Whether you’ve decided to take on martial arts seriously, or simply want better fighting gear, having your own best boxing gloves for training is always handy, even if you’re just beginners. First of all, sharing gloves is not practical, not to mention how unhygienic it is. That’s something to consider, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Second of all, having your own gloves mean you get to choose the best size, material, brand, and perhaps color to suit your style.
It’s not hard to pick the best boxing gloves. There are many options available in the market, some of your favorite fighters even endorse some of them. That said, in this article, we dig into each brand’s best-selling pairs. With our list, you can decide which pair suits your needs and preferences best.
How to Choose the Best Boxing Gloves for Men
Choosing boxing gloves is like choosing most sports apparel and equipment. What’s best for your friend may not be the best for you. You need to look for your own version of “best” by considering the following factors:
Size
First things first, size. If it’s too small, the gloves won’t be comfortable to wear. Worst case, your hands won’t get sufficient blood flow during practice. And this may lead into serious issues. On the other hand, if it’s too big, the gloves may fall off as you throw hard and fast jabs. Even if they don’t, the gap can cause frictions between your hand and the gloves’ inner padding. After hours of practice, you’ll suffer from chafing at the very least. So, which size should you choose? Read our FAQ section below to find the answer!
Material
The good news is most of the best boxing gloves both for training and sparring are made of high-quality leather. Those that are not don’t usually make it through the international market. But just in case, do take a look at the product’s detail and make sure they are made of high-quality leather that is durable and won’t crack under the heat.
Easy-to-Use yet Durable Straps
This part is often overlooked. When it comes to choosing the best boxing gloves for beginners, this is very important. Durable straps make sure your gloves stay put while you throw punches. But they have to be easy to use as well so you won’t have difficulties in putting the gloves on and off.
Ventilation
Those who have practiced Muay Thai in Thailand would know how much this factor means. Non-ventilated gloves will make your hands sweat uncomfortably underneath the padding. As a result, they stink so bad even after a couple of practice sessions. A good pair of gloves should be well-ventilated, preferably with small holes to help your skin breathe. Besides, with good ventilation, they won’t stink your gym bags so much.
What size boxing gloves should a man get?
Most brands provide gloves in sizes 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16oz. The bigger the size, the more padding they come with, which means less impact on the punches, both for you and your target. That’s why the best boxing gloves for training are usually bigger than those for fighting. This also answers “What type of boxing gloves do I need?”
Each brand provides its size chart, so please take a look at it before you order your pair. Gloves sized 8-10oz are recommended for those with less than 140lb weight and 5’5” height. Size 14oz is for those who weigh around 140-160lb and are 5’5”-5’8” tall. If you’re bigger and taller than those, go for size 16oz.
Do I need gloves for punching bag?
Not necessarily. You can use hand wraps instead. But keep in mind that hand wraps are not well-padded. That’s why fighters don’t usually go all out during a punching-bag session with just hand wraps on. For a better, more comfortable, and all-out training, gloves are recommended.
Are 12 oz gloves good for heavy bag?
Yes. The heavier the gloves, the more padding they come with. In this case, 12oz gloves are padded well enough to protect your knuckles during your heavy-bag sessions. However, if you’re 5’ or shorter, you may want to reconsider choosing a pair of 12oz gloves and go for the smaller sizes instead.
RDX Boxing Gloves
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Designed to withstand the tough training of Muay Thai, RDX Boxing Gloves are durable. They are made of Maya Hide leather construction. The extra-thick padding and attached thumb protect your hands, making these gloves the best boxing gloves for beginners. That said, some of the great MMA fighters – Tony Ferguson and Michael Chandler – endorse these gloves for training.
For wrists support and comfortable fit, these gloves are designed with extra-long Quick EZ hook and loop closure. Besides, the S.P.P technology and ventilation holes on the palms decrease discomforts due to sweating, thanks to the natural airflow. You’ll appreciate how your palms stay dry even during hard pad sessions. On top of that, the Quadro-Dome technology maintains a stable wrists and thumbs position which is great for extra protection.
Available Size
8, 10, 12, 14, and 16oz
Pros:
- Maya Hide leather material
- Quick EZ wrist strap
- S.P.P technology and ventilation holes
- Quadro-Dome technology for protection
Cons:
- Lack of cushioning on the knuckles
Liberlupus Boxing Gloves
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Liberlupus Boxing Gloves are not only one of the best boxing gloves in general, but also the best boxing gloves for training. Focusing on heavy-duty gloves, they offer the protection you need during sparring. They feature the natural curve of human fists, while three foam layers give you protection and elasticity. Besides, the grip bar and wrist strap give you better positioning and wrist protection.
Material-wise, they’re made of high-quality faux leather that can be easily cleaned. The breathable mesh allows ventilation from the inner side. Your hands will stay dry and odor-free! What’s more, every purchase comes with a 30-day refund warranty.
