Boxing & Martial Arts

Boxing & Martial Arts: frequently asked questions

What protective equipment do I need for boxing?

For bag and pad work you need hand wraps and gloves. For sparring add a well-fitted gumshield, a headguard, a groin guard and usually 16 oz gloves; some women also use a chest guard. Muay Thai and kickboxing add shin and instep guards. Clubs often set their own sparring rules, so check with your coach before buying.

Why do boxing gloves have an attached thumb?

Stitching the thumb to the body of the glove stops it splaying out, so it is less likely to catch a training partner's eye or be bent back on impact. Most modern boxing and sparring gloves are built this way, including the Hayabusa T3 and Fairtex models in this range. Many MMA gloves and bag mitts leave the thumb free.

Are foam boxing gloves any good?

Almost all boxing gloves are filled with foam; what differs is its density and layering. Multi-layer foam spreads force more evenly and keeps its shape longer than a single soft layer. Gloves with thin, soft foam are fine for light fitness classes, but for regular bag work and sparring choose gloves with dense, layered padding over the knuckles.

What weight gloves should I use for sparring?

Many clubs ask for 16 oz gloves for sparring, and heavier boxers may use 18 oz. Gloves of 10–14 oz suit lighter adults and juniors on pads and the bag. Glove weight describes the padding, not the hand size, so also check the maker's size chart and leave room for wraps.