Unlock the Secrets of the Best Boxing Gloves
Are you looking for the perfect pair of boxing gloves, but not sure where to start? We’ve scoured the internet to bring you a comprehensive guide to choosing the right boxing glove for you. Whether you’re in it for fitness or you’re scheduled to compete, the right boxing gloves can make or break your performance. We have done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of what you need to know when choosing the right gloves. Rest assured that whichever glove you choose, it will provide excellent protection for your hands, with this guide to selecting the perfect boxing glove fit.
Types of Gloves: Understanding Different Types of Boxing Gloves
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty details of choosing the perfect boxing gloves, let’s first discuss the different types of boxing gloves. There are two main categories: amateur and professional boxing gloves. Amateur boxing gloves tend to be softer and larger than professional gloves, as they offer more padding which helps reduce impact on your hands. Amatuer boxing gloves typically have a velcro strap for ease-of-use. Professional boxing gloves are much harder, offering less cushioning for powerful punches but also providing better protection for your knuckles and wrists. Unlike amateur boxing gloves, professional boxing gloves use lace instead of velcro, for optimal wrist protection.
The size and weight of the glove is also important to consider when making a decision; if you have smaller hands then lightweight options may be best suited for you. With boxing however, the weight of the gloves you use in competition are dependent on your weight, so regardless of the size of your fist, you may be forced to wear smaller or larger gloves in competition.
Gloves for Boxing Training
Bag gloves are designed to cushion your hands while striking a punching bag or pad. Generally they come in 12-18 oz sizes and cost anywhere from $40-$350 depending on brand name, material and quality. Boxing mitts sizes range from 6-8 oz and prices typically start at around $20-$30. Lastly, sparring gloves are used in the ring, and are generally 16 – 18 oz and can set you back between $80 – $650 depending on the level of competition. It’s important to buy boxing gloves from good quality brands and always do your research into which brands are best for your level.
Bag Gloves
Bag gloves are the staple piece of equipment for any boxer. These gloves provide protection for the hands and wrists when training with punching bags, speed bags, or double-end bags. Unlike sparring gloves which have more padding to protect both opponents in a fight, bag gloves have less cushioning and are designed to give boxers more protection and help them develop their technique.
Bag gloves come in different sizes that correspond to your hand size; it is important to select the right size for optimal performance. While 12-16 ounces are most commonly used for punches on heavy bags or pads and 16-18 ounces are typically reserved for heavier hitters and heavy weights to train the shoulders, lightweight 6-10 ounce boxing gloves can be used when performing speed drills on small targets like a speed ball or focus mitts.
Boxing Mitts
If you are looking for a cost-effective and convenient way to start boxing, consider investing in a pair of boxing mitts. Mitts are the smallest and cheapest type of glove used exclusively for speed bags, floor ceiling bags and other stationary targets. They are perfect for children or women who just want to engage in boxercise or general fitness.
The most obvious benefit of using mitts is their size and price tag. They are small enough that they won’t slow down your punch speed, yet they provide great protection against blisters and cuts on your knuckles. The lack of padding makes them incredibly durable so that even after many workouts, they will still remain intact.
Sparring Gloves
Sparring gloves are an essential part of any boxing training session, and they can be the difference between a safe and enjoyable session, or an injury-prone one. They are designed to give extra padding over bag gloves to reduce the impact of strikes on both the user and their partner. They are typically 16 oz and more, with most boxing trainers not allowing sparring with anything less in size.
The extra cushioning helps to keep hands from becoming bruised during sparring, allowing boxers to train with confidence in the knowledge that they won’t be injured while doing so. Sparring gloves are also designed to mimic competition gloves even though they are heavier, therefore they are generally firmer.
Boxing Glove Size and Weight Considerations
Boxing gloves come in a variety of sizes and weights that are measured in ounces. Ounces is the universal standard for measuring the weight of boxing gloves, which is done to ensure consistency when it comes to finding the right size for athletes. This measurement helps boxers select gloves that will give them ample protection without compromising their fighting ability.
