Choosing the right boxing gloves is essential for enhancing your performance and ensuring safety in training, regardless of your skill level. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the various types of gloves, from training to competition, and explain how to select the appropriate size and material for your needs.
We’ll also cover the importance of considering factors such as glove weight, closure types, and brand reputation.
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, understanding these aspects will help you decide and choose the best boxing glove for your style.
Let’s dive into the details and find the perfect pair of gloves to elevate your boxing journey.
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Boxing Glove Size Calculator
Types of Boxing Gloves
Understanding the types of boxing gloves is key to choosing the right pair. Gloves are categorized based on their intended use, such as general training, heavy bag workouts, sparring, and competitions.
Not all gloves fall neatly into these categories. They are designed with specific functions in mind to improve performance and safety.
Less padding gives you a closer feel to your punches but offers less protection. More padding doesn’t necessarily mean more weight, as explained below.
As explained in this guide, many budget boxing gloves are advertised as usable for everything and sometimes offer size classifications from small to large, which isn’t always the best choice.
Training Gloves
Training gloves are versatile and designed for all-around use in boxing. These gloves are perfect for beginners. They provide ample padding, ensuring the wearer’s and the partner’s safety during drills and light sparring.
Everlast PowerLock2 Training Glove
- Made from high quality synthetic leather
- Quad layered foam core protection
- Ergonomic grip bar
- Full Mesh Palm
- Innovative turnback strap system
- Ergonomically secured thumb
- Polyester foam interior lining
Bag Gloves
Bag gloves, also known as heavy bag gloves, are specifically designed for hitting different types of bags, such as the heavy bag, and give a closer feeling to punches in pad work. They generally come with less padding than general training gloves. However, they still offer solid hand protection while you can focus on improving your technique.
RIVAL Boxing RB1 2.0 Ultra Bag Gloves
- Improved and more ergonomic inner padding to enhance comfort and protection
- Ergonomic adjustments to the hand compartment which now allows you to get your hand deeper into the glove and form the perfect fist
- Made of Hyper Resistant Microfibre
- High Density Multi-Layered Foam Padding
- Rival’s Unique and Original Wrist Lock Strap System
- Breathable Mesh Palm
- Soft, Foamy Cloth Inner Lining
- Printed and Embroidered Rival Graphic
Bag Mitts
Bag mitts, also known as old-school bag gloves, are a throwback to the early days of boxing. They’re pretty basic with a very thin layer of padding, giving you that real punch feel. It helps you to fine-tune your technique and is recommended for advanced boxers.
RIVAL Boxing RB5 Bag Mitt Gloves
- Ultra Thin EVA Padding
- Ergo Lite System
- Constructed of Premium Quality Leather
- Hook & Loop Wrist Strap System
- RIVAL Woven Label on the Strap
- Printed RIVAL Graphics
Sparring Gloves
Sparring gloves are specially crafted with extra padding to ensure the safety and protection of the wearer and their sparring partner. They are essential to develop your skills in a controlled and secure environment.
Ringside Apex Flash Sparring Boxing Gloves
- Spar your way to the top with Ringside Apex Flash Sparring Gloves, perfect for comprehensive fitness workouts.
- Made from durable synthetic leather, these gloves are designed to push your limits and help achieve your goals.
- Features 2.25″ shock-absorbing IMF padding and 3.25″ tapered, wrap-around closure for better protection and superior wrist support.
- The mesh palm and wicking inner liner keep palms and thumbs well ventilated, enhancing comfort during workouts.
- Easy and convenient hook and loop closure for quick removal of gloves.
- Easy-to-clean synthetic leather material adds to the glove’s durability.
- Available in various colors and sizes to fit your style and boxing workout needs.
Competition Gloves
Competition gloves are used in amateur and professional boxing matches. Advanced boxers might still use them for different training purposes. These gloves are less padded while keeping the safety of fighters in mind. The weight and type of competition gloves may vary depending on the fight’s sanctioning body and the weight class of the fighters.
CLETO REYES Professional Competition Boxing Gloves
- Perfect for both men and women, providing optimal support for punches.
- Anatomically designed slim shape for high precision and quality.
- Preferred by World Champions and authorized by WBC, WBA, IBF, and more.
- Water resistant nylon lining to keep hands dry and attached thumb for safety.
- Excellent wrist support to prevent bending and damage during heavy hits.
- Ideal for professional competition and sparring.
