Top Features to Look for in Women’s Boxing Gloves

The boxing ring requires more than just grit and determination. It demands the right gear.

You might be tempted to go for the flashiest pair or the ones with the highest ratings, but there’s more to consider. For women stepping into the ring, the choice of boxing gloves involves finding the perfect blend of protection, comfort, and performance.

In this blog, we cover the top five features to consider when choosing women’s boxing gloves. These five features are what truly sets a pair of gloves apart.

1. Material

 

The outer material of your boxing gloves is the first line of defense against impact. This material also affects durability, comfort, and breathability. Boxing gloves are mainly made of leather or synthetic material.

Each of these materials has its advantages and advantages. Leather gloves are known for their longevity and luxurious feel, but they can be more expensive. Synthetic materials, such as microfiber or vinyl, are often more affordable.

Here is a comparison table of the different materials used in boxing gloves.

Feature	Leather Boxing Gloves	Synthetic Boxing Gloves
Durability	Highly durable, tend to last longer	Less durable, may wear out faster
Comfort	Generally more comfortable, conforms to hand shape	May feel stiffer and less flexible
Breathability	More breathable, helps with moisture management	Less breathable, may lead to sweaty hands
Maintenance	Requires regular maintenance (cleaning and conditioning)	Easier to clean and maintain
Price	Generally pricier	More affordable
Aesthetics	Often has a premium look and feel	Available in a wider range of designs and colors
Performance	Preferred by professional and serious boxers for better fit and feel	Suitable for beginners and casual users

 

So when choosing your boxing gloves, keep in mind:

• Skill/training needs: Leather gloves are preferred by professionals and frequent boxers due to their durability and comfort. Synthetic gloves are a good choice for beginners and occasional boxers.
• Budget: If you have a generous budget, then go for quality and durable leather gloves. Opt for affordable synthetic gloves if you are on a budget. But with the synthetic ones, you’ll be sacrificing some degree of quality in return for the affordability.
• Maintenance: Leather gloves require more upkeep to maintain their quality, whereas synthetic gloves are generally easier to care for.

Selection Tip: Look for gloves with breathable mesh panels or perforations to keep your hands cool and dry during intense workouts.

 

2. Padding and Padding Material

The padding is responsible for absorbing shock from punches and thus protecting your hands.

Boxing gloves should have enough padding around the knuckles and wrist. So get gloves with multi-layered foam or gel padding that can absorb shock effectively.

There are three main types of padding used in boxing gloves.

1. Gel padding: Tends to offer better shock absorption, with a soft, cushiony feel that conforms to the shape of your hand. This material is particularly effective at dispersing the impact of punches, reducing the risk of bruising and hand fatigue. Gel padding is often used in higher-