In the world of boxing, the right pair of gloves can make all the difference in your performance and also go a long way to protect you. As you start your boxing journey, your boxing gloves are gonna be your only companion that will take you a long way in this sport.
Whether you’re sparring in the ring or honing your skills in the gym, leather boxing gloves offer unmatched durability, comfort, and performance. From their origins as lethal weapons to their modern-day role as essential protective gear, leather gloves have remained a necessity in the world of combat sports.
In this ultimate buying guide, we’ll unearth everything that you would need to know before buying the right pair of leather boxing gloves. Keep reading as we peek into the craftsmanship, fit, and functionality of leather boxing gloves, equipping you with all the knowledge that you are going to need.
Different Types of Leather Boxing Gloves
Leather boxing gloves are available for different purposes and this can greatly influence your decision in buying a pair for yourself. From their design and padding to their intended use, it is all different for each glove type. Below we have discussed some popular types of leather boxing gloves.
- Training / Bag Gloves
Training gloves, also known as bag gloves, are versatile all-rounders suitable for various boxing activities. Whether you’re hitting the heavy bag, working on pads, or engaging in general training, these gloves offer the necessary protection and support. While some brands specifically market gloves as training gloves, others may simply be labeled as boxing gloves. With adequate padding and durability, training gloves are ideal for everyday training sessions.
- Amateur Competition Gloves
Amateur boxing competitions typically require fighters to use specific gloves provided by the promotion. These gloves, often colored red or blue to distinguish between fighters, feature padding that conforms to competition standards. The knuckle area may be highlighted for better visibility, aiding judges in scoring the fight accurately.
- Sparring Gloves
Sparring gloves prioritize safety for both the wearer and their sparring partner. While any boxing gloves can be used for sparring, specialized sparring gloves offer enhanced cushioning and distribution of padding to reduce the intensity of impacts. With softer padding and optimal shock absorption, sparring gloves minimize the risk of injury during training sessions.
- Professional Gloves
Designed for competitive bouts, professional gloves prioritize power and precision. These gloves feature firmer padding and a more compact design, maximizing the impact of each punch. While professional gloves sacrifice some comfort for performance, they are essential for serious competitors aiming to deliver sharp, decisive blows in the ring.
- Mexican Style Boxing Gloves
Mexican-style boxing gloves boast a sleeker shape and tighter padding compared to traditional gloves. Originating from the days of boxing when gloves featured bulky padding, Mexican-style gloves offer a more simplified design with an emphasis on precision and control. While the term “Mexican style” has become more common, these gloves remain a sub-category of professional boxing gloves.
- Muay Thai Gloves
Muay Thai gloves cater to the unique needs of kickboxers, providing versatility and protection for striking and grappling. Manufactured by specialized Thai glove manufacturers, These leather boxing gloves feature distributed padding for enhanced hand protection and a comfortable grip to accommodate catching kicks. With a focus on durability and performance, Muay Thai gloves are essential gear for practitioners of this dynamic combat sport.
What are Leather Boxing Gloves made of?
Leather boxing gloves are crafted with precision and attention to detail, by using a combination of materials and manufacturing techniques to ensure the best performance, protection, and comfort for a fighter.
- Material Selection
There are two primary materials used in boxing gloves and they are vinyl and leather, with variations in quality ranging from low-grade to high-performance. High-quality gloves often use premium materials like genuine leather or advanced synthetic materials like engineered leather, such as Vylar®. These materials are chosen for their durability, flexibility, and ability to withstand the tough conditions of training and competition.
- Cutting and Stitching
Once the materials are selected, they are cut into specific patterns and pieces according to the design of the glove. Precision cutting ensures consistency in size and shape across all gloves. The pieces are then stitched together using heavy-duty thread and reinforced stitching techniques to ensure strength.
- Padding
The padding of the gloves is much-needed to provide protection to both the fighter’s hands and their opponent’s head. High-quality padding materials, such as multi-layered foam or gel padding, are placed throughout the glove to absorb impact and distribute force evenly. The padding is inserted into the glove and secured in place during the assembly process.
- Closure System
Boxing gloves feature a closure system, typically in the form of hook-and-loop straps or laces, to secure the glove firmly around the wrist. This closure system ensures a secure fit, minimizing the risk of the glove slipping off during training or competition.
- Quality Control
Throughout the manufacturing process, quality control measures are implemented to ensure that each glove meets the highest standards of performance and safety. This includes rigorous testing for durability, impact resistance, and comfort.
How to Choose the Right Leather Boxing Gloves?
Here are a few factors you need to keep in mind to choose the right pair of leather boxing gloves:
- Prioritize Safety: Safety should be your top priority when choosing boxing gloves. Look for gloves with proper padding to protect your wrists and fists effectively.
- Consider Size and Weight: Choose gloves that are the appropriate size and weight for your needs. Measure the circumference of your dominant hand to ensure the right fit.
- Use Fabric Tape for Measurement: Fabric tape works well for measuring hand size. Measure below the knuckle of your dominant hand for the most accurate measurement.
- Alternative Measurement Method: If you don’t have fabric tape, wrap a string around your wrist and mark the length. Then, use a ruler or stiff tape to measure the length.
- Understand Weight and Size: Boxing gloves come in various weights measured in ounces, typically ranging from 10 to 20 oz. The size of the glove is determined by the amount of padding it has.