The amount of ounces per glove can vary depending on what an individual boxer needs. Heavyweight fighters usually wear larger gloves with more padding for better protection, whereas lightweight fighters may opt for lighter and less padded options so they have greater agility in the ring. It’s important to find a pair of boxing gloves that fit properly so you can stay safe and perform at your best during training or competition. Knowing how boxing glove measurements work can help you make sure you’re wearing the right ones when stepping into the ring.
Choosing the Right Size For You
Boxing requires the right set of protective gear, and gloves should be at the top of your list. When selecting boxing gloves, choosing the right size is essential to make sure you are both safe and comfortable during training sessions.
The size of glove you choose will depend on a variety of factors, such as your weight, the type of boxing you’re going to do and how much padding protection you desire. For example, lighter weight boxing activities often require lighter gloves that provide more mobility; whereas heavier punches require heavier gloves for greater support and protection.
To find the right size, measure the circumference of your dominant hand, excluding the thumb. This measurement will give you an idea of the size of gloves you need. Here’s a guide for glove sizes based on hand circumference in centimeters:
- 15 to 19 cm: Extra Small
- 19 to 21.5 cm: Small
- 21.5 to 24 cm: Medium
- 24 to 26.5 cm: Large
- 26.5 to 29 cm: Extra Large
What Size Boxing Glove Should Men Use?
For men who weigh under 45 kgs, a pair of 6 to 8 ounce gloves should be sufficient. These lightweight gloves provide enough protection while allowing for freedom of movement and maximum dexterity. Similarly, if your weight falls between 45-68 kgs then 8 to 12 ounce gloves are recommended, offering an optimal balance between protection and agility. If you are +68 kg then 16+ ounces will be your preferred choice, not only for protection but also a better shoulder workout!.
What Size Boxing Glove Should Women Use?
If you weigh between 45-57 kg, 6 – 8 oz gloves provide ultimate protection during training sessions. These gloves provide good shock absorption and are lightweight enough to move quickly around the ring. For women who weigh 57-68 kgs, 10 oz gloves are a great choice as they offer more padding and protection than lighter weights while still being agile enough to train comfortably in. And finally, if you weigh over 68 kgs, 14 oz gloves are ideal as they provide superior cushioning and stability during intense sparring sessions.
Quality and Durability: Expert Tips on Choosing the Right Boxing Glove
When choosing the right boxing gloves, it is important to consider the quality and durability of the gloves. Poorly made gloves can not only affect your performance but can also lead to injuries.
Here are some expert tips on choosing high-quality and durable boxing gloves:
- Look for gloves with quality stitching and construction.
High-quality boxing gloves are made with double stitching and strong, durable materials that can withstand heavy use. Look for gloves with reinforced seams and high-quality stitching to ensure that they will last.
- Choose gloves with good padding.
Boxing gloves with good padding offer more protection for your hands and reduce the risk of injury. Look for gloves with thick, dense padding that is evenly distributed throughout the glove.
- Consider gloves with wrist support.
Boxing gloves with wrist support can help prevent injuries and provide additional stability and support during training or competition. Look for gloves with Velcro straps or other types of support that can be adjusted to fit your wrist snugly.
- Select gloves made from high-quality materials.
Leather is the most durable and high-quality material for boxing gloves, but it is also the most expensive. Vinyl and synthetic materials are less expensive but are also less durable and provide less protection.
- Invest in gloves that fit properly.
Proper fit is essential for both performance and safety. Gloves that are too loose can slip during training or competition, while gloves that are too tight can restrict movement and cause discomfort or injury. Make sure to try on several pairs of gloves and choose the ones that fit snugly but comfortably.
- Choose gloves from reputable brands.
Reputable brands are known for producing high-quality and durable boxing gloves. Look for brands that have a good reputation in the boxing community and have positive reviews from other boxers.
