Whether you are a professional boxer or an amateur just starting out, one of the most important decisions you will make is what size boxing gloves to wear. Different boxing glove sizes offer different levels of protection and comfort, so it's important to understand the differences before making your choice.
What are the best size boxing gloves for you? This is a question that many boxers have, and the answer isn't always simple, In this blog post we will discuss the pros of each glove size so that you can make the decision that is best for you.
Gloves Up: Understanding the Important Factors in Selecting Boxing Gloves
When choosing boxing gloves, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. Here are some of the most important things to look for:
1– Fit: The gloves should fit snug, but not too tight. They should also be comfortable and not too bulky.
2– Material: Boxing gloves are available in a variety of materials, including leather, vinyl, and synthetic materials. Leather is the most durable material, but it can also be the most expensive. Vinyl is less durable but more affordable. Synthetic materials are the least durable but also the cheapest option. Now a days it is hard to tell the difference between synthetic materials and leather materials as the technology is so advanced.
3– Weight: Boxing gloves come in different weights, so it is important to select the weight that is best suited for your needs. Heavier gloves provide more padding and protection, while lighter gloves allow for more speed and mobility. Boxing gloves are weighed in Oz (ounces). The Association of Boxing Commissions and Combat Sports list the guidelines that has to be used for contests unless the ABC waives the weight difference allowance.
4– Style/Finishing touch: There are a variety of styles available, so it is important to find gloves that fit your individual preferences. Some people prefer plain gloves, while others may prefer flashy or brightly coloured gloves.
When selecting boxing gloves, it is important to find a pair that fits both your individual needs and preferences. Take into account the type of workout you plan to do, as well as how much protection and padding you need. Also consider the style of the gloves and whether they match your taste. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned pro, we have the perfect pair of gloves for you.
Breaking Down Boxing Glove Sizes: A Comprehensive Guide
Moving onto sizing. There are different sizes of ounce boxing gloves, for kids they start at 4 oz, 6 oz and 8 oz. For Men and Women there are sizes 8 oz, 10 oz, 12 oz, 14 oz, 16 oz and some brands of gloves have 18 oz and 20 oz in their range. The size of the glove corresponds often to the weight of the boxer but also it is important to take into consideration the size of an individuals hands.
When choosing boxing gloves, you will need to consider the size of your hands. Boxing gloves come in a variety of sizes, so it is important to select the right size for your individual hands. If the gloves are too small, they will be uncomfortable and you will not be able to use them properly. If the gloves are too large, they will be bulky and difficult to control. Live Strong provides a full guide of the Rules per weight of boxer along with what size Ounce of Boxing Gloves they have to be using.
Each size boxing glove has its own benefits and drawbacks that make it more or less suitable for different types of fighters.
The Different Sizes
4oz-6 oz gloves are the smallest size and they are generally designed for kids under the age of 8. The 4 ounce gloves offer less padding than the other types of gloves, but they still provide enough protection for the hands and wrists.
8 oz gloves are offer the least amount of protection for the hands, but allow for the greatest amount of speed and manoeuvrability.
10 oz gloves offer a happy medium between protection and speed. They add a bit of weight to the hands, which can help with power punching, but don't slow the fighter down too much.
12 oz gloves are the heaviest weight gloves available. They offer the most protection for the hands, but can slow fighters down significantly.
14 oz gloves are the second heaviest weight gloves available. They offer slightly less protection than 12 oz gloves, but are still heavier than most other glove weights.
16 oz gloves are a great choice for those who want to balance protection and speed during their training sessions. They are perfect for sparring and heavy bag training and offer good protection for beginners and intermediate boxers.
18 oz gloves are generally for an experienced boxer or someone with larger hands. They provide more padding and protection than 16oz gloves, making them suitable for sparring and hitting the heavy bag. With their added weight, they can also help increase your punching power. These gloves are a popular choice among advanced boxers and those who need more protection due to their size.
20 oz gloves are typically worn by heavyweight boxers, as they provide extra padding and protection for both the wearer and the opponent. While not many brands offer 20 oz gloves in their selection, they can still be found with a bit of searching.
Here at Made4Fighters we carry a wide range of boxing gloves suitable for all athletes from ameatures to professionals including Strap Gloves, Lace Up Gloves andBag Gloves.
Fight Camp give there views on what gloves to use when on the heavy bag
Age-Appropriate Boxing Gloves: Finding the Right Fit for Every Stage
The size of boxing gloves you need also depends on your age and weight. For example, children aged 6 and under will need 8 ounce gloves, while adults over the 160 lb weight limit will need 16 ounce gloves. In general, the heavier you are, the more padding you'll need in your gloves to protect your hands.
Here's a more specific breakdown of boxing glove sizes by age:
| Age Range | Glove Size |
|---|---|
| 5-8 years old | 4-6 oz |
| 9-12 years old | 6-8 oz |
| 13-16 years old | 10 oz |
| Adults (small to medium hand size) | 12 oz |
| Adults (medium to large hand size) | 14 oz |
| Adults (large hand size) | 16 oz |
| Professional heavyweight boxers | 18-20 oz |
Note: The above chart is just a general guide. It's important to keep in mind that the size of the gloves may vary depending on factors such as hand size, weight, and intended use (sparring, training, or competition). It's recommended to try on different sizes and consult with a professional to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Note: Boxing Bag gloves are occasionally available in Small (S), Medium (M), Large (L), and Extra Large (XL) sizes.
The Perfect Match: Made4Fighters' Expert Advice on Matching Your Hand Size to the Right Boxing Glove
-Measure your hand circumference at the knuckles with a tape measure. This will give you a good idea of what size boxing gloves to choose.
-When trying on boxing gloves, make sure that they fit comfortably and are not too tight or too loose. Fight Camp provides a list of size Ounce gloves depending on weight when using the heavy bag.
