Short answer: most adults train with 12–14 oz boxing gloves for bag and pad work and 16 oz gloves for sparring. As a general guide, boxers under 55 kg use 8–10 oz for bag work and 12–14 oz for sparring, 55–75 kg use 12–14 oz for training and 16 oz for sparring, and anyone over 75 kg should spar in 16–18 oz gloves. Kids usually start with 4–8 oz gloves depending on age and size.
This boxing glove size chart explains glove weights (oz), hand sizing and fit, so boxers can pick the right pair and gyms can order the right size mix for members.
Boxing Glove Size Chart by Body Weight
| Body weight | Bag and pad work | Sparring |
|---|---|---|
| Under 45 kg (under 100 lb) | 8 oz | 10–12 oz |
| 45–55 kg (100–120 lb) | 8–10 oz | 12–14 oz |
| 55–68 kg (120–150 lb) | 10–12 oz | 14–16 oz |
| 68–80 kg (150–175 lb) | 12–14 oz | 16 oz |
| 80–90 kg (175–200 lb) | 14–16 oz | 16–18 oz |
| Over 90 kg (over 200 lb) | 16 oz | 18–20 oz |
This is a general guide. Many gyms set their own sparring rule — commonly 16 oz minimum for adult sparring — so check with your coach.
What Does “oz” Mean on Boxing Gloves?
The ounce rating is the weight of the glove, not its size. Heavier gloves carry more padding, which protects both your hands and your training partner. A 16 oz glove has noticeably more padding than a 10 oz glove, which is why heavier gloves are used for sparring and lighter gloves for speed work and competition.
Boxing Glove Weights Explained
| Weight | Typical use | Who uses it |
|---|---|---|
| 4–6 oz | Kids’ training | Young children |
| 8 oz | Bag work for lighter boxers; competition in some weight classes | Lighter adults, competitors |
| 10 oz | Bag work, pad work, competition in some classes | Light to middle-weight boxers |
| 12 oz | All-round training | Women and lighter men |
| 14 oz | Training and lighter sparring | Most adults |
| 16 oz | Standard adult sparring | Most adults |
| 18–20 oz | Heavyweight sparring | Heavier boxers |
Competition glove weights are set by each federation and weight class, so competitors should follow their event rules.
How to Measure Your Hand for Glove Fit
Weight is only part of fit. To check hand size:
- Measure hand circumference around the knuckles of your dominant hand, with the hand open and fingers together (exclude the thumb)
- Wrap your hands as you would for training — wraps add bulk
- Try the glove with wraps on: your fingertips should touch the end of the glove when you make a fist, without being cramped
- Check the wrist: the cuff should close firmly without gaps
| Hand circumference (approx.) | Typical fit |
|---|---|
| Under 18 cm (7 in) | Small / youth gloves |
| 18–20 cm (7–8 in) | Regular 10–14 oz gloves |
| 20–23 cm (8–9 in) | Regular to large 14–16 oz gloves |
| Over 23 cm (9 in) | Large 16–18 oz gloves |
Sizes vary between brands, so use the maker’s chart when one is provided.
Kids’ Boxing Glove Sizes
| Age (approx.) | Glove weight |
|---|---|
| 5–8 years | 4 oz |
| 8–12 years | 6 oz |
| 12–15 years | 8–10 oz (by size and weight) |
Children grow quickly, so choose a glove that fits comfortably with wraps rather than buying a size up.
Lace-Up vs Hook-and-Loop Gloves
| Closure | Advantages | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Hook-and-loop | Fast on and off; no help needed | Gym classes, solo training |
| Lace-up | Tighter, more secure fit | Sparring and competition |
What Size Mix Should a Gym Order?
If you are ordering gym gloves, a practical starting split for an adult class programme is:
| Glove weight | Share of order |
|---|---|
| 10 oz | 10% |
| 12 oz | 25% |
| 14 oz | 30% |
| 16 oz | 35% |
Add 4–8 oz pairs if you run a kids’ programme. Heavier members and sparring classes need more 16 oz pairs. Material also matters for shared gloves — read our comparison of leather vs synthetic boxing gloves.
Signs Your Gloves Are the Wrong Size
- Your fingertips do not reach the end of the glove when you make a fist
- Your knuckles press hard against the padding or feel crushed
- The cuff gaps at the wrist, or your hand slides inside the glove
- Your wrists or knuckles hurt after normal sessions
Ordering Custom Boxing Gloves in a Full Size Range
Onrox International manufactures custom boxing gloves in 8 oz to heavier sparring weights, in genuine leather or premium PU, with your logo, colours and packaging. See how they are made in our boxing gloves manufacturing guide, and pair them with custom focus mitts for a complete pad-work set.
Frequently Asked Questions — Boxing Glove Sizes
Q: What size boxing gloves should a beginner buy?
A: Most adult beginners should start with 14 oz or 16 oz gloves. They are versatile enough for bag work, pad work and light sparring.
Q: Are 16 oz gloves good for heavy bag training?
A: Yes. 16 oz gloves give extra protection on the bag, though some boxers prefer 12–14 oz for faster bag work.
Q: What size boxing gloves do women use?
A: Many women train with 12 oz or 14 oz gloves and spar in 14 oz or 16 oz gloves, depending on body weight and gym rules.
Q: Do boxing gloves come in sizes as well as weights?
A: Some brands offer small, regular and large sizes within the same weight. Most gloves are sold by weight alone, with hand size guidance on the maker’s chart.
Q: What size gloves are used for sparring?
A: 16 oz is the standard for most adult sparring. Heavier boxers often use 18 or 20 oz.
Q: Should boxing gloves be tight or loose?
A: Snug with hand wraps on. Your fingertips should touch the end of the glove when you make a fist, with no gap at the wrist.
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