Hitter Mexican Style Training & Sparring Gloves for Kick Boxing MMA K1
- Perfect fit: Fairtex boxing glove 2 pair set is ergonomically designed with a unique contoured and tight-fit hand compartment designed to provide a secure and snug fit makes it easy for men & women
- Shock Absorbent: The muay thai gloves are constructed of premium genuine leather with Fairtex foam system and pads for excellent hand and knuckle protection & shock disbursement for heavy bags & speed...
- Multipurpose: The fairtex muay thai gloves provide all round usage in sports such as kickboxing, MMA, fighting, fitness, training etc
- Perfect fit: Fairtex boxing glove 2 pair set is ergonomically designed with a unique contoured and tight-fit hand compartment designed to provide a secure and snug fit makes it easy for men & women
- Shock Absorbent: The muay thai gloves are constructed of premium genuine leather with Fairtex foam system and pads for excellent hand and knuckle protection & shock disbursement for heavy bags & speed...
- Multipurpose: The fairtex muay thai gloves provide all round usage in sports such as kickboxing, MMA, fighting, fitness, training etc
Fairtex is the top Muay Thai brand with quality and durable gloves that are built to last. The BGV1 is perhaps Farirtex’s most popular Muay Thai gloves model but offers less padding compared to other brands. Here’s where the Mexican style BGV9 comes in to fill the gap.
The BGV9 is called the heavy hitter because they will appeal to those big punchers. Taking inspiration for traditional boxing, these feature additional padding on the knuckle area for protection and provide great wrist support with their extended wrist cuffs.
BGV9s are also constructed with premium leather for excellent comfort and durability. These are getting lots of love in the Muay Thai community and you won’t go wrong with them as your training gloves.
| User Feedback |
| – “They are much more supportive on my wrists than my old pair of Everlasts and they also don’t carry too much bulk. My punches feel like they’re landing much better as a result.“ – “They provide ample wrist support which is perfect for bag work.“ |
>> Click here to purchase Fairtex BGV9 Gloves at Amazon now<<
Twins Special Muay Thai Boxing Gloves BGVL2A
In terms of popularity, Twins Special is right up there with Fairtex. Their classic leather gloves are favored by everyone from casual gym goers to trainers to professional fighters alike.
As a high impact sport, you want gloves that can give you good wrist support and provide sufficient protection for your knuckles.
The great overall padding offers ideal protection while you work on your techniques and strengthen your hands to withstand the impact of your punches. They are, in fact, more padded than most gloves which means no more sore hands after punching them heavy bags.
Good quality leather gloves giving you good mileage at great prices. A real working class hero.
These Air Flow variants feature a palm mesh for better ventilation, giving cool comfort and faster drying for all your intense bag training.
| User Feedback |
| – “they have more cushioning than other gloves I have used for Muay Thai and I highly recommend getting them.“ – “ The gloves do a great job absorbing the shock when hitting the heavy bag and the wrist support is excellent.. After two years, the velcro is still going strong and the gloves still protect my hands.“ |
>> Click here to purchase Twins BGVLA Gloves at Amazon now<<
Top King Muay Thai Gloves
Rounding up the top 3 spots is Top King. Offering comparative protection to Twins gloves, it is interesting to note that the 2 brands are actually owned by 2 brothers.
One reason why they are well-liked is the bold and distinct aesthetics of their gear. For cool looking gloves, the quality of the craftsmanship and the cowhide leather used is exceptional.
These sturdy gloves are well construct and have good foam padding to protect the knuckles and wrists. One thing to note is that the cuffs extend almost halfway up your forearms and would make very support for your wrists while you go hard at the heavy bag.
