I’m excited to share my thoughts on the Hayabusa Mayweather Contender Boxing Gloves in this review.
These gloves are part of the Hayabusa x Mayweather collection, designed to bring Floyd Mayweather’s championship legacy to fighters of all levels.
While the Mayweather Champ gloves cater to advanced fighters, the Contender gloves are a more affordable option, perfect for intermediates and fitness enthusiasts.
Let’s dive into what makes these gloves stand out and whether they’re worth adding to your training arsenal.
Table of Contents
First Impressions
When I unboxed the Hayabusa Mayweather Contender Boxing Gloves, I was immediately struck by their sleek design and premium feel, despite the budget price tag.
The gloves feature a bold, professional aesthetic that reflects Mayweather’s legacy, with clean lines and subtle branding.
While they may not have the same high-end materials as the Champ gloves, they still feel of a quality construction.
Key Takeaways
- Affordable Price Point: The Contender gloves are a budget-friendly option without compromising on essential features.
- Dual-Splinted Wrist Support: Provides excellent wrist alignment and stability, reducing the risk of injury.
- Multi-Layered Knuckle Padding: Offers solid impact absorption for bag work, pad training, and light sparring.
- Comfortable Fit: The ergonomic design and smooth inner lining ensure comfort during extended sessions.
- Versatile Use: Ideal for general training, fitness routines, and intermediate-level sparring.
Glove Specs
Let’s break down the technical details of the Hayabusa Mayweather Contender Boxing Gloves:
- Dual-Splinted Wrist Support: Ensures proper wrist alignment and reduces strain during training.
- Multi-Layered Knuckle Padding: Absorbs impact effectively, protecting your hands during heavy bag work.
- Faux Leather Construction: Durable and easy to maintain, though not as premium as the Champ gloves’ Vylar leather.
- Ergonomic Fit: Designed for comfort and control, with a single-strap closure for a secure fit.
- Available Sizes: 10 oz, 12 oz, 14 oz, and 16 oz, with 10-12 oz ideal for bag work and 14-16 oz recommended for sparring.
Look and Style
The Contender gloves feature a clean, professional design with subtle nods to Mayweather’s legacy. Available in multiple color options, they strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics.
They may not have the same premium finish as the Champ gloves, they still look sharp in the ring or gym.
Fit and Comfort
Sliding my hands into the Contender gloves, I was impressed by how snug and secure they felt. The single-strap closure system is easy to adjust and provides a locked-in fit.
The interior lining is smooth and breathable, keeping my hands comfortable even during intense sessions.
For fighters with smaller hands, like myself, the gloves fit perfectly. However, those with larger hands might need to size up for a more comfortable fit.
Padding and Support
The multi-layered knuckle padding is a standout feature of the Contender gloves. During heavy bag sessions, the gloves absorbed impact well, leaving my knuckles and wrists feeling fresh.
While the padding isn’t as advanced as the Champ gloves’ 3D-printed lattice cushioning, it still provides solid protection for intermediate-level training.
The dual-splinted wrist support is another highlight, offering excellent stability and reducing the risk of injury. This feature is particularly beneficial for fighters with a history of wrist issues.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Hayabusa Mayweather Contender Boxing Gloves deliver solid results.
Whether I was working on the heavy bag, hitting mitts, or light sparring, the gloves provided adequate protection and control.The ergonomic design allowed for a natural fist closure, enhancing my punching technique.
One minor drawback is the stiffness of the gloves when new. It took a few sessions to break them in, but once they did, they felt like an extension of my hands.
Durability
After several months of regular use, the Contender gloves have held up well. The faux leather exterior shows minimal signs of wear, and the stitching remains intact. While they may not be as durable as the Champ gloves, they still offer excellent value for the price.
Final Verdict
The Hayabusa Mayweather Contender Boxing Gloves are a solid choice for intermediate fighters and fitness enthusiasts.
They combine essential features like dual-splinted wrist support and multi-layered knuckle padding with an affordable price point.
While they may not have the premium materials and advanced technology of the Champ gloves, they still deliver excellent performance and durability.
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Dual-splinted wrist support for stability
- Multi-layered knuckle padding for impact absorption
- Comfortable and breathable interior
- Sleek, professional design
Cons:
- Stiff when new, requiring a break-in period
- Faux leather construction not as durable as premium materials
Do I Recommend Them?
Absolutely. If you’re an intermediate fighter or fitness enthusiast looking for quality gloves at an affordable price, the Hayabusa Mayweather Contender Boxing Gloves are an excellent choice. They offer essential features and solid performance, making them a great addition to your training gear.
Where to Buy
You can purchase the Hayabusa Mayweather Contender Boxing Gloves directly from Hayabusa’s official website or select retailers like Amazon.
FAQ
1. Are the Hayabusa Mayweather Contender Boxing Gloves suitable for beginners?
Yes, these gloves are a great option for beginners looking to step up from entry-level gear. They offer solid protection and support, making them ideal for learning proper technique and building consistency.
2. Can I use these gloves for sparring?
Yes, the Contender gloves are suitable for light sparring, especially in the 14 oz and 16 oz sizes. However, for more advanced sparring, you may want to consider the Champ gloves for their superior padding and protection.
3. How do I clean and maintain these gloves?
Wipe the gloves down with a damp cloth after each use to remove sweat and dirt. Allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated area. Avoid using harsh chemicals or submerging the gloves in water, as this can damage the faux leather.
4. Do these gloves come with a warranty?
Hayabusa typically offers a limited warranty on their products, but it’s best to check the specific terms and conditions on their official website or with the retailer you purchase from.
5. Are these gloves suitable for other combat sports like Muay Thai or MMA?
While these gloves are primarily designed for boxing, they can be used for other striking arts like Muay Thai or MMA stand-up training. However, for disciplines that require catching kicks or grappling, you might want to consider gloves specifically designed for those purposes.
About This Review
Why Trust This Review?
At MMA Hive, we pride ourselves on providing honest, unbiased reviews based on hands-on testing and extensive research. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions about your fight gear.
About Hayabusa
Hayabusa is a leading name in combat sports gear, known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and performance. Their products are designed with fighters in mind, offering cutting-edge technology and durable construction.
If you’re ready to elevate your training with gloves that combine affordability and performance, the Hayabusa Mayweather Contender Boxing Gloves are the perfect choice. Explore the collection today and experience the fusion of innovation and legacy.