- Consider Purpose: Heavier gloves offer more protection but may reduce punching power, while lighter gloves are suitable for speed training.
- Start with Heavier Gloves: Beginners should start with heavier gloves for better protection. Choose a pair that fits comfortably.
- Check Finger Placement: Ensure your fingers are near the top of the gloves when putting them on.
- Consider Sparring Needs: If you plan to compete, you may need multiple pairs of gloves. Heavier gloves are typically used for sparring to minimize punch power and protect the hands.
- Ensure Adequate Protection: Having only lighter gloves may make it difficult to find sparring partners, as heavier gloves offer more protection than lighter ones.
Best Leather Boxing Gloves Brands
From renowned brands like Winning and Everlast to luxury options such as Cleto Reyes, each brand offers unique features customized to meet the diverse needs of boxers. Here are a few renowned brands that you can buy from to get the best available in the market.
Winning Boxing Gloves
Winning Boxing Gloves stand out in the market for their unparalleled quality and craftsmanship. Crafted from 100% leather, these gloves boast exceptional durability and reliability. What sets them apart is their superior padding, providing excellent protection for both wrists and fists. Moreover, they are remarkably lightweight, allowing boxers to maintain agility and speed during training or matches. With flexible wrist support, Winning gloves enable fighters to land powerful punches with ease and precision.
Everlast
Everlast is a household name in the boxing world, known for producing gloves that cater to both amateur and professional boxers. These gloves are celebrated for their robust construction and long-lasting durability, often lasting for years without losing their strength. Available in various price ranges, Everlast gloves offer quality and performance for every budget. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, Everlast gloves provide the reliability and comfort needed to excel in the ring.
Cleto Reyes
Cleto Reyes gloves are the epitome of luxury and performance in the boxing industry. Favored by elite professional boxers worldwide, these gloves are meticulously crafted for optimal performance in both training and competitive bouts. While they may come at a higher price point, the investment is justified by their unmatched comfort and durability. Cleto Reyes gloves offer a perfect balance of protection and flexibility, ensuring that boxers can deliver their best performance with confidence.
Sanabul
Sanabul gloves are the ideal choice for beginners seeking quality and affordability. Engineered with innovative features such as gel cushioning and shock absorbers, these gloves provide excellent protection and comfort during training sessions. Despite being budget-friendly, Sanabul gloves do not compromise on quality, making them a popular option among novice boxers. With a wide range of sizes available, Sanabul ensures that every boxer can find the perfect fit for their needs.
Hayabusa Boxing Gloves
Hayabusa Boxing Gloves, particularly the T3 series, are renowned for their cutting-edge design and advanced technology. Featuring Duel-X wrist support and a 5-layer foam complex, these gloves offer unparalleled protection and stability. The patented technology used in Hayabusa gloves ensures optimal balance and performance, making them a top choice for serious boxers. Whether you’re looking for superior craftsmanship or innovative features, Hayabusa gloves deliver the ultimate boxing experience.
What is the Difference between Lace Up and Hook & Loop Boxing Gloves?
When it comes to choosing between lace-up and hook and loop boxing gloves, the main difference lies in personal preference. Hook and loop gloves, also referred to as velcro gloves, offer convenience as they can be easily put on and adjusted without assistance.
With a simple loop of the velcro band around the wrist, users can secure the gloves to their desired tightness. On the other hand, lace-up boxing gloves require assistance to put on and provide a more secure fit, especially suitable for sparring and competitive matches.
While hook and loop gloves offer convenience, lace-up gloves offer enhanced security and stability during intense training sessions and bouts. Ultimately, the choice between lace-up and hook and loop gloves depends on individual preference and the specific needs of the boxer.
Care & Maintenance of your Leather Boxing Gloves?
After investing in your perfect pair of boxing gloves, it’s crucial to maintain them regularly to preserve their quality. Since bacteria thrive on sweat and moisture, it’s essential to wipe down your gloves immediately after each use. Afterward, open the wrist straps and allow the gloves to air dry in a well-ventilated space. However, avoid exposing them to direct sunlight to prevent cracking and fading.
To keep your gloves smelling fresh, consider deodorizing them regularly. You can use a dryer sheet or sprinkle baking soda inside the gloves, letting it sit for a few minutes before wiping it out. Alternatively, using a specialized glove deodorizer filled with natural moso bamboo charcoal can effectively absorb excess moisture, eliminate odor, and inhibit the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria. Taking these simple steps will help extend the lifespan of your boxing gloves and ensure they remain in top condition for longer.
Can you Wash Leather Boxing Gloves in a Washing Machine?
We recommend avoiding cleaning your boxing gloves in a washing machine. Machine detergents are very likely to cause agitation and exposure to chemicals. This can result in a breakdown of the materials used in the glove and cause it to go out of shape.
Final Words
As we mentioned before, the right pair of leather boxing gloves is essential for both comfort and performance in the ring. Remember to prioritize trying on gloves before purchasing them, ensuring a comfortable fit with ample wrist support.
Consider factors such as the purpose of the gloves, their weight, your hand size, and your body weight to make an informed decision. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate user, or advanced fighter, there are gloves suited to your needs. With the perfect pair of gloves in hand, you’ll be equipped to conquer your boxing goals with confidence and style. Happy training!
