Introduction
Everlast has been associated with boxing for a very long time, and it shows in the quality of their higher tier products. The first time I put on these pair of gloves, I fell instantly in love with it. The form and fit were just perfect!
However, I think that over time, Everlast has developed way too many glove models that it's confusing for a newcomer to differentiate and select the right one. Some of their cheaper PVC models feel icky and are not worth the investment in my opinion.
Official specs:
- Made with 100% top quality leather
- Used by professional boxers like Shane Mosley, Jermain Taylor, Marco Antonio Barrera, and James Toney
- Hand inspected to ensure quality
- Approved by all U.S.-based and International boxing sanctioning bodies, including the WBA, WBC, IBF, IBO and WBO
- Uses 5 layers of padding to protect your hands
- A natural fist shape for more protection
Aesthetics
Simple, slick and classy design. Most of the glove is black, with goes well with the white text and yellow Everlast logo. The Everlast slogan "Greatness is Within" is printed on the palm area.
The only comment is that the Everlast words printed on the velcro strap fades quite quickly. After a few uses, the words were already a faint black just from my hands pulling off and putting on the strap. The words and logo printed on the glove leather itself is still as good as new. Odd that they should overlook something like that.
Form & Fit
The gloves are extremely comfortable and fit snugly onto the hand. The inner lining is smooth and the padding is soft, making it easy to slide on the gloves and feels great when worn. If you've tried other gloves with stiff inner padding, you'll know what I mean when I say those feel like cardboard. This one is smooth as silk, baby!
Given my smaller handsize and preference for lighter gloves, I went with a 12oz, although they have a range from 12oz all the way to 20oz (depending on stock). The design is such that there's very little empty space in between the gloves, so my hands would not shift inside the glove, yet it could still comfortably accommodate a pair of handwraps. This is unlike some of other brands of gloves that I've tried, which feels like the gloves are too big for me, even when it's a 12oz or 14oz.
Functionality
The cuff for this pair of gloves goes quite far up the wrist, offering very decent wrist protection. The velcro strap is also made of elastic material, making it easier to tighten the strap snugly. My only gripe is that the strap is quite thin and flat, making it difficult to grab once the gloves are on (for putting on the other side or removing the gloves). However, the plus side is that it seldom ever comes undone accidentally.
The padding is sufficient without feeling too bulky or heavy. I'm able to do light sparring with little detriment to my partner, while still being able to use it vigorously for pad work or heavy bags. Despite months of use, the glove is quite durable, and shows little signs of wear on the leather or stitchings except for the aforementioned fading of text on the strap.
Affordability
If you're able to get this pair of gloves locally, it can be quite affordable. Given that Everlast is a pretty mainstream brand in SEA, and they seem to be pushing out more of their boxing line, you should be able to get it at your local Everlast store and save on overseas shipping. I picked mine up for SGD$ 100 (US$ 78). Pay attention to the names though, this are not Pro-style or Pro gloves. I have no idea why they have such similar and confusing names.
Compared to other some of the Thai brands available here, Everlast is a decent alternative for the same price.
If you have to ship it in from the States though, you might want to consider alternative brands, as US prices are within the range of US$ 80-100 for a decent pair of MMA brand gloves.
Conclusion
I'd recommend this pair of gloves to anyone who can get it locally, and are looking for a pair of understated yet comfortable and lasting pair of gloves. The quality is top-notch and remains one of my favourite pair of gloves.
Disclaimer
All comments in the review are my own personal opinion. Prices provided in brackets are merely for reference and are based on exchange rates at the time of writing.
If you like this review and found it helpful, please post a comment or let the company or retailer know too. Should you decide to purchase them online, you might want to consult the online buying guide for advice.
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