Expert: Lian Shoemake - 5/29/2006

Question
I am interested in boxing for recreation, and I would like to know what is the difference between 8oz, 10oz, 12oz, 14 and 16oz gloves?  What is the best size to spar with?

Thank You,

Chuck Dee

Answer
Hi Chuck,

Thanks for the question.

Boxing gloves that are 8, 10 and 12 oz. are designed for competition. They're lighter, and the size of glove used in a bout is determined by the weight of the boxers. Amateurs only use 10 and 12 oz. gloves, while professionals use 8 or 10 oz. gloves.

14 oz. gloves are probably best for sparring, along with headgear, mouthguards and protective cups. 16 oz. might be okay for larger boxers, but they can get very heavy very fast, and that can become a safety issue.

I hope this helps, Chuck.
Thanks again for writing!

Regards,
Lian