How to Choose the Right Size Boxing Gloves
When you’re shopping for boxing gloves, you have to be mindful of the different sizes. Each brand of gloves fits differently and there are things you need to look for.
Here’s our complete guide for how to choose the right size boxing gloves. Read our full guide below before you buy your next pair of gloves.
Understanding Boxing Glove Weight
Each type of boxing gloves has different weights and amounts of padding inside them. The most common sized gloves range from 8 oz to 18 oz with each offering different levels of padding and protection.
- 8-10 oz Boxing Gloves: These are the lightest types of boxing gloves often used for competition and practitioners with smaller hands.
- 12-14 oz Boxing Gloves: If you’re looking to do bag or pad work, these sizes are the right size boxing gloves for you.
- 16 to 18 oz Boxing Gloves: Bigger gloves within this weight are the right size boxing gloves for those looking to participate in sparring. They’ll better protect both your hands and your partner’s face.
What’s The Purpose of Use
When you’re looking for the right size boxing gloves, the first question you need to answer is the purpose of use. The activity that you’re engaging in will dictate, which glove size is appropriate
What’s Your Weight Class?
Your weight class will play a huge factor in the size of boxing gloves you need. Here’s a general guideline for how to pick the right size boxing gloves based on your weight:
- Under 55 kgs(120 lbs): 10-12 oz gloves
- 55-68 kgs(120-150 lbs): 12-14 oz gloves
- 68-82 kgs(150-180 lbs): 14-16 oz gloves
- Over 82 kgs(Over 180 lbs) 16-18 oz gloves
What’s Your Hand Size?
The most important aspect of picking the right size boxing gloves is, of course, the size of your hands. Most boxing glove brands include a hand circumference measurement in their sizing guides.
Before purchasing a new pair of boxing gloves, check the size of your hands. You can do this by taking measuring tape and wrapping it around the widest part of your hand(excluding your thumb).
Once you find your size, check your measurement against the size charts of different glove brands. Keep in mind that different brands will have slight variations of sizes and glove fit.
This is why if possible, you should try out different sizes of various brands to find the perfect fit.
Glove Material
You may not realize it, but the material of different gloves can affect the way gloves fit on your hands.
- Leather Gloves: Leather boxing gloves tend to have a tighter fit and mold to your hand. They are also a better investment and will last longer than synthetic gloves.
- Synthetic Gloves: Synthetic gloves are the most affordable option that fits loose and doesn’t mold to your hand. They’re more for casual practitioners, who don’t train hard often.
Closure Type
The type of closure system a pair of boxing gloves has will have an effect on how they fit on your hands.
- Velcro Straps: Velcro straps are the most common and ideal type of training gloves and the easiest to put on. You can alter the fit of these gloves by adjusting the velcro straps.
- Lace-Up Gloves: Lace-Up gloves are the type of gloves used in professional fights. They fit great but require assistance from a trainer to put them on.
Hand Wraps
Hand wraps will also play a factor in how boxing gloves will fit. If you’re wearing wraps(which you should be) ensure that the gloves have enough room to accommodate them without affecting the fit.
Comfort & Fit
Ultimately the best fitting boxing glove for you is the one that feels comfortable and secure. A well-fitting glove should feel snug but not overly tight, with no excessive space inside the glove.
Your fingertips should rest comfortably near the end of the gloves, and the wrist strap should be secure.
Conclusion
Choosing the right size boxing gloves is crucial for optimizing your performance and ensuring your safety during training or competition. By considering your purpose, body weight, hand size, and comfort, you can select gloves that will protect your hand and enhance your training.
