As enthusiasts of combat sports, we often find ourselves on a quest for the perfect gear, continually experimenting with different gloves to optimize our training. Sometimes, this pursuit leads us down unexpected paths, exploring how minimal we can go while maintaining effective performance and reasonable protection. In the insightful video above, our host delves into his experience with the Everlast Everstrike multi-purpose gloves, putting them through their paces for various training scenarios. This journey into smaller, multi-purpose gloves uncovers interesting insights into their design, performance, and suitability for different training disciplines.
The allure of a single pair of gloves capable of handling multiple aspects of training, from heavy bag work to mitt drills, is undeniable. However, as the video highlights, not all multi-purpose gear lives up to its versatile billing, especially when it comes to the nuanced demands of intense combat sports training. Let’s delve deeper into the features, practical applications, and overall effectiveness of the Everlast Everstrike gloves, expanding upon the observations made in the video to provide a comprehensive understanding for your training needs.
Deconstructing the Everlast Everstrike Multi-Purpose Gloves
The Everlast Everstrike multi-purpose gloves are positioned as a versatile solution for a range of activities. Unpacking the features mentioned in the video and on the packaging reveals a design focused on flexibility, albeit with certain inherent limitations. Understanding these core components helps set expectations for their performance in the gym.
Key Features and Design Philosophy
Everlast markets these gloves with several distinct features, each aimed at enhancing the user’s experience:
- Closed-Cell Foam Technology: This is a critical component for hand protection. Closed-cell foam, unlike open-cell foam, is designed to absorb impact without breaking down quickly. It resists moisture absorption, making it more durable and hygienic. For multi-purpose gloves, this technology is intended to offer consistent cushioning across various impact types, though its thickness remains a key factor.
- Adjustable Hook and Loop Wrist Support: A robust wrist closure is paramount for preventing injuries. The hook and loop system allows for a customizable, secure fit, crucial for maintaining wrist stability during strikes. The video specifically mentions an additional internal velcro strap, suggesting Everlast’s emphasis on this aspect, providing that extra layer of firmness which can be very beneficial during intense sessions.
- Evercool Ventilation Panels: Effective ventilation is essential for comfort and hygiene, especially during prolonged training. The Evercool technology aims to regulate hand temperature, reducing sweat build-up. However, the video’s observation that these panels are “so tiny” raises questions about their actual effectiveness in providing significant airflow for prolonged, strenuous workouts.
Material and Construction Quality
The video points out that the Everlast Everstrike MMA gloves utilize synthetic leather, and the initial assessment suggests it’s “not the greatest.” This observation is significant as the outer material dictates much of the glove’s durability and feel. While synthetic leather has come a long way in terms of quality, it often doesn’t match the longevity or supple feel of genuine leather. Its performance over time, particularly under the stress of regular heavy bag use, will be a true test of its construction.
Furthermore, the internal lining, described as “pretty nice soft,” contributes to comfort. A comfortable interior can significantly enhance the training experience, especially when dealing with thinner padding where the direct feel of the glove against the skin becomes more noticeable. This comfort, however, must be weighed against the primary function of protection.
The Critical Role of Fit and Hand Wraps
One of the immediate points of concern raised in the video pertains to the glove’s fit, particularly in relation to wearing hand wraps. The speaker, wearing a size large/extra-large, notes the gloves are “pretty tight” and doubts that hand wraps would fit comfortably, opting not to wear them. This aspect is crucial for several reasons:
- Hand Wrap Importance: Hand wraps serve multiple vital functions: they compress the small bones and tissues of the hand, providing structural integrity; they offer additional padding over the knuckles; and they absorb sweat, helping to keep gloves cleaner and more hygienic. Forgoing wraps significantly reduces protection and support, increasing the risk of hand and wrist injuries.
- Glove Sizing and Design: The tight fit even at L/XL suggests these Everlast Everstrike gloves are designed with a very snug internal compartment, possibly to mimic the feel of bare-knuckle fighting or for those who prefer minimal bulk. While this might be appealing for certain types of training, it directly conflicts with the common practice of wearing hand wraps for optimal safety.
Consequently, users considering these gloves must either accept the trade-off of reduced hand protection without wraps or perhaps size up if they intend to use wraps. However, sizing up could introduce issues with the glove feeling too loose without wraps, potentially compromising punching mechanics and wrist stability. This specific design choice necessitates a conscious decision regarding protection versus fit preference.
Performance Across Various Training Modalities
The “multi-purpose” designation of the Everlast Everstrike gloves implies suitability for a range of activities. The video directly tests and evaluates their utility for heavy bag work, speed bag, double-end bag, and sparring, yielding some definitive conclusions.
Heavy Bag and Mitt Work
For heavy bag training and mitt work, the thin padding of the Everlast Everstrike gloves presents a double-edged sword. On one hand, thinner padding can enhance feedback, allowing practitioners to “feel” their punches more acutely. This can be beneficial for developing precise striking technique, promoting proper knuckle alignment, and ensuring a flat connection with the target. The video notes that the gloves are “not too bad, actually” for the heavy bag when striking flat, indicating that with correct form, they can be utilized.
