Boxing Gloves for Beginners: An Ultimate Guide

by | Sep 18, 2024 | Boxing Equipment

Boxing Gloves for Beginners

As a beginner, your hands and wrists are still adapting to the stresses of boxing. Boxing gloves protect these vulnerable areas from injuries, like bruised knuckles and sprained wrists, and allow you to train longer with less strain on your joints. Using the right gloves, especially for specific training types like bag work or sparring, can also prevent damage to bones and tendons over time​.

Types of Boxing Gloves

Understanding the different types of boxing gloves is essential for beginners since each serves unique purposes. Here are the primary types you’ll encounter:

Training Gloves

Best for: General-purpose use, including mitt work, bag training, and light sparring.

Training gloves are highly versatile and often the go-to choice for beginners who are experimenting with various forms of boxing training. Designed for all-around use, they’re typically built with balanced padding, providing both protection and control​.

Bag Gloves

Best for: Heavy bag training, strength development, and endurance.

Bag gloves are specifically designed to endure repeated impact on heavy bags. They feature dense padding that protects your knuckles and minimizes the wear on gloves, making them a practical choice if bag work is a central part of your training routine. For beginners focusing on strength-building and punching technique, these gloves offer excellent wrist support and durability​.

Sparring Gloves

Best for: Sparring and partner drills.

When sparring, the goal is to train safely without risking injury to your partner. Sparring gloves are designed with extra padding to soften blows, typically in 14 oz or higher weights depending on your body weight. Beginners involved in sparring sessions should use these gloves to ensure both their and their partner’s safety during practice​

Competition Gloves

Best for: Amateur and professional fights.

Competition gloves are lighter and have firmer padding to enhance punch power, which is why they’re not recommended for beginners. Amateur bouts often use 10 oz gloves, but for everyday training, stick to the above types until you reach an advanced level.

 

Key Features to Look for in Boxing Gloves for Beginners

Boxing gloves come with various features that can influence your experience as a beginner. Here’s what to consider when shopping:

Material: Leather vs. Synthetic

Leather Gloves: Known for durability and comfort, leather gloves mold to your hands over time, creating a snug, custom fit. While they’re typically more expensive, leather gloves can last longer, making them ideal for committed beginners or those training frequently​.

Vinyl Gloves: These are cost-effective and often lighter, making them popular for beginners on a budget. However, vinyl may wear out faster with regular use, especially for high-impact bag work​.

Closure: Velcro vs. Lace-Up

Velcro Closures: Velcro gloves are practical for beginners since they’re easy to put on and take off without assistance. They also provide adjustable wrist support, ideal for quick transitions in training​.

Lace-Up Closures: These gloves offer a more secure fit, commonly used in professional training and competition. However, they require a partner to lace, which can be inconvenient for solo training. Beginners are typically better off starting with Velcro gloves​.

Padding Types and Distribution

Most boxing gloves today are padded with layered foam or Injection Molded Foam (IMF), providing varying levels of density to different parts of the glove. This helps protect high-impact areas like knuckles and wrists. Layered foams offer customized density, while IMF gloves maintain their shape better, ideal for beginners needing consistent padding support​.

boxing gloves for beginners

Sizing and Weight Guide for Boxing Gloves

Glove weight is measured in ounces (oz), typically ranging from 8 oz to 20 oz. The correct weight depends on the glove’s purpose and the boxer’s body weight. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the best size for your needs:

General Sizing Recommendations

  • Under 120 lbs: 12-14 oz gloves for training, 14 oz or more for sparring
  • 120-150 lbs: 14-16 oz for training, 16 oz or more for sparring
  • 150-180 lbs: 16-18 oz for both training and sparring
  • Over 180 lbs: 18 oz or more for both training and sparring​.

Most beginners find that 14-16 oz gloves offer an ideal balance of protection and performance, with heavier gloves offering more protection during sparring.

Ensuring a Proper Fit

The right gloves should fit snugly around your hand and wrist without feeling overly tight. Wraps add about 0.5 to 1 inch in circumference, so consider this when trying on gloves. Ensure that your fingers are positioned comfortably and that you can make a complete fist with minimal resistance​.

Top Recommendations: Boxing Gloves for Beginners

Affordable Options:

Premium Options:

Please note that prices are subject to change and may vary based on the retailer and current promotions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Boxing Gloves for Beginners

1. Can I Use One Pair of Gloves for All Types of Training?

While some gloves are designed to be multi-purpose, combining bag work and sparring can reduce their lifespan. Beginners on a budget may start with training gloves but should consider adding bag-specific gloves over time.

2. How Often Should I Replace Boxing Gloves?

With regular use, beginner gloves generally last 1-2 years. If the padding wears down, it’s time to replace them to ensure continued protection and comfort.

3. Are Expensive Gloves Necessary for Beginners?

Not necessarily. Budget-friendly gloves offer adequate protection for beginners, especially for those training once or twice a week. As you advance, you might invest in higher-end gloves for enhanced durability and comfort.

4. Do I Need to Use Hand Wraps with Boxing Gloves?

Yes, hand wraps are crucial as they provide added support for your knuckles and wrists. They help prevent injuries by stabilizing the hand inside the glove, which is especially helpful for beginners building strength and form​.

Final Thoughts: Start Your Boxing Journey Right

Choosing the right boxing gloves as a beginner can make a significant difference in your training experience. The right pair should provide ample protection, fit well, and meet your specific training needs. Starting with affordable, well-padded gloves can help build your confidence in the ring while keeping your hands and wrists safe. As you grow, consider investing in gloves that best suit your training style, frequency, and intensity.

Ultimately, your boxing gloves are an extension of your form and skill. Invest time in selecting the right pair, and you’ll find every punch, jab, and hook more rewarding, laying a solid foundation for growth in your boxing journey.

About the Author: Jason Van Veldhuysen

Jason Van Veldhuysen has been coaching boxing for the past 20 years and has been an online boxing coach for the past 15 years.  He is the founder of the Precision Striking Youtube Channel (over 1 million subscribers), as well as the founder of the Precision Striking Membership, an exclusive program that helps fighters train to their highest levels while refining their boxing skills and technique. With years of experience as an amateur boxer and a passion for teaching, Jason specializes in footwork, combinations, and drills that elevate a boxer’s overall game. Known for his clear and practical training methods, Jason has helped boxers at all levels—from beginners to competitive fighters—reach their full potential.