CrossFit is a high-intensity workout regimen that combines elements of various sports and exercises, including weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardio. With the intense and diverse nature of CrossFit workouts, it’s essential to have the right gear to protect your hands and enhance your performance. CrossFit gloves are designed to provide grip, support, and protection during intense workouts. This comprehensive guide will explore the best CrossFit gloves available on the market, their features, benefits, and how to choose the right pair for your needs. By the end of this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and take your CrossFit workouts to the next level.
1. Introduction to CrossFit Gloves
CrossFit gloves are specifically designed to provide grip, support, and protection during high-intensity workouts. These gloves help prevent calluses, blisters, and hand injuries while improving your grip on various equipment such as barbells, kettlebells, and pull-up bars. CrossFit gloves come in various styles and materials, offering different levels of support and protection to suit individual preferences and workout needs.
2. Benefits of Using CrossFit Gloves
Using CrossFit gloves offers several advantages, including:
- Enhanced Grip: Gloves provide a better grip on equipment, reducing the risk of slipping and improving performance.
- Hand Protection: They protect your hands from calluses, blisters, and abrasions caused by friction and pressure during workouts.
- Wrist Support: Many gloves come with built-in wrist support, helping to stabilize and protect your wrists during heavy lifts.
- Comfort: Gloves provide a layer of cushioning, reducing discomfort during intense workouts.
- Hygiene: Wearing gloves can help keep your hands clean and reduce the risk of infection from shared equipment.
Enhanced Grip
CrossFit workouts often involve lifting heavy weights, swinging kettlebells, and performing pull-ups. A good pair of gloves can significantly enhance your grip, preventing equipment from slipping out of your hands and allowing you to maintain proper form throughout your workout.
Hand Protection
One of the most common issues CrossFit athletes face is the development of calluses and blisters due to the repetitive friction and pressure on their hands. CrossFit gloves provide a protective barrier, reducing the risk of these painful injuries and allowing you to train more consistently.
Wrist Support
Heavy lifting and high-impact exercises can put a lot of strain on your wrists. Many CrossFit gloves come with built-in wrist support, providing stability and reducing the risk of injury. This is particularly beneficial during exercises like snatches, cleans, and overhead presses.
Comfort
CrossFit gloves provide a layer of cushioning, making your workouts more comfortable. This can be especially important during longer training sessions, where hand fatigue and discomfort can become a limiting factor.
Hygiene
Using shared equipment in a gym can expose you to germs and bacteria. Wearing gloves can help keep your hands clean and reduce the risk of infection, especially if you have any cuts or abrasions on your hands.
3. Key Features to Consider
When choosing CrossFit gloves, several key features should be considered:
- Material: The material of the gloves affects their durability, breathability, and comfort. Common materials include leather, synthetic leather, neoprene, and mesh.
- Grip: Look for gloves with textured or padded palms to enhance grip.
- Wrist Support: Some gloves come with built-in wrist wraps or straps for added support.
- Fit: The fit of the gloves is crucial for comfort and performance. Look for gloves with adjustable closures to ensure a snug fit.
- Breathability: Breathable materials and ventilation holes can help keep your hands cool and dry during workouts.
- Durability: High-quality gloves are designed to withstand the wear and tear of intense workouts.
Material
The material of the gloves plays a significant role in their overall performance and comfort. Here are some common materials used in CrossFit gloves:
- Leather: Leather gloves are known for their durability and excellent grip. They conform to the shape of your hands over time, providing a custom fit. However, leather gloves can be less breathable and may require more maintenance.
- Synthetic Leather: Synthetic leather gloves offer similar benefits to leather but are typically more affordable and easier to clean. They are also more resistant to water and sweat.
- Neoprene: Neoprene gloves provide excellent cushioning and flexibility. They are often used in gloves with built-in wrist support.
- Mesh: Mesh gloves are highly breathable and lightweight, making them ideal for hot and humid environments. However, they may not offer as much protection or durability as leather or synthetic leather gloves.
Grip
A good grip is essential for maintaining control over the equipment during CrossFit workouts. Look for gloves with textured or padded palms that enhance your grip and prevent slipping. Some gloves also feature silicone or rubberized patterns on the palms for added traction.
