Why are boxing gloves red? While some enthusiasts suggest that boxing gloves were initially dyed red to avoid any blood stains, we feel that color psychology and visibility may be bigger reasons. A large number of studies have pointed to the effect of certain colors on performance, suggesting that certain colors were more likely to enhance performance than others. This, the studies claim, is a result of the effect of color on mood. Can the color of your gloves affect your performance? Can your gloves affect your performance? We explore a little more about color psychology and your performance in the ring, as well as highlight the top features to look for in the right boxing gloves for your needs.
The color psychology of boxing gloves
Can color set the tone for mood? Different psychologists agree that it can. This suggests that it could have an impact on performance, which is also backed up by a few interesting color choices in other sports. For instance, the Iowa Kinnick Stadium has featured a pink visitors’ dressing room for over 30 years in an attempt to affect the opposition’s mental frame before and during games. So, does the same apply to boxing? Can color psychology help to explain boxing glove colors?
The stacks of research on color psychology suggesting that it could influence performance across different sport translate to boxing too. While color will only have a marginalized influence, it could be significant enough to tip the odds to your favor. Studies suggest that red and other warm colors help to channel power and aggression, while blue boosts calmness. This means that red gloves will have an inherent advantage over blue options on the right hands.
The effect is noticeable with other colors too! For instance, Mike Tyson’s black apparel may have been a great tool to gain an edge over his opponents, with black associated with doom and destruction. White gloves, such as those worn by Roy Jones Jr against Glen Kelly, may be used to lessen the apparent threat and lull the opponent into false security for a decisive strike. While Jones Jr.’s punches didn’t seem that hard, the fight was determined by a devastating knockout in his favor. Simply out, color will have an effect on performance, and it could be used to different ends.
So, do all colors have a psychological effect? We do not perceive color universally, with some colors being associated with conflicting themes. While cross-cultural differences in perception of color may affect the consistency of the effect of certain colors, the influence of color on mood and performance cannot be understated. It could be the reason why the choice of so many sports teams and marketing campaigns have been influenced by certain colors! Some studies even suggest that wearing your favorite color could help improve your mood and raise your chances of a great performance.
That said, it is important to note the distinct visibility of red gear when fighting. If you have red gloves on, judges are more likely to see punches landing which will be better for your scoring overall. This is especially true for red gloves with a white strap about the wrist. While gloves may be red for their effect on the mood, they also work well for scoring.
What else should you look for in the best boxing gloves?
While it is not as significant as factors such as skill level, training and experience, color could affect performance. The subliminal impact of differently colored gloves could prove to be an advantage for some fighters. There is always the risk that you will not be able to take up the red corner, which means that you could lose the mental battle before you even take the first punch. So, how do you make sure to keep your mood and confidence levels up? By getting the best gear available! You could even experiment with a range of custom colors to find a great blend to help provide a timely edge. Here are some of the things to consider –aside from color- when looking for the best boxing gloves for your needs.
Quality of padding
Your boxing gloves are designed to offer impact protection for your hands, with some of the heavier options protecting your opponent’s face as well. If the padding is dense and made of high quality material, it should offer valuable protection that will minimize the risk of injury. Multilayered foam, hybrid and IMF padding are great choices for your glove.
Aesthetics
In the past, gloves were only available in a limited range of colors. Now you can access a variety of color choices on different brands, helping you access color combinations you might not even know existed. You can find well finished gloves with very attractive aesthetics from leading brands such as Venum to counter the red boxing gloves.
Comfort and ventilation
It doesn’t matter if your gloves are red or not, if they are uncomfortable, there is very little chance that you will come out on top. You need to find very comfortable boxing gloves to ensure value in the fit, as well as in consistent use. The best boxing gloves for your needs should be a comfortable fit, allowing for virtually no movement when punching. It will lower the risk of rolled wrists and injuries, and could help you stay sharp throughout your bout. A great pair of boxing gloves will be breathable as well, and will not experience any sweat build up.
Final word
So, why are boxing gloves red? Color has a bigger role in our lives than we perceive. From the mellow blue lighting that is standard for most places to the strategic use of color for marketing, different parties have used color to their ends. Boxing gloves are red because the color has great psychological significance. Red is intense, and stimulates a higher level output. Unlike the very mellow and peaceful blue color, red could help channel aggression for better outcomes. As an added bonus, red gloves are pretty visible too, and will ensure you do not lose out during scoring on any hits that you land in the ring.
