Boxing gloves – choosing weight and fit
Choose gloves for bag work, pads, sparring or competition. Oz describes the weight of each glove; 1 oz is approximately 28.35 grams. It does not measure hand size.
Which weight do I need?
10–12 oz gloves are used for bags and pads, while 12–14 oz is a common all-round option. 14–16 oz is common for sparring, but your club may require another weight or model. Heavier gloves are not automatically safer: padding design, condition and controlled training matter.
Children need a hand compartment and wrist support suited to their hands, not simply a low oz rating. Follow the coach's advice and the product's size guide.
Fit and fastening
Try gloves with your usual wraps. You should be able to make a fist without pinching or numbness. Hook-and-loop fastenings are easy to manage yourself; laces usually require help. Muay Thai designs may allow more movement for clinching.
Materials and care
Compare padding, stitching and wrist support as well as leather or synthetic materials. Separate bag and sparring gloves are useful for regular training because bag work wears down padding.
Open and air-dry gloves after each session. Wash your wraps and follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions. Replace gloves with uneven, hard or compressed padding or damaged fastenings.
Can I compete in training gloves?
Only if the rules permit the specific model and weight. Check the organiser's current requirements; an oz rating alone is not approval.
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