Our latest Guide to Boxing Gloves: Everything You Need to Know About Weight, Size and Use!
Boxing gloves, one of the most iconic symbols of the sport of boxing, come in different weights to meet the different needs and styles of boxers at every level. Whether you are a beginner who has just started exploring the sport or an experienced athlete looking for the perfect pair, it is important to understand the difference between the various glove weights and what they are used for.
Weight and Size:
Boxing gloves are not classified by size such as small, medium and large, but by weight in ounces (oz). An ounce is a unit of weight equal to about 28 grams. Common glove weights include 8 oz, 10 oz, 12 oz, 14 oz, 16 oz and 18 oz. When choosing boxing gloves, it is important to remember that the weight affects the level of protection and your freedom of movement during training or a fight.
Weights and Uses:
1. 8 oz: These are usually used in professional boxing for bouts at lightweight and below. They give less protection, but allow faster punches. 8 oz is also used by children under 10.
2. 10 oz: Also common in professional boxing, especially for the lighter weight classes. They give a little more padding than 8 oz, but still feel light. Also recommended for training on the bag and pads. 10 oz is also the standard size for competition in WAKO kickboxing and IBA boxing.
3. 12 oz: A versatile size used for training and competition by lighter and middleweight boxers. They give a good balance between protection and mobility. Also suitable for training on the bag and pads.
4. 14 oz: The most common size for training and sparring for heavier boxers. Ideal for heavier boxers in training and sparring, these give extra protection and are more durable. 14 oz is the best-selling size for ages 12–99.
5. 16 oz: Also one of the most common sizes for training and sparring for heavier boxers. They give good protection for both you and your training partner.
6. 18 oz: These are the heaviest and give the most protection, usually used in heavy training sessions and by boxers who need extra padding.
Important to Remember: Hand Wraps
Whichever weight you choose, it is important to remember to wear hand wraps every time you train or compete. Hand wraps help protect your wrists, knuckles and joints from injury by providing extra support and cushioning. They also help absorb sweat and keep your hands dry, which can prevent discomfort and odour in your gloves over time.
Take Care of Your Boxing Gloves:
To extend the life of your boxing gloves and keep them fresh and functional, it is important to look after them properly. After each training session or fight, wipe the inside of the gloves with a clean cloth to remove sweat and moisture. Let them air-dry completely, ideally in a well-ventilated place.
Another good habit is to use disinfecting products such as No Stink after every use. No Stink absorbs moisture and fights bacteria, which helps eliminate bad odours and keeps your boxing gloves fresh and odour-free for longer.
Now that you have a better understanding of the different glove weights and their uses, and how to look after them properly, you can make a more informed choice next time you shop. Always remember to choose gloves that fit properly and give sufficient protection for your boxing! Athletes who train 2–4 times a week often have 2 to 3 pairs of boxing gloves.
