If you’re new to combat sports and are in the market for the perfect set of boxing gloves, you’ve come the right place. There are so many different styles of boxing gloves available today, this doesn’t even include the various sizes, brands, and prices of boxing gloves. With so many different boxing gloves to choose from, it can feel overwhelming when shopping in-store or online for your best fit. We are here to help you find the best boxing gloves for beginners.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been asked: “what’s the best boxing gloves for beginners?” The truth is, the answer will be based on many different factors including the specific training type that requires boxing gloves. One person will prefer heavier gloves with extra palm protection for heavy bag training, while another fighter will need extra padded boxing gloves for sparring. If you’re a beginner looking for the best boxing gloves at an affordable price then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve put together 10 of the best boxing gloves for beginners available today.
Finding the Right Boxing Glove Size
The first step to get started is to determine what glove size is going to be the best fit for you. The best boxing glove size for a beginner is typically based on what they will be training for. Common boxing glove sizes are 8 oz, 10 oz, 14 oz, and finally 16 oz. It’s important to know your glove weight because it must fit your chosen training method. It’s good to know that professional boxers typically train in heavier gloves because they want their hands to be faster on fight night, compare this to a baseball batter that uses “bat weights” before stepping up to the plate.
Heavier gloves, such as 14 and 16 oz, have more padding which means they offer better hand protection. Larger gloves are helpful for when you hit the heavy bag, mitts, and other boxing training aids. Sparring in larger gloves is also preferred because it’s safer than sparring with smaller gloves. You’re more likely to knock someone out (or get knocked out) when using lighter gloves. Lighter gloves, such as 10 or 12 oz, are commonly used in competition.
The boxing gloves you wear should have a snug and comfortable fit, with your fingertips able to reach the top of your gloves and the ability for your hand to comfortably make a fist. Keep in mind that your glove will also need to fit your hand wraps (if you choose to protect your hands with hand wraps). If you don’t have hand wraps with your while shopping, get a roll of quarters in your palm and wear the boxing gloves.
How to Measure your Hands:
Hand Circumference is measured in inches without hand wraps on. Notice that gloves used for sparring will always need to be sized up for safety. You will have a much wider selection online, I would recommend figuring out your size and finding a good deal on Amazon.
There are several different glove types and each one has their own purpose. You should be sure that you know what glove-type you need, in order to prevent wasting money. Here are the general guidelines for choosing the best type for your needs.
– Buy more flexible and lighter gloves for martial arts (MMA competition is 4oz open-fingered gloves used for grappling)
– Purchase thicker padded gloves if hitting heavy bags or mitts only (16 oz and above)
– Buy heavier gloves (14 oz and up) if training or sparring.
– Purchase lighter gloves (10 oz and below) if being used for competing in the ring.
– Buy all-purpose training gloves, if you are unsure about competing.
The best boxing gloves for beginners will always be all-purpose training gloves because chances are you’re not looking to compete right away. Make sure you purchase a pair of boxing gloves that you’re able to wear with hand wraps on and they should feel snug yet comfortable on your hand. Your hands should never hurt when connecting clean with a punch, always wear hand wraps when hitting a heavy bag or mitts. Keep in mind that boxing gloves have a break-in period, similar to baseball gloves. Don’t give up on a pair of boxing gloves quickly if they feel a bit stiff at first, give them a couple of weeks to conform to your hand.
What should beginners look for in boxing gloves
There are many boxing gloves online that will label themselves “for beginners”, however you must be diligent when searching gloves online that will be most beneficial for yourself. Of course, everyone enjoys a good pair of flashy gloves, you might even think that you love Boxing/Muay Thai so much that you’re willing to overpay for a good pair of gloves. When looking for the best boxing gloves for beginners, I tend to stay under the $100 range in my recommendations.
-Do the gloves come in your size?
-What material are they made out of?
-Are they hook & loop or lace up?
These are all important questions you should ask yourself before purchasing a pair of gloves online. I understand that buying anything online can be difficult, however, it’s important to note that buying boxing gloves online shouldn’t be that difficult. We compiled a list of our favorite gloves, all have different styles and sizes so that no matter who you are you’ll be able to find your perfect pair.