- Handmade in Mexico with strict quality control and the finest craftsmanship.
- Lace-up closure for a secure fit and stuffed with horsehair for harder hits.
- Designed with high-quality materials for durability and performance.
Other Types of Gloves
Beyond the common categories are specialized gloves for specific boxing and martial arts needs. These include grappling gloves tailored for mixed martial arts and simple cardio gloves for fitness boxing.
I highly recommended to use true boxing gloves even if you are fitness boxing or hitting the bag for fun.
While you can technically use any boxing glove for different activities, it’s best to stick to the specific designs intended for each exercise. This ensures optimal performance and safety.
Closure Types (Lace-up vs. Velcro)
Each lace-up and Velcro closure has pros and cons, catering to different preferences and requirements of boxing. Rarely will you see some variations of boxing gloves where you slide in. Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of both closure types.
Lace-up Closure:
You’ll feel more in control and secure, giving off pro vibes for the perfect fit.
Pros
- Secure Fit
- Stability
- Traditional Look
Cons
- Time-Consuming
- Requires Assistance
- Less Adjustable
Velcro (Hook and Loop) Closure:
It’s a beginner-friendly option, as you get the convenience of quick changes and a fit that adjusts in seconds.
Pros
- Convenience
- Versatility
- Accessibility
Cons
- Less Secure
- Wear and Tear
- Aesthetics
Choosing between lace-up and Velcro closures depends on your preferences, training routine, and performance requirements. Consider fit, convenience, and stability factors to determine which closure type best suits your needs.
You can find extra accessories to convert lace-up closures into Velcro.
Padding Types
The padding can be described as the inner life of boxing gloves. Besides the padding width, the type of padding used in boxing gloves significantly affects their impact absorption, comfort, and recoil effect. Different padding materials fit various training needs, offering options from enhanced protection to a more natural punch feel. Let’s explore the main padding types used in boxing gloves.
As seen above, most boxing gloves use different layers and combinations of the following padding types.
Foam Padding
Foam padding is the most common type used in modern boxing gloves due to its excellent shock absorption qualities. It comes in various densities and material types.
High-density foam provides a firmer glove, ideal for heavy bag work and mitt training, as it minimizes the force the hands feel.
On the other hand, low-density foam offers more comfort and is typically used in training and sparring gloves for its higher absorption ability.
Below are different types of foams, each of which can be produced in varying densities.
- Revolutionized training glove with a decade of sports science and research backing its design and technology.
- Built for comfort with a tailored fit, featuring interior fabric that feels smooth and regulates hand temperature.
- Offers world-renowned wrist support through dual wrist straps and a splinting system to keep wrists aligned.
- Provides ultimate knuckle protection with premium foam technology that absorbs impacts.
- Recommended use: 10oz-12oz for bags/pads, and 14oz-18oz for bags/pads, partner drills, and sparring.
PU Foam
PU (Polyurethane) foam is widely used in boxing gloves for its versatility and ability to be produced in various densities. This allows manufacturers to tailor gloves for specific uses, such as sparring, heavy bag work, or competition. The foam can be layered or mixed in densities to balance impact absorption and hand protection.
Memory Foam
Memory foam (Viscoelastic Foam) is less common in boxing gloves but can be used in specific areas, like the wrist support or the palm, to provide enhanced comfort or a more custom fit. Its pressure-relieving properties can help distribute the force evenly across the hand, potentially reducing the risk of localized pressure points and injuries.
EVA Foam
EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate) foam’s shock-absorbent and water-resistant properties make it an excellent choice for boxing gloves, especially for training and sparring. Its lightweight nature helps keep the gloves from becoming too heavy. EVA foam can also be molded into specific shapes.
Latex foam
Latex foam, known for its elasticity and breathability, can offer a unique feel to boxing gloves. Its ability to conform to the hand provides a snug and responsive fit, which can improve the boxer’s feel and control when punching. Higher costs than PU or EVA foam.
High-density Latex Compound (HLC) offers superior impact resistance and durability compared to regular latex due to its denser and more resilient structure.
Gel Padding
Gel padding is a newer technology introduced to boxing gloves, known for its superior shock absorption capabilities. Gel-infused gloves distribute the impact evenly across the hand, reducing the risk of injury and providing enhanced protection during training.
