When you start boxing or kickboxing, one of the first steps is choosing the right boxing gloves. A good pair of gloves not only protects your hands and wrists, but also ensures that you can train comfortably.
Just starting out with boxing or kickboxing and don't know which gloves to choose? Then read on quickly.
In this article you'll find out which boxing gloves are suitable for beginners and how to choose the right ones.
Boxing gloves vs. kickboxing gloves: what's the difference?
Essentially, boxing gloves are more rounded, have softer padding and the closure at the wrist is longer, whilst kickboxing gloves have firmer padding and a flatter design. Especially in the early years of kickboxing, it was important to pay attention to this when buying your gloves.
Nowadays it no longer matters whether you train with boxing or kickboxing gloves. Thanks to the development of new technologies and innovations in the production process, the gloves are now suitable for universal use.
Most brands no longer make a distinction and produce gloves that are suitable for both boxing and kickboxing.
So above all, focus on what you like and what you find comfortable, that's the most important thing.
Choosing the right weight and size
Boxing gloves are measured in ounces (oz). This is not just an indication of weight, but also of the size and protection the glove offers. The heavier the glove, the more padding there is around your hands.
Beginners often wonder: "What size do I need for a boxing glove?" The choice depends on your body weight and the type of training you do. Generally speaking: the heavier you are, the heavier gloves you need. This is a guide to help you choose the right size:
- Between 50 and 60 kg: 10 oz
- Between 60 and 75 kg: 12 oz
- Between 75 and 85 kg: 14 oz
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Heavier than 85 kg: 16 & 18 oz
For the exact measurements, it's best to check the size chart on the product page of the respective glove.
Fit and comfort
A good boxing glove should be comfortable, but also offer the necessary support. Pay attention to things like:
- Wrist closure: Does it fit snugly at the wrists or is it loose?
- Padding: Do you have enough protection around your knuckles or can you feel them through?
- Comfort: Are the gloves comfortable or do you immediately feel that something isn't right?
When trying them on, remember that you'll be wearing hand wraps or inner gloves during training. If you try the gloves on with bare hands, they may feel a bit more spacious.
But that's fine, because the hand wraps or inner gloves will fill that space again.
Additionally, gloves, especially those made of leather, can stretch a little over time. This is because the gloves mould to your hand with use.
Choice of material: leather or synthetic leather?
The choice of material plays an important role in the durability and comfort of boxing gloves.
Leather gloves generally last longer and are more comfortable because they mould to your hands.
Synthetic leather gloves, on the other hand, are often a cheaper alternative and offer more options for combat sports beginners.
So if you're just starting out with boxing or kickboxing and aren't yet sure whether you want to pursue the sport over a longer period, you can opt for a synthetic leather set in a lower price range.
If you've already done some trial sessions and are convinced that you want to train 2-3 times a week, we recommend choosing a nice leather set. These are a bit more comfortable.
What is the difference between lace-up boxing gloves and hook-and-loop boxing gloves?
We get asked this question regularly. The difference between a lace-up glove and a hook-and-loop boxing glove lies mainly in ease of use and comfort.
You can easily put on a hook-and-loop boxing glove yourself, without needing help. To put on a lace-up glove, you need to ask someone in the gym to help you. After all, you can't tie the laces yourself when you're wearing boxing gloves.
Additionally, lace-up gloves are often incredibly comfortable because they're pulled tight and snug when tied. Boxing gloves therefore fit like a glove and are excellent for training.
The only downside is that you have to rely on someone to put them on. If that doesn't bother you, you can opt for a lace-up glove.
Do you want to put on your boxing gloves quickly and easily yourself? Then we recommend hook-and-loop boxing gloves.
Frequently asked questions
1) What about the lifespan of boxing gloves?
A frequently asked question is how long boxing gloves last. That depends on a number of factors, such as the quality of the gloves, how often you train and how well you look after them.
We've found that both leather and synthetic leather gloves last an average of 6 to 12 months with normal use.
2) How do you recognise if your boxing gloves need replacing?
If your boxing gloves start to tear, that's a pretty clear sign they need replacing. But what if they still look fine? Often it's not immediately visible that your boxing gloves are worn out.
Then it's best to put your gloves on and press lightly on the padding around your knuckles. Is the padding far too soft and can you easily feel your knuckles through the glove? Then your gloves probably need replacing.
3) How much does a new pair of boxing gloves cost roughly?
You can get gloves from around €25 and that can go up to several hundred euros for a set.
If you're looking for a decent synthetic leather boxing glove set, for €60 to €100 you'll get a good set that will last you a long time.
For leather boxing gloves it starts from €100, and for around €150 you'll get a nice set.
Depending on your budget, material preferences and fit, you can find something nice in every price range.
If you'd prefer to speak to an adviser, you can call us at any time for a no-obligation consultation.
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