"What size boxing gloves do I need?" This is one of the most frequently asked questions we receive from people who are just starting out with boxing or kickboxing.
It's also a fair question, because boxing gloves have a completely different sizing system than we're used to.
What is Oz?
Before we discuss what size you need, it's important to understand the sizing system. Generally, the size of boxing gloves is indicated in ounces (oz). Ounces are a British-American unit of weight.
For reference: one ounce is approximately 28.35 grams.
The heavier the glove, the larger the size. This is mainly because the weight of the glove corresponds with the amount of padding inside the gloves.
Children typically wear 4 oz, 6 oz, 8 oz or 10 oz gloves. Adults generally wear 12 oz, 14 oz or 16 oz.
There are heavier boxing gloves than 16 oz, but 95% of people get by with 16 oz or lighter.
What size boxing gloves do I need?
Now that we understand how sizing works, the question remains: what size boxing gloves do you need? Nine times out of ten, we choose the size of boxing gloves based on your body weight. Although the fit varies greatly between brands, you can usually rely on sizing based on body weight.
If you have unusually small or large hands, we also look at your hand circumference.
If you have average-sized hands, use the table below to determine the right size.
| Body weight | Boxing glove size |
| 40-50 kg | 8 oz |
| 50-60 kg | 10 oz |
| 60-75 kg | 12 oz |
| 75-85 kg | 14 oz |
| 85+ kg | 16 & 18 oz |
Determine your boxing glove size based on your hand circumference
It sometimes happens that your body weight isn't the right measure for determining your boxing glove size. If you have smaller or larger than average hands, there's a chance you could end up with the wrong size boxing gloves.
A reliable way to find your size in this case is to measure your hand circumference. It might sound complicated, but it's really not.
To measure your hand circumference, use a simple measuring tape. Place the tape at the widest point of your hand, just below your knuckles, and wrap it around your palm.
Note: Don't include your thumb.
If you don't have a measuring tape, you can also measure with a piece of string and a ruler.
Once you've measured your hand circumference, you can use the table below to determine the right size boxing gloves.
| Hand circumference (in cm) | Boxing glove size |
|
14-16.5 cm |
8 oz |
|
16.5-19 cm |
10 oz |
|
19-21.5 cm |
12 oz |
|
21.5-24 cm |
14 oz |
|
24-26.5 cm |
16 oz |
|
26.5+ cm |
16 & 18 oz |
What size boxing gloves for men?
Men are generally heavier than women. Most adult men therefore wear 14 oz or 16 oz. Aside from size, it's also nice to have more padding around your knuckles when punching. So even if you weigh slightly under 75 kg, it's recommended for men to buy 14 oz instead of 12 oz.
What size boxing gloves for women?
Most women wear boxing gloves from 10 oz to 14 oz. The average woman is naturally lighter than the average man and can therefore comfortably wear lighter gloves. The lighter you are, the less weight is behind your punches. A bit less padding is therefore fine.
Need new boxing gloves?
Now that you know how to determine the right size boxing gloves for yourself, it's time to choose your new set.
Do you already have an idea of what you're looking for, or would you like to browse? Check out our full collection of boxing gloves.
Would you prefer to speak to an adviser? Call +31 85 06 06 340