Available Size
12 and 16oz (10 and 14oz are currently out of stock)
Pros:
- Convenient natural curve and grip bar
- High-quality faux leather
- Three foam layers
- Hook & loop closure wrist strap
- Affordable and easy to clean
- 30-day refund warranty
- Breathable mesh ventilation
Cons:
- Some people were not satisfied with the padding
Sanabul Essential Gel Boxing Gloves
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Endorsed by some of the biggest names in UFC – Mike Bisping, TJ Dillashaw, and Sean O’Malley – Sanabul Essential Gel Boxing Gloves are designed to fit your hands perfectly. All this and the fact that each pair is affordable making them the best boxing gloves for beginners. You don’t want to invest too much in something you’re just starting to do. And if you’re familiar with those fighters’ careers, you know they would only vouch for something with high quality.
Thanks to the breathable mesh over the palms, you’ll feel comfortable and dry throughout your training and profuse sweating. Available in vivid colors, these gloves are made of engineered leather. The hook and loop closure does not only make the gloves easy to wear, but also protect your wrists well.
Available Size
8, 10, 12, 14, and 16oz
Pros:
- Durable leather material
- Stylish and comfortable
- Affordable
- Hook and loop closure
- Breathable mesh palms
Cons:
- Lack of sufficient padding for extra support
- There’s a strong chemical smell
Hawk Sports HWK Boxing Gloves
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Looking for the best boxing gloves that offer a 5-year replacement warranty? Hawk Sport HWK Boxing Gloves can be your best choice. They’re made of premium synthetic leather, which makes them durable. It’s guaranteed to last through every training session and hard sparring, whether you’re a pro fighter or simply boxing for fun.
What makes this pair a great option for beginners is the injected gels and multi-layered V-Impact foams, which reduce the chance of injury. There’s also wrist and knuckle protection, thanks to the extra-thick Supremo-Shock foam padding. Besides, the Velcro wrist wraps make it easy to wear the gloves. On top of all that, the breathable Pinhole Palm keeps your hands dry, hygiene, and odor-free.
Available Size
8, 10, and 14oz (12 and 16oz are currently unavailable)
Pros:
- Durable premium synthetic leather
- Hook and loop with Velcro closure
- Wrist and knuckle protection
- Breathable Pinhole Palms
- 5-year replacement warranty
Cons:
- Some customers experienced the inner padding easily got damaged after several uses
Ringside Apex Boxing Gloves
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While most of the best boxing gloves for men are only available in black, or white, or red, you can pick your favorite color with Ringside Apex Gloves. Each pair offers an extensive choice of colors, from blue/white, gold/black, silver/black, and others. An interesting look aside, it provides ultimate protection and durability by featuring Injected Molded Foam Technology.
The full hook & loop closure make them easy to put on and take off. Meanwhile, the tapered wraps around the closure keep the gloves secure on your wrists. Sweating a lot during training? Your hands will stay dry, thanks to the mesh palm ventilation holes and microbial protection. On top of that, these comfortable and affordable gloves include a traditional boxing grip bar. It allows a tighter fit while reducing hand fatigue. The synthetic leather material makes the gloves easy to clean.
Available Size
10oz (S/M) and 12oz (L/XL)
Pros:
- Injected Molded Foam Technology™ for protection
- Extensive choice of colors
- The durable synthetic leather material
- Ventilated palm and thumb
- Comfortable and affordable
- Full hook and loop closure
Cons:
- Sizes are a tad too small for some
Bad Boy Boxing Gloves
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Even if you’re new to martial arts, chances are you’ve heard or read the name “Bad Boy” or seen the brand’s trademark eye-logo somewhere. Many fighters have endorsed this very brand, ensuring its quality for a wide range of fighter’s levels.
Bad Boy Boxing Gloves are designed for easy handling, one of the reasons why these gloves are also considered the best boxing gloves for beginners. They feature breathable moisture wicking to keep your hands dry. Besides, each pair is equipped with EVA foam for high-shock absorption. Made of synthetic leather, these gloves are durable yet easy to wash. They are available in several sizes, from 8oz to 16oz. Choose your favorite color: black/blue, black/yellow, black/red, and black/gray.
Available Size
8, 10, 12, 14, and 16oz
Pros:
- Affordable and breathable
- EVA foam
- Durable premium synthetic leather
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- There’s no mesh ventilation in the palm area
Title Boxing Pro Style Leather Training Gloves 3.0
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Looking for the best boxing gloves for training that is easy to take off during practice? Title Boxing Pro Style Leather Training Gloves 3.0 can be your great option. Besides the practicality, they’re also made of genuine full-grain leather that makes them tough and durable. These make the best boxing gloves for training like a pro.
The full wrap around wrist strap keeps the gloves in place through every jab. Meanwhile, the hand lining helps repel moisture. They also feature multi-layer foams for shock-absorbing. These comfortable gloves are available in four colors: blue/white, black/white, red/white, hot pink/white.
