Which boxing glove weight (oz) do you need?

Boxing gloves are not sold in S, M or L, but by weight: in ounces, written as oz. Which weight is right for you depends on what you use the gloves for and on your build. Here's how it works.

GLADTS boxing gloves in bordeaux red

What does oz mean?

The number of ounces is the weight of one glove. One ounce is about 28 grams. Most of that weight is padding, so a heavier glove usually has more padding.

Glove weight Weight per glove (approx.)
10 oz 284 g
12 oz 340 g
14 oz 397 g
16 oz 454 g
18 oz 510 g
20 oz 567 g

Which weight for what?

There is no single official table: clubs and trainers use their own rules of thumb. As a general guide:

  • 10 oz: light gloves, often used by children and juniors, and by lighter adults for bag and pad work.
  • 12 oz: for juniors and lighter adults, for bag and pad work.
  • 14 oz: an all-round weight for many adults, for bag and pad work and, for lighter fighters, sparring.
  • 16 oz: the weight many clubs ask for in sparring, and an all-round choice for heavier adults.
  • 18 and 20 oz: for heavier and taller fighters, or when you want extra padding.

Lighter gloves feel faster. Heavier gloves have more padding, which is why they are used for sparring. Always check your club's rules: many clubs set a minimum glove weight for sparring.

Use the size chart

On the product pages of several of our boxing gloves you'll find a size chart. Still not sure? Email us at info@gladts.nl and we will help you choose.

How should a boxing glove fit?

  • Try gloves on with your hand wraps on, just as you will train.
  • The glove should fit snugly without pinching, and you should be able to make a fist comfortably.
  • The hook-and-loop strap should close firmly around your wrist.

GLADTS boxing gloves by weight

The starter sets include the Classic Red gloves (12 to 20 oz) or the Bordeaux Red gloves (12 to 18 oz), in the weight of your choice.

Looking after your gloves

Open your gloves after training and let them air out. Don't leave them in a closed sports bag. Wearing hand wraps also helps to keep the inside of your gloves cleaner.

FIGHT FOR GLORY.