Wrist Support
Wrist support is crucial for preventing injuries during heavy lifts and high-impact exercises. Many CrossFit gloves come with built-in wrist wraps or straps that provide additional stability and support. Adjustable wrist closures allow you to customize the level of support based on your needs.
Fit
The fit of the gloves is critical for comfort and performance. Look for gloves with adjustable closures, such as Velcro straps or hook-and-loop closures, to ensure a snug fit. Properly fitting gloves should feel secure without being too tight or restrictive.
Breathability
Breathable materials and ventilation holes can help keep your hands cool and dry during intense workouts. Gloves with mesh panels or moisture-wicking properties are ideal for hot and humid conditions.
Durability
High-quality gloves are designed to withstand the wear and tear of intense workouts. Look for gloves made from durable materials and reinforced stitching. Reading customer reviews and checking for warranties can help ensure you choose durable gloves.
4. Types of CrossFit Gloves
There are several types of CrossFit gloves, each designed for specific purposes and preferences:
- Full-Finger Gloves: Provide maximum protection and coverage for the entire hand. Ideal for heavy lifting and outdoor workouts.
- Fingerless Gloves: Offer a balance of protection and dexterity, with exposed fingers for better grip and tactile feedback.
- Wrist Wrap Gloves: Feature built-in wrist wraps for added support during heavy lifts.
- Grip Pads: Small pads that cover the palms and provide grip without the bulk of full gloves.
- Grips: Designed specifically for pull-ups and gymnastics movements, grips provide protection and grip without covering the entire hand.
Full-Finger Gloves
Full-finger gloves provide maximum protection and coverage for the entire hand. They are ideal for heavy lifting and outdoor workouts, offering excellent grip and support. However, they may be less breathable and flexible compared to fingerless gloves.
Fingerless Gloves
Fingerless gloves offer a balance of protection and dexterity, with exposed fingers for better grip and tactile feedback. They are popular among CrossFit athletes for their versatility and comfort. Fingerless gloves allow for better ventilation and are less restrictive than full-finger gloves.
Wrist Wrap Gloves
Wrist wrap gloves feature built-in wrist wraps for added support during heavy lifts. These gloves are designed to stabilize the wrists and reduce the risk of injury. Wrist wrap gloves are ideal for exercises that put significant strain on the wrists, such as snatches, cleans, and overhead presses.
Grip Pads
Grip pads are small pads that cover the palms and provide grip without the bulk of full gloves. They are lightweight and easy to carry, making them a convenient option for travel. Grip pads are ideal for exercises that require a strong grip, such as deadlifts and kettlebell swings.
Grips
Grips are designed specifically for pull-ups and gymnastics movements. They provide protection and grip without covering the entire hand. Grips typically attach to the wrist with a strap and cover the palms with a protective layer. They are ideal for high-repetition workouts and movements that require a secure grip on the bar.
5. Top CrossFit Gloves on the Market
Mechanix Wear Original Gloves
- Material: Synthetic leather, mesh
- Grip: Textured palm
- Wrist Support: Adjustable wrist closure
- Fit: Snug fit with adjustable closure
- Breathability: High
- Durability: High
- Price: Moderate
Mechanix Wear Original Gloves are known for their durability and versatility. Made from synthetic leather and mesh, these gloves provide excellent grip and breathability. The adjustable wrist closure ensures a snug fit, and the textured palm enhances grip on various equipment. These gloves are highly durable and suitable for a wide range of CrossFit exercises.
Harbinger Pro WristWrap Gloves
- Material: Leather, mesh
- Grip: Padded palm with reinforced stitching
- Wrist Support: Built-in wrist wrap
- Fit: Adjustable wrist closure
- Breathability: Medium
- Durability: High
- Price: Moderate
Harbinger Pro WristWrap Gloves are designed for heavy lifting and provide excellent wrist support. Made from leather and mesh, these gloves feature a padded palm with reinforced stitching for durability and grip. The built-in wrist wrap offers additional support during heavy lifts, and the adjustable wrist closure ensures a secure fit. These gloves are ideal for CrossFit athletes who need extra wrist support.
Bear KompleX 3 Hole Hand Grips
- Material: Leather
- Grip: Textured palm
- Wrist Support: Adjustable wrist strap
- Fit: Snug fit with adjustable strap
- Breathability: High
- Durability: High
- Price: Moderate
Bear KompleX 3 Hole Hand Grips are designed specifically for pull-ups and gymnastics movements. Made from leather, these grips provide excellent grip and protection for the palms. The adjustable wrist strap ensures a snug fit, and the three-hole design allows for flexibility and dexterity. These grips are highly durable and ideal for high-repetition workouts.
