When you start boxing or kickboxing, one of the first steps is choosing the right boxing gloves. A good set of gloves not only protects your hands and wrists, but also ensures you can train comfortably.
Are you just starting out with boxing or kickboxing and can't see the wood for the trees? Then read on.
In this article you'll discover which boxing gloves are suitable for beginners and how to choose the right gloves.
Boxing gloves vs. kickboxing gloves: what's the difference?
Basically, boxing gloves are often slightly rounder, have softer padding and a longer wrist closure, whereas kickboxing gloves have harder 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 doesn't really matter whether you train with boxing or kickboxing gloves. Thanks to the development of new technologies and innovation in the production process, the gloves are now suitable for universal use.
Most brands don't even make a distinction any more and produce gloves that are suitable for both boxing and kickboxing.
So focus mainly on what you find attractive and comfortable, that's the most important thing.
Choosing the right weight and size
Boxing gloves are weighed in ounces (oz). This is not only an indication of the weight, but also of the size and the amount of protection the glove offers. The heavier the glove, the more padding around your hands.
Beginners often wonder: "What size boxing gloves do I need?" The choice depends on your body weight and the type of training. Generally speaking: the heavier you are, the heavier the gloves you need. This is a guideline 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
- Heavier than 85 kg: 16 & 18 oz
For the exact dimensions you can best consult the size chart on the product page of the gloves in question.
The fit and comfort
A good boxing glove must fit comfortably but also provide the necessary support. Pay attention to things such as the:
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Wrist closure: does it fit neatly around the wrists or is it loose?
- Padding: Do you have sufficient protection around your knuckles or can you feel them through it?
- Comfort: Do the gloves feel good or do you immediately feel that something isn't right?
When trying them on, bear in mind that you wear hand wraps or inner gloves when training. If you try the gloves on with bare hands, they may feel slightly roomier.
That's not a problem, as the hand wraps or inner gloves will fill this space again.
In addition, especially leather gloves can also stretch over time. The gloves mould to your hand as you use them.
Material choice: 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 an affordable alternative to their leather counterparts and offer more options for beginning martial artists.
So if you're just starting out with boxing or kickboxing and you're not yet sure whether you'll be practising the sport for a longer period, you can choose a synthetic leather set in a lower price range.
If you've already had a few trial lessons and you're convinced that you want to train 2–3 times a week, then we recommend choosing a nice leather set. They are simply more comfortable.
What is the difference between lace-up gloves and boxing gloves with hook-and-loop closure?
This is a question we get regularly. The difference between a lace-up glove and boxing gloves with hook-and-loop closure is mainly in ease of use and comfort.
You can easily put on a boxing glove with hook-and-loop closure yourself and you don't need help with that. To put on a lace-up glove you will have to ask someone at the gym to help you with this. After all, you can't tie the laces yourself when you have boxing gloves on.
In addition, lace-up gloves often feel incredibly good, because they are pulled on firmly and tightly when fastening. The boxing gloves therefore fit like a glove and are wonderful to train with.
The only disadvantage is that you are dependent on someone else to put them on. If you don't mind that, you can choose a lace-up glove.
Do you want to put on your boxing gloves quickly and easily yourself? Then we recommend boxing gloves with hook-and-loop closure.
Frequently asked questions
1) What about the lifespan of boxing gloves?
A frequently asked question is how long boxing gloves last. This depends on a number of factors, such as the quality of the gloves, how often you train, and how well you maintain them.
We see that both leather and synthetic leather gloves last on average 6 to 12 months with normal use.
2) How do you know if your boxing gloves need replacing?
If your boxing gloves start to tear, that's a fairly clear sign that they need replacing. But what if they still look good? Often it's not immediately visible that your boxing gloves are broken.
What you can best do then is put on your glove 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) What does a new pair of boxing gloves cost approximately?
With boxing gloves you can make it as expensive as you want. You have gloves from around €25 and this can run up to several hundred euros for a set.
If you're looking for a decent synthetic leather set of boxing gloves, for between €60 and €100 you have a good set that will serve you well.
For leather boxing gloves it starts from €100 and for around €150 you have a nice set.
Depending on your budget, preferences regarding material and fit, there is something nice to be found in every price range.
If you'd rather speak to an adviser, you can always call us for no-obligation advice.
Ready to buy new boxing gloves?
Do you already have an idea of what you're looking for and do you want to order online quickly yourself? Then click here to view all our boxing gloves.
Would you rather speak to an adviser? Call +31 85 06 06 340