What Type of Boxing Gloves Do I Need?
Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Pair from Fight Gear
Welcome to Fight Gear, your trusted and go to UK online boxing shop for top quality boxing equipment, that will fuel your passion in the ring. As a passionate assistant coach and a dad to an amateur boxer, our founder knows first hand the frustration of seeing fighters waste their time and money on subpar boxing gloves that just don’t hold up. That’s why we launched FightGear.co.uk, to deliver reliable and high-quality boxing equipment from elite brands like Adidas, Sting, Rival, Cleto Reyes, Pro Box, Tuf Wear, and Hit N Move straight to boxers across the nation. Whether you’re just dipping your toes into a boxercise class for fitness or adding to your arsenal with some new sparring gloves, finding your first gloves or even getting geared up for a competition as a pro or an amateur boxer can be hard. Finding the right boxing gloves for you is key to protecting your hands, boosting performance and building more confidence.
In this guide, we will break down exactly what type of boxing gloves you will need based on your level and goals. Making sure to cover from beginner-friendly options to pro-level sparring gloves and competition-ready picks, we have got you covered with practical advice and our top recommendations. We will focus on essential factors like padding, durability, fit and budget to help you make an informed choice. Let’s dive in and match you with the boxing equipment that matches your journey, because at fight gear we know the right pair of boxing gloves can make all the difference between a bad session and a great one.
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Boxercise or Beginner Boxing: Starting Simple and Smart
If you’re just getting into boxing for fitness, like a boxercise class, light bag work, or just your first few sessions at the gym, you don’t need to splash out on fancy boxing equipment right away as its unneeded. Beginner boxing is all about building fundamentals, improving your cardio and having fun without overwhelming your wallet with heavy-duty gear. The key here at this part of your boxing journey is to choose a basic boxing glove that offers solid protection, comfort and ease of use, so you can focus on technique rather than discomfort.
A great starting point is a pair of affordable and reliable boxing gloves designed for entry-level training. These gloves should have a multi-layer foam padding to absorb impacts from pads or bags, a secure wrist strap (usually Velcro for quick on-off), and durable materials that won’t fall apart after a few weeks. They are perfect for those 1-2 sessions a week where you’re not going full throttle yet. Plus as a beginner, you’ll appreciate gloves that help with proper hand positioning to avoid injuries like wrist strains or sprains.
One of our top picks and a perfect choice for beginners is the Adidas Tilt 200 Boxing Gloves. These innovative boxing gloves break the mould for budget options and incorporates Tilt technology, which naturally tilts your hand into the correct punching position, making this ideal for newbies learning to form a proper fist. Made from a high-quality PU material, they feature multi-layer foam padding for excellent shock absorption, keeping your knuckles safe during bag work or pad drills. The comfortable inner lining on this glove ensure they feel great even during longer sessions, and at a low price point, making these in our opinion an amazing entry into the world of boxing equipment. We have seen countless UK boxers start their journey with Adidas boxing gloves and stick with them as they progress.
Another solid choice is the Pro Box Champ Spar Boxing Gloves. These are crafted for all skill levels but shine for beginners with their IMF foam padding, which provides top-notch comfort and protection without feeling to bulky. The Pro Box Champ Spar Boxing Gloves are available in three colours and feature a moisture-wicking lining to keep your hands dry and fresh. They are perfect for boxercise or introductory sparring and training, they offer that pro feel at a beginner price, helping you build confidence as you throw your first jabs and hooks.
Why choose basic boxing gloves like these? They’re versatile for fitness-focused boxing, easy to maintain and won’t intimidate you with advanced features you don’t need just as yet. As you get hooked on the sport (and trust us, you will), you can upgrade your sparring gloves or other boxing equipment later. Ideal for new boxers seeking reliable, long-lasting performance without breaking the bank.
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Sparring and Training Gloves: Levelling Up for Serious Sessions
Once you have moved beyond a casual boxercise class and start training more regularly, lets say 3 times a week or more—it’s time to invest in dedicated sparring gloves and training boxing gloves. This is where boxing becomes a commitment, with longer sessions involving heavy bag work, pad drills and actual sparring against partners. Your hands will take more punishment, so you do need boxing equipment that’s built to last: thicker padding for impact protection, better wrist support to prevent injuries, and materials that hold up to sweat and repeated use. If budget allows, we strongly recommend having separate pairs of boxing gloves—one for sparring and another for training (bag and pad work). This ensures the padding in your sparring gloves stays intact, making sure to keep your sparring partners safe by maintaining optimal cushioning during intense sessions.
For serious boxers, durability is a non-negotiable. Look for sparring gloves with layered foam or specialised padding that cushions blows while allowing you to feel your punches. Leather or high-quality microfiber exteriors ensure longevity, and features like ergonomic designs help maintain proper form during intense rounds. Budget plays a big role here too—we’ll cover options across price points to suit every fighter chasing improvement.
On the budget end, consider the Pro Box Pro-Spar Leather Sparring Gloves. These are made from a full-grain leather, making them tough enough for frequent training while staying affordable. The moisture-wicking lining on the glove keeps things hygienic, and the extended cuff with hook-and-loop closure provides secure wrist support. Perfect for boxers hitting the gym multiple times a week, they offer more reliable protection for sparring and bag work without skimping on quality. We’ve seen coaches recommend these for intermediate fighters who want value-driven boxing equipment that performs like pricier options.
Another budget-friendly gem is the Tuf Wear Legend Leather Sparring Gloves. Crafted from durable buffalo leather with a breathable mesh palm, these gloves feature injection-molded padding for superior shock absorption and fist protection. The long wrist cuff and attached thumbs add safety, making them ideal for sparring sessions where you need to go hard but stay protected. They’re a staple for UK boxers building their routine, offering that pro-level feel at an accessible price.