RDX Leather Gym Gloves
- Material: Leather, neoprene
- Grip: Padded palm with textured surface
- Wrist Support: Built-in wrist wrap
- Fit: Adjustable wrist closure
- Breathability: Medium
- Durability: High
- Price: Moderate
RDX Leather Gym Gloves are designed for heavy lifting and provide excellent grip and wrist support. Made from leather and neoprene, these gloves feature a padded palm with a textured surface for enhanced grip. The built-in wrist wrap offers additional support during heavy lifts, and the adjustable wrist closure ensures a secure fit. These gloves are highly durable and suitable for intense CrossFit workouts.
JerkFit WODies Hand Grips
- Material: Synthetic leather, elastic
- Grip: Padded palm with textured surface
- Wrist Support: Built-in wrist wrap
- Fit: Adjustable wrist closure
- Breathability: High
- Durability: High
- Price: Moderate to high
JerkFit WODies Hand Grips are designed for high-repetition workouts and provide excellent grip and protection for the palms. Made from synthetic leather and elastic, these grips feature a padded palm with a textured surface for enhanced grip. The built-in wrist wrap offers additional support during heavy lifts, and the adjustable wrist closure ensures a secure fit. These grips are highly durable and ideal for CrossFit athletes who need extra grip and protection.
Fit Active Sports New Ventilated Weight Lifting Gloves
- Material: Silicone printed neoprene
- Grip: Silicone textured palm
- Wrist Support: Built-in wrist wrap
- Fit: Adjustable wrist closure
- Breathability: High
- Durability: High
- Price: Moderate
Fit Active Sports New Ventilated Weight Lifting Gloves are designed for comfort and performance. Made from silicone printed neoprene, these gloves feature a silicone textured palm for enhanced grip. The built-in wrist wrap offers additional support during heavy lifts, and the adjustable wrist closure ensures a secure fit. These gloves are highly breathable and durable, making them ideal for intense CrossFit workouts.
Mava Sports Cross Training Gloves
- Material: Silicone printed neoprene
- Grip: Silicone textured palm
- Wrist Support: Built-in wrist wrap
- Fit: Adjustable wrist closure
- Breathability: High
- Durability: High
- Price: Moderate
Mava Sports Cross Training Gloves are designed for comfort and performance. Made from silicone printed neoprene, these gloves feature a silicone textured palm for enhanced grip. The built-in wrist wrap offers additional support during heavy lifts, and the adjustable wrist closure ensures a secure fit. These gloves are highly breathable and durable, making them ideal for intense CrossFit workouts.
Under Armour Men’s Weightlifting Gloves
- Material: Synthetic leather, mesh
- Grip: Textured palm
- Wrist Support: Adjustable wrist closure
- Fit: Snug fit with adjustable closure
- Breathability: High
- Durability: High
- Price: Moderate
Under Armour Men’s Weightlifting Gloves are known for their durability and versatility. Made from synthetic leather and mesh, these gloves provide excellent grip and breathability. The adjustable wrist closure ensures a snug fit, and the textured palm enhances grip on various equipment. These gloves are highly durable and suitable for a wide range of CrossFit exercises.
Reebok CrossFit Training Gloves
- Material: Synthetic leather, mesh
- Grip: Textured palm
- Wrist Support: Adjustable wrist closure
- Fit: Snug fit with adjustable closure
- Breathability: High
- Durability: High
- Price: Moderate
Reebok CrossFit Training Gloves are designed for versatility and performance. Made from synthetic leather and mesh, these gloves provide excellent grip and breathability. The adjustable wrist closure ensures a snug fit, and the textured palm enhances grip on various equipment. These gloves are highly durable and suitable for a wide range of CrossFit exercises.
Rogue Mechanix Vented Gloves
- Material: Synthetic leather, mesh
- Grip: Textured palm
- Wrist Support: Adjustable wrist closure
- Fit: Snug fit with adjustable closure
- Breathability: High
- Durability: High
- Price: Moderate
Rogue Mechanix Vented Gloves are known for their durability and breathability. Made from synthetic leather and mesh, these gloves provide excellent grip and ventilation. The adjustable wrist closure ensures a snug fit, and the textured palm enhances grip on various equipment. These gloves are highly durable and suitable for intense CrossFit workouts.
