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Everyone's always excited to check out the latest UFC products and releases, especially when it comes to fight night gloves.
In recent years, there’s been a lot of criticism about eye pokes and hand breaks, like in Chris Weidman's win over Bruno Silva in March.
The UFC is stepping up with a new glove that had its debut at UFC 302 on June 1 in Newark, New Jersey. While the UFC isn't usually known for making big changes to the gloves, this time, there are some significant updates.
Introducing the 3Eight/5Eight MMA gloves! So, what makes these new UFC gloves different? Let's take a look and find out.
Different Colour Gloves
First breaking down the different glove choices and options available. First up, we have the 3Eight gloves, which come in a gunmetal colour, for all three-round fights.
Next, there's the 5Eight glove, a gold option for all championship-round fights—you've probably seen these on social media.
But that's not all! There's also a turquoise glove specifically for Dana White's Contender Series and a vibrant red glove for events like Road to UFC Asia.
Weight & Sizing
One of the significant improvements in these gloves is the reduction in weight.
The gloves now weigh between 3 and 4.9 ounces, a reduction of 1 to 1.5 ounces from previous models.
Additionally, the gloves incorporate Impact Protection technology, which distributes the force of blows more evenly, reducing the risk of injury. This makes them not only the best UFC gloves of 2024 but also a smart investment for any serious fighter.
Although these gloves are premium they are not just for the pros; they cater to all fighters, with sizes ranging from XXXS to XXXXL. This means whether you’re a male or female fighter, there's a perfect fit.
Updated Features of the Latest MMA Gloves
The redesigned UFC gloves have been meticulously crafted to offer an improved fit and superior protection. What are the standout features?
- Wristband Locking System: Provides a secure fit, reducing the risk of slippage during intense bouts.
- Tapered Finger Design: For better ergonomics and grip.
- Innovative Padding: Utilises the VICIS Foam Stack for superior shock absorption and impact protection.
- 2-way Stretch Lining: Adds flexibility and comfort, allowing for a snug fit that moves with you.
- Curved Wristband and Angled Finger Holes: Ensure the gloves stay in place while allowing full range of motion for your fingers. The wristband locking system eliminates any gaps that an opponent could use to grab your glove during a grappling exchange. Plus, with no seams on the gloves, the chances of getting abrasions or cuts are significantly reduced.
- Removal of Finger Binding: Reduces bulk and minimises seams that may cause abrasions and cuts.
- Added Padding: Protects vulnerable bone structure at the index and pinky fingers including contouring foam layer on the top.
- Low-profile Hook and Loop Fasteners: Offer a secure closure without the bulk.
- NFC Chips: For authentication
The gloves feature padding improvements aimed at reducing eye pokes and preventing hand injuries.
Fighters like Dustin Poirier, with his impressive 30-9-0 (1 NC) record and status as a lightweight title challenger, are raving about these gloves. Poirier said, “I like them, and they’re a lot easier to make a closed fist.”
He explained further, “The problem with the old UFC gloves, they were kind of built flat so we’d have to roll them up at the back and try to make it easier - like you're straining to make a closed fist.”
Cutting-edge Technology & Authentication
The integration of modern technology into these gloves sets them apart from previous models. Each pair of the latest UFC gloves comes with an Authentication Data Chip. This NFC chip verifies the authenticity of your gloves, ensuring you have a genuine product.
VICIS Foam Stack
The new glove was designed and engineered by VICIS RDI and one of the standout features of these gloves is the VICIS Foam Stack. This advanced padding system is designed to absorb and distribute impact more effectively than traditional foam. This means that each punch you throw or block you make is cushioned.
NFC Chips for Authentication
In a move towards modernising fight gear, the new UFC gloves come equipped with NFC Chips.
These chips allow fighters to verify the authenticity of their gloves easily. This not only ensures that you're getting a genuine product but also helps in maintaining the integrity and trust in the brand. The Authentication Data Chip is a small but significant addition that sets these gloves apart from the competition.
Conclusion
The latest UFC gloves mark an exciting advancement in fight gear technology. With features like the Wristband Locking System and VICIS Foam Stack, these gloves are all about boosting performance, comfort, and safety.
These aren’t just any gloves; they’re premium gloves crafted for serious fighters.
The meticulous attention to detail, from the high-quality materials to the innovative design, makes them a top choice. Whether you’re eyeing the gold UFC gloves or a collector's edition, these gloves are a part of history in the making!
