Rival RS100 Professional Sparring Gloves Review (2026 UK Guide)

Rival RS100 Professional Sparring Gloves Review (2026 UK Guide)

Discover how the Rival RS100 Professional Sparring Gloves perform for sparring, wrist support, durability and protection in this detailed boxing glove review.

Table of Contents

The Rival RS100 Professional Sparring Gloves are one of Rival's premium sparring models, designed for fighters who want high-level protection, strong wrist stability and a competition-style feel during training.

These gloves are widely used in boxing gyms by fighters preparing for sparring sessions, pad work and serious training rounds. Built with Rival's ergonomic glove design and layered foam padding, the RS100 aims to deliver both protection and performance during high-intensity sessions.

This guide reviews the Rival RS100 Professional Sparring Gloves, explaining their design, padding system and who they are best suited for.

If you want to compare Rival models and understand how their gloves perform across different training environments, read our Rival boxing gloves review guide.

You can explore the full range of Rival boxing gloves used across sparring, bag work and boxing training environments.


What Are the Rival RS100 Gloves Designed For?

The RS100 gloves are designed primarily for high-level sparring and advanced training.

Unlike basic training gloves, premium sparring gloves must balance several key factors:

  • Strong knuckle protection
  • Reliable wrist stability
  • Comfortable hand positioning
  • Long-term durability

The RS100 focuses on delivering a secure glove fit with protection designed for repeated sparring rounds.

Many experienced fighters choose this model when they want a glove that feels closer to competition equipment while still providing sparring-level padding. Browse our pro boxing gloves collection for competition-level options.


Ergonomic Fit and Hand Position

One of the most distinctive features of the RS100 is Rival's True-Fist Construction, which shapes the glove to follow the natural position of a closed fist.

This ergonomic design helps fighters:

  • Close their fist comfortably
  • Maintain correct punch alignment
  • Reduce hand fatigue during long sessions

A properly shaped glove helps keep the knuckles aligned behind punches, which can improve both comfort and punch mechanics.


Padding and Impact Protection

The RS100 uses layered foam padding designed to absorb impact while maintaining glove structure.

This padding system is built to:

  • Disperse impact across the knuckle area
  • Protect both fighters during sparring
  • Maintain consistent glove shape over time

Because sparring gloves must protect both partners during training, the padding balance is an important factor in glove design. Browse our sparring boxing gloves collection to compare models.


Wrist Support

The RS100 features Rival's Angled Lace Track System, which provides a secure lace-up fit and strong wrist stability.

Lace-up gloves are often preferred by experienced fighters because they:

  • Provide a tighter wrist fit
  • Reduce wrist movement during punches
  • Create a more traditional fight night feel

However, lace-up gloves usually require assistance to tighten properly. Browse our lace-up boxing gloves collection for all lace-up options.


Materials and Construction

The RS100 is constructed using high-quality microfibre materials and durable padding systems designed for long-term gym use.

Key construction features include:

  • Durable microfibre outer shell
  • Layered foam padding
  • Breathable palm ventilation
  • Soft inner lining for comfort

These materials help the gloves withstand regular sparring and training sessions.


Available Sizes

The Rival RS100 gloves are typically available in:

  • 14oz
  • 16oz
  • 18oz

Most adult fighters use 16oz gloves for sparring, as this weight provides the safest level of padding during partner training.

If you are unsure which glove weight to choose, read our boxing glove size guide.


RS100 vs RS11V

The RS100 and RS11V are both popular Rival sparring gloves, but they serve slightly different purposes.

RS100

  • Lace-up glove
  • Premium sparring design
  • Competition-style feel

RS11V

  • Hook-and-loop closure
  • Easier for everyday gym use
  • Strong wrist strap system

If you are comparing the two models, read our Rival RS11V Evolution Sparring Gloves review for a full breakdown.


Who Should Use the RS100?

The RS100 is best suited for fighters who:

  • Spar regularly
  • Prefer lace-up gloves
  • Want premium glove construction
  • Train in serious boxing environments

Because of its design and materials, this model is often chosen by experienced fighters who want a reliable sparring glove with a secure fit.


Where to Buy Rival RS100 Gloves

If you are looking for a premium sparring glove designed for serious training sessions, the RS100 is one of Rival's most respected models.

You can explore the full range of Rival boxing gloves used across boxing gyms and sparring environments.

For a broader comparison of glove brands and styles, browse our boxing gloves collection.


Final Thoughts

The Rival RS100 Professional Sparring Gloves are designed for fighters who want a premium sparring glove with strong wrist support and durable construction.

With ergonomic hand positioning, layered foam padding and a secure lace-up system, the RS100 remains one of Rival's flagship sparring models.

For many fighters, these gloves provide the right balance between protection, performance and long-term durability. Browse our sparring boxing gloves collection to compare the RS100 against other top sparring models, or view our full boxing gloves range to find the right glove for your training.

FAQs

Are Rival RS100 gloves good for sparring?

Yes. The RS100 is specifically designed as a professional sparring glove, using layered foam padding to protect both fighters during training. 

Are RS100 gloves lace-up or Velcro?

The RS100 uses a lace-up closure system, which provides a tighter and more secure wrist fit compared with Velcro gloves.

Are Rival RS100 gloves suitable for beginners?

They are better suited to intermediate or experienced fighters who train regularly and prefer a premium sparring glove.