The 10 Best Boxing Gloves for Beginners
Gold BJJ Foundation Boxing Gloves
Pros:
- Made with super durable synthetic leather
- Generous padding to protect your hands and training partners
- Secure hook and loop closure system
- Available in all sizes from 10oz to 16oz
Cons:
- They're only available in 2 styles
Gold BJJ’s Foundation Gloves are an excellent choice for all skill levels. I particularly like these gloves for beginners because they are effective but SIMPLE: an easy to use velcro closure system (instead of laces), clean colorways, and they even include free hand wraps.
To purchase these gloves online, click this link: Gold BJJ Foundation Boxing Gloves
Venum Challenger 2.0 Boxing Gloves
Pros:
- Constructed of PU Leather for Better Durability
- Triple Density Foam Allows for Superior Shock Absorption
- Long-Lasting Hand Protection
- Amazing colorways and styles
Cons:
- Slight Plastic Odor
These Venum Challenger 2.0 Boxing Gloves are a hybrid glove, meaning they are great for any type of training. With about every single color-way under the sun, you’re sure to find a pair that you like. With an overall rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 on Amazon and many other websites, these are sure to meet any type of standards. The sizes range from 10 ounces up to 16 ounces, so you’re sure to find the size that’s right for you.
I personally vouch for these gloves because they are great for an overall-style training. Beginners are prominent to try almost anything once, these gloves are great for heavy bag training, sparring, and even pad work. I think these are one of the best boxing gloves for beginners available today.
To purchase these gloves online, click this link: Venum Challenger 2.0 Boxing Gloves
Ringside Apex Boxing Gloves
Pros:
- Durable Synthetic Leather for Easy Cleaning
- Mesh Palm and Anti-Microbial Liner
- Lots of Color Options to choose from
Cons:
- Expensive for beginners
These Ringside Apex Boxing Gloves are perfect for beginner boxers. Similar to the Venum Challenger 2.0, they also include multiple colors. With a combined rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars on Amazon, these gloves are great for beginners. These gloves include a tapered wrap-around closure provides non-slip secure wrist support while the full hook and loop closure allows you to take them on and off in seconds.
These gloves could also be used for MMA, Muay Thai, or standard kickboxing. These boxing gloves feature Stay-Dri Lining which promotes microbial protection and ventilation holes in mesh palm and thumb to rapid dry water and sweat for optimal comfort. The ringside apex may be slightly expensive, however, they are great boxing gloves for beginners that will last a long time.
To purchase these gloves online, click this link: Ringside Apex Boxing Gloves
Celebrity Sweat Boxing Gloves
Pros:
- Machine Washable, these gloves practically sell themselves
- As seen on Good Morning America
- Dryer safe
- Print designs won't crack or fade
- Perfect for sweaty hands
Cons:
- Not typically designed for Men
The Celebrity Sweat are super unique for the simple fact that they are washable! Having washable boxing gloves is a huge advantage in keeping your gloves clean. Just because you worked up a sweat in your last workout, you shouldn’t suffer through sweaty, stinky gloves the next time you train. These Celebrity Sweat were specifically designed for Women and are made for a more narrow fist.
If you want a larger selection for cardio kickboxing gloves, visit our “Best Boxing Gloves for Cardio Kickboxing Class”
These are perfect for Women who are in a cardio kickboxing class and want to keep their boxing gloves clean. Having Women’s cardio kickboxing gloves are great because they are specifically designed for Women to enhance their workouts. So many times in boxing Women are over-looked, not with the Celebrity Sweat Gloves. Women can now have specific Cardio Kickboxing Gloves that are perfect for cleanliness and beginners. Every pair is 10 ounces, which is absolutely the perfect size for cardio kickboxing gloves.
Venum Contender Boxing Gloves
Pros:
- Over 10 different colors to choose from
- Specifically made for heavier and more advanced training
- High-quality synthetic leather, designed for extended use
- Multi-density foam for a perfect absorption of shocks.
