Available Glove Weights
Most boxing and Muay Thai gloves are available in the following weights:
- 8oz
- 10oz
- 12oz
- 14oz
- 16oz
Junior gloves are often available in lighter sizes, such as 4oz and 6oz, while some brands also produce 18oz gloves for larger athletes.
Which Weight Should I Choose?
The best person to ask is your coach or trainer, as every gym has its own rules regarding glove sizes for sparring and drills.
As a general guide:
| Glove Weight | Best For |
|---|---|
| 8oz | Competition, bag work & pad work |
| 10oz | Competition, bag work & pad work |
| 12oz | Bag work & pad work |
| 14oz | Sparring & all-round training |
| 16oz | Sparring & all-round training |
*Not all gyms allow 14oz gloves for sparring, so check with your coach before purchasing.
What Are Bag Gloves?
Some brands offer dedicated bag gloves. These are designed specifically for hitting bags and pads, with a smaller profile and less padding than a sparring glove.
Bag gloves are a great option for experienced athletes looking for speed and feedback, but they should not be used for sparring.
What About Competition Gloves?
Competition gloves are typically available in 8oz and 10oz weights, depending on the rules of the organisation and the fighter's weight class.
If you're purchasing gloves specifically for competition, we strongly recommend choosing lace-up gloves. They provide a more secure fit, better wrist support and are the preferred choice for most amateur and professional fighters.
Always check the rules of your governing body or event before purchasing competition gloves.
Buying Your First Pair?
If you're new to boxing, Muay Thai or kickboxing and only plan on owning one pair of gloves, we recommend 16oz gloves.
They offer the most versatility and can be used for bag work, pad work, technical drills and sparring at most gyms.
Many experienced athletes eventually own multiple pairs of gloves, using lighter gloves for bag work and heavier gloves for sparring, but a quality pair of 16oz gloves is the safest and most practical starting point.
Our Recommendation
- Training at a gym? 16oz gloves are usually the best choice.
- Training at home on a bag? 10oz or 12oz gloves are often preferred.
- Buying competition gloves? Choose lace-up gloves and check your organisation's rules.
- Unsure? Speak to your coach or trainer before ordering.
Still need help? Contact our team and we'll be happy to point you in the right direction.
