Just got the Kikskin MMA gloves - this time the full production version, rather than the prototypes that Pooch tested.

Changes:

What's new? Not much. The main change from the prototypes is the use of softer leather. However this is a significant change, as now the gloves are much more comfortable right from the get go. Other minor changes include a change of colour to the inside of the neoprene wrist wraps. Now all black instead of red. The sizing label has also been moved from inside the wrist wrap to the outside, presumably for ease of identification. What hasn't changed is the pinkie loop which is still a little oversize. However it's a 2 minute job to trim it down, and it's nothing like the modifications you have to perform on the Harbingers.

These pics are of the prototypes - the new ones will be photographed soon.

Design :

Nil points for originality, the Kikskins are basically an improved version of the Boxergenics. That's not a bad thing at all, as the Boxergenics are probably the most tested type of glove in MMA. The Kikskins have improved on them by making them far more durable. There's quality leather throughout - expect these gloves to last.

Padding :

Here the Kikskins differ from pretty much every glove on the market. To anticipate demands from various U.S. athletic commissions, Kikskin have produced the gloves in 2 weights. 8oz and 10oz. The weight is the first thing you notice when you pick these up. They are about 4 times heavier than the Ouano UFC gloves.

Is this good? Well for the striker, yes. The gloves will protect your knuckles better. There may be some added protection against cuts, but expect the KO's to increase, as the added weight increases kinetic energy.

Summary:

Great glove. Beautifully made, tough yet comfortable. If you're after an open palm glove then you won't go wrong with these.

Pros: Quality, durability, proven design. Best wrist wrap design.

Cons: Unoriginal. Not cheap.

Others to try:

Harbingers and Ouano UFC gloves. Both great.

Gloves avaiable from www.kikskin.com - or e-mail Scott at MrKikskin@aol.com Gloves cost $59.95

• Related links:
• Pooch's Vale Tudo glove review
• SFUK's Harbinger review
• Pooch's Vale Tudo Shorts review