Available Size
12, 14, and 16oz (10oz is currently unavailable)
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Comfortable and breathable
- The durable genuine full-grain leather material
- Velcro wrist strap
- Multi-layer foams for shock-absorbing
- Easy to use
- Moisture-repellent
Cons:
- A strong smell at first
- Some costumers said the size is a bit small
Fairtex Microfibre Boxing Gloves
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Fairtex Microfibre Boxing Gloves are one of the best boxing gloves made of microfiber. This material makes the gloves flexible, durable, and also odorless. Each pair is constructed of premium leather with the Fairtex foam system that protects hands and knuckles. The paddings are built to make the weight consistent, while the Velcro straps give wrist support. So you won’t have to worry about sore wrists after an intense pad work session.
With a tight fit design that fits your hands perfectly, these gloves are also one of the best boxing gloves for beginners. They’re available in several sizes, perfect for everyone who’s just starting to train.
Available Size
8, 10, 12, 14, and 16oz
Pros:
- Sturdy premium leather
- Stylish color and designs
- Velcro straps for wrist support
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Microfiber
Cons:
- A little bit expensive
Cleto Reyes Boxing Gloves
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Cleto Reyes Boxing Gloves are made of the highest quality cow leather and each pair’s materials are handmade in Mexico. That’s why this product has gained a good amount of loyal fans among both amateur and professional boxers.
These gloves feature long-lasting latex foam padding to support your knuckles, while the attached-thumb parts reduce the risk of breaking or spraining your thumbs. On top of that, the water repellent linings prevent moisture from soaking the padding.
These best boxing gloves for training are available in several sizes and colors, including black, silver bullet, and solid gold.
Available Size
12, 14, and 16oz (18oz is currently unavailable)
Pros:
- Flexible and comfortable
- Handmade materials
- Attached thumb
- Latex foam padding
- Hook and loop closure
- Water repellent linings
Cons:
- A bit pricey
Revgear Elite Leather Boxing Gloves
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Whether it’s to hit the bag, pads, or light sparring, Revgear Elite Leather Boxing Gloves are a great option for all levels. These gloves feature durable leather, which makes them good for heavy sparring from time to time also. And there’s RG-Ultra padding for shock-absorbing.
Forget about the risk of straining your thumbs as each pair is equipped with an attached-thumb design. With anatomically correct-pocket and Velcro wrists, they fit comfortably well. And the small holes in the palm area act as ventilation to keep your hands dry. All this makes them the best boxing gloves to choose from.
Available Size
10, 12, and 14oz
Pros:
- Durable microfiber leather
- RG-Ultra shock-absorbing padding
- Ergonomic finger area
- Thumb/knuckle protection
- Stylish design and comfortable
- Velcro hook-and-loop wrist wrap
Cons:
- The inner lining is not durable
Hayabusa T3 Boxing Gloves
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One of the things the make Hayabusa T3 Boxing Gloves the best boxing gloves for men is the T3 design. This feature supports your wrist, protects your knuckles, and provides a comfortable fit. Each pair is made of Vylar engineered leather for durability and superior performance. Not just great for beginners, these gloves are made for pro fighters as well.
Its foam padding technology helps to absorb impact, which dissipates energy. So you’ll have more power on your punches. There’s a unique sweat thumb feature with soft material to help to keep sweat away. These gloves are available in several stylish colors, including navy/yellow, black/gold, charcoal/black, and white gray.
Available Size
10, 12, 14, and 16oz (18oz is currently unavailable)
Pros:
- Stylish color
- Foam layering for wrist support
- Dual-X closure system
- Perforated palm
- Premium lining
- Sweat thumb feature
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Expensive
Everlast Pro Style Training Gloves
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If you’re familiar with Ali’s Phantom Punch, the brand Everlast should not be new to your ears. You’ve seen it in big fights, worn by big legends such as Mohammad Ali himself. Let’s find out why this product is also the #1 Best Seller online.
Everlast Pro Style Training Gloves is perfect for competing, sparring, or just casual pad work. These affordable gloves feature patented Thumb-Lok and hook and loop strap closure, which makes them easy to put on and off. Also, you’ll like the breathable mesh palm and an anti-microbial treatment. These provide your hands with comfort while helping to keep sweat away. Each pair is available in several sizes, but only available in black.
Available Size
8, 12, 14, and 16oz
Pros:
- Durable premium synthetic leather
- Affordable and easy to put on/off
- Breathable mesh inner palm
- Thumb-lock feature
- Anti-microbial feature
Cons:
- Lack of wrist support
Venum Elite Boxing Gloves Boxing Glove
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If you’re wondering what makes this pair of gloves beat the #1 Best Seller online, ask some of the best fighters, including the former world champion himself, Lomachenko. This product reaches the top of our best boxing gloves list just like how it gains popularity among martial artists.
Venum Elite Boxing Gloves Boxing Glove is not just about quality, but also the fighter’s personality. It’s available in several colors and designs, including navy blue/white, black/gold, neo orange, and khaki camo. Each pair is made of durable 100% Skintex leather, which says a lot about its quality. Besides, the triple-density form helps with shock distribution. To reduce the risks of injury, a full attached thumb is added to each.
Available Size
8, 10, 12, 14, and 16oz
Pros:
- 100% Skintex leather
- Triple density foam
- Extensive style options
- Attached thumb for injury prevention
Cons:
- Expensive
