Choosing the right boxing glove size is one of the most confusing aspects of buying boxing equipment for newcomers. Unlike clothing where size relates to fit, boxing glove sizes are measured in ounces (oz) and primarily indicate the weight and amount of padding—not necessarily how well they'll fit your hand. Understanding this distinction is crucial to making the right choice.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about boxing glove sizing, from what the numbers mean to which size you should choose for your specific situation.
Understanding Ounces in Boxing Gloves
Boxing gloves range from 8oz to 20oz, with each weight serving different purposes. The ounce measurement refers to the total weight of the glove, which correlates directly with the amount of padding. More padding means more weight, which means more protection for both your hands and your training partners.
Here's what each common size is typically used for:
- 8oz: Professional competition gloves. Maximum speed and power transfer, minimum padding.
- 10oz: Amateur competition and advanced bag work. Still light, limited padding.
- 12oz: General training, bag work, and pad work for lighter individuals.
- 14oz: All-purpose training for average-sized adults.
- 16oz: Sparring standard, general training for larger individuals.
- 18oz-20oz: Heavy sparring, extra protection, often used by heavyweights.
Size (oz) and fit are different things. A 16oz glove and a 12oz glove from the same brand in the same model will usually have identical internal hand compartments—the difference is in padding thickness, not hand cavity size.
Glove Size by Body Weight
Your body weight is the primary factor in determining appropriate glove size for training. Here's a general guideline that works for most boxers:
For Bag and Pad Work
- Under 55kg (120lbs): 12oz gloves
- 55-70kg (120-155lbs): 14oz gloves
- 70-85kg (155-185lbs): 14oz or 16oz gloves
- Over 85kg (185lbs): 16oz gloves
For Sparring
Sparring typically requires heavier gloves regardless of body weight:
- Under 55kg: 14oz or 16oz gloves
- 55-75kg: 16oz gloves
- Over 75kg: 16oz or 18oz gloves
Many gyms have a standard sparring glove policy—typically 16oz for everyone—to ensure consistent protection levels. Always check your gym's requirements before sparring.
When in doubt, go heavier. A slightly oversized glove provides better protection and builds more endurance. You can always use lighter gloves as you advance, but you can't undo hand damage from inadequate protection.
Hand Fit vs. Glove Weight
Here's where it gets more nuanced. While the ounce rating tells you about padding and weight, the actual fit on your hand varies between brands and models. Factors affecting fit include:
Hand Compartment Shape
Some gloves have a more spacious hand compartment suited to larger hands; others are cut snugger. Mexican-style gloves (like Cleto Reyes) typically have a tighter fit, while Thai brands (like Fairtex and Twins) often have more room inside.
With or Without Wraps
Boxing gloves should be sized assuming you'll wear hand wraps underneath. If you try gloves without wraps and they feel snug, they'll be too tight once wraps are added. Always test with wraps or factor in the added bulk.
Break-In Period
New gloves, especially leather ones, will loosen slightly as they break in. A glove that feels slightly snug when new should fit perfectly after a few weeks of use. One that feels perfect when new might become loose.
If you're between sizes or unsure about fit, look for brands that offer sizing guidance specific to their models. Hand circumference measurements can help when ordering online—measure around your hand at the knuckles with a flexible tape.
Size Recommendations by Training Type
Different training activities optimise with different glove weights.
Heavy Bag Training
For heavy bag work, you want enough padding to protect your hands through high-volume punching, but not so much that the gloves become unwieldy. Most boxers use 12-16oz for bag work, depending on body weight. The bag itself is unforgiving, so don't skimp on padding here.
Pad Work and Mitt Training
Pad work is more technical and less impact-intensive than bag work. Some boxers prefer slightly lighter gloves (12-14oz) for pad work to maximise speed and feel. However, if you're doing extended pad sessions, heavier gloves build more endurance.
Sparring
Sparring requires heavier gloves to protect both you and your partner. 16oz is the standard at most gyms, with some allowing or requiring 18oz for heavyweights. The extra padding significantly reduces the impact of punches, making sparring safer for everyone.
Competition
Competition glove weights are regulated by the sanctioning body and weight class. Professional boxing typically uses 8-10oz gloves, while amateur competitions may require 10-12oz. Never train with competition-weight gloves unless specifically preparing for a fight under coach supervision.
Common Sizing Mistakes
Avoid these frequent errors when selecting boxing glove sizes:
Choosing Competition Weight for Training
Some beginners see that pros use 10oz gloves and assume that's what they should buy. Competition gloves are designed for specific circumstances with hand-wrapped knuckles that have been conditioned over years of training. Using them for general training leads to hand injuries.
Ignoring Hand Wrap Bulk
Testing gloves bare-handed or with thin wraps, then finding they're too tight with proper 180-inch hand wraps. Always test with the wraps you'll actually use.
One Glove for Everything
While one pair of 14-16oz gloves can serve as an all-purpose option, serious boxers often have multiple pairs: lighter gloves for technical work and bag training, heavier gloves for sparring. As you progress, consider building a small collection.
Never use bag gloves for sparring or vice versa without checking weight. Bag gloves are often 12oz or less, which doesn't provide adequate protection for partner work. Hitting someone with a 10oz glove when 16oz is expected is dangerous and poor gym etiquette.
Brand-Specific Sizing Notes
Different brands have distinct sizing tendencies worth knowing:
- Cleto Reyes: Typically run small with a tight, glove-like fit. Size up if you're between sizes or have larger hands.
- Twins Special / Fairtex: Thai brands generally have roomier hand compartments, good for larger hands or those who prefer a less restrictive fit.
- Hayabusa: Modern, ergonomic fit with good hand compartment sizing. True to size for most people.
- Everlast: Entry-level models can vary significantly. Pro-level Everlast is more consistent.
- Winning: Japanese brand known for a snug, precise fit. Premium option with very consistent sizing.
Starter Recommendations
If you're just beginning and want a straightforward answer, here's what we recommend:
For most adult beginners: Start with 14oz or 16oz gloves. This gives you enough protection for bag work while being acceptable for light sparring at most gyms. It's a versatile choice that will serve you well as you learn what you prefer.
For smaller adults or youth: 12oz gloves work well for bag and pad work, but you'll likely need 14oz for sparring.
For larger individuals (over 85kg): Start with 16oz. You'll likely stay at this weight for bag work and may move to 18oz for sparring.
Growing Your Collection
As you progress in boxing, consider adding specialised gloves to your equipment bag:
- Training gloves (14-16oz): Your workhorse for daily training
- Sparring gloves (16-18oz): Extra padding for partner work
- Bag gloves (12-14oz): Lighter option specifically for bag work when you want more speed
There's no rush to acquire multiple pairs. Your first pair of properly-sized training gloves will serve you well for months. Add to your collection as you develop preferences and expand your training.