Are Fairtex gloves true to size?

The oz weights are standard, but the hand compartment runs snug and compact. Wide palms often prefer Twins; narrow-to-average hands love Fairtex.

BGV1 vs BGV14: what's the difference?

BGV1 is the classic three-layer construction with a boxier fist. BGV14 is the 'Microfiber' update: lighter shell, slightly slimmer profile, similar padding. Functionally close. Pick by price and colorway.

Where are Fairtex gloves made?

Thailand. Fairtex has been manufacturing there since 1971 and runs its own camp and stadium program. The gear brand and the fight brand are the same company.

Gear · Review

Fairtex gloves review

Fairtex is the closest thing Muay Thai has to a default. The brand runs its own camp, sponsors stadium fighters, and has made gear in Thailand since 1971, and the BGV1 is the single most common glove you'll see on a Thai gym rack. A review of Fairtex is mostly a review of that glove, so let's start there.

Quick answer:if your hands are average or narrow, buy the Fairtex BGV1 in 14oz or 16oz. It's the closest thing to a default-correct glove for Muay Thai.

BGV1: the default, deserved

The BGV1's reputation comes from three things. The fist shape is compact: your hand closes into a tight, natural ball, which makes punching feel precise rather than pillow-handed. The break-in is short: a week of pads and it molds to you. And the three-layer foam holds its density for years instead of packing out in months.

The honest downsides: the snug cut punishes wide palms, the wrist strap is shortish, and colorways sell out constantly. None of these are deal-breakers; all of them are reasons people end up with Twins instead and are equally happy.

Check BGV1 price ↗

The rest of the lineup, fast

BGV14 "Microfiber": the modern BGV1: lighter shell, slimmer look, vegan-friendly microfiber. Same role.
BGV16: softer, wider "compact" sparring glove; the Twins-like option inside Fairtex.
BGL6 lace-ups: competition gloves. Buy only if a promoter tells you to.

Verdict

If your hands are average or narrow and you want one glove that does everything and outlives your motivation dips: BGV1, 14 or 16oz. If your palms are wide or you spar heavy, read the Twins Special review before deciding. Both roads are correct. See how they compare in the full gloves guide.

Frequently asked

Are Fairtex gloves true to size?: The oz weights are standard, but the hand compartment runs snug and compact. Wide palms often prefer Twins; narrow-to-average hands love Fairtex.
BGV1 vs BGV14: what's the difference?: BGV1 is the classic three-layer construction with a boxier fist. BGV14 is the 'Microfiber' update: lighter shell, slightly slimmer profile, similar padding. Functionally close. Pick by price and colorway.
Where are Fairtex gloves made?: Thailand. Fairtex has been manufacturing there since 1971 and runs its own camp and stadium program. The gear brand and the fight brand are the same company.

Buying gear for a trip? Compare Muay Thai camps in Thailand or find a gym near you on the map.