Boxing gloves and MMA gloves both fall under the category of sports gloves, but their purpose, design, weight, and construction are significantly different.
Boxing gloves are all-encompassing gloves used in boxing. They are usually thick and padded and range in weight from 8 to 20 ounces. They are designed to protect the boxer's wrists and finger joints while also providing some protection to the opponent.
MMA gloves are split-finger gloves, which are thinner and usually lighter in weight. For example, the gloves used in UFC competitions weigh about 4 ounces. The half-finger design of MMA gloves allows the wearer to grab and grapple with their opponent, and the gloves allow them to use a variety of techniques, including boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, kickboxing, karate, judo, and sparring. Unlike boxing gloves, mittens are designed not to prevent a player from performing necessary technical moves.
The open palm of MMA gloves allows for a natural and secure grip. Boxing gloves offer a fully enclosed, padded palm.
Because fighting gloves don't require the same full protection as boxing gloves, they are generally less expensive and simpler in construction.