Title Gel World Elastic Training Gloves
- New and exclusive Gel Enforced Lining
- Special multi-layered foam
- All-leather cover
Horsehair Padding
Horsehair padding is a traditional material that dates back to the early days of boxing. Gloves with horsehair padding are known for their flexibility and the “puncher’s feel” they provide, allowing fighters to feel more connected to their punches.
However, horsehair does not absorb shocks as efficiently as foam, making these gloves less protective and more suited to professional competitions.
CLETO REYES Professional Competition Boxing
- Handcrafted in Mexico from cow leather, designed for a perfect anatomical fit with extra-long laces.
- Traditional slim design preferred by World Champions, authorized by WBC, WBA, IBF, and numerous commissions worldwide.
- Provides optimal wrist support to prevent bending or injury, suitable for welterweight and higher categories.
- Constructed with high-quality materials including a lace-up closure and attached thumb for safety.
- Stuffed with carded horsehair and polyurethane foam padding for harder hits during competitions.
- Features a water-repellent nylon lining to keep moisture out and maintain consistent glove weight.
Advanced Concepts
- Puncher’s/Mexican Gloves: These gloves, known for their recoil effect, are ideal for those who throw multiple punches. They typically have a flat surface and are made from natural latex, providing a quick response and recoil. However, they might not suit those with brittle hands due to the thin padding.
- Anatomically designed, handcrafted in Mexico from cow leather for the perfect fit.
- Great for sparring, heavy bags, and general training with weight suggestions provided by professional trainers.
- Optimal wrist support to prevent bending or injury, suitable for both men and women.
- Features leather strap hook and loop closure for a firm fit and 2 inches of latex foam padding for knuckle support.
- Water-resistant lining to prevent moisture penetration and maintain constant glove weight.
- Includes an attached thumb for safety and to keep thumbs intact during training.
- Defensive Gloves: These are larger, bulkier gloves with thick, rounded padding. They offer a good balance of impact absorption and protection, making them suitable for defensive boxers and those who prefer a substantial barrier between their knuckles and the target.
- 2 1/4 inches of IMF (Injected Molded Foam) Tech ideal for sparring or bag work.
- Durable, easy to clean synthetic leather shell with full wrap around hook and loop closure and attached thumb for safety.
- Comprehensive protection ideal for boxing, MMA, Muay Thai training, and workout sessions.
- Mesh palm design to keep hands cool and comfortable, enhancing your training experience.
- Available in a variety of colors, designed to provide a competitive, high calorie burning workout.
- Pillow Gloves: Made with multiple foam layers, these gloves are soft and cradle the knuckles, offering excellent protection for the wearer and their sparring partner. They may reduce the feeling of impact, which could be a drawback for some.
- Revolutionized training glove with a decade of sports science and research backing its design and technology.
- Built for comfort with a tailored fit, featuring interior fabric that feels smooth and regulates hand temperature.
- Offers world-renowned wrist support through dual wrist straps and a splinting system to keep wrists aligned.
- Provides ultimate knuckle protection with premium foam technology that absorbs impacts.
- Recommended use: 10oz-12oz for bags/pads, and 14oz-18oz for bags/pads, partner drills, and sparring.
- Hybrids: These gloves combine elements of puncher, pillow, and defensive styles. They cater to those who want versatility in their gloves, allowing for protection, comfort, and effective striking.
- The RS11V, known as the “Evolution,” became the best selling sparring glove in history of RIVAL Boxing, revolutionizing sparring glove design.
- First to use RIVAL’s durable super-rich Microfibre PU, combining perfect fit with high-density foam and sleek microfiber outer.
- Features foamy cloth lining and part mesh palm for enhanced ventilation and comfort during prolonged sparring sessions.
- Incorporates the innovative dual angle, V-Strap Wrist Lock 2 System for the stability of a laced glove with the convenience of hook and loop.
- Equipped with extra-thick, 2” layered foam padding and a 15 degree angle cuff, specifically designed for intense sparring sessions.
CLETO REYES Training Gloves with Leather Strap & Attached Thumb and Hook & Loop Closure
Ringside Limited Edition USA IMF Tech Boxing
RIVAL Boxing RS11V Evolution Sparring Gloves
- Brand Variations: The video discusses how brands create variations within these categories, such as Everlast’s MX gloves and Winning’s pillow-style gloves.
- Choosing Based on Punching Style: For example, heavy hitters might prefer defensive or hybrid gloves, while those focusing on speed and volume might opt for puncher’s gloves.
