Fight2Win has more than 30 different punching mitts for boxing, kickboxing, thai boxing, and martial arts in its range. In this second part of the best-buy guide to punching mitts, we cover the most popular category: punching mitts from 100 to 200 euros.
These are punching mitts for serious coaches and personal trainers who work regularly and intensively. All three models in this test are Fight2Win Picks.
What do we look for?
Ergonomics - comfort during use, weight distribution, grip, and how well the pads fit the contours of your hands and arms.
Impact absorption - the extent to which the punching mitts absorb punches while providing limited feedback to the coach.
Build quality - materials used, finish, sturdiness, and details such as hand compartments and closures.
We rate them on a scale of 1 to 10. Price is not a scoring criterion - the punching mitts have already been preselected for the category up to 200 euros.
Best buy: Punching mitts up to €200
Rival RPM3 Air 2.0
Booster BPM1
Rival RPM1 Ultra
Comparison: Top 3 punching mitts up to 200 euros
Model
Ergonomics
Absorption
Quality
#1 Rival RPM3 Air 2.0
9/10
10/10
7/10
#2 Booster BPM1
8/10
7/10
8/10
#3 Rival RPM1 Ultra
7/10
7/10
7/10
Model
Total
Best for
#1 Rival RPM3 Air 2.0
26/30
Trainers for heavyweights and hard punchers
#2 Booster BPM1
23/30
Trainers who prioritize durability and leather
#3 Rival RPM1 Ultra
21/30
Trainers looking for the best value for money
1. Rival RPM3 Air 2.0
The Rival RPM3 Air mitts are truly fantastic punching mitts. Many trainers who have bought them swear by these mitts—especially when working with heavyweights or people who punch seriously hard. Rival Boxing Gear is known for its revolutionary approach to boxing equipment, and they have done an outstanding job with the Air punching mitts.
The air system used to cushion impacts is not unique, but Rival has applied the concept exceptionally well in these pads. The downside: because of the system, these punching mitts are on the large side for focus mitts.
Ergonomics - Score: 9/10
The fit is exceptionally good thanks to the Catcher's Mitt system and the separate design for the left and right hand. This special grip works extremely well in practice and, combined with the hook-and-loop closure, provides a rock-solid fit and tremendous control. Despite their substantial size, they are very light—extremely comfortable for extended use. Based on trainers' experiences, we can say that these pads can even compete with the most expensive pads available.
Impact Absorption - Score: 10/10
When it comes to impact absorption, they are exceptionally good. The unique air system reduces the impact of even the hardest punches to a minimum. The air between the layers acts as a shock absorber, ensuring that you, as a trainer, feel minimal discomfort even from the hardest shots. If you work a lot with heavyweights or professionals, these are the punching mitts for you. A perfect 10.
Build Quality - Score: 7/10
The air system makes them feel lighter than they look—but don't be mistaken. Rival is a master of producing lightweight yet exceptionally durable materials. Proven quality. On Google Product Reviews, the RPM3 Air scores 4.9 out of 5 stars.
They’re great for training MMA fighters or people who put a lot of power and weight behind their punches. Definitely recommended—top quality!
Rival RPM3 Air 2.0 - Gallery
Pros
Extremely effective impact absorption – best in its class
Lightweight and comfortable despite its large size
In second place, we find the BPM1 from Booster Fight Gear, made in Thailand. These punching mitts from Booster’s premium A-line bear many similarities to the Twins Special PML10 punching mitts—but are slightly thinner and lighter, and feature mesh over the fingertips, whereas the Twins are completely open.
The BPM1 are relatively simple-looking, compact punching mitts, but unmistakably made to a very high standard. Made in Thailand from extremely durable 100% cow Leather. Very well suited to fast punching combinations on the mitts.
Ergonomics - Score: 8/10
The moment you put on the Booster BPM1, you can feel it: this is a solid, A-quality product. Your hand fits comfortably into the hand compartment, and the natural curve immediately gives you a good grip. The soft padding on the underside supports and protects the trainer’s wrists during heavy impact. They are not excessively heavy, so you can use them for extended sessions. Leather is also easier to keep fresh and clean than synthetic materials.
Impact Absorption - Score: 7/10
The Booster mitts have firm padding of solid Thai quality. You get more feedback on impact than with the Rival Air mitts—as both a fighter and a coach. This means that, as a trainer, you feel more of the punches you absorb. Nevertheless, these are top-quality punching mitts that absorb and disperse impact very effectively.