On the other hand, the minimal padding means less impact absorption. The speaker explicitly mentions “it kind of hurts when I do uppercuts,” highlighting a common issue with thinly padded gloves where specific strike angles can put undue stress on knuckles and finger joints. Furthermore, the exposed knuckles, as pointed out, demand extreme vigilance to avoid scraping or impacting at awkward angles, which could lead to cuts or more serious injuries. Proper technique becomes not just a goal, but a necessity to avoid injury when using such minimal protection.
Speed Bag and Double-End Bag
Where these smaller, lighter gloves truly shine is with the speed bag and double-end bag. The video accurately identifies these as ideal applications. The reduced bulk and weight of the Everlast Everstrike gloves facilitate quicker hand movements and faster reactions, essential for working on speed, timing, and rhythm. The minimal padding is less of a concern here, as these bags offer far less resistance than a heavy bag, making protection a secondary consideration to agility and speed development.
Cardio Kickboxing
The gloves’ suitability for cardio kickboxing also falls into the positive category. This activity often involves continuous movement, light striking, and less emphasis on generating maximum power. The lightweight design and potential for quicker hand movements make the Everstrike gloves a reasonable choice, provided the intensity of striking remains moderate. The focus in cardio kickboxing is typically on calorie burn and cardiovascular health, where mobility and comfort outweigh heavy impact protection.
The Crucial Distinction: Sparring
Perhaps the most critical takeaway from the video is the emphatic rejection of these gloves for sparring. The speaker’s declaration, “can you spar in these? The answer is, hells to the no. Unless you don’t really value friendships,” underscores a fundamental safety principle in combat sports. Sparring gloves are specifically designed with significantly more padding (typically 14-16 oz) to protect both the wearer and their training partner from injury. The Everlast Everstrike multi-purpose gloves, with their thin padding and exposed knuckles, pose an unacceptable risk for full-contact training.
Consequently, attempting to spar with these gloves is not only irresponsible but dangerous. It risks serious injury to one’s partner, potentially leading to fractures, concussions, or other trauma, and thus jeopardizes the spirit of cooperative training and camaraderie.
Maximizing Performance and Longevity
Given the characteristics of the Everlast Everstrike MMA gloves, particularly their thinner padding and synthetic leather construction, there are several considerations for users to maximize their performance and ensure longevity.
Technique Over Power
With minimal padding, these gloves are excellent for reinforcing proper striking mechanics. Users are forced to focus on hitting correctly, ensuring knuckles land flat and wrists are straight, rather than relying on thick padding to absorb imperfect technique. If you choose these gloves, prioritize precision and form over raw power, especially on the heavy bag. This emphasis on technique can translate to improved striking overall, even when transitioning to more heavily padded gloves.
Supplementary Hand Protection
If hand wraps cannot be comfortably accommodated, consider alternative forms of hand protection if you plan on significant heavy bag work. Gel knuckle guards or thinner inner gloves might offer some additional cushioning without adding excessive bulk, though they are not a substitute for traditional wraps. Ultimately, understanding the limitations of the glove’s inherent protection is key.
Care and Maintenance for Synthetic Materials
Synthetic leather, while often more budget-friendly, requires diligent care to maintain its integrity. After each training session, wipe down the gloves inside and out to remove sweat. Allow them to air dry completely, potentially using glove deodorizers or cedar inserts to prevent bacterial growth and unpleasant odors. Avoiding extreme temperatures and direct sunlight can also help prevent the material from cracking or degrading prematurely. Proper care can significantly extend the lifespan of your Everlast Everstrike multi-purpose gloves.
The Final Verdict on Everlast Everstrike Multi-Purpose Gloves
In conclusion, the Everlast Everstrike multi-purpose gloves, as demonstrated and discussed in the video, are a specialized piece of equipment. They excel in scenarios demanding speed, precision feedback, and lighter impact, such as speed bag work, double-end bag drills, and potentially some cardio kickboxing. Their design, with thin padding and potentially challenging fit for hand wraps, necessitates a focus on impeccable technique and an understanding of their protective limitations.
However, for heavy bag work, especially if incorporating powerful strikes or uppercuts, users must proceed with caution, prioritizing form to mitigate the risk of injury due to exposed knuckles and minimal cushioning. For sparring, these Everlast Everstrike MMA gloves are unequivocally unsuitable. They represent a tool for specific training goals, best utilized by those who understand their design compromises and can adapt their training approach accordingly.
Striking Answers: Your Everlast Everstrike MMA Gloves Q&A
What are Everlast Everstrike MMA Gloves primarily used for?
These gloves are designed for various training activities like heavy bag work, mitt drills, speed bag, double-end bag, and cardio kickboxing. They are considered multi-purpose for lighter impact training.
Do these gloves offer strong hand protection?
While they use closed-cell foam, these gloves have thin padding, offering less impact absorption compared to heavily padded gloves. Proper technique is crucial to avoid injury.
Can I wear hand wraps with the Everlast Everstrike gloves?
The gloves have a very snug fit, even in larger sizes, which makes it difficult to comfortably wear traditional hand wraps. Hand wraps usually provide important extra protection and support.
Are Everlast Everstrike MMA Gloves suitable for sparring?
No, these gloves are definitively not suitable for sparring. Their minimal padding and exposed knuckles pose a significant risk of injury to both you and your training partner.