In conclusion, when choosing the right boxing gloves, it is important to consider the quality and durability of the gloves. Look for gloves with quality stitching and construction, good padding, wrist support, high-quality materials, proper fit, and from reputable brands. By following these expert tips, you can ensure that you choose the right gloves that will help you perform at your best and keep you safe during training or competition.
Protecting Your Hands: Benefits of Boxing Gloves
Boxing gloves are an essential piece of equipment for any boxer, whether you are a beginner or an experienced fighter. Here are some benefits of using boxing gloves to protect your hands during training and competition:
- Reducing the risk of injury.
Boxing gloves are designed to protect your hands and wrists during training and competition. They provide padding and support to absorb the impact of punches, reducing the risk of injury to your hands, wrists, and knuckles.
- Improving your technique.
Boxing gloves are also designed to help you improve your technique. They force you to use proper form and technique when punching, which can improve your skills and reduce the risk of injury.
- Enhancing your workout.
Boxing gloves can make your workouts more challenging and effective. The added weight of the gloves can increase the intensity of your training and help you build strength and endurance.
- Preventing hand fatigue.
Boxing gloves can also help prevent hand fatigue during training and competition. The gloves distribute the force of punches across a larger area, reducing the strain on your hands and allowing you to train for longer periods without experiencing fatigue.
- Maintaining hygiene.
Using boxing gloves can also help maintain hygiene during training and competition. They prevent direct skin-to-skin contact with your opponent, reducing the risk of infections and diseases.
Boxing gloves provide many benefits for protecting your hands during training and competition. They reduce the risk of injury, improve your technique, enhance your workout, prevent hand fatigue, and maintain hygiene. When choosing the right boxing gloves, make sure to consider their quality, durability, padding, wrist support, materials, and fit to ensure that you get the best protection and performance possible.
How to Care for Your Boxing Gloves
Proper care and maintenance of your boxing gloves can help prolong their lifespan and keep them in good condition. Here are some tips on how to care for your boxing gloves:
- Air them out.
After each training session, remove your gloves from your gym bag and air them out. Leave them in a well-ventilated area to dry, ideally in a place with good air circulation, to prevent bacteria and unpleasant odors from building up.
- Clean them regularly.
Clean your gloves regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Wipe down the inside and outside of the gloves with a damp cloth, paying particular attention to the areas that come into contact with your skin.
- Use glove deodorisers.
To help keep your gloves fresh and odor-free, consider using glove deodorisers. These products are specifically designed to neutralize odors and kill bacteria inside your gloves.
- Store them properly.
Store your gloves in a cool, dry place when you’re not using them. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or damp areas, as this can cause the leather or synthetic materials to degrade over time.
- Avoid getting them wet.
Try to avoid getting your gloves wet, as water can damage the materials and weaken the stitching. If your gloves do get wet, air them out immediately and allow them to dry completely before using them again.
- Invest in quality gloves.
Investing in a high-quality pair of gloves can also help extend their lifespan. Quality gloves are made with durable materials, better padding, and stronger stitching, which means they will last longer and provide better protection.
By following these tips, you can help keep your boxing gloves in good condition and prolong their lifespan. Proper care and maintenance can also help keep them fresh and odor-free, and ensure that they provide the best possible protection during training and competition.
Choosing the right Boxing Gloves
Choosing the right boxing gloves is essential for any boxer, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional. Quality, durability, padding, wrist support, materials, and fit are all important factors to consider when selecting your gloves. By choosing the right gloves, you can reduce the risk of injury, improve your technique, enhance your workout, prevent hand fatigue, and maintain hygiene.
Once you have chosen your gloves, it’s important to take proper care of them to ensure their longevity and functionality. Air them out after each use, clean them regularly, use glove deodorisers, store them properly, and avoid getting them wet. By following these tips, you can help keep your gloves in top condition and get the most out of them during training and competition.
Choosing and caring for your boxing gloves is an important aspect of being a boxer. By taking the time to select the right gloves and properly maintain them, you can protect your hands, improve your skills, and get the most out of your training and competition.
