Expert: Alan Kahn - 8/30/2007

Question
Hi i'm 14 and have just got a heavy bag. It came with some mitts but i want to get some proper boxing gloves.I was just wondering about whether the weight of the glove (oz) has anything to do with the size for the particular glove and if so what weight should i get?

Answer
HI Max

congratulations on your new heavybag. Bag training Gloves come in several styles and there a many to choose from. But basically, they come in two standard styles: the older style traditional lace ups and the newer velco quick strap type. If you are new to boxing, and relatively untrained and unskilled in punching and arm stamina, I would stay with a lighter glove, such as a 14oz. http://store.titleboxing.com/hookclastrai.html
or http://store.everlastboxing.com/everlast-velcro-training-gloves.html

The weight of the glove and the size are not necessarily correlated, for any handsize can have more or less padding added to create the desire weight. But you will notice that gloves listed for "youth boxing" are somewhat lighter, going down to 10oz. http://store.titleboxing.com/kid-youth-glove.html

Depending on your size, the youth gloves may be too small for your hand, and if your are a powerful puncher, the lighter weight 10-12 oz gloves won't offer you as much protection.  Stick with the 14oz or perhaps 16oz. I would also suggest you get some handwraps http://store.titleboxing.com/jrhw.html
There are several ways to wrap the hands, so here is a pretty easy to follow guide:

http://www.ringside.com/WrapYourHands.aspx

Good luck with your selections and training.  I hope this helps you train safely.

sincerely,

Alan Kahn
author, The Speed Bag Bible