Boxing glove sizes and weights: which ounce for what
Boxing gloves are sold by weight in ounces (oz). The weight is mostly padding: heavier gloves protect hands and sparring partners more, lighter gloves are faster. Which weight is right depends on what the glove is used for and the size of the person wearing it.
By Bolide Fight Gear · Updated
Quick answer
| Weight | Typical use |
|---|---|
| 4–8 oz | Kids and junior classes (by age and hand size); 4 oz is also the usual MMA fight glove |
| 8–10 oz | Competition (set by the rules of each weight class and organisation), speed and double-end bag work |
| 12–14 oz | Bag and pad work, general training, lighter people's sparring |
| 16 oz | The most common sparring weight for adults in gyms |
| 18–20 oz | Sparring for heavier boxers |
Choosing by body weight
A widely used rule of thumb from glove makers: around 12–14 oz for people up to about 57 kg (126 lb), 14–16 oz up to about 73 kg (160 lb), 16–18 oz up to about 82 kg (180 lb), and 18 oz above that. Many gyms simply require 16 oz for all adult sparring. Fit matters as much as weight, so check the hand fits snugly with wraps on.
Competition gloves
Fight gloves are set by the rules of the event: the federation or commission decides the weight, often by weight class. Always check the current rules of the organisation you compete under before ordering competition gloves.
MMA and Muay Thai gloves
MMA gloves are open-fingered so fighters can grapple; 4 oz is the usual fight glove, with heavier, more padded versions for sparring. Muay Thai gloves use the same ounce weights as boxing gloves, with a more flexible cuff and a flatter shape for clinching and catching kicks.
What gyms and brands should stock
Gyms usually keep 12, 14 and 16 oz pairs for classes and sparring, plus 4–8 oz kids' gloves for junior classes. Brands starting a glove line often launch 10, 12, 14 and 16 oz in one design. When you order custom gloves, each ounce class is written into your specification and you can weigh the sample yourself before approving bulk. See custom boxing gloves and the guide to starting a fight gear brand.
Quick answers
What size boxing gloves are best for sparring?
Most gyms ask adults to spar in 16 oz gloves; lighter people sometimes use 14 oz and heavier people 18 oz. Always follow your gym's rule.
What ounce gloves are best for the heavy bag?
12 to 14 oz gloves suit most people for bag and pad work. Some prefer 16 oz to protect their hands; lighter 8–10 oz gloves suit speed and double-end bags.
What size gloves do kids need?
Kids usually use 4 to 8 oz gloves, chosen by age and hand size rather than age alone.