For a combat sports athlete, few things are as important as their training gear, especially their boxing gloves. Choosing the right pair is just as crucial as any other part of your preparation. After all, those gloves are your weapons when you step into the ring. But finding the perfect pair isn’t always as easy as it seems. Today we’re here to make that choice a little easier as we see how Sidekick and Fairtex gloves compare. In the world of boxing gloves, two top-tier brands are about to go toe to toe, and only one will come out on top.

Materials and Durability

Fairtex, a well-known Thai brand, has long been associated with premium Muay Thai gear. Used by many famous fighters around the world, the brand has built a huge following. However, there are some concerns. Their main selling point is that the gloves are handmade using genuine leather, designed specifically for intense training.

But this feature has also raised issues over time. Many users have complained that the leather tends to wear out quickly, especially after heavy use. Problems like cracking leather and padding loss have been commonly reported, casting doubt on the long-term durability of these premium gloves. Recently, a user even posted an Instagram reel highlighting the same issue, explaining how his gloves wore out after just a few months.

On the other hand, the UK-based Sidekick Boxing has built a strong reputation since its launch in 2010. Focusing more on longevity, their gloves are made using premium synthetic leather or genuine cowhide, depending on the model, setting a high standard in the gloves market. According to several users and personal experience, Sidekick gloves have been known to last up to three years, even with regular use. There is also a YouTube video that showcases their features and explains why they are a great choice. The gloves maintain their shape, stitching, and padding over time, even under intense training conditions.

The Balance Between Comfort and Performance

Over the years, Fairtex gloves have earned a strong reputation for their comfortable fit and soft materials. They are often considered ideal for Muay Thai practitioners. However, the tight hand compartment can sometimes feel restrictive, especially for fighters who prefer a roomier fit or use larger hand wraps.

Sidekick Boxing gloves are designed with a wider audience in mind. With more room in the hand compartment and multi-layered foam padding, they provide immediate comfort for all types of users. The strong wrist support and extra knuckle protection make them ideal for both beginners and experienced fighters. Whether it’s sparring, bag work, or fitness training, Sidekick gloves cater to a broader range of users looking for both comfort and durability.

Value for Money

One of the biggest differences between the two brands is the price point. Fairtex gloves usually retail between £90 and £150+, reflecting their premium positioning. For fighters who train professionally or want traditional Muay Thai gear, this investment might make sense. However, considering the durability concerns, the high price can feel hard to justify for everyday users.

Sidekick Boxing offers a much more affordable range, with most gloves priced between £40 and £80. Despite the lower cost, Sidekick gloves deliver outstanding performance, durability, and style. For kickboxers, fitness enthusiasts, and even competitive fighters who want reliable gloves without breaking the bank, Sidekick stands out as the smarter choice.

What should you pick?

Both Fairtex and Sidekick have their strengths, but according to recent performance and user feedback, Sidekick is the brand that truly stands tall. Not just for fighters and regular trainers, but even for beginners, Sidekick Boxing gloves satisfy a wide range of needs and preferences. They offer not only quality materials and multiple glove options, but also deliver on the most important factor: durability. Sidekick Boxing could be your perfect combat sports partner, and one that stays with you for the long run.

READ MORE: The Origins of Sidekick Boxing

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