How to Choose the Perfect Submission Gloves for Your Training
Back in 2012, I was cornering a promising MMA fighter named Alex during a grueling training camp for his regional title fight. Alex dominated on the feet but kept gassing out in the clinch, his submissions slipping because his standard MMA gloves bunched up during wrist locks and armbars. Frustrated after a session where he tapped three times unnecessarily, he asked, "Coach, what am I missing?" That's when I introduced him to submission gloves—sleek, open-palm designs built for grappling precision. Within weeks, his ground game sharpened, and he submitted his opponent in the second round. As David Thompson, with over 20 years testing combat sports gear, I've seen firsthand how the right submission gloves transform training. In this guide, we'll break down how to choose the perfect submission gloves for your training, whether you're a beginner rolling in BJJ or a pro prepping for MMA fights.
The Challenge
Submission gloves fill a critical gap in combat sports gear. Unlike bulky boxing gloves padded for punches or full-coverage MMA gloves for cage striking, submission gloves prioritize grip, flexibility, and joint control. They're essential for disciplines like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), wrestling, and MMA grappling phases, where you need to isolate wrists, fingers, and elbows without glove interference.
The main challenge? Most fighters grab generic "grappling gloves" without considering fit or function, leading to common pitfalls. Poor wrist support causes sprains during kimura drills. Excessive padding hinders finger dexterity for collar chokes or Americanas. And cheap materials tear after a few sessions on the mats. I've tested dozens—from Hayabusa's hybrid models to Venum's minimalist designs—and seen novices tap early due to gear failures, while pros like those in the UFC rely on specialized submission gloves for training to mimic competition feel without injury risk.
For gym rats in commercial dojos, home workout warriors, or competition prep, mismatched submission gloves amplify fatigue and frustration. Beginners struggle with sizing, intermediates overlook ventilation for sweaty rolls, and advanced fighters demand durability for 10-round sims. Safety is non-negotiable: improper gloves increase finger jams in guard passes or hyperextensions in heel hooks.
The Approach
My method for selecting submission gloves stems from decades of gear testing across boxing rings, Muay Thai camps, and BJJ academies. Start with your training context. Are you drilling no-gi submissions in MMA? Opt for open-palm submission gloves with reinforced knuckles for light striking transitions. Pure grappling in a gi-heavy BJJ class? Choose hybrid models with thumb loops for gi grip security.
Evaluate three pillars: construction and materials, fit and sizing, and performance specs. Prioritize full-grain leather or high-grade synthetic for longevity—leather like in Fairtex submission gloves molds to your hand over time, resisting cracks from repeated flexing. Avoid PVC knockoffs that delaminate after 20 sessions. Closure matters: dual Velcro straps (e.g., Twins Special) provide adjustable wrist lockdown, crucial for torque-heavy subs like the guillotine.
Consider skill level and environment. Beginners need forgiving padding (4-6 oz) for pad work integration; pros prefer 2-4 oz for pure grappling feedback. In humid home gyms, mesh panels in Ringside models prevent slippage. Always cross-reference fighter feedback—UFC grapplers swear by Everlast's submission line for its pre-curved palm that reduces hand fatigue during long rolls.
Implementation Details
Step 1: Assess Your Training Needs
Map your sessions. Sparring MMA? Submission gloves for fighters should bridge striking and grappling—look for minimal knuckle padding and extended cuffs like Hayabusa T3. BJJ-focused? Open-finger designs from Tatami excel in wrist control drills. Wrestling takedowns demand grippy palms; Kickboxing clinch work benefits from hybrid ventilation.
- Gym Training: Versatile MMA submission gloves with antimicrobial lining to combat mat bacteria.
- Competition Prep: Lace-up options for authentic feel, though Velcro suits most amateurs.
- Home Workouts: Lightweight, packable models under 8 oz total weight.
Step 2: Master Sizing and Fit
Sizing isn't one-size-fits-all. Measure hand circumference at the knuckles (small: 6-7 inches, medium: 8-9, large: 10+). Try on with hand wraps—1.5-2 inch Mexican style for wrist stability. A perfect fit allows full finger splay without gaps; test by clenching into a fist then extending for armbar simulation.
Insider tip: Pros like Demian Maia prefer gloves with ergonomic splits between fingers to prevent binding during figure-four locks. Check for thumb padding—minimal for submissions, unlike padded boxing variants. Durability test: Flex the palm 50 times; quality ones like Venum Challenger rebound without creasing.
Step 3: Prioritize Materials and Features
Top materials breakdown:
| Material | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Grain Leather | Durability (500+ hours), molds to hand | Higher cost ($80-150) | Pro MMA training |
| Split Leather/Syntec | Affordable ($40-80), water-resistant | Wears faster (200 hours) | Beginner BJJ |
| Mesh Panels | Breathable, quick-dry | Less abrasion resistance | Sweaty sparring |
Key features: Reinforced stitching at stress points (palm-web junction), IPF-compliant padding for legal comps, and hypoallergenic interiors. Maintenance hack: Air-dry post-use, spot-clean with leather conditioner—extends life 30%.
For the best submission gloves, scan Apollo MMA's curated selection, where we stock battle-tested options from trusted brands.
Step 4: Budget and Value Check
Expect $50-200. Entry-level Ringside at $60 offer solid value for intermediates; premium Hayabusa at $130 justify via 2-year warranties. Trade-off honesty: Cheaper gloves save upfront but cost in replacements—I've replaced $30 pairs thrice yearly for clients, versus one premium set lasting seasons.
Results & Benefits
Implementing this with Alex yielded immediate gains. His submission success rate jumped 40% in drills; wrist stability cut injuries by half. In real-world tests, fighters using proper submission gloves for training report 25% less hand fatigue after 90-minute sessions, per my logs from coaching 50+ athletes.
Benefits cascade: Enhanced grip translates to tighter triangles and straights. Safety improves—proper cuffs prevent ulnar deviations in defenses. Pros gain competition edge; beginners build confidence without frustration. In group classes, matched gear levels the field, fostering better rolls. Long-term, durable submission gloves reduce waste, aligning with sustainable training.
Across disciplines, Muay Thai clinch fighters adapt them for elbow control, while wrestlers pair with headgear for shoot-throughs. Apollo MMA customers rave about seamless integration into routines, boosting performance without bulk.
Key Takeaways
- Match gloves to discipline: Open-palm for BJJ subs, hybrids for MMA transitions.
- Prioritize wrist lockdown and finger freedom over padding volume.
- Invest in leather for pros; synthetics suffice for casual use.
- Test fit with wraps; flex-test for durability.
- Maintain rigorously—air-dry, condition quarterly.
- Budget for value: Mid-range ($70-120) hits sweet spot for most.
How to Apply This
Ready to upgrade? Inventory your current gear— if your gloves hinder grips, it's time. Head to Apollo MMA's submission gloves collection for hand-picked options vetted for fighters worldwide. Filter by size, material, and style; read specs on closure and padding.
Action plan:
- Measure and Shop: Use our size chart; order two pairs (training/comp).
- Integrate with Routine: Pair with wraps and check our training tips for grappling flows.
- Test and Tweak: 30-day wear-in; exchange if off.
- Scale Up: Add shin guards or rash guards from our lineup for full kit synergy.
As your gear guide, I stand by these picks—they've powered champions and everyday grinders alike. Choose wisely, train smart, and dominate the mats. Questions? Drop a comment below.
David Thompson, Equipment Specialist & Former Boxing Coach, Apollo MMA
