If you are going to box or kickbox, it is important to choose the right size boxing gloves. But how do you know exactly which size boxing gloves you need? For that, we have made a handy size chart (note! These are guidelines, your situation may always differ).
Choosing size or weight of boxing gloves
One of the most important first choices when selecting your first or new pair of boxing gloves is which weight you should take. Boxing gloves are almost always sized by weight expressed in ounces (oz) – an English weight measure – and not so much by classic sizes. You will often see 12 oz, 14 oz, or 16 oz on gloves and the corresponding choices in our webshop.
Although it is not really the “size” in terms of fit, it is almost always the case that heavier boxing gloves 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 gloves, which are usually sold as “children’s sizes” in stores. However, these are usually special gloves and probably chosen for the boxer or fighter in question from the most expensive segment or custom-made.
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 to be used is desired”. A heavier boxing glove generally has more padding and is therefore safer for the hands and for the training partner.
The weight of the gloves can have a significant impact on your performance and protection during boxing. In this article, we will discuss how to choose the right weight for boxing gloves.
Trainers generally also prefer that you have heavier boxing gloves rather than lighter ones.
For every boxing glove in our collection, there is a unique size chart, specific to that brand and model series. So be sure to consult this size chart! Keep in mind that this is always a guideline and you are free to choose a lighter or heavier boxing glove.
General size chart and weight of 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 boxing gloves in oz (number of ounces) do I need?
Children (2 oz to 8 oz)
For children, we mainly advise based on age + weight. It is also important that the proportion between boxing glove and physique is right. If you want really good advice, come visit the store.
View our entire range of boxing gloves for kids in the webshop.
Teenagers and women (10 oz, 12 oz, 14 oz)
We advise adult women and boys aged 14-17 to train with 12 oz. For boys, this is a good intermediate size towards the standard weight of 14 oz used for men. Of course, boys and women who are taller, more experienced, or simply want to train heavier can also choose 14 oz.
View our entire range of boxing gloves for women in the webshop.
Men (14 oz, 16 oz or heavier)
Adult men weighing around 75-80 kg are best off with gloves of 14 oz. But there are also many gyms where all men, regardless of their weight, train with 16 oz.
Consult with your trainer about what they recommend. If you want to train heavy, choose 16 oz, and if you really want to lose weight or build muscle, choose 18 oz or even 20 oz.
View all boxing gloves for men in the webshop.
Conversion table 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 weights for boxing gloves
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 matches. These gloves provide less protection but allow for faster and sharper punches.
Middleweight 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. Note: 18 oz and 20 oz are very rare sizes!
Goal and experience
When choosing the right weight for boxing gloves, you need to consider your goal and experience level.
If you plan to compete in boxing matches, it is important to know the specific rules and requirements of the weight class you want to fight in. Professional boxers often have strict rules regarding the weight of the gloves.
For beginners and recreational boxers, it is generally advisable to start with middleweight 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 might consider using heavyweight gloves (16 oz - 18 oz). These gloves offer extra padding and protection, which is especially important during heavy impact exercises.
Fit and comfort
Besides the weight, the fit and comfort of the 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 during 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 good fist.
It is recommended to try on gloves before buying them. Try different brands and models to see which one suits you best.
Keep in mind that different brands may have slightly different fits, so it is worth investing some time in finding the right gloves.
Conclusion
Choosing the right weight for boxing gloves is essential to perform optimally and protect yourself during boxing.
In general, lightweight gloves are used for competitions, middleweight gloves for training and sparring, and heavyweight gloves for intensive training with a lot of impact.
It is important to consider your goal, experience level, fit, and comfort when choosing boxing gloves. Take the time to try on different options and consult a professional in our martial arts store for advice if needed.
With the right boxing gloves for boxing, kickboxing, and thai boxing, you can safely and effectively enjoy these exciting sports. Feel free to take a look at our extensive collection in the webshop!
