Choosing boxing glove size: the oz-table explained

Oz stands for ounce and says nothing about the size of the glove, but about its weight, and therefore mainly about the amount of padding. More padding means more protection for you and for your training partner. That's the whole trick.

The table

As a rule of thumb based on body weight: up to 60 kg choose 10 oz, from 60 to 75 kg 12 oz, from 75 to 90 kg 14 oz and above 90 kg 16 oz. This is a starting point, not a law.

How your training changes it

If you mainly do bag work and pads, you can go a size lighter. You'll feel your punches sharper and your shoulders will last longer. If you spar regularly, choose a size heavier than what the table suggests. In many gyms, 16 oz is even mandatory for sparring, regardless of your weight.

Fit: pay attention to this

Put the glove on with wraps underneath, because without wraps it will fit differently. Your fingertips should just touch the front. Make a fist: it should feel compact, not loose in the glove. A wide velcro closure that really secures your wrist is more important than most people think, because most hand complaints come from a sprained wrist, not your knuckles.

Material

Real leather is more durable and adapts to your hand, but costs more. Good PU leather will last for years with two to four training sessions per week and is much more budget-friendly. For beginners and advanced hobbyists, PU is fine.

Maintenance in thirty seconds

Take your gloves out of your bag after training. That's the most important thing. Open them up so air can get in, wipe the inside with a cloth and if necessary use a glove dryer or simply newspaper. Never put them on the heater: then the padding will dry out and harden.

Two pairs?

If you train more than three times a week, a second pair is not a luxury. Gloves need at least a day to dry, and dry gloves smell better and last longer.