Cons:
- The inside lining will get worn over time
The Venum Contender Boxing Gloves are specifically made for sparring, mitt training, or heavy bag training. These are some serious boxing gloves that can be used by beginners for heavier training. We recommend a larger size when sparring or training on the heavy bag, however, the Venum Contender boxing gloves offer sizes ranging from 8 to 16 ounces. With more than 10 different colorways to choose from, you won’t have a hard time finding the perfect pair for you.
To purchase these gloves online, click this link: Venum Contender Boxing Gloves
Sanabul Essential Boxing Gloves
- Performance engineered leather construction.
- High quality and durable material is easier to clean and maintain
- Secure Velcro closure System. Ensures a secure fit for training.
- Mesh palm helps keep hands cooler and increases the breathability of the gloves
Cons:
- They can tend to run wide (not the best for children)
The Sanabul Essential GEL is one of the most unique boxing gloves on this list. With Gel impact protection foam, Gel Infused foam provides superb protection and softness to help prevent injury to your hands while training. The special formula of Gel infused foam is unmatched in the boxing glove industry. These gloves are perfect for beginners looking to purchase their first pair of boxing gloves.
These are cheap boxing gloves that are great for beginner Muay Thai fighters, Boxers, and even kickboxers. Sanabul is an affordable brand that makes quality combat gear. These are some of the best boxing gloves for beginners who are looking for affordable alternatives.
To purchase these gloves online, click this link: Sanabul Essential Boxing Gloves
Venum Elite Boxing Gloves
Pros:
- Premium Skintex leather construction
- Specific mesh panel placed under the fist for a great thermal regulation
- Over twenty different color combinations to choose from
- Fully attached thumb for better injury prevention
Cons:
- Expensive gloves for beginners
These boxing gloves are the best that Venum has to offer. With over 20 professional designs (including the Mexico and Italy flag colorway), these gloves are the most stylish on this list. If you’re a beginner who is serious about boxing or kickboxing, these are the gloves for you.
The Venum Elite boxing gloves are the best gloves Venum has to offer. If you’re a fighter who is looking for a great pair of boxing gloves that will turn heads then the Elite is perfect for you. These are one of the best boxing gloves for beginners available today, however, they are slightly expensive.
To purchase these gloves online, click this link: Venum Elite Boxing Gloves
Everlast Pro Style Boxing Gloves
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The Everlast Pro Style Boxing Gloves are an excellent pair of beginner boxing gloves. These gloves are iconic with boxing, Everlast is a brand that has stood the test of time. Mesh panels allow your hands to stay cool. Antimicrobial treatment prevents offensive odors, keeping your gloves smelling fresh. Overall this is a quality brand and a quality first pair of boxing gloves for a beginner.
To purchase these gloves online, click this link: Everlast Pro Style Boxing Gloves
Title Boxing Pro Style Gloves
Pros:
- Genuine Leather
- Super durable
- Maximum security for your hand
Cons:
- Not the best gloves for kickboxing or MMA
And finally, what would a boxing glove list be without including Title boxing? The original beginner boxing glove, title boxing pro style training gloves are perfect for a newer boxer who is looking to develop their boxing game. These are some true boxing gloves that have great comfort and padding for a more traditional style. With four different colors to choose from, these are some cool gloves that we can definitely get behind.
To purchase these gloves online, click this link: Title Boxing Pro Style Gloves
Fairtex Boxing Gloves
Pros:
– Made in Thailand
– Multiple colors to choose from
– Micro Fiber for antimicrobial and anti-odor
Cons:
- Expensive for beginners
Fairtex always delivers when it comes to quality. The Fairtex Boxing Gloves include a brand new design of pattern and padding that makes the weight very consistent and correct. Made of “Micro Fiber” which makes these gloves an odorless material, endurable, flexible, soft and smooth touch.
These gloves are handmade in Thailand, but what makes them different from the rest is the great wrist support they offer. Fairtex is a quality brand that will stand the test of time when it comes to Muay Thai and Boxing. These are my personal favorite for best boxing gloves for beginners who start training Muay Thai.
