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Fairtex BGV1 Muay Thai Gloves

Fairtex BGV1 Review (2025): Still the Best All-Round Muay Thai Glove?

If you train Muay Thai in the UK, you’ve almost definitely seen the Fairtex BGV1. It’s the compact, tight-fit classic that seems to be in every gym bag. But in 2025, with long-cuff trainers and plush microfibre options everywhere, is the BGV1 still the best all-rounder? Here’s a straight-talk review covering profile, protection, break-in, a UK-friendly size guide, and who should (or shouldn’t) buy it. We’ll also suggest alternatives if you prefer a longer cuff.

Quick links: Shop BGV1 • All Fairtex Gloves

TL;DR Verdict

Yes, if you like a compact, locked-in glove. The BGV1’s tight hand compartment, shorter cuff, and no-nonsense leather build make it a brilliant daily trainer for bag and pads. For sparring, you’ll likely want 14–16oz (and many UK gyms prefer 16oz). If you want more wrist support or a roomier fit, consider BGV14 or BGV11.

Profile & Build

  • Fit: Tight/compact hand compartment. Great if you like a small fist and high control.

  • Cuff: Shorter cuff than “Mexican-style” or modern long-cuff trainers—more wrist mobility, less bulky wrap-around feel.

  • Padding: Multi-layer Fairtex foam, dense and protective without being a pillow.

  • Shell: Genuine leather, classic Fairtex durability and feel.

  • Thumb & fist shape: Natural fist closure, firm knuckle feedback, secure thumb.

Why it works: You get precision and feedback for bag and pad rounds, with enough protection for high-volume training.

Protection & Wrist Support

  • Knuckles: Dense foam soaks up impact well for bag work.

  • Wrist: Solid, but less braced than long-cuff models. If you’ve had wrist issues or throw very hard straights/hooks, you might appreciate the extra stability of BGV14/BGV11 or the “puncher” silhouette of BGV9.

  • Partner safety: In 14–16oz, the BGV1 is fine for controlled sparring. Always follow your gym’s rules.

Break-In & Day-to-Day Feel

  • Out of the box: Snug. Expect a few sessions for the leather to soften and the foam to mold to your hand.

  • After break-in: Secure, “locked-in” feeling with quick fist closure; excellent control for pads and technical drilling.

  • Care: Leather benefits from light wipe-downs and occasional conditioning; air them out after sessions.

BGV1 Size Guide (UK): By Bodyweight & Use

Common UK rule of thumb: 10–12oz for bag/pad work; 14–16oz for sparring (many gyms prefer 16oz). When in doubt, ask your coach.

Bodyweight Bag/Pad Work Sparring*
< 50 kg (≤ 7 st 12 lb) 8–10 oz 12–14 oz
50–65 kg (7 st 12 lb – 10 st 3 lb) 10–12 oz 14 oz
65–75 kg (10 st 3 lb – 11 st 11 lb) 12–14 oz 16 oz
75–90 kg (11 st 11 lb – 14 st 2 lb) 14 oz 16 oz
> 90 kg (≥ 14 st 2 lb) 16 oz 16–18 oz

*Always follow your gym’s policy. Many UK gyms require 16oz for mixed-level sparring.

Fit notes for BGV1:

  • Wraps: If you use thick wraps or have larger hands, the BGV1’s tight fit can feel extra snug—consider BGV14/BGV11 for more room (or go up an ounce).

  • Hand size: Smaller/average hands tend to love the BGV1 feel; big hands may prefer a roomier model.

Shop Fairtex BGV1

Who Should Buy the BGV1

  • You want a compact, precise glove for bag and pad work.

  • You prefer a snug hand compartment that keeps your fist locked in place.

  • You like leather and a classic Muay Thai glove profile.

  • You train often and want proven durability.

Who Shouldn’t (or Might Not)

  • You want maximum wrist bracing (long-cuff feel).

  • You have large hands/thick wraps and dislike tight compartments.

  • You prefer plush, “pillowy” padding for sparring above all else.

Alternatives If You Prefer a Longer Cuff

  • Fairtex BGV14 — Microfibre shell, long-cuff support, extra palm padding, very popular in 14–16oz for sparring. View BGV14

  • Fairtex BGV11 (F-Day) — Microfibre, long-cuff, plusher padding with a premium/limited look & feel. View BGV11

  • Fairtex BGV9 — “Mexican-style” profile, longer cuff, puncher-friendly feel for hard bag rounds. View BGV9

BGV1 vs BGV14 vs BGV9 (Quick Compare)

Model Fit & Cuff Padding Feel Best For
BGV1 Tight, short cuff Dense, controlled All-round training; bag/pads; sparring in 14–16oz
BGV14 Roomier, long cuff Balanced, forgiving Daily training + sparring (14–16oz)
BGV9 Compact, longer cuff Firmer/puncher feel Bag/pads, heavy hitters


Final Word

In 2025, the Fairtex BGV1 remains a gold-standard all-round glove—especially if you value a compact fit and direct feedback on pads and bag. It’s not the plushest or the most wrist-braced, but for many UK fighters it’s the glove they keep coming back to.