The weight of your boxing gloves varies a lot, because they are used for a variety of training methods and therefore meets different needs.
With countless options available, it’s essential to understand how many ounces your boxing gloves should be for various aspects of training and competition. So this leaves a big question:
How many ounces should your boxing gloves be?
In this article, I’m giving my best shot at giving you a comprehensive boxing glove guide, providing insights into choosing the perfect pair for your boxing journey.
Boxing Gloves for Sparring: 12-16 Ounces, Depending on Weight
Sparring – the art of controlled combat.
When it comes to sparring, safety is paramount. Boxing gloves with higher ounce weights are the way to go. Here’s the breakdown:
1. 12-ounce Gloves: These are typically suitable for lighter-weight boxers, usually those below 150 pounds. They provide adequate protection for both you and your sparring partner while allowing controlled contact.
2. 14-ounce Gloves: If you’re a bit heavier, in the 150-180-pound range, 14-ounce gloves offer added padding and cushioning. They strike a balance between protection and maneuverability.
3. 16-ounce Gloves: For boxers weighing above 180 pounds, 16-ounce gloves are the go-to choice. These gloves provide substantial protection and are ideal for heavyweight sparring sessions.
Recommended Gloves for Sparring: Ringside Sparring Gloves
Boxing Gloves for Mitts and Fights: 8-10 Ounces, Depending on Weight
Mitts and fights – precision and power.
When it’s time to transition from sparring to mitt work or an actual fight, lighter gloves come into play. Here’s the scoop:
1. 8-ounce Gloves: These gloves are typically used in professional bouts, where speed and precision are crucial. They’re suitable for lighter-weight fighters.
2. 10-ounce Gloves: Commonly used in amateur bouts, 10-ounce gloves provide a balance between protection and speed. They’re suitable for fighters in the mid-weight categories.
Recommended Gloves for Mitts and Fights: Greenhill – AIBA Approved Fighting Gloves
Boxing Gloves for Heavy Bag: 4-16 Ounces, Depending on Preference
The heavy bag – where power meets resistance.
The choice of gloves for heavy bag work varies greatly among boxers. It often depends on your personal preference and training goals:
1. 4-ounce Gloves: Some boxers prefer extremely lightweight gloves (as low as 4 ounces) for speed and agility when working the heavy bag. These gloves allow for rapid hand movement but provide minimal protection.
2. 8-ounce to 12-ounce Gloves: For most boxers, gloves in this range are ideal for heavy bag workouts. They strike a balance between speed and protection, allowing you to work on your power and technique effectively.
Recommended Gloves for Heavy bag:
4 -Ounce: Heavy Bag Gloves
12-Ounce: Heavy Bag Gloves
How Many Ounces Should Your Boxing Gloves Be – Summary
For sparring, go with 12-16 ounces for safety. For mitt work and fights, 8-10 ounces strike a balance between protection and speed. When it comes to the heavy bag, your choice of glove weight can vary, from 4-16 ounces, depending on your preference. Ultimately, your gloves should align with your weight, training goals, and personal comfort.