1. Wrap It Up
You'll never train or compete without hand and wrist wraps, so don't try to buy a pair of boxing gloves without them either. If you buy a pair of gloves that fit well without the wraps, the gloves are going to be too tight. Don't try to estimate what size you'll need by buying a pair that's slightly too big without wraps. Take the time to wrap your hands and wrists exactly how you would for a fight before you start trying on gloves.
2. Hook and Loop Versus Lace
You have the option of boxing gloves that either lace up or use a hook and loop strap. Both types have advantages and disadvantages. Gloves that lace up provide a more snug and secure fit. However, you'll need to have someone lace them up for you. Hook and loop straps don't provide a snug fit like laces, but you can easily put them on yourself. Competitive boxers should opt for lace-up gloves. Boxing gloves with hook and loop straps work great for people who are planning to use their gloves to train with a punching bag.
3. Size Matters
Boxing gloves come in sizes small, medium and large, but that's just the beginning of sizing. There are boxing gloves specially designed for kids and women. Smaller adults can get away with buying a youth-sized glove. Wearing a glove that's too small or too large can result in injury, so make sure you're buying the correct size. Begin with a glove that's designed for men, women or youths in the size you think you'll need. Various brands fit differently, so be open-minded when trying on gloves. One female boxer might find her perfect fit in a men's medium while another needs a women's large.
4. Different Targets, Different Styles
The style of gloves you need is dependent on what type of boxing activity you're doing. Competition gloves are used in boxing matches, and contain safety features, such as several layers of padding and a thumb-lock system. Bag gloves are used for hitting a punching bag and are more durable than competition gloves. Training gloves are used for sparring. They closely resemble competition gloves, but have more padding and are heavier to provide more protection.
5. Choose Your Weight
Boxing gloves range in weight from 10 ounces to 20 ounces. They heavier the glove is, the slower your punch will be. Heavier gloves are generally recommended for athletes new to the sport because they provide the most protection. Heavy gloves are also commonly used during training because of the addition resistance they provide. During boxing matches, competitors should wear gloves weighing about the same.
Member Comments