Abstract: Disclosed herein is a durable protective glove for use in the martial arts such as karate. The glove fits completely about the wearer's hand and includes an inner glove defining individual finger portions and having a padded palm area, a heavily padded backing extending over and secured to the back side of the inner glove, and means for maintaining the finger portions of the inner glove in a fixed lateral disposition while providing freedom of movement of the finger portions inwardly from the backing for gripping an opponent. Reinforcing means are provided for the thumb portion of the glove to prevent dislocation thereof while allowing the thumb to be readily folded under the hand palm for executing various movements and techniques.