Stepping up to intermediate pricing, the Rival RS11V Evolution Sparring Gloves (or similar RS100 Professional models) are a game-changer. These feature a unique wrist support system and high-quality microfiber construction for exceptional durability. The layered foam padding absorbs shocks effectively, while the ergonomic true-fist design ensures a snug, comfortable fit that lasts through gruelling training. Rival has engineered these sparring gloves to excel in all aspects—support, comfort, and longevity—making them a perfect pick for boxers training regularly and looking to add precision to their kit.
For those willing to invest more in premium boxing equipment, the Hit N Move All Day Pro Balance Lace Up Gloves stand out. Made from high-grade grained cowhide leather, they incorporate Dr-T padding for optimal sparring and bag work, dart-like design for faster punch acceleration, and four-layer memory foam for ultimate shock absorption. These are built for all-day comfort and performance, ideal for serious trainers who demand elite craftsmanship. The lace-up system provides a customisable fit, helping you maintain focus during high-intensity sessions.
Why upgrade to these sparring gloves? Regular training demands boxing gloves that protect against repetitive strain, enhance your technique, and evolve with your skills. Having separate sparring and training gloves ensures your sparring partners are protected with fresh padding, while your training gloves take the brunt of bag and pad wear. Whether you’re on a budget or going premium, these picks ensure you train with confidence, reducing injury risks and maximising gains. Engineered for support, durability, and peak performance in every round.
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Pro-Level Boxers: Adding Elite Quality to Your Kit
If you’re a really serious boxer—training daily, competing frequently, or coaching others—your boxing gloves need to reflect that dedication. Pro-level sparring gloves and training options are about precision, superior materials, and features that give you an edge. These aren’t just tools; they’re extensions of your skill, designed for high-volume use where every detail matters. Expect top-tier leather, advanced padding systems, and designs tested by champions to withstand the rigours of pro preparation.
For those looking to elevate their boxing equipment, the Cleto Reyes Sparring Training Gloves (available in lace-up or Velcro) are legendary. Handmade in Mexico from a premium leather, they feature long-lasting latex foam padding that moulds to your hand for personalised protection. The water-repellent nylon lining keeps sweat at bay, while the extended cuff ensures rock-solid wrist stability. Trusted by pros worldwide, these sparring gloves are ideal for intense training camps, offering that authentic feel that helps you fine-tune your power and speed. As a coach, our founder swears by Cleto Reyes for their unmatched quality—they are the go-to for boxers chasing titles.
These pro-level boxing gloves prioritise longevity and performance, allowing you to push limits without compromise. The Cletes are perfect for adding quality to your kit, whether you’re sparring or just drilling on pads. Why choose them? Elite craftsmanship for championship-level durability and comfort.
Competition Gloves: Tailored for the Ring
When it comes to actual bouts, competition boxing gloves are a whole different beast. Pro gloves are lighter, more compact, and designed specifically for fights, with regulations in mind, Whilst Amateur Gloves have put the focus on shifting more of the padding to the front of the knuckle to keep the focus on skills rather than power.
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Amateur Competition Gloves
Amateur boxers, listen up: Your competition gloves need to meet strict standards like IBA or World Boxing approval for safety and fairness. While tournament officials typically provide gloves at ringside right before your bout (to ensure equality and check for tampering), it’s a very smart move to own a pair yourself. Why? Getting used to the unique feel, with them often seeming bulky and more padded than training gloves, using them during bout warm-ups or pad and bag work can boost your confidence ring. No surprises when it counts!
Top picks include the Sting Amateur Boxing Gloves (Competition Approved 2.0). These are regularly used in UK national championships, box cups and amateur events, offering precise fit and protection trusted for Olympic and Commonwealth Games. The Sting Amateur Boxing Gloves are made with durable materials and competition-approved padding, they help you perform at your best.
Similarly, the Adidas IBA Licensed Boxing Gloves are IBA-approved for amateur matches, featuring a premium genuine leather, one-piece injection mold for shock absorption, and a soft inner lining for comfort. Available in red or blue, they’re ideal for gaining that edge.
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Professional Competition Gloves
For pro boxers, the game changes—gloves are often provided by organisers before the bout to comply with rules, but sometimes agreements allow you to use your own (always check with the organisers). If using personal ones, you’ll need two pairs: one for the fight and a backup. Pros often prefer owning high-quality pro gloves for bag and pad work in the lead-up to a bout, simulating fight conditions without the wear on sparring gear.
Key: Professional boxing gloves are never suitable for sparring—their thinner padding and design prioritise power over protection, risking injury to you or your partner.
Standouts include the Rival RFX-Guerrero Pro Fight Gloves. Crafted from premium cowhide leather with quilted horsehair padding for raw power and low-density polyurethane foam for comfort, these are angled for a snug fit and maximum impact. Available in multiple colours, they’re a favourite for pros prepping for the big night.
The Cleto Reyes Traditional Professional Fight Gloves are iconic, handcrafted in Mexico with traditional horse hair and water-repellent lining. They’re built for elite fights, offering that classic feel champions love for pad sessions leading into bouts.
Power-packed for pro dominance, but reserve for competition prep only.
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Why Shop at Fight Gear?
At Fight Gear, we’re not just sellers—we’re boxers, coaches, and enthusiasts committed to your success. Our curated selection of boxing gloves, sparring gloves, and boxing equipment ensures you get premium gear that aligns with your passion. We stock only trusted brands, offer fast UK delivery, and provide expert advice to help you choose wisely.
Ready to find your perfect boxing gloves? Browse our full range of boxing equipment today and step into the ring equipped to win. Follow us on social media for training tips, gear reviews, and exclusive deals—let’s knock out your goals together!
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