- Consideration of Hand Protection: Recommendations for gloves offering more padding for hand issues.
Choosing the Right Boxing Glove Size
Choosing the right boxing glove size is crucial for both your comfort and performance, and it’s important to understand that this choice is less about the glove’s physical size and more about its weight.
Boxing gloves are generally designed to fit hands universally, with weight being one primary differentiating factor. The weight of boxing gloves is measured in ounces.
Generally, start with heavier (bigger) gloves and gradually transition to lighter (smaller) ones as your skill level progresses.
How do you know your hand size for boxing gloves?
As stated before, your hand size rarely affects the fit of boxing gloves, as most are designed to accommodate a wide range of sizes. It’s uncommon for someone to have hands so exceptionally large or small that they can’t fit into standard gloves.
Some gloves just generally fit better for bigger or smaller hands.
Although some brands offer hand circumference guidelines, you should understand that you don’t necessarily choose a specific glove because of hand size. It suggests the weight and hand size should be proportional- the heavier you are, the bigger the hands, and vice versa, which isn’t always the case.
Adjusting the size of your hand wraps can help achieve a better fit: use longer hand wraps for smaller hands to fill out the glove more and shorter wraps for larger hands to prevent the glove from feeling too tight.
How much do boxing gloves weigh?
Weighing boxing gloves in ounces is a tradition rooted in British history, reflecting the long-standing use of the imperial system in the UK and the US.
| oz | lbs | kg |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 0.375 | 0.170097 |
| 8 | 0.500 | 0.226796 |
| 10 | 0.625 | 0.283495 |
| 12 | 0.750 | 0.340194 |
| 14 | 0.875 | 0.396893 |
| 16 | 1.000 | 0.453592 |
| 18 | 1.125 | 0.510291 |
| 20 | 1.250 | 0.566990 |
There is no entity or independent organization that guarantees boxing gloves sold for private use, such as training or recreational boxing, follow these standards.
The weight for 10oz for gloves one brand might be different for another.
Historical Context
Governing bodies for boxing, such as the Queensberry Rules, which were drafted in 1867, set forth regulations that include glove sizes.
This pivotal moment in the history of boxing gloves underscored the shift towards more regulated and safer boxing practices.
While the UK has officially adopted the metric system, the imperial system is still employed in certain areas, including sports like boxing where ounces remain the standard for glove weight.
Which boxing glove size (weight) should you choose?
It’s essential to consider the weight categories and how they align with your training purposes, skill level, and specific goals.
Here are the standard weight categories and their suitability for different purposes. Technically, the same principles apply to men and women.
| Weight | Training | Sparring | Pro Fight | Amat. Fight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| <100lbs <45kg |
8-10oz | 12-14oz | 6oz | 10-12oz |
| 100-125lbs 45-57kg |
8-12oz | 14-16oz | 6oz | 10-12oz |
| 125-150lbs 57-68kg |
10-12oz | 14-16oz | 8oz | 10-12oz |
| 150-180lbs 68-80kg |
10-12oz | 16-18oz | 10oz | 10-12oz |
| >180lbs >80kg |
12-16oz | 18oz | 10oz | 10-12oz |
Manufacturers typically adhere to guidelines set by prominent boxing organizations, but specifications can vary widely depending on the intended use of the gloves (e.g., training, sparring, competition) and the brand.
You must rely on brand reputation, reviews, and compliance with the standards of well-known boxing organizations when selecting gloves.
In competitions, standards for boxing gloves, including weight and padding, are set by organizations like WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO, and AIBA. However, slight variations from manufacturers can lead to disputes, as seen in professional bouts like Mayweather vs. Maidana.
What boxing glove size should women choose?
Just like men, women should choose boxing glove sizes based on their weight and the type of boxing activity they will engage in. The general guidelines for choosing glove sizes according to the weight categories above apply to men and women.
You might prefer going to the lower end of the suggested ounce sizes. Women might prefer gloves that offer a tighter fit depending on their hand size and comfort. Still, the weight and padding of the glove remain the primary factors for safety and effectiveness in training, sparring, or competition.
KoStudio (US) and Unorthodoxx (UK) are boxing equipment brands built for women that offer boxing gloves.
Many brands offer women’s boxing gloves that might come in a tighter fit or added wrist support. Note that they mainly focus on attracting female buyers from a marketing perspective (colors, name).
