If you are going to box or kickbox, 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 (please note: these are guidelines, and your situation may always differ).
Choosing the size or weight of boxing gloves
One of the most important initial choices when selecting your first or a new pair of 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—rather than by traditional sizes. You will therefore often see 12 oz, 14 oz, or 16 oz on gloves and among the corresponding options in our online shop.
Although this is not really the “size” in terms of fit, heavier boxing gloves almost always 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 in shops as “children’s sizes.” However, these are generally special gloves, probably selected for the boxer or fighter in question from the premium range or made to measure.
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 that should be used”. 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 during boxing. In this article, we will discuss how to choose the right weight for boxing gloves.
Trainers generally also prefer you to use heavier boxing gloves rather than lighter ones.
Each boxing glove in our collection comes with a unique size chart, specific to 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 chart and weight guide 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 |
| Over 95 kg | 18 oz | Men (heavyweight) |
What weight of boxing gloves in oz (ounces) should I choose?
Children (2 oz to 8 oz)
For children, we primarily recommend choosing based on age and weight. It is also important that the boxing glove is properly proportioned to the child's build. If you want truly tailored advice, come visit our store.
View our full range of boxing gloves for children in the webshop.
Teenagers and women (10 oz, 12 oz, 14 oz)
We recommend that adult women and boys aged 14–17 train with 12 oz. For boys, this is a good intermediate size before the standard 14 oz weight for men. Of course, boys and women who are larger, more experienced, or simply want to train more intensely can also choose 14 oz.
View our full range of boxing gloves for women in the webshop.
Men (14 oz, 16 oz or heavier)
Adult men weighing around 75–80 kg are generally best suited to 14 oz gloves. However, many gyms have all men train with 16 oz, regardless of their weight.
Consult your trainer about what they recommend. If you want to train with substantial weight, 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.
View all boxing gloves for men in the webshop.
Oz-to-gram conversion table
- 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 by weight class, ranging from 8 oz to 20 oz. Each weight class has its own purpose and use.
Lightweight gloves (8 oz - 12 oz) are generally used by professional boxers during competitions. These gloves offer less protection but allow for a faster and sharper punch.
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 more intense 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 unusual 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 matches, it is important to know the specific rules and requirements of the weight class in which you want to fight. Professional boxers are often subject to strict rules regarding glove weight.
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 may want to consider using 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 out 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 investing some time in finding the right gloves.
Conclusion
Choosing the right weight for boxing gloves is essential for performing at your best and protecting yourself while boxing.
In general, lightweight gloves are used for competitions, middleweight 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. So feel free to take a look at our extensive collection in the webshop!
