Suggest Training Gloves - Windy, Fairtex, Top Contender, Ringside

futtbuck · 06:53 PM

OK, I'm about to get back into a more serious training situation, and I need training gloves and shin guards.

My first thought was to go with Ringside, since I have a pair of Super Bag Gloves that have been rock-solid for me. However, I figured I should take a look at some other brands.

#1 on my list is Fairtex, since I'm going to be training MT and they're known for MT gear. But I've heard good stuff about Windy, too. Both of those could be considered expensive - $70 to $90 for training gloves and $60 for shin guards.

Then we have Ringside and Top Contender brands, gear that is much more moderately priced - we're talking $45 to $60 for training gloves and $40 for shin guards.

How big is the difference in quality between these brands? I am not really price sensitive when it comes to protecting my hands, since I use them to make a living. But at the same time, I'm not interested in paying more money for the same stuff. Dropping $90 on Fairtex gloves is OK...unless the $49 Top Contender gloves are exactly the same, in which case dropping $90 is just dumb.

Is there anyone here who has done some training with all these different brands of gloves who can tell me what the difference really is between them? If it's all the same stuff, I'm going for the less expensive gear, but experience tells me that you usually do get what you pay for.

edit:

NOTE: I need MMA/grappling gloves, too. I'm considering Fairtex, Truth, Ouano, and Ringside for those.

Brandinho · 07-10-2005, 06:48 PM

Absolutely nothing wrong with Ringside or Title. I have used both over the years. Windy and Twins are hands down my favorite and I have a pair of each now. I cannot comment on the Contender as I have never used them. No experience with Fairtex either. When my Twins wear out, I am sticking with Windy strictly on how they feel for my hands.

futtbuck · 07-10-2005, 06:49 PM

Quote:

I am sticking with Windy strictly on how they feel for my hands.

What is it about the Windy glove and your hands? Depth of padding, palm length, cuff size, etc? Can you articulate what it is about the Windys that agree with your hands more so than the other brands?

Brandinho · 07-10-2005, 06:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by futtbuck

What is it about the Windy glove and your hands? Depth of padding, palm length, cuff size, etc? Can you articulate what it is about the Windys that agree with your hands more so than the other brands?

Yeah, no prob. I have little girly hands, I will admit it. Well, they are not that small, but smaller than average. My Twins and Thaismai gloves have a cuff that is slightly too big for me. My wrist has too much play. The Windy has a good size open palm to work on clinch with bag and partner. For small hands, my fingers are longer and they fit just perfectly snug as far as depth goes. Even with my bag gloves, the gel knuckle guards work well and fit. Padding is good on the outside and inside. And they have a good thumb strap (although most brands do). Plus, I am of the belief that if you want to train BJJ, buy a Brasilian gi. Can't go wrong with Thai made gloves for MT. Plus, they really last.

This shouldn't take away from Ringside or Title. Like I said, I have had great luck with them and both are quality brands, especially for the price.

DaFort · 07-11-2005, 02:44 PM

Top Contender is the EXACT same gear as Ringside. I like Top Contender Because: 1. It's cheaper. 2. It doesn't have Ringside plastered all over your gear. and 3. Black is always an awesome color.

futtbuck · 07-11-2005, 07:45 PM

Quote:

Top Contender is the EXACT same gear as Ringside.

I had a feeling, but wasn't quiiiite sure.

Sneaky fuckers. ;)

ClampXVII · 07-12-2005, 12:58 AM

Top Contender isn't EXACTLY its actually made a little cheaper. They wear out a little faster also. I have 2 gloves by Top Contender and 2 gloves by Ringside and 2 by KO and the top contenders wear out faster than the others.

**Fozzy** · 07-12-2005, 01:09 AM

http://www.sherdog.net/forums/showthread.php?t=172420

~Foz

Charles Kozeluh · 07-12-2005, 08:53 AM

every has different prefferences I used Cleto Reyes for a long time but I use everlast not that departmant store everlast shit because the protect my hands the best.

left_high_kick · 08-21-2008, 12:44 AM

I am a Fairtex fan all the way. all my gear comes from them. I have had gloves that have gone five years with absolutely no problems. MMA 8 oz, bag gloves 16 oz, and sparring gloves 14 oz