Whether you’re new to boxing or you’ve been training for years, one thing becomes clear fast – not all gloves are the same. Each type serves a different purpose, from bag work to sparring to full competition. Knowing the differences helps you train smarter, protect your hands, and get more out of every session.
Below are the 9 Main TYPES of BOXING GLOVES worth knowing about, plus a practical tip for each one.
# 1 | TRAINING GLOVES
- SUPERIOR WRIST SUPPORT: The raised cuff panel and splint-style foam provide elite support to prevent injuries, making these gloves ideal for intense training sessions and women's MMA.
- ULTIMATE IMPACT PROTECTION: Triple-layer foam absorbs powerful strikes during kickboxing and Muay Thai training, while the integrated palm foam offers increased padding and support.
- SECURE AND COMFORTABLE FIT: The full-length hook and loop strap ensures a snug fit, and the ergonomic foam grip bar provides a natural feel for heavy bags and sparring sessions.
Try These for Daily Workouts
These are your everyday gloves. Designed for all-around use, they handle bag work, mitt drills, and general training. They offer balanced padding, solid wrist support, and are built to last.
If you hit the bag or train several days a week, start with a solid all-purpose glove that won’t wreck your wrists.
# 2 | BAG GLOVES
- EFFECTIVE IMPACT DISPERSION – Are your training gloves affecting your accuracy? The RDX gloves dissipate the force of impact across the specially made, pre-curved anatomical structure of the sparring gloves due to the presence of Quadro Dome 3 padding, which uses EVA foam and SpongeX sheet. This results in a comfortable training experience for the users of the RDX heavy boxing gloves.
- PATENT PENDING LOMA TECH DESIGN – Do you face trouble forming the perfect fist, while using boxing gloves ? RDX gloves feature a PATENT PENDING single seamless LOMA Tech design used in the palm area and thumb of the boxing gloves. This helps create an improved alignment between the fist and thumb and along with an especially designed attached thumb allows the trainees to form the perfect fist and punch better with the training gloves.
- EXCEPTIONALLY DURABLE MATERIAL – No matter how hard you punch these gloves make sure to outlast your intense training. The use of advanced caliber Maya Hide ConvEX Skin Leather in the KARA Series training gloves makes them durable and reliable for long-term use while also providing a superior look and feel during Boxing, Muay Thai, MMA, Kickboxing, and heavy bag training sessions among other similar sports.
Protect Your Hands During Heavy Sessions
These gloves are built for repeated impact on a heavy bag or speed bag. They usually have denser padding and more rigid wrist support to withstand continuous strikes.
Switch to bag gloves for impact drills – your knuckles will thank you.
# 3 | SPARRING GLOVES
- Performance engineered leather construction. High quality and durable material is easier to clean and maintain
- Gel impact protection foam. Gel Infused foam provides superb protection and softness to help prevent injury to your hands while training
- Longitudinal arch design. Constructed to fit the natural curvature of the hand for proper fist closure while striking
Stay Safe While You Learn
Used for partner training, these gloves emphasize safety – for both you and your partner. They often have more padding and a broader striking surface to reduce the risk of impact injury.
Choose gloves that let you train longer without bruising your hands or your partner’s face.
- GENUINE LEATHER OUTER SHELL FOR DURABILITY: These gloves are made from a high-quality leather to give them a long-lasting, durable exterior. All around gloves perfect for all kinds of boxing and kickboxing workouts, such as punching the heavy bag, mitt training, fitness classes, suitable for beginners, amateurs and pros!
- WIDE VELCRO WRAP AROUND WRIST FOR GREAT FIT AND WRIST PROTECTION: The premium lining on the inside of the glove provides a wonderful feel and optimal comfort. Tried and tested by pros for comfort, these gloves will protect your hands from blisters and chafing after long gym workouts. The rigid elasticated Velcro closing system allows for quick adjustment while providing strong wrist support.
- MOLDED FOR OPTIMAL WRIST SUPPORT: This boxing glove features a special mold designed to provide strong support to the wrist and keeping you safe from injury during your workouts/training. Great for both boxing and kickboxing for women and men! Please consult our Size Guide to determine the perfect size for you!
Step Into the Ring with Confidence
These gloves are used in official, sanctioned amateur fights. They often have firmer construction and are available in red/blue colour codes to meet event rules.
Competition gloves focus on scoring and speed – perfect your form before fight night.
# 5 | PROFESSIONAL GLOVES
- PROFESSIONAL BOXING GLOVES - CLETO REYES Professional Competition Gloves are handcrafted in Mexico from COW LEATHER, anatomically designed for the perfect fit with extra-long laces. The best professional boxing gloves, preferred by World Champions.
- TRADITIONAL SLIM DESIGN - Adult boxing gloves with a traditional slim design for high precision quality. Authorized by the WBC, WBA, IBF, Athletic State Commission of California, and endless other State Commissions, along with Mexico City Boxing and Wrestling Commission and numerous other Boxing Associations around the World.