- Skintex leather for excellent durability
- Triple-density foam for optimal impact absorption
- Reinforced palm for greater protection
- Long cuff and secure closure for wrist support
- Attached thumb for injury prevention.
- Revolutionized training glove with a decade of sports science and research backing its design and technology.
- Built for comfort with a tailored fit, featuring interior fabric that feels smooth and regulates hand temperature.
- Offers world-renowned wrist support through dual wrist straps and a splinting system to keep wrists aligned.
- Provides ultimate knuckle protection with premium foam technology that absorbs impacts.
- Recommended use: 10oz-12oz for bags/pads, and 14oz-18oz for bags/pads, partner drills, and sparring.
CLETO REYES Training Gloves with Leather Strap & Attached Thumb and Hook & Loop Closure
- Anatomically designed, handcrafted in Mexico from cow leather for the perfect fit.
- Great for sparring, heavy bags, and general training with weight suggestions provided by professional trainers.
- Optimal wrist support to prevent bending or injury, suitable for both men and women.
- Features leather strap hook and loop closure for a firm fit and 2 inches of latex foam padding for knuckle support.
- Water-resistant lining to prevent moisture penetration and maintain constant glove weight.
- Includes an attached thumb for safety and to keep thumbs intact during training.
What boxing glove size should you consider for children?
For children, choosing the right size of boxing gloves is paramount for their safety and to ensure proper technique development. Children’s gloves are usually lighter and designed to offer protection while accommodating their smaller hand size.
Here are some general recommendations for boys and girls based on their weight:
| WEIGHT (LBS) | WEIGHT (KG) | SIZE |
|---|---|---|
| < 61 | < 27 | 4oz |
| 61 – 80 | 27 – 36 | 6oz |
| 81 – 95 | 37 – 43 | 8oz |
Teenagers closer to adult size (95 lbs and above) can start using adult glove sizes, beginning at the lower end (8oz to 10oz) for training and moving up as needed based on their weight and training purpose.
The hands shouldn’t move too much inside the glove.
Venum Challenger 2.0 Kids Boxing Gloves
4oz-8oz
- Made from 100% high-quality PU for durability.
- Features breathable interior mesh for comfort.
- Triple density foam provides better shock management and top hand protection.
- 100% full attached thumb for safety and injury prevention.
- Embossed Venum Logo with 3D touch on each glove for a premium look.
- Large Velcro enclosure with elastic ensures a better fit and adjustment.
Hayabusa S4 Kids Epic Boxing Gloves
6oz-8oz
- Designed as the most advanced youth glove, offering high-performance knuckle protection and wrist support to protect developing hands.
- Features unparalleled wrist support with splinted padding covering the wrist joint to prevent awkward bends, ensuring your child’s safety.
- Exciting and epic designs that make training fun and are sure to be popular among kids.
- The single strap and splinted wrist support work together to provide a secure, protective fit.
- Durable construction with strong PU leather and injected foam padding, built to endure years of training in various disciplines like boxing, kickboxing, MMA, and more.
Adidas Boxing Gloves – Hybrid 80 for Kids
6oz-10oz
- High-quality, well-ventilated Hybrid 80 boxing gloves in Black and Shock Pink, suitable for kids
- Made from durable polyurethane leather for a long-lasting exterior and excellent boxing performance.
- Designed for great shock-absorption to protect knuckles and fists during heavy bag punching, mitt training, kickboxing, fitness classes, and sparring.
- Enhances speed and execution of movements, delivering firm and perfect punches.
- Features a rigid Velcro closing system for quick adjustment and strong wrist support, making them easy to put on and take off.
- Includes a premium lining for maximum comfort, preventing blisters and chafing during long workouts.
- One-piece mold design provides great power and support, suitable for professionals, beginners, and amateurs.
- Easy to clean with a wet towel, offering superior comfort and convenience.
Advanced Considerations
- Glove Weight and Padding Misconception: The weight of a glove does not directly correlate with the amount of padding it has. Different brands and models can vary significantly in padding thickness, even if the gloves are the same weight.
- Glove Size and Hand Compartment: The size and fit of the glove can vary across brands and models. A heavier glove does not always mean a larger hand compartment.
- Weight Recommendations Based on Body Size: Recommendations for glove weight based on body size and weight are not one-size-fits-all. The choice should be influenced by hand size, the type of training, and personal preference.
- Importance of Brand and Model: Different brands and their respective models can offer vastly different experiences regarding fit, padding, and overall design. It’s essential to research and understand the specifics of each glove type.