-If you are unsure of which size to choose, you can always consult with a trainer or sporting goods store employee to help you select the right pair. If you are unsure of which size to choose, you can always consult with a trainer or contact us to help you select the right pair.
In competition gloves - know the rules
It is worth noting different organizations and governing bodies of sport have rules regarding what gloves competitors must wear for example England boxing require all Senior boxers 19 -40 to wear 12oz gloves if they weigh 64kg+.
Picking the Perfect Pair: Selecting Gloves that Match Your Activity
The type of boxing gloves you use during training can have a big impact on your performance and comfort. Here's a quick guide to the different types of gloves available and when to use them.
Training gloves - are typically larger and heavier than sparring gloves, which allows for more padding and protection for both the hands and wrists. Training gloves are also usually made from a thicker material, which can help to absorb impact and reduce the risk of injury.
Sparring gloves - are typically smaller and lighter than training gloves, which allows for more speed and mobility.
Sparring gloves are also usually made from a thinner material, which can help to increase feeling and allow for more precision when punching. Which type of glove you use during training will depend on your personal preference and the type of training you're doing.
Wrist Support - support is essential in boxing gloves for two main reasons: preventing injury and improving performance. When punching, the wrist is constantly under a lot of stress and strain.
Without proper support, the risk of injury (including fractures) increases significantly. Wrist injuries can sideline a boxer for weeks or even months, so it's crucial to have gloves that offer good support.
Wrist strap vs lace up boxing gloves what are you choosing?
When it comes to securing boxing gloves, wrist straps and laces are two commonly used methods, but they have distinct pros and cons. Let's examine each approach in more detail.
Wrist Strap Pros:
- Wrist straps provide support for the wrist and help keep the glove in place
- More supportive and can help to prevent injuries, but they may be less comfortable than laces
- They’re are quick to put on and take off during training
- Perfect glove for beginners
- More budget-friendly than traditional lace-up gloves
Wrist Strap Cons:
- They may come loose during a workout, possibly causing injury or distraction
- It's also more difficult to get a good fit with velcro gloves since it's harder to make micro-adjustments like when lacing up
- The fabric on the outside of these gloves generally wears out much faster than lace-up options due to having more moving parts involved in closure
Lace Up Pros:
- Lace-up gloves, often referred to as "competition gloves"
- Laces allow for a more customized fit especially with Hand Wraps
- The wrists are usually padded which improves comfort
- These specialised boxing gloves offer a secure fit
- At the professional level, fighters wear lace up gloves
Lace Up Cons:
- One of the biggest cons is the cumbersome time needed to put them on
- If you want to be able to quickly put on your boxing gloves for a session on the heavy bag, you'll find strap boxing gloves more convenient.
- lacing up gloves tend to be more expensive than velcro models
Ultimately, it's up to the individual boxer to decide which type of closure is right for them. both have their own benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to choose the one that will work best for you. Take a read on the Boxing Scene how WBC Wants Better Gloves For Heavyweight Fighters
Knock Out Your Goals:
While there is not just one "right" size of boxing gloves, the best size to go for depends on your height, weight and personal preference. It's important to consider other factors such as your grip size and type of glove that will offer both protection and comfort during training sessions. Ultimately, the right size glove can make a big difference in how safe you feel in the ring.
Whatever style or type of boxing glove you choose, make sure it's snug but not too tight. It should be comfortable without compromising any movement ability. With so many options out there, take time to find the glove that fits you best so that you can enjoy all the benefits boxing has to offer! Shop for the best Boxing Gloves around at Made4Fighters. Our wide selection of gloves will give you peace of mind knowing that your hands are securely protected while in the ring!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you spar with 14 oz gloves?
Yes, you can spar with 14 oz gloves. They are often recommended for sparring, especially for individuals who weigh between 140 to 160 pounds. These gloves provide a balance between protection and weight, ensuring safety for both the wearer and the sparring partner.
Can you spar with 12 oz gloves?
Sparring with 12 oz gloves is possible, but it's generally recommended for lighter individuals, typically those weighing under 140 pounds. For heavier individuals or more intense sparring sessions, heavier gloves like 14 oz or 16 oz are advised to ensure adequate protection.
How do you know if boxing gloves are too small?
If boxing gloves are too small, you may notice discomfort or tightness in your hands, difficulty in making a proper fist, or restricted circulation leading to numbness. Gloves should fit snugly but not be so tight that they cause discomfort or hinder movement.
How many Oz do pro boxers use?
Professional boxers typically use 8 oz or 10 oz gloves for competition. The size often depends on the weight class, with heavier weight classes using 10 oz gloves. However, for training and sparring, they might use heavier gloves for added protection.
Is bare knuckle safer?
No, bare-knuckle boxing is not safer than boxing with gloves. Gloves reduce the risk of superficial facial cuts, hand fractures, and brain injuries by distributing the force of the impact over a larger area and providing cushioning.
Can I use 10 oz gloves on a punch bag?
Yes, you can use 10 oz gloves on a punch bag. These gloves are suitable for pad work or bag training, especially for those seeking a more realistic feel for competition. However, heavier gloves may be preferred for extended training sessions to better protect the hands.
How do you know if boxing gloves are too big?
Boxing gloves are too big if there is excessive movement of your hands inside the gloves, if they feel loose even with hand wraps, or if you can't maintain a firm and comfortable fist. Properly fitting gloves should feel secure and supportive without being overly tight.
How do you break in boxing gloves?
To break in boxing gloves, start by using them in light training sessions, such as shadow boxing or light bag work. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of training. Flexing the gloves with your hands and using glove conditioners can also help soften the material and make them more comfortable. Avoid using excessive force or heat, as it can damage the gloves.