If you're new to boxing or planning to join a gym, one of the most important investments you’ll make is a high-quality pair of boxing gloves. Using shared gloves at the gym can be unhygienic and prone to wear and tear, so buying your own is a smart choice. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to know which gloves are right for you. This beginner’s guide will walk you through five essential tips to help you pick the best boxing gloves for beginners.
Best Places to Buy Boxing Gloves for Beginners
When buying boxing gloves, avoid general retail stores, which may sell cheap boxing gloves that lack durability and comfort. Instead, look for a specialized combat sports store or a reputable online retailer. For instance, Ringmaster Sports is known for providing high-quality boxing gear at affordable prices. Check customer reviews on platforms like Google or Facebook to make sure you’re buying from a trusted source. A specialized store will offer better quality boxing gloves, expert advice, and a wider range of options to suit your training needs.
Top Boxing Glove Brands for Beginners
When choosing boxing gloves, you’ll come across brands like Adidas, Everlast, and Lonsdale. While these are well-known sports brands, not all their products are suitable for boxing, especially those sold in general stores. Focus on brands that specialize in boxing equipment or combat sports, such as Ringside, Winning, or Cleto Reyes. These brands, along with Ringmaster Sports, are known for producing gloves that offer excellent protection, comfort, and durability for both beginners and experienced boxers.
Affordable Boxing Gloves: Working Within Your Budget
Boxing gloves can range in price from £10 to over £600. As a beginner, you should aim to spend between £30 and £60 for a pair that offers good protection and durability. If you’re training regularly (one to three times a week), gloves in this range will provide the support you need without breaking the bank. If you plan to train more frequently, consider investing in leather boxing gloves, which are more durable and provide better long-term value. While it’s essential to stick to your budget, try to buy the best gloves you can afford to avoid replacing them frequently.
Types of Boxing Gloves: A Beginner’s Guide
There are several types of gloves to consider: bag gloves, boxing gloves, and sparring gloves. For beginners, traditional boxing gloves are ideal. While bag gloves are lighter and offer less padding, they’re typically used by more experienced fighters. Beginners should focus on gloves that offer ample padding and wrist support. Most beginners prefer boxing gloves with Velcro straps, as they’re easy to put on and take off. Lace-up gloves, while offering better wrist support, are usually reserved for more advanced boxers.
Boxing Glove Size Guide
Boxing gloves are measured by weight, usually ranging from 8 oz to 16 oz. The right glove size depends on your body weight, hand size, and training type (bag work, pad work, or sparring). As a general guide, women or those with smaller hands should look for gloves between 8 oz and 12 oz, while men or those with larger hands might opt for 12 oz to 16 oz gloves. Heavier gloves (14 oz to 16 oz) are recommended for sparring to ensure both you and your partner are well protected.
Buying your first pair of boxing gloves is a crucial step in your training journey. Focus on quality boxing gloves over brand recognition, work within your budget, and make sure you choose the right type and size for your needs. Doing so will help ensure your gloves last longer and enhance your training experience. With the right pair of gloves, you’ll be well-prepared to take your boxing to the next level.