Boxing boots will look similar to other types of comfortable sport shoes to the untrained eye. They generally feature a sleek profile that is designed for a very secure fit that facilitates lighter movements and pivoting. The shoes are also highly breathable, and will remain comfortably dry even when pushed to the limit. With boxing shoes on your feet, you can be guaranteed full mobility in the ring. But what about outside it? How do boxing shoes handle other types of application? Are boxing shoes good for running? Will they work well for basketball? Can you wear your boots comfortably to cardio training? We explore everything you need to know about boxing shoes to help you out.
Basic anatomy of boxing boots
Part |
Description |
Cut length |
Low, Mid and High top |
Eyelets |
Holes through which laces are threaded |
Ankle strap |
Length of fabric that boosts ankle support. Not available on low cut boxing boots |
Upper |
Top part of your shoe |
Tongue |
A common protruding leaf like part of your shoe beneath the laces |
Lacing |
The closure system. May sometimes be replaced by zipper and strap closure systems |
Insole |
Your boxing shoe’s foot bed |
Midsole |
A thin sole between the insole and main sole for added support |
Outsole |
Your boxing shoe’s thin exterior sole |
Heel counter |
A plastic insert that helps shoes maintain structural integrity |
The top features to look for in boxing shoes
Your boxing shoes could help improve your performance in the ring and during training. They are designed to handle the different needs of boxing better than other shoes. But what really makes them stand out? What should you look for when finding the best boxing shoes for your needs? We explore the key features of an ideal pair of boxing boots.
Ankle support
Shoes protect your ankle when it comes to sports, and boxing boots work to provide just that. They are available in three cuts, each with its own level of ankle support. Low top boxing shoes will offer the least ankle support, with high top options offering the best value in this aspect. You will need to balance your mobility and support for full value and low injury risks when in the ring.
Sole quality
The sole texture and construction will affect the entire output of your shoes. If your boxing boots have an inferior sole, they will not offer optimal mobility. Hey could even become quickly damaged. The best boxing shoes will feature light rubber soles with treads to enhance grip. Remember, thicker soles will limit your ability to press onto the floor and spring into your next attack.
Materials and build
While leather boxing shoes are losing popularity, they are still very hardy and durable. They will be heavier than other options, though, which may affect some fighters’ mobility. Synthetic options offer slightly limited durability, but they are usually much lighter. You need to find a well finished boxing boot that features an exterior blend that is suited to your needs and budget.
Can you use your boxing shoes for other sport?
Boxing boots will feature a different profile from wrestling, running and regular sport shoes. The thinner profile, lighter frame and more breathable build combine with the extensive support for full value in the ring. If you use other shoes, they are likely to be heavier, restrict your mobility and affect your overall output.
But will boxing shoes work for other sports? The shoes are lighter than wrestling shoes, but will generally be more rigid. Boxing shoes offer better support, but are not ideally made for multidirectional movement. On the other hand, wrestling shoes offer great mobility in all directions but very little support. If you use boxing shoes for wrestling, you may find yourself unable to react appropriately to certain types of attacks.
Boxing shoes are not suited for running. If you put them to this use, you could expose yourself to injury and your shoes to harm. Boxing shoes feature a lighter profile, and a significantly thinner sole. If you are running outdoors, you could hurt your feet by consistently slamming them on a hard surface. You may also cause tears and splits in your shoes, which regularly happens even on the treadmill! If you want your boxing shoes to near their potential lifespan, you should never put them to the track.
Will boxing boots work for basketball? They are sleek and allow for great grip, but are limited when compared to basketball kicks on the court. Basketball shoes, which also offer very limited support, are heavier and feature a more predominant sole. They allow for a better hold of the ground, and may limit turning. They are also tougher to handle the aerobic demands of the court. If you use your boxing shoes for basketball, they could burst at the seams, and will offer very limited grip which could see you spend a lot of time on the floor.
Final Word
Are boxing shoes good for running? Will they work well for basketball? Can they handle the demands of rigorous exertion? Are they versatile enough for all types of training? Your boxing boots could provide the edge you’ve been missing from your game. With the right shoe, every aspect of your mobility is enhanced. You will also face a lower risk of opponents landing their punches, which may significantly affect any likelihood of injury. Boxing shoes are specially designed for fighters’ needs, and they can be a key part of your gear as a result. We do not recommend using boxing shoes for purposes other than boxing training. They can work well for other sporting activities thanks to their breathability, comfort and grip, but this application may cause them to wear out quickly. We suggest finding a great alternative pair for running, boxing, wrestling and other types of training to avoid cutting down your boxing shoes’ lifespan.