- Material and Construction Impact: The materials (foam, horsehair, etc.) and construction of a glove significantly affect its weight, protection level, and suitability for different types of training.
- Consultation and Experimentation: Consulting with brands, experienced trainers, or knowledgeable retailers can provide valuable insights. Additionally, experimenting with different glove types can help you to find the best fit for your needs.
- Personal Experience and Preference: Ultimately, the choice of gloves should be based on personal experience and preference, considering factors such as training type, comfort, protection, and durability.
Material and Quality of Boxing Gloves
The material used for the outer part of boxing gloves is pivotal in determining their durability, comfort, and performance. Different materials offer various levels of protection, longevity, and tactile feel.
These materials are carefully selected for their unique benefits when making boxing gloves.
Let’s explore the common materials used in the outer layer of boxing gloves and highlight their distinct advantages.
Neoprene
Neoprene is a low-budget choice that is easily washable. Boxing gloves made of neoprene usually don’t have oz size specifications and are mostly used as bag mitts or for fitness boxing.
Everlast® Heavy Bag Boxing Gloves (PR)
- Made of comfortable and tough neoprene material
- Manufactured in United States
- One Size Fits Most
- Neoprene heavy bag gloves from leading boxing gear producer Everlast
- Flexible and remarkably durable
- Pre-curved foam and a padded palm grip offer excellent hand protection
- Elastic wrist wrap ensures a custom fit, every training session
- Moisture-repellent inside liner keeps your hands comfortable
Synthetic Leather
Synthetic leather gloves are easier to maintain and clean than genuine leather gloves, making them popular for regular training sessions. They provide a good balance of comfort, durability, and affordability. The most common categories represent PVC, PU, and microfiber leather.
Different brands also market synthetic leather with names like leatherette, imitation, faux, vegan, and pleather leather, highlighting unique compositions and marketing distinctions.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) – Vinyl
PVC boxing gloves, commonly known as Vinyl, are often considered an economical option for beginners or those on a tight budget. While they are more affordable, vinyl gloves are less durable than leather ones. Tends to be harder and less breathable but waterproof.
Ringside Apex Flash Boxing Gloves, IMF-Tech
- Spar your way to the top with Ringside Apex Flash Sparring Gloves, perfect for comprehensive fitness workouts.
- Made from durable synthetic leather, these gloves are designed to push your limits and help achieve your goals.
- Features 2.25″ shock-absorbing IMF padding and 3.25″ tapered, wrap-around closure for better protection and superior wrist support.
- The mesh palm and wicking inner liner keep palms and thumbs well ventilated, enhancing comfort during workouts.
- Easy and convenient hook and loop closure for quick removal of gloves.
- Easy-to-clean synthetic leather material adds to the glove’s durability.
- Available in various colors and sizes to fit your style and boxing workout needs.
PU (Polyurethane)
PU leather is more flexible and breathable than PVC, so it’s often preferred for items requiring a closer imitation of real leather.
- Japanese microfiber PU outer for exceptional durability
- Triple-density foam for optimal impact absorption
- Reinforced palm for greater protection
- Long cuff and secure closure for wrist support
- Attached thumb for injury prevention
- Suitable for beginners to advanced athletes
Microfiber Leather
Microfiber leather is a high-end synthetic option known for its exceptional durability, rivaling genuine leather. It combines the strength of microfiber non-woven fabric with the flexibility of high-performance polyurethane. It’s lightweight and breathable.
RIVAL Boxing RB11 Evolution Bag Gloves, Hook and Loop Closure
- Ergonomic Fit
- Soft, Padded Inner Lining
- RIVAL’s 15° Angle Cuff
- RIVAL’s V-Strap Wrist Lock 2 System
- Super-Rich Microfiber PU Construction
- 1.25″ (3cm) of Closed Cell Foam and Latex Padding Specifically Designed for Intense Bag Use
- AirFlow Control System
- Embroidered RIVAL Graphics
Genuine Leather
Genuine Leather gloves are the gold standard in boxing gear, prized for their superior durability, comfort, and fit. Over time, genuine leather adapts to the shape of the wearer’s hand, offering a personalized fit that enhances grip and control.
If you train consistently, you should consider genuine leather gloves. Although they have a higher price tag, their longevity and performance justify the investment.
