Boxing gloves will protect your hands and your opponent’s head from impact, reducing the risk of injury significantly. This is why they are a crucial part of your boxing gear for training, sparring and fighting. If you want to take up boxing under any capacity, we recommend having at least 1 pair of gloves. But finding the right pair of gloves can often be challenging. Gloves feature a unique sizing standard that can be confusing for many. What should an ideal pair of gloves offer? How heavy should boxing gloves be? Why do weighted gloves stand out? Should you incorporate them into your training? We look into your gloves to help you make the right decision when you are looking for your next pair of boxing gloves.
How heavy should your gloves be?
The sizing of boxing gloves could prove challenging for new fighters. Instead of offering the same scale as headgear, which will range from variants of extra-small to extra-large, gloves will be sized by their weights. Fighters will choose gloves falling within an 8oz-20oz range, with each option offering best value for a specific weight class or for a unique need.
8 oz and 10 oz gloves will offer some of the least padded protection for boxing gloves. They are lightweight and smaller than most, which makes them a favorite for professional fighters. 12 oz gloves are slightly bulkier and offer better protection, with these picks being suited for people weighing under 120 pounds. If you weigh between 120 and 150 pounds, 14 oz and 16 oz gloves could be a great choice for you. Most gyms will require 16 oz gloves for sparring because these gloves offer very thick padding. If you weigh above 150 pounds, 18 oz and 20 oz gloves could be a go to choice for you.
But where do weighted gloves fall under? Weighted gloves are special class that does not fall under this sizing scale, and could weigh up to 3 pounds more than regular gloves. They are designed to simulate weights without affecting the quality of comfort during a workout. If you are looking for boxing gloves for training alone, weighted options could be well suited for your needs.
What weight class will you fight in?
Our breakdown of what to look for in the right gloves explores the weight categories on offer, allowing you to maximize protection for your build. But what weight class do you fall under? If you are planning to take up boxing professionally or at an amateur level, you will find that your weight class helps determine your opponents. This will help ensure fair matchups for fighters. In the past, fighters were separated into 8 classes, but that has expanded to up to 17 classes today. You can move between the classes to test out different opponents and diversify your style. So, what class will you fall under?
105-115 pounds
Fighters in this category will rely on speed to win bouts, landing their shots quickly and consistently while looking to quick movement to dodge opponents’ hits. The class features mini flyweight (Under 105), junior flyweight (105-108), flyweight (108-112) and super flyweight fighters. (112-115)
115-130 pounds
Similar to the lower weight class featured, fighters will often prefer quick feet and faster punches over powerful action. It features super flyweight (115-118), super bantamweight (118-122), featherweight (122-126) and super featherweight fighters (126-130).
130-154 pounds
This class tends to feature a diverse approach to style and technique. Unlike heavier boxers who will focus on power and lighter boxers who will focus on pace, the group combines elements of both. It features lightweight (130-135), super lightweight (135-140), welterweight (140-147) and super welterweight (147-154) fighters.
Over 154 pounds
Divided into five classes, the heavier weight tends to lean towards power more than pace. This could be a reason why fights in these classes end in knock outs. The class features middleweight (154-160), upper middleweight (168-175), cruiserweight (175-200) and heavyweight fighters (Over 200).
It is important to note that fighters on the class barrier can choose to fight in either division
Will weighted gloves work out for you?
We’ve mentioned weighted gloves and highlighted their unique build. These gloves are significantly heavier than regular boxing gloves, and feature a protruding shape over your fist. The gloves will not offer the padding on regular gloves, which limits their use in the ring. However, they are heavier by design and could help provide a specific range of benefits. If you are looking for boxing gloves, here’s how you could benefit from weighted options.
More convenient than weights
Weighted gloves fit around your hands more naturally than wraps and dumbbells might, allowing you to concentrate on your shadow boxing without any problems. With gloves, as opposed to weights, you could even sharpen your technique better.
Can be used for cardio
The increased weight will offer an edge for cardio, since it simulates training with weights. By taking up aerobic training with your weighted gloves, you will be able to push your body further which will help develop cardiovascular endurance.
Help to build speed, strength and strength
Heavier gear will cause greater resistance when training. This can be a key factor for your body’s development, with the increased demands challenging growth. You will be able to build up your stamina and strength by working out with these gloves. When you switch back to regular gloves, you will even be able to strike quicker.
Final word
How heavy should boxing gloves be? Your boxing glove weight should depend on your weight and use of the gloves. If you are fighting professionally, 8 oz gloves are the most likely choice but 10 oz gloves may also be preferred. These picks offer very little protection and are generally lightweight. 12 oz gloves are ideal for fighters weighing less than 120 pounds, which makes them a great choice for many female fighters. For people weighing between 120 and 150 pounds, 14 oz gloves may offer great value. Most gyms will require 16 oz gloves for sparring because they deliver great padded protection for both opponents in the ring. For heavy hitters and heavy duty bag work, as well as people weighing over 150 pounds, 18 oz and 20 oz gloves will offer ideal protection. You could consider weighted gloves, which increase the weight on your hands by 2-3 pounds, allowing for more resistance which can be valuable for building endurance.
Arlo Mcmurran
Arlo Mcmurran, a previous boxing trainer reviews sports gear; he has worked with various sporting companies and carries out intensive product analysis. Having trained with and used various boxing equipment Arlo is able to recommend quality training gear for your boxing needs. Many companies nowadays manufacture boxing gear that cannot stand serious training. He, therefore, samples the best boxing gear from different countries that engage in the sport and can thus distinguish original from imitation. Arlo runs a sports shop that sells genuine sporting gear, but since many industries focus on maximizing profits, instead of quality, Arlo decided to dedicate his life to ensuring that beginners and professional boxers can access quality gear.