Build Quality - Score: 8/10
You do not have to be an expert to see immediately that the BPM1 are built to last. The leather looks as though it will last for years. The stitching has been expertly applied. Because the mitts are made from multiple pieces of leather, they allow air to flow through naturally—essential for letting the force released during impact escape immediately.
Exceptionally durable punching mitts made of genuine leather. An excellent grip right away and a comfortable weight for extended sessions. Thai craftsmanship at its finest.
Booster BPM1 - Gallery
Pros
100% genuine leather – durable and easy to clean
Natural curve provides a secure grip right away
Wrist protection from soft padding on the underside
The Rival RPM1 Ultra are classic punching mitts in the so-called cobra style—the mitts have a slight forward curve that resembles a cobra in attack mode. Compared with much of the brand’s other gear, the RPM1 Ultra seem simple in design: no special features or materials. Still, they are comfortable to use and lightweight.
Ergonomics - Score: 7/10
The fit is comfortable, and they can be secured well around your wrists with the hook & loop fastening. Your hands fit nicely into the pre-shaped curve, and there is a small overlap that extends over your wrists. We are slightly disappointed—not because they are not good, but because we are used to so many cutting-edge innovations from Rival that these mitts look simple. Even so, they do exactly what they are designed to do very well: provide comfortable, lightweight, and compact punching mitts for everyone from beginners to advanced users.
Impact Absorption - Score: 7/10
The RPM1 Ultra initially feel hard—that is the exterior. Inside, they have the comfortable padding we have come to expect from Rival. This inner padding keeps your hands comfortable and ready to absorb heavy blows. The RPM1 Ultra do this more than adequately. However, do not expect the same cushioning as the RPM3 Air. On Google, they receive a respectable 4.8 out of 5 stars.
Build Quality - Score: 7/10
The build quality of all Rival products is excellent—we know this from years of experience. These mitts feel solid, and the hook-and-loop fastening looks capable of standing up to plenty of use. Still, we are used to a little more from Rival. But this is Rival’s mid-range line, not the absolute top-of-the-line range for professionals—and at this price, the RPM1 Ultra easily earns a 7.
Love these! I'm very small and skinny, so finding mitts that are light enough to manoeuvre easily while also withstanding hard punches to protect my wrists and elbows has been a dream! They are so comfortable and do everything I need.
Rival RPM1 Ultra - Gallery
Pros
Nice classic cobra shape
Lightweight and easy to handle – suitable for everyone
The Rival RPM3 Air 2.0 is the absolute winner in this test—the impact absorption is exceptionally good, making it the only right choice for trainers working with heavyweights or hard punchers. The Booster BPM1 is the best choice for trainers who prefer leather and put durability above everything else. The Rival RPM1 Ultra is the most versatile option—lightweight, easy to handle, and suitable for everyone from beginners to advanced trainers.
Also check out our top 3 punching mitts under 100 euros or our top-class punching mitts from 200 euros.
Punching mitts (also called punch mitts or focus pads) are protective pads that a trainer wears on their hands. The boxer or kickboxer punches the pads instead of a punching bag. This enables targeted combination training.
Which punching mitts are suitable for personal trainers?
For personal trainers who work regularly and intensively, punching mitts in the €100 to €200 price range are the best choice. The Rival RPM3 Air 2.0 is the absolute top choice for trainers who work with hard punchers. The Booster BPM1 is ideal for trainers who prefer Leather and want to work for extended periods.
What is the difference between the RPM3 Air and regular punching mitts?
The Rival RPM3 Air 2.0 uses an air chamber cushioning system—the air between the layers acts as a shock absorber. This provides significantly better impact absorption than conventional foam padding, especially against hard punches from heavyweights.
Are Leather punching mitts better than synthetic ones?
Leather is more durable, breathes better, and is easier to keep clean. It also conforms to your hands with use. Microfiber (as used by Rival) is lighter and retains its color better. For intensive use, both materials are excellent—it is a matter of preference.
How do I maintain my punching mitts?
After every training session, use a disinfectant spray and let the mitts dry thoroughly before storing them. For Leather mitts, a leather conditioner is recommended to keep the Leather supple. Never store punching mitts in a closed sports bag—this encourages bacterial growth and odors.