6. Comparison of Top CrossFit Gloves
| Feature/Model | Mechanix Wear Original | Harbinger Pro WristWrap | Bear KompleX 3 Hole | RDX Leather Gym | JerkFit WODies | Fit Active Sports | Mava Sports | Under Armour | Reebok CrossFit | Rogue Mechanix |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Synthetic leather, mesh | Leather, mesh | Leather | Leather, neoprene | Synthetic leather, elastic | Silicone printed neoprene | Silicone printed neoprene | Synthetic leather, mesh | Synthetic leather, mesh | Synthetic leather, mesh |
| Grip | Textured palm | Padded palm with reinforced stitching | Textured palm | Padded palm with textured surface | Padded palm with textured surface | Silicone textured palm | Silicone textured palm | Textured palm | Textured palm | Textured palm |
| Wrist Support | Adjustable wrist closure | Built-in wrist wrap | Adjustable wrist strap | Built-in wrist wrap | Built-in wrist wrap | Built-in wrist wrap | Built-in wrist wrap | Adjustable wrist closure | Adjustable wrist closure | Adjustable wrist closure |
| Fit | Snug fit with adjustable closure | Adjustable wrist closure | Snug fit with adjustable strap | Adjustable wrist closure | Adjustable wrist closure | Adjustable wrist closure | Adjustable wrist closure | Snug fit with adjustable closure | Snug fit with adjustable closure | Snug fit with adjustable closure |
| Breathability | High | Medium | High | Medium | High | High | High | High | High | High |
| Durability | High | High | High | High | High | High | High | High | High | High |
| Price | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate to high | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
7. How to Choose the Right CrossFit Gloves for You
Choosing the right CrossFit gloves depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
Workout Type
- Heavy Lifting: For heavy lifting, choose gloves with built-in wrist support and padded palms. Harbinger Pro WristWrap Gloves and RDX Leather Gym Gloves are excellent options.
- High-Repetition Workouts: For high-repetition workouts, choose gloves with excellent grip and breathability. Bear KompleX 3 Hole Hand Grips and JerkFit WODies Hand Grips are ideal for this purpose.
- Versatility: For versatile use, choose gloves that provide a balance of grip, support, and breathability. Mechanix Wear Original Gloves and Under Armour Men’s Weightlifting Gloves are great choices.
Comfort
- Fit: The fit of the gloves is crucial for comfort and performance. Look for gloves with adjustable closures to ensure a snug fit.
- Padding: Consider gloves with padded palms for added comfort during intense workouts.
- Breathability: Choose gloves with breathable materials and ventilation holes to keep your hands cool and dry.
Durability
- Material: Look for gloves made from durable materials such as leather, synthetic leather, or silicone printed neoprene.
- Construction: Check for reinforced stitching and high-quality construction to ensure the gloves can withstand intense workouts.
Price
- Budget-Friendly Options: Mechanix Wear Original Gloves and Fit Active Sports New Ventilated Weight Lifting Gloves are budget-friendly options that provide good value for money.
- Moderate to High-End Options: Harbinger Pro WristWrap Gloves, JerkFit WODies Hand Grips, and Rogue Mechanix Vented Gloves are moderately to highly priced but offer excellent quality and durability.
8. Care and Maintenance Tips
Proper care and maintenance of your CrossFit gloves can extend their lifespan and ensure they remain in good condition:
Regular Cleaning
- Hand Wash: Hand wash your gloves with mild soap and water after each use to remove sweat and dirt.
- Air Dry: Allow your gloves to air dry completely before storing them. Avoid using a dryer or exposing them to direct sunlight.
Storage
- Cool, Dry Place: Store your gloves in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent degradation of the material.
- Avoid Compression: Avoid compressing your gloves, as this can damage the padding and shape.
Inspection
- Check for Damage: Regularly inspect your gloves for signs of wear and tear, such as loose stitching or thinning material. Replace any damaged gloves to prevent injury.
Usage Tips
- Proper Fit: Ensure your gloves fit properly and are not too tight or loose. A proper fit enhances performance and comfort.
- Avoid Overuse: Rotate between multiple pairs of gloves to prevent overuse and extend their lifespan.
