If you are going to box or practice kickboxing, it is important to choose the right size of boxing gloves. But how do you know exactly which size of boxing gloves you need? We have created a handy size chart for this purpose (please note! These are guidelines; your situation may always differ).
Choosing the size or weight of boxing gloves
One of the most important initial choices when selecting your first pair or new boxing gloves is which weight is best for you. Boxing gloves are almost always specified by weight in ounces (oz)—an English unit of weight—and not so much by traditional sizes. You will therefore often see 12 oz, 14 oz, or 16 oz on gloves.
Although it is not really the "size" in terms of fit, heavier boxing gloves almost always also have a larger hand compartment. However, this does not necessarily have to be the case!
Professionals also compete with 8 oz or 10 oz, which are usually sold in stores as "children's sizes". However, these are generally special gloves, probably selected from the most expensive range or custom-made specifically for the boxer or fighter in question.
How do you choose the right weight for boxing gloves?
The rule of thumb is: "the heavier the person in question, the heavier the glove they should use". Heavier boxing gloves generally have more padding and are therefore safer for your hands and your training partner.
The weight of the gloves can have a significant impact on your performance and protection while boxing. In this article, we will discuss how to choose the right weight for boxing gloves.
Trainers generally also prefer you to have heavier boxing gloves rather than lighter ones.
Each boxing glove in our collection has a unique size chart, specifically for that brand and model series. So be sure to consult this size chart as well! Please note that this is always a guideline, so you are free to choose lighter or heavier boxing gloves.
General size and weight chart for boxing gloves:
| Weight | Size | Target group |
|---|---|---|
| 10 to 15 kg | 2 oz | Children |
| 15 to 25 kg | 4 oz | Children |
| 25 to 35 kg | 6 oz | Children |
| 35 to 45 kg | 8 oz | Children |
| 45 to 55 kg | 10 oz | Juniors / Women |
| 55 to 65 kg | 12 oz | Juniors / Women |
| 65 to 80 kg | 14 oz | Women / Men |
| 80 to 95 kg | 16 oz | Men |
| More than 95 kg | 18 oz | Men (heavyweight) |
What weight of boxing gloves in oz (number of ounces) should I get?
Children (2 oz to 8 oz)
For children, we primarily recommend choosing based on age and weight. It is also important that the proportion between the boxing glove and body size is right. If you really want good advice, come visit us in the store.
Teenagers and women (10 oz, 12 oz, 14 oz)
We recommend that adult women and boys aged 14–17 train with 12 oz gloves. For boys, this is a good intermediate size before the standard 14 oz weight used for men. Of course, boys and women who are larger, more experienced, or simply want to train harder can also choose 14 oz gloves.
Men (14 oz, 16 oz or heavier)
Adult men weighing around 75–80 kg are generally best suited to 14 oz gloves. However, there are also many gyms where all men, regardless of their weight, train with 16 oz gloves.
Ask your trainer what they recommend. If you want to train with heavier gloves, choose 16 oz, and if you really want to lose a significant amount of weight or build muscle, choose 18 oz or even 20 oz.
Conversion table from oz to grams
- 6 oz = approx. 170 grams
- 8 oz = approx. 227 grams
- 10 oz = approx. 284 grams
- 12 oz = approx. 340 grams
- 14 oz = approx. 397 grams
- 16 oz = approx. 453 grams
- 18 oz = approx. 510 grams
- 20 oz = approx. 567 grams
Further explanation of the different boxing glove weights
Boxing gloves are usually sold in weight classes ranging from 8 oz to 20 oz. Each weight class has its own purpose and use.
Lightweight gloves (8 oz - 12 oz) are usually used by professional boxers during competitions. These gloves offer less protection but provide a faster, sharper punch.
Medium-weight gloves (14 oz - 16 oz) are often used during training and sparring sessions. They offer a good balance between protection and speed.
Heavyweight gloves (18 oz - 20 oz) are designed for heavier training and offer maximum protection. They are ideal for training with heavy punching bags and sparring with partners. Please note: 18 oz and 20 oz are very uncommon sizes!
Goal and experience
When choosing the right weight for boxing gloves, you should consider your goal and experience level.
If you plan to compete in boxing, it is important to know the specific rules and requirements for the weight class in which you want to fight. Professional boxers are often subject to strict rules regarding the weight of their gloves.
For beginners and recreational boxers, it is generally advisable to start with medium-weight gloves (14 oz - 16 oz). This weight class offers a good balance between protection and speed, allowing you to develop your technique without exposing yourself too much to injuries.
For intensive training and sparring with partners, you may want to consider heavyweight gloves (16 oz - 18 oz). These gloves provide extra cushioning and protection, which is especially important during heavy-impact exercises.
Fit and comfort
In addition to weight, the fit and comfort of boxing gloves are also very important. It is essential that the gloves fit well and feel comfortable. A poorly fitting glove can lead to injuries and discomfort while boxing.
When trying on boxing gloves, it is important to ensure that you can move your hands fully without the glove being too loose. You should also be able to bend your fingers and make a proper fist.
It is recommended that you try on gloves before buying them. Try different brands and models to see which ones suit you best.
Keep in mind that different brands may have slightly different fits, so it is worth taking some time to invest in finding the right gloves.
Conclusion
Choosing the right weight for boxing gloves is essential to perform at your best and protect yourself while boxing.
In general, lightweight gloves are used for competitions, medium-weight gloves for training and sparring, and heavyweight gloves for intensive, high-impact training.
It is important to consider your goals, experience level, fit, and comfort when choosing boxing gloves. Take the time to try on different options and, if necessary, consult a professional at our martial arts store for advice.
With the right boxing gloves for boxing, kickboxing, and thai boxing, you can safely and effectively enjoy these exciting sports.
