The Complete Fairtex Boxing Gloves Guide: Find Your Perfect Model (2025 Edition)

You've decided on Fairtex. Smart choice.

But now you're staring at BGV1s, BGV14s, FGV18s, and a dozen other model numbers wondering what the hell the difference is.

Here's the truth: Most Fairtex "guides" are just regurgitated spec sheets. They don't tell you what actually matters - how these gloves feel after 1,000 rounds on the heavy bag, which ones survive Colorado winters, or why some models cost twice as much as others.

This guide fixes that. 

We've tested every model, broken them in, and destroyed a few in the process. No fluff. Just real experience from our team in Colorado who use these daily.

The Leather vs. Microfiber Truth Nobody Talks About

Before we dive into models, let's settle the biggest debate in using Fairtex gloves.

The Colorado Factor: Our dry climate is brutal on leather. If you're not religious about conditioning, microfiber is your friend.

Understanding Fairtex's Model Logic

Fairtex uses a simple system once you crack the code:

• BGV = Boxing Glove Velcro
• BGL = Boxing Glove Lace-up
• FGV = Fairtex Glove Velcro (special editions)
• BGVG = Competition/collaboration models

The numbers? They indicate the design generation and specific features.

The Workhorses: Daily Training Gloves

Fairtex BGV1 "Universal Gloves" (Leather)

The Legend That Started It All

This is Fairtex's flagship. If you see a Thai fighter in any gym worldwide, there's a 70% chance they're wearing BGV1s.

Specs:

• Material: Premium cowhide leather
• Padding: Triple-layer foam
• Wrist: Standard 3" support
• Sizes: 8oz, 10oz, 12oz, 14oz, 16oz, 18oz

The Reality:

Stiff as hell for the first two weeks. Your hands will hurt. You'll question your purchase. Then around week three, magic happens - they transform into gloves that feel custom-made for your fists. The padding compresses exactly where you need it, and the leather develops a patina that screams "veteran."

Best For:

Fighters who train 4+ times weekly and want one pair to rule them all

Skip If:

You need gloves for tomorrow's session

Shop BGV1 Universal

Fairtex BGV1C-Plus (Microfiber)

The Modern Universal

Take everything great about the BGV1 and add evolutionary ergonomics that actually support your hand's natural fist position. The BGV1C-Plus isn't just a microfiber BGV1 - it's an upgraded design that reduces hand fatigue during long sessions.

Specs:

• Material: Japanese microfiber
• Padding: Triple-layer foam (same as BGV1)
• Special: Ergonomic hand compartment that maintains natural fist alignment
• Sizes: 8oz, 10oz, 12oz, 14oz, 16oz

The Reality:

The improved ergonomics mean your hands don't have to work as hard to maintain a proper fist. Combined with microfiber's instant readiness, these gloves reduce fatigue by keeping your hand in its natural striking position.

Best For:

Long training sessions, reduced hand fatigue, immediate use

Skip If:

You're a leather purist who loves the break-in ritual

Shop BGV1C-Plus

The Specialists: Purpose-Built Performance

Fairtex BGV5 "Super Sparring" (Leather)

Your Sparring Partners Will Thank You

The locked thumb design combined with extra padding makes these the go-to choice for regular sparring. Remember: sparring gloves should always be heavier and more padded than your bag gloves - these are engineered with that principle in mind.

Specs:

• Material: Premium leather
• Special: Attached thumb design
• Padding: Extra soft, protective foam
• Sizes: 12oz, 14oz, 16oz, 18oz

The Reality:

The pillow-soft padding is specifically designed for sparring safety. These gloves turn your hardest shots into controlled touches, protecting both you and your training partners. The locked thumb prevents those accidental eye pokes that can end training sessions (and friendships).

Best For:

Regular sparring, partner preservation, injury recovery

Skip If:

You primarily work bags or need competition gloves

Shop BGV5 Super Sparring

The New Generation: Modern Innovation

Fairtex BGV5 "Super Sparring" (Leather)

Your Sparring Partners Will Thank You

The locked thumb design combined with extra padding makes these the go-to choice for regular sparring. Remember: sparring gloves should always be heavier and more padded than your bag gloves - these are engineered with that principle in mind.

Specs:

• Material: Premium leather
• Special: Attached thumb design
• Padding: Extra soft, protective foam
• Sizes: 12oz, 14oz, 16oz, 18oz

The Reality:

The pillow-soft padding is specifically designed for sparring safety. These gloves turn your hardest shots into controlled touches, protecting both you and your training partners. The locked thumb prevents those accidental eye pokes that can end training sessions (and friendships).

Best For:

Regular sparring, partner preservation, injury recovery

Skip If:

You primarily work bags or need competition gloves

Shop BGV5 Super Sparring

The Comparison Chart: Quick Decisions