With such great qualities, you might not be switching brands ever after.
| User Feedback |
| – “The wrist strap holds tight and it feels very secure.“ – “They’re sturdy, with good fist and wrist protection.“ |
>> Click here to purchase Top King gloves at Amazon now<<
Hayabusa T3 Boxing Gloves
Hayabusa T3 Boxing Gloves for Men and Women Wrist and Knuckle Protection, Dual-X Hook and Loop Closure, Splinted Wrist Support, 5 Layer Foam Knuckle Padding - Black/Red, 16 oz
- A Revolutionized Training Glove: You need a glove that checks all of the boxes, from protection and comfort to durability and fit. T3 Boxing Gloves do just that, with a decade of sports science &...
- Built For Comfort With A Tailored Fit: Interior fabric feels smooth and cool on your hands and helps to regulate your hand temperature. Two interlocking velcro wrist straps adjust to fit your hands...
- World Renowned Wrist Support: The dual wrist straps and splinting system work together to keep your wrists aligned with each punch. It locks your wrists in place when you strap up, preventing risky...
- A Revolutionized Training Glove: You need a glove that checks all of the boxes, from protection and comfort to durability and fit. T3 Boxing Gloves do just that, with a decade of sports science &...
- Built For Comfort With A Tailored Fit: Interior fabric feels smooth and cool on your hands and helps to regulate your hand temperature. Two interlocking velcro wrist straps adjust to fit your hands...
- World Renowned Wrist Support: The dual wrist straps and splinting system work together to keep your wrists aligned with each punch. It locks your wrists in place when you strap up, preventing risky...
The T3 is an update of the brand’s bestselling Tokushu Regenesis model. It’s one of the most popular and widely recommended gloves in terms of wrist support.
Hayabusa is known for extensive research and innovation in the design of their products. It boasts an engineered (synthetic) leather proven to outlast regular leather.
The really outstanding feature of these gloves is the dual wrist wrap. This patented design provides excellent alignment of the hands and wrists, guarding against harmful twisting, flexion and extension. Additionally, it secures the gloves and provides ample padding for protection.
Another outstanding feature is the inner fabric which boasts an anti-microbial technology that delivers anti-odor properties, improved ventilation, enhanced breathability and thermo-regulating properties.
What that means, is that they will keep your hands cool and will dry up fast, giving you the best comfort and protection while you work it on the heavy bag.
| User Feedback |
| – “The wrist support is second to none.” – “Every awesome thing you’ve read is true.” |
>> Click here to purchase Hayabusa T3 at Amazon now<<
Title Pro Style Leather Training Gloves
Title Pro Style Leather Training Gloves 3.0, Black/White, 16 oz
- An exciting re-creation of our famous signature Leather Pro-Style Training Gloves with even more added features and benefits!
- Genuine full-grain leather cover is super tough and durable
- Multi-layer shock absorbing high and low density foams
- An exciting re-creation of our famous signature Leather Pro-Style Training Gloves with even more added features and benefits!
- Genuine full-grain leather cover is super tough and durable
- Multi-layer shock absorbing high and low density foams
Title is a reputable and popular boxing brand. These pro style training gloves are made with real leather and a real steal for its price at under $50. They use a multi-layered foam padding for superior protection for your hands and knuckles, making them very ideal for training with heavy bag.
Even if you are a heavy hitter, the durable all-leather gloves will protect your hands sufficiently and you will be pleased with their mileage.
With these gloves, you can hit the bag as hard as you like without any knuckle pain. For bag work, these gloves will deliver what they promise.
| User Feedback |
| – “Knuckle pain gone with these gloves.“ – “After upgrading from my last pair of cheaper off brand gloves to these my hands / wrist thank me.” |
>> Click here to purchase TITLE Pro Style at Amazon now <<
Conclusion
Heavy bags are cold and merciless but also faithfully honest. They are your best friend as much as they are your worst enemy. It is a love-hate relationship.
Train like your life depends on it. Train like everyone’s looking. But remember to stay safe with the right protection with the right pair of Muay Thai gloves for bag work.
Chok dee!
1 thought on “Safety first! Best Muay Thai Gloves for Bag Work”