Choosing the wrong boxing gloves can significantly impact your performance and increase your risk of injury. Hands can become sore quickly or the glove may feel unstable when striking. Gloves that are too thin, too loose, or lack the proper padding and support can make your punches messy and slow your progress.
The problem is, many beginners still just buy because of the cheap price or famous brand, without understanding the size, weight (oz), purpose of use (bag work, sparring, or regular training), and the shape of the padding that is suitable.
After reading this article, you'll have a complete guide to choosing the right boxing gloves. This includes how to determine the correct oz, materials and padding, wrist support features, and tips to ensure your gloves are durable and safe for regular training.
Why Can't You Just Choose Any Boxing Glove?
Choosing boxing gloves isn't something to be taken lightly, as they're the primary tool that transfers the power of your punches to your target. If you choose the wrong glove, it won't just affect your opponent, but your hands and wrists as well.
The right boxing gloves help absorb impact and maintain wrist stability, ensuring safe and long-lasting training. Glove choice also impacts training performance.
The weight (oz) and shape of a glove affect punch feel, hand speed, and stamina. A well-fitting glove allows you to focus on technique, combinations, and conditioning without the distraction of pain or slipping.
On the other hand, gloves that are too big or too tight can mess up your control and tire you out quickly because you're "fighting" the glove, not the exercise. This is especially true if you're using the wrong size and type.
The risks are quite serious: fingers can get pinched, knuckles can get bruised, wrists can get pulled easily, and technique can suffer. Choosing the wrong type of boxing gloves can also result in poor performance, resulting in less than optimal protection and comfort.
The bottom line is simple: choose a glove that suits your current needs, so you can train consistently without injury.
Also Read: History of Boxing: From Ancient Times to the Modern Era
What are the different types of boxing gloves?
1. Training Gloves
Training gloves are the most versatile option for those just starting out and only want one pair, as they can be used for multiple training sessions. These boxing gloves feature padding thick enough for punching bags, yet remain comfortable for partner drills and basic technique practice.
It's best used for boxing classes, pad/mitt combination training, and basic technique training. It's generally available in 12oz or 14oz sizes. If you weigh over 75 kg, 14oz is usually safer because it provides extra protection for your hands and wrists.
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2. Sparring Gloves
Sparring gloves are worn for your partner's safety, so their primary priority is not only protecting your hands but also reducing the risk of injury to your opponent's face and head. These gloves tend to be wider and have soft padding.
The most common standard for sparring is 16 oz. Wearing gloves under 16 oz for sparring is considered unethical due to the higher risks. The downside to sparring gloves is that the foam can "deflate" more quickly, reducing cushioning performance.
3. Competition Gloves
Competition gloves are gloves specifically designed for matches, specifically designed to maximize the impact of punches, not for everyday training. They are typically lighter and slimmer (8oz - 10oz) and feature lace-ups for a tighter fit.
Padding often uses horsehair or thin/single-layer foam to deliver more direct punching power to the target. Hand protection is much less than training gloves, so if you use these for sparring or regular training, the risk of injury is high. So choose boxing gloves that suit your needs!
Also Read: Endurance Training Is the Key to Stronger Stamina
Boxing Glove Materials: Genuine Leather vs. Synthetic
Genuine leather boxing gloves typically excel in feel and durability. Furthermore, they're more flexible, comfortable, and tend to be more durable if properly cared for. The downside is their higher price and the need for maintenance.
Therefore, don't be lazy about caring for your leather boxing gloves, at least don't neglect drying and cleaning them. If you want regular training and gloves that feel good for the long term, genuine leather is often the most sensible choice.
Meanwhile, synthetic materials (PU/kunstleder) are cheaper and easier to clean. This type of glove is suitable for beginners or those who don't train very often. The downside of synthetic boxing gloves is that the leather can easily crack or peel, especially with intense use.
So which is more durable and worth it? If you train frequently (3-6 times per week) and want a long-term investment, genuine leather is usually more worthwhile. If you train 1-3 times per week, are just starting out, or need a backup glove, synthetic is sufficient. The important thing is to choose the right padding and size, and then care for it properly.
Common Mistakes When Buying Boxing Gloves
1. Too Small to Be Cool
Gloves that are too small can put pressure on your hands, impair circulation, and force your fist into a tighter position. Ultimately, your wrists and fingers do the work, which isn't good technique.
2. Choose Randomly, the Important Thing is Cheap
Cheap gloves often compromise on padding, stitching, and material. They feel "okay" at first, but quickly become flat or cracked, and their protection decreases. This makes them more susceptible to injury. Don't let a hand injury force you to retire from boxing.
3. Not in accordance with the training objectives
Pad work, sparring, and bag work require different feel and protection. Wearing the wrong gloves for sparring can increase the risk to you and your training partner.
4. Ignoring Comfort
If gloves hurt, feel tight, or cause your thumbs to squeeze, you'll be reluctant to wear them, and your technique will suffer. The main focus should be a good fit, secure padding, and stable wrist support.
SVRG Boxing Gloves Recommendations
These SVRG Boxing Gloves are perfect for those looking for versatile gloves for daily training, from cardio boxing to light sparring. Their key features make training safer and more comfortable.
These boxing gloves have thick foam padding to help absorb impact, strong velcro straps so the gloves don't come off easily, and better air circulation so the finger area doesn't get hot quickly.
This glove is made from polyurethane (PU), making it a synthetic material that's generally easier to care for, provided you avoid direct sunlight. SVRG offers size options of 8 oz, 10 oz, 12 oz, and 14 oz, along with a hand measurement guide.
The larger the oz, the thicker it feels and the more comfortable it is for heavier training sessions or sparring. The purchase package also includes one pair and a free pouch, and a 7-day warranty against factory defects, provided you have an unboxing video.
Tips for Caring for Boxing Gloves to Make Them Last
1. Dry the gloves after use.
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After use, open the velcro wide and let it air dry in a dry place.
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Wipe the inside with a dry towel or thick tissue to absorb sweat.
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If available, use a glove dryer or put newspaper/small towels inside the glove.
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Don't put it directly in the bag and don't dry it in the hot sun.
2. Avoid Odor & Mold
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Use handwrap every time you practice so that sweat doesn't directly enter your gloves.
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Once dry, spray a thin layer of deodorizer specifically for sports gear or use a deodorizing pouch.
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If your gloves already smell, don't close them tightly, as the smell will worsen because the moisture will be trapped. To prevent odor and mold, ensure your gloves remain dry.
3. Correct storage method
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Store in a cool, dry, and ventilated place, not in a hot car or damp cupboard.
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Make sure the glove is completely dry before storing.
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If stored for a long time, fill the inside with paper/small towels to keep the shape good and allow air circulation.
Do You Know What Kind of Boxing Gloves to Choose?
Choosing boxing gloves should be based on training goals, size, and comfort. Gloves for pad work, sparring, and heavy bag use may have different requirements, particularly regarding weight (oz) and padding.
Most importantly, the glove should fit your hand properly, provide stability to your wrist, and allow you to make a comfortable, pain-free fist. The right glove makes training safer and more effective because it protects your hand and wrist, and allows for more controlled punches.
So don't be easily tempted by cheap options of questionable quality, as cheap gloves can lead to pain, injury, or premature glove wear. Prioritize function and protection first, and your training will be more consistent and your progress more visible.