To purchase this glove online, click this link: Fairtex Boxing Gloves
Twins Special Boxing Gloves
Pros:
– Over 10 colorful design options
– Handcrafted in Thailand
– Excellent hand and wrist support
Cons:
– Gloves may crack over time
Twins Special Boxing gloves never disappoint when it comes to quality. Made directly in Thailand, these gloves have seen so many Muay Thai wars and battles in the gym. Years and years of development under highly stressful conditions have made these gloves a polished gem. These are some of the best boxing gloves for beginners and are actually the first pair of boxing gloves I’ve ever owned.
These are great gloves for many reasons, they offer excellent hand and wrist support which is second to none. They offer extra padding so that your partner is protected during sparring. These were my first pair of gloves and I absolutely loved them, I highly recommend these gloves because they are some of the best boxing gloves for sparring and overall use.
To purchase this glove online, click this link: Twins Special Boxing Gloves
Don’t Forget to Wrap your Hands!
It’s important to wrap your hands, even if you’re a beginner who doesn’t punch as hard. Hand wraps are vital for protecting both your hands and wrists when hitting the heavy bag, hitting pads, or even sparring. I realize it can be difficult to put on your hand wraps every single time you plan on using your gloves, however, it gets easier over time. I even recommended a pair of RDX hand wraps below that are very easy to put on.
A couple of Hand Wraps that we recommend:
Meister Adult 180 Semi-Elastic Hand Wraps for MMA & Boxing
Meister MMA hand wraps are great hand wraps for both MMA and boxing. We honestly recommend grabbing a few pairs because you’ll have to wash them after a few uses. Make sure not to wash them together because they WILL become tangled and that is the worst problem to have with hand wraps.
To purchase these hand wraps online, click this link: Meister Adult 180 Semi-Elastic Hand Wraps for MMA & Boxing
Sanabul Boxing Handwraps Elastic 180-Inch
The Sanabul Boxing Handwraps are the only handwraps that I personally use. These are great for boxing, kickboxing, MMA or anything else you can think of combat related. With over 10 different colors to choose from you could have a new color for every single day you train. Please be sure not to wash them together because they will become tangled up.
To purchase these hand wraps online, click this link: Sanabul Boxing Handwraps Elastic 180″
Everlast Professional Hand Wraps 180-Inch
What would this article be without including Everlast boxing hand wraps? These have great protection and of course you can’t go wrong with the iconic all-black Everlast look. If you’re a boxing purist, these hand wraps are a must have.
To purchase these hand wraps online, click this link: Everlast Professional Hand Wraps 180-Inch
RDX Hand Wraps Boxing Fist Protector Mitts
Some people will just naturally prefer hand wrap mitts over the traditional hand wraps. This is completely fine and saves a ton of time. These RDX hand wraps are some of the best in the business. If you want to save time wrapping your hands for a quicker workout, these RDX hand wraps are for you.
To purchase these hand wraps online, click this link: RDX Hand Wraps Boxing Fist Protector Mitts
Did you find your perfect beginner boxing glove?
With so many different gloves to choose from this list, we hope that you found your perfect boxing glove. I remember when I purchased my first pair of boxing gloves, they were a pair of Twins Special 12 ounce gloves. This was one of the best days of my life and I felt like a kid on Christmas morning swinging my gloves around on the heavy bag at the gym. The best boxing gloves for beginners is just the start, if you want an ultimate guide, visit our ‘Best Boxing Gloves‘ list.
This article was very informative.
I just started a kickboxing workout.
At the free trial workout, a trianer wrapped my hands and put on the first pair of boxing gloves I’ve ever worn.
No idea the weight.
The gloves I’ve purchased from them; 12oz. ATM (poly, hook&loop), $50.
I was told wrapping is not necessary with these gloves. ?!
They seem to fit well.
I am 6ft, 170lbs, 65yrs old (slim, never an athletic)
This is everything the last 10 years at a local community gym/weight room is not.
(I’ve been coasting …)
The kickboxing; one on one training, constant change-up of workouts, automatically cardio intense.
So far, I’m really liking it.
I signed up for a month – to start.
Mon, Wed, Fri.
Will these gloves do ?
Should I wrap ?