Once Reyes, Always Reyes: My Go-To Boxing Gloves 🥊

Hey everyone, welcome back to my blog!

Normally, I’d start by apologising for not writing much lately — but not this time 😅. I’ve been quiet on here, sure, but I’ve also been working a lot.

Today though, I wanted to talk about something close to my heart (and hands): Cleto Reyes boxing gloves. Honestly, I can only describe them as the best.

My First Pair of Reyes

The first time I laced up a pair of Cleto Reyes gloves (pink, of course 💕) was back in 2016. I’d been boxing for about a year, and my cousin kindly sponsored me so I could finally get my hands on a pair. From the moment I put them on, I didn’t just feel like a boxer — I felt like myself.

There’s something about the way Reyes gloves fit. The way they perfectly mould around your hands, the weight feels balanced, and that first crack against the bag and the pads just hits different. I’ve tried a few other brands since, but I always end up going back to Reyes.

My first pair lasted about two years before I decided to switch things up and get the Velcro version (still pink, obviously). For me, the most important thing is protecting your knuckles. You only get one set of hands, and there’s not much you can do without them — so good gloves are worth every penny.

The Legacy of Cleto Reyes

Cleto Reyes started out in Mexico City in the 1930s — just one man trying to make better boxing gloves. Fast forward a few decades, and it’s now one of the most respected names in boxing. Every single pair is still handmade in Mexico, using real leather and traditional techniques.

And that smell… if you know, you know. Nothing beats the smell of new Reyes gloves!

Boxing legends like Muhammad Ali and Canelo Álvarez have used them, not just for their sleek design but for that famous “puncher’s feel.” They’re not just gloves — they’re part of boxing history.

Why Reyes Will Always Be My Favourite

For me, it’s all about comfort and durability. They fit perfectly, protect your knuckles like nothing else and last for years. My last pair survived around four or five years of solid training — that’s serious value.

Beyond that, Reyes gloves remind me of where I started. When I put them on, I feel like the girl I was when I first fell in love with boxing — the one who walked into a gym full of men and refused to back down.

Back then, being the only girl in the club came with its fair share of sexism and side-eyes, but my pink gloves became my quiet way of saying, “I’m here, and I’m not going anywhere.”

I never got to compete in my Reyes, but they’ll always be my favourite training gloves. Honestly, I’m a bit attached. If something works, why change it?

Still a Reyes Girl — Even in Kickboxing

Fast forward to now — I’m training in kickboxing, and yes, I’m still buying Reyes! 🥊 I recently treated myself to a gorgeous pearl-coloured pair, and they’re absolutely stunning. (I won't include the fact that I also bought another pink pair 6 months ago hehe 😝) The quality is just as incredible as ever, and I know they’ll see me through countless sessions. Whether it’s boxing or kickboxing, Reyes will always be my go-to. They’ve been with me through so many chapters of my journey, and I don’t plan on changing that anytime soon.

A Few Tips If You’re Thinking About Getting Reyes

• Get the right size — they come in S, M, L and different weights (10oz–18oz), so pick based on your weight and what you’ll use them for.

• Be committed — they’re not cheap (around £250–£300), so make sure boxing’s something you’re serious about.

• Take care of them — I use a little Vaseline on the leather to keep them soft and stop cracking.

• Break them in — they’re tight at first. Honestly, I’d skip hand wraps for the first few sessions until they loosen up a bit.

• Best for all-rounders — great for training, sparring, and even the heavy bag.

• Not ideal for total beginners — mostly because of the price and because it’s worth trying a few styles first to see what works for you.

My Reyes Story

My first pair of Reyes gloves actually lives on — they’re hanging up in the beer shed of one of my first coaches (signed, of course 😉). Who knows, maybe they’ll be worth something one day when I make it to the world stage!

For me, Reyes gloves aren’t just equipment. They’re a symbol of how far I’ve come and a reminder of why I fell in love with boxing in the first place.

At the end of the day, it isn’t just about punches — it’s about heart.

And as I take on this next chapter — hopefully stepping back into the ring at some point, this time for kickboxing — I can’t wait to share the journey with you all. Follow my journey back to the ring via my blog. I promise to be more active and keep you all updated on the things I get up to!

I look forward to sharing things with you soon!

Chloe x