9. Common CrossFit Workouts and How Gloves Help
CrossFit workouts are known for their intensity and variety. Here are some common CrossFit workouts and how gloves can help:
Weightlifting
- Deadlifts: Gloves with excellent grip and wrist support, such as Harbinger Pro WristWrap Gloves, can help you maintain control and protect your hands during deadlifts.
- Snatches and Cleans: Gloves with padded palms and wrist support, such as RDX Leather Gym Gloves, can provide stability and reduce the risk of injury during snatches and cleans.
Gymnastics Movements
- Pull-Ups: Gloves with textured palms and breathable materials, such as Bear KompleX 3 Hole Hand Grips, can enhance grip and protect your hands during high-repetition pull-ups.
- Muscle-Ups: Grips designed specifically for gymnastics movements, such as JerkFit WODies Hand Grips, can provide the protection and grip needed for muscle-ups.
Cardio and High-Intensity Workouts
- Kettlebell Swings: Gloves with silicone textured palms, such as Fit Active Sports New Ventilated Weight Lifting Gloves, can provide a secure grip on kettlebells and prevent slipping during swings.
- Rowing: Fingerless gloves with breathable materials, such as Mechanix Wear Original Gloves, can keep your hands cool and comfortable during rowing exercises.
Bodyweight Exercises
- Push-Ups: Gloves with padded palms and wrist support, such as Mava Sports Cross Training Gloves, can provide cushioning and stability during push-ups.
- Planks: Gloves with a secure fit and grip, such as Under Armour Men’s Weightlifting Gloves, can enhance your grip and stability during planks.
10. FAQs about CrossFit Gloves
Can I use weightlifting gloves for CrossFit? Yes, weightlifting gloves can be used for CrossFit workouts. Look for gloves that provide grip, support, and protection suitable for the variety of exercises performed in CrossFit.
How do I choose the right size CrossFit gloves? Measure the circumference of your hand just below the knuckles (excluding the thumb) and refer to the manufacturer’s sizing chart to choose the right size. Ensure the gloves fit snugly but are not too tight or restrictive.
Do I need gloves with wrist support? If you perform heavy lifting or exercises that put significant strain on your wrists, gloves with built-in wrist support can provide added stability and reduce the risk of injury.
How often should I replace my CrossFit gloves? The lifespan of CrossFit gloves depends on their quality, usage, and maintenance. Replace your gloves when you notice signs of wear and tear, such as loose stitching, thinning material, or decreased grip.
Can I wash my CrossFit gloves in the washing machine? It is generally recommended to hand wash CrossFit gloves with mild soap and water to maintain their quality and durability. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions before washing.
Are there CrossFit gloves for women? Yes, many brands offer CrossFit gloves designed specifically for women, with sizes and fits tailored to smaller hands. Look for gloves that provide the same features and benefits as those designed for men.
Do CrossFit gloves prevent calluses? CrossFit gloves can help reduce the risk of developing calluses by providing a protective barrier between your hands and the equipment. However, proper grip and technique are also important for preventing calluses.
Can I use grip pads instead of gloves for CrossFit? Yes, grip pads are a lightweight alternative to gloves and can provide grip and protection without covering the entire hand. They are ideal for exercises that require a strong grip, such as deadlifts and kettlebell swings.
What is the best material for CrossFit gloves? The best material for CrossFit gloves depends on your preferences and workout needs. Leather and synthetic leather offer excellent durability and grip, while neoprene and mesh provide flexibility and breathability.
How do I prevent my gloves from smelling? To prevent your gloves from smelling, hand wash them regularly with mild soap and water, allow them to air dry completely before storing, and avoid leaving them in damp or enclosed spaces.
11. Conclusion
CrossFit gloves are an essential accessory for protecting your hands, enhancing your grip, and improving your performance during high-intensity workouts. With various types, materials, and features available, you can find the perfect pair to meet your specific needs and preferences.
By considering factors such as material, grip, wrist support, fit, breathability, durability, and price, you can choose the right CrossFit gloves for your workouts. Proper care and maintenance of your gloves will ensure they remain in good condition and provide the support and protection you need.
With the information provided in this comprehensive guide, you are well-equipped to make an informed decision and choose the best CrossFit gloves for your fitness journey. Embrace the benefits of using CrossFit gloves and take your workouts to the next level.
