How to Choose Punching Mitts

Punching mitts, also known as focus mitts, help fighters develop accuracy when practicing high impact blows such as jabs, uppercuts, hooks, elbows and other type of punches used in the mixed martial arts disciplines. Punching mitts are designed in small sizes averaging the size of a human head. They help fighters improve hand-eye coordination when interacting with the trainer holding the mitts. Styles of punching mitts include contoured, curved and rounded mitts. Although they're similar, the right punching mitts for you depend on your combat methods, expertise and techniques.

Instructions

    • 1

      Evaluate the type of striking used in your discipline and your level of expertise. This is important because there are different styles of punching mitts and the best punching mitts for you will depend on these factors.

    • 2

      Use extended mitts, also known as ordinary or classic mitts, if you are a beginner. Extended mitts are bigger than average, making it easier for beginners to strike the mitts when training. Extended mitts are also good if you train MMA (mixed martial arts) or disciplines such as muay Thai because they incorporate leg, elbow and knee strikes. Some punching mitts are even called Thai mitts which lets you know that they are for upper and lower striking.

    • 3

      Select focus punching mitts if you are an expert, professional or have enough experience in your discipline. Focus mitts are smaller, requiring more accuracy because the punching target is smaller. Focus mitts come in styles such as contoured, curved and rounded to keep your punches in the middle of the pad. The style you need is completely up to personal preference as they all have the same functionality and server the same purpose.

    • 4

      Decide the type of material you want for your punching mitts. Generally, punching mitts are made of vinyl, cowhide and leather; however, leather is less durable because it cracks faster, mostly if you train on a regular basis.

    • 5

      Estimate your budget. Punching mitts come in various brands and some brands are more expensive than others. The price range will also depend on the type of material you want your punching mitts to be. Before you buy the punching mitts go to your local sporting goods store and do research online to compare prices. Some online stores you can visit to check prices include Boxing Depot, Ringside and Title Boxing Store.