Cleto Reyes

Overview

Cleto Reyes is a Mexican manufacturer of boxing gloves and combat sports equipment, established in 1945. The brand specializes in handcrafted leather gloves approved by major boxing commissions and used in professional fights, with products exported to five continents.¹²³

History

Cleto Reyes Castro founded the brand in Mexico City after repairing his amateur boxing gloves in 1938, gaining approval from the Mexico City Boxing Commission in 1945 when his gloves debuted in a world championship fight between Juan Zurita and Ike Williams.¹²⁶ He became independent that year with family support and appointed a U.S. representative in Los Angeles in 1965.¹⁵ In 1970, his son Alberto Reyes joined, registered the CLETO REYES trademark in 1975, and founded Industria Reyes S.A. de C.V. in 1979.¹²³

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are handcrafted in a small workshop on the outskirts of Mexico City, Mexico, maintaining traditional methods.⁶ Production remains in-house in Mexico to preserve authenticity, resisting outsourcing to lower-cost locations.⁶

Notable Products

• Classic Professional Boxing Gloves - Horsehair-padded gloves used in world championships since 1945.
• Training Gloves - Durable leather gloves for extended gym sessions.
• MMA Fight Gloves - Open-palm design approved for professional MMA.
• Heavy Bag Gloves - Reinforced for bag work with wrist support.
• Vintage Collection Gloves - Retro-styled gloves replicating early designs.

Reputation

Cleto Reyes is highly regarded by professional boxers for its durable, handcrafted quality and use by approximately 70% of world champions, including Muhammad Ali and Manny Pacquiao.⁶ Enthusiasts value its Mexican heritage and traditional manufacturing.⁶ Some note higher price points compared to mass-produced alternatives, though this ties to its premium positioning.⁶