The most common question we get in-store: *"What size gloves do I need?"* The answer depends on your weight, what you're using them for, and your hand size.
Here's your complete guide to choosing the right boxing glove weight.
Quick Reference Chart
| Your Weight | Bag/Pad Work | Sparring | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 45kg (kids) | 4oz – 6oz | 8oz – 10oz | — |
| 45–55kg | 8oz – 10oz | 12oz – 14oz | 10oz |
| 55–70kg | 10oz – 12oz | 14oz – 16oz | 10oz – 12oz |
| 70–85kg | 12oz – 14oz | 16oz | 12oz – 14oz |
| 85–100kg | 14oz – 16oz | 16oz – 18oz | 14oz – 16oz |
| 100kg+ | 16oz | 18oz | 16oz |
What Do the Ounces Actually Mean?
Boxing gloves are measured by the weight of the padding inside, not the size of your hand. More ounces = more padding = more protection and weight.
• 8oz – 10oz: Competition weight. Minimal padding for maximum speed. Not for sparring.
• 12oz – 14oz: Light training and pad work. More protection for lighter athletes.
• 16oz: The standard sparring weight in most Australian gyms. Required for anyone sparring.
• 18oz – 20oz: Extra protection for heavyweights or anyone with hand/wrist issues.
How to Measure Your Hand
1. Wrap a measuring tape around your dominant hand at the knuckles (not including thumb)
2. Compare to this guide:
| Hand Circumference | Glove Size (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Under 18cm | Small (8oz – 10oz) |
| 18–21cm | Medium (12oz – 14oz) |
| 21–24cm | Large (14oz – 16oz) |
| Over 24cm | XL (16oz+) |
Note: Hand size matters for fit, but weight class determines the oz you should use. Always prioritise the oz weight chart above for safety.
Training vs Sparring Gloves
Training gloves (10oz – 14oz) are lighter and firmer. Use them for bag work, pad work, and drills. They give better feedback and don't tire your arms as quickly.
Sparring gloves (16oz minimum in most gyms) are heavier with softer padding. They're designed to protect your training partner, not just you. Never spar in anything under 16oz unless your coach specifically says otherwise.
Do you need both? If you train 3+ times a week: yes. Bag gloves wear out faster and 16oz gloves are unnecessarily heavy for pad rounds.
Velcro vs Lace-Up
| Velcro | Lace-Up | |
|---|---|---|
| **Convenience** | Easy on/off by yourself | Need someone to tie them |
| **Wrist support** | Good | Excellent |
| **Best for** | Training, bag work | Sparring, competition |
| **Price** | Lower | Higher |
For most people: get Velcro. Lace-ups are for when you're serious enough to have a coach or training partner tie your gloves.
FAQs
Can I spar in 14oz gloves?
Most Australian gyms require 16oz minimum for sparring. Check with your gym. The extra padding protects your partner.
What size gloves for kids?
Kids (under 12): 4oz – 6oz. Teens: 8oz – 10oz. Junior gloves are sized smaller with shorter cuffs.
Do I need different gloves for bag work and sparring?
Yes, ideally. Bag gloves take a beating and pack down over time. Sparring gloves should stay soft and protective. Having two pairs extends the life of both.
Need help choosing? Visit us in-store to try gloves on, or browse our full range of boxing gloves →
What Most Beginners Get Wrong
Buying gloves based on hand size alone. Your hand circumference tells you what fits comfortably, but the oz weight is about protection — and that's dictated by your body weight and what you're doing. A lightweight guy with big hands still shouldn't spar in 12oz gloves. Always prioritise the weight chart first, then find a glove that fits your hand at that weight. GoodNYT and SKS gloves come in proper oz ranges at budget-friendly prices — no excuses for sparring in bag gloves.
Related reading
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