Use This Boxing Glove Size Guide to Find the Perfect Fit for Your Training

Boxing glove sizes are measured in ounces and come in weights of 8 to 20 ounces.
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You could be at your peak fitness level, but in order to pack a solid punch, your boxing gloves need to fit well. Otherwise, you might be uncomfortable at best and injured at worst. (

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But with so many different sizes, styles and brands out there, choosing your perfect fit might feel daunting. But that's where we come in. Ahead, we'll provide all the information you need to find the right type of boxing gloves in your proper size so you can take charge of your training.

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Boxing Gloves Types

There are four types of boxing gloves, according to Evolve MMA, a mixed martial arts academy in Singapore. The different types correspond to what type of boxing you're doing.

  • Bag Gloves:‌ If you're using a speed bag, heavy bag, or doing mitt drills, bag gloves come in handy here. They have less padding and are great for working on your technique — not hitting people.
  • Training Gloves:‌ Training gloves are great for people who are new to boxing. They have plenty of padding and can be used for sparring or using a bag.
  • Sparring Gloves:‌ These have extra padding in order to protect your training partners and your knuckles. They're usually heavier than other boxing gloves.
  • Competition Gloves:‌ These are lighter and have less padding, "so your opponents can feel the power behind your strikes." They come in 8- and 10-ounce options.

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Boxing Glove Weights

Boxing gloves come in a variety of sizes and are typically weighed in ounces. Boxing gloves typically come in weights of 8 to 20 ounces, according to SMAI USA, a boxing and martial arts equipment supplier.

The heavier a glove is, the more padding there is between your hand and your opponent or punching bag, per FightCamp, an on-demand home boxing gym. The lighter a glove is, the less padding it has.

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Tip

If you’re new to boxing, you may want to start with heavier gloves because they provide more padding and protection, per Evolve MMA.

Boxing Glove Fit

Your boxing gloves should fit snugly and comfortably, per Evolve MMA, and your fingers should be up toward the top of the gloves when you have them on.

You may want to consider wearing hand wraps underneath your gloves, according to FightCamp, because they protect your knuckles and secure your wrists when throwing a punch. If you do opt for hand wraps, make sure to take them into consideration when fitting your gloves.

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Boxing Glove Size Guide

To determine the perfect fit for your boxing glove, you'll need the following measurements: your weight and the circumference of your dominant hand, according to Dick's Sporting Goods.

To measure your dominant hand's circumference, measure around your open dominant hand just below your knuckles using a fabric tape measure. The number you see when the tape measure meets in the center of your palm is your hand circumference.

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Once you've done that, use the size chart below to determine the best pair of gloves for you.

Bag, Sparring and Training Gloves

Your Weight

Hand Circumference

Glove Size

90 to 120 lbs

5.5 to 6.5 inches

8 ounces

120 to 150 lbs

6.5 to 7.5 inches

12 ounces

150 to 185 lbs

7.5 to 8.5 inches

14 ounces

185+ lbs

8.5 to 9.5 inches

16 ounces

Source(s): SMAI USA

Competition Gloves

Your Weight

Hand Circumference

Glove Size

Up to 148 lbs

6.5 to 7.5 inches

8 ounces

148+ lbs

7.5 to 8.5 inches

10 ounces

Source(s): SMAI USA

FAQ

Common Questions

How do I know my boxing glove size?

To figure out what size boxing glove is best for you, you need to know your weight, hand circumference and the type of boxing you plan to do. Once you measure your hand circumference with a fabric tape measure, use the boxing glove size chart above to find out which size is best for you!

Can you spar with 12-ounce gloves?

Depending on your weight and hand circumference, you can spar with gloves that are 12 ounces. This size boxing glove is recommended for those who are 120 to 150 pounds with a hand circumference of 6.5 to 7.5 inches.

What does 10 ounces mean in boxing gloves?

Boxing glove sizes are weighed in ounces, typically from 8 to 20 ounces. A 10-ounce boxing glove is best used for competition for people who are over 148 pounds and have a hand circumference of 7.5 to 8.5 inches.

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