Note that boxing gloves advertised as leather don’t necessarily mean they are genuine leather. It could also mean synthetic leather. And having genuine leather doesn’t necessarily mean it’s automatically a good glove.
CLETO REYES Training Gloves with Leather Strap & Attached Thumb and Hook & Loop Closure
- Anatomically designed, handcrafted in Mexico from cow leather for the perfect fit.
- Great for sparring, heavy bags, and general training with weight suggestions provided by professional trainers.
- Optimal wrist support to prevent bending or injury, suitable for both men and women.
- Features leather strap hook and loop closure for a firm fit and 2 inches of latex foam padding for knuckle support.
- Water-resistant lining to prevent moisture penetration and maintain constant glove weight.
- Includes an attached thumb for safety and to keep thumbs intact during training.
Price Range and Brands of Boxing Gloves
The price range of boxing gloves can vary significantly based on brand, material, padding type, and intended use.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first pair of gloves or a seasoned pro seeking the highest-quality gear, there is a wide spectrum of options available.
Let’s break down the typical price ranges and highlight some notable brands within each category.
Here, you can find our complete guide to boxing glove brands.
Budget-Friendly
Budget-friendly boxing gloves are ideal for beginners or those looking for a cost-effective option for occasional training. These gloves usually have vinyl or lower-grade synthetic leather and basic foam padding. These gloves are suitable for light training sessions but might not endure the rigors of intense or daily use.
Everlast PowerLock2 Training Glove
- Made from high quality synthetic leather
- Quad layered foam core protection
- Ergonomic grip bar
- Full Mesh Palm
- Innovative turnback strap system
- Ergonomically secured thumb
- Polyester foam interior lining
Mid-Range
Mid-range boxing gloves balance quality and affordability. They feature better materials like higher-quality synthetic or lower-grade genuine leather, improved foam padding, or even gel padding for added protection. These gloves are designed to withstand frequent training sessions and offer better hand protection and comfort.
- Revolutionized training glove with a decade of sports science and research backing its design and technology.
- Built for comfort with a tailored fit, featuring interior fabric that feels smooth and regulates hand temperature.
- Offers world-renowned wrist support through dual wrist straps and a splinting system to keep wrists aligned.
- Provides ultimate knuckle protection with premium foam technology that absorbs impacts.
- Recommended use: 10oz-12oz for bags/pads, and 14oz-18oz for bags/pads, partner drills, and sparring.
High-End
High-end boxing gloves target serious boxers who need high-quality materials and construction for frequent, intense training sessions. These gloves typically use premium leather and advanced padding technologies, offering better wrist support.
HIT N MOVE All Day Pro Balance Boxing Gloves Hook and Loop
- Crafted with athletes in mind, ideal for boxers who change styles, such as from outboxer to inside fighter.
- Smooth boxing feel, premium materials, and moisture-wicking technology ensure a successful sparring and bag workout.
- Made of luxurious 100% genuine cowhide leather for durability and quality.
- Features All Day Dart Padding Technology for fast punch flow and a lightweight feel.
- Incorporates proprietary All Day Padding for feedback and protection, utilizing DR-T compression technology.
- Designed and engineered in the USA for superior quality and innovation.
- Compact design and smart fit provide athletes with a swift and sleek punching experience.
- Utilizes proprietary All Day-Dri moisture-wicking technology to keep hands dry and comfortable.
Premium
Premium boxing gloves are the pinnacle of boxing equipment, designed for those who demand the best materials, craftsmanship, and performance. These gloves often feature the finest genuine or high-end synthetic leather, hand-stitched details, and specialized padding.
- The Fly Superloop is a luxury glove offering uncompromising performance and extraordinary luxury for the ultimate training experience.
- Designed for all types of training, combining the attributes of the Superlace with the convenience of a velcro closure.
- Features unparalleled durability, from top-grade supple leather hides to the durable lining and double stitching on the exterior.
- Incorporates unique high-density foam for optimal comfort and feel during use.
- Ideal for those demanding optimal performance and perfect balance in a glove.
- Made to order with a 4-6 week lead time, ensuring attention to detail and quality craftsmanship.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right boxing gloves is a nuanced process that balances factors like glove type, size, material, closure system, and brand reputation.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced boxer, it’s essential to fine-tune your boxing glove choice for optimal performance.
By considering your training intensity, the nature of your boxing activities, and your personal preferences, you can select gloves that protect your hands and enhance your boxing experience.