- WRIST SUPPORT - Handmade with the finest craftsmanship, CLETO REYES boxing gloves for men and women provide optimal wrist support to prevent your hand from bending or injury during fights. Gloves size: 8oz = Welterweight and lower (105 to 147lbs.) 10oz = Superwelter and up (154lbs).
Feel the Precision of a Pro Glove
These are built for pro fights. They are smaller, tighter, and have thinner padding, so punches land harder and faster. Not ideal for casual training.
Once you’ve earned your footing, step up to fight-grade gloves for true feedback.
# 6 | MEXICAN-STYLE GLOVES
- TRADITIONAL LACE UP TRAINING BOXING GLOVES - CLETO REYES heavy-duty boxing gloves are handcrafted in Mexico from COW LEATHER, anatomically designed with a form-fitting curved knuckle area for better fist closure.
- DEMANDED BY PROFESSIONAL AND AMATEUR CHAMPIONS - Adult boxing gloves great for sparring, heavy bags, and training in general. Weight suggested by professional trainers: 12oz until 129 lbs, 14oz for 130 to 159 lbs, 16oz and 18oz for 160 lbs. and up.
- EXTRA LONG CUFF - Handmade with the finest craftsmanship, these CLETO REYES boxing gloves for men and women feature an extra long cuff. Provides optimal wrist support to prevent your hand from bending or injury during workouts.
The Classic Fit That Never Goes Out of Style
These gloves are known for a snug fit, long cuffs, and a traditional feel. They provide great wrist support and a strong punch feel.
These gloves are about feel and tradition – expect tight form and strong wrist support.
- PREMIUM FIGHT EXPERIENCE: The Venum Giant 3.0 Boxing Gloves are designed to meet the needs of experienced athletes, including amateur and professional fighters.
- DURABLE NAPPA LEATHER: Crafted with premium quality Nappa leather and reinforced double stitching for added durability, these gloves withstand heavy use without compromising quality.
- MULTI-LAYER FOAM PADDING FOR EXCELLENT SHOCK ABSORPTION: Triple-layer foam padding delivers superior protection against impacts, reducing hand fatigue and risk of injury during rigorous training.
Designed for Flexibility and Grip
For training that involves clinch work, kicks, or a mix of striking arts, these gloves offer extra flexibility and side padding for blocking.
If you mix kicks, elbows, and clinch work, these gloves give complete protection and mobility.
# 8 | MMA / Hybrid Gloves
- A VERSATILE GLOVE FOR DYNAMIC TRAINING: Built for intense hybrid training with the padding you need for the heavy bag or sparring and the flexibility of an open palm glove. Our exclusive palm design locks your gloves in place so you can switch between striking and grappling with ease
- GIVE YOUR HANDS THE RESPECT THEY DESERVE: Designed to protect and last. The exclusive multi-layered foam composition absorbs impacts and dissipates energy so your hand is ready to land the next strike
- STRIKE HARDER WITH THE PERFECT FIT: The Dual-X closure system eliminates the need to wear hand wraps as you train and empower you to strike harder than ever. Customize your fit with two interlocking straps that provide a comfortable, secure fit with incredible wrist stabilization.
Train Across Disciplines
These are the open-finger style used in mixed martial arts – less padding, more mobility. They’re more for striking plus grappling, not traditional boxing.
For cross-training in striking and MMA, hybrids let you keep a natural hand feel.
# 9 | Fitness / Cardio Gloves
- Full mesh palm
- Integrated grip bar
- Full wrist strap closure
Perfect for Cardio and Conditioning
These are made for workout classes, bag circuits, and fitness boxing, not full-contact fighting. They’re lighter, more comfortable, and built for high-rep sets.
If you’re boxing for fitness, stick with gloves that prioritize comfort and ventilation.
FAQ for Choosing Boxing GLOVES
How do I know what glove size (oz) to buy?
The weight (in ounces) roughly correlates to padding and size. For example, under 120 lb → 10-12 oz; 120-150 lb → 14 oz; over 150 lb → 16 oz or higher. Try them on if you can.
Can I use one pair for everything?
You can, but it’s not ideal. Bag-specific gloves often have less padding (more stress on your hand), while sparring gloves have extra cushion to protect your partner.
What’s the difference between lace-up and Velcro (hook-and-loop) gloves?
Velcro closures are quick and convenient for solo training. Lace-up gives a tighter, more secure fit (often preferred in serious training or competition) but usually requires help to tie.
Do more expensive gloves mean better protection?
Not always. Higher cost often means better materials (genuine leather, handmade) and craftsmanship, but you’ll still need to match the glove to its purpose (bag vs sparring vs fight).
How often should I replace my gloves?
There’s no fixed rule, but if you train frequently, they will compress, padding will flatten, and wrist support will wear. Many trainers suggest replacing every 6-12 months for heavy use.
BOTTOM LINE
Having the correct glove makes every round safer and more effective. If you’re starting out, a reliable pair of training gloves will cover most of your needs. As you progress, specialized gloves – like sparring or competition models – will help you perform better and protect your hands in the long term.
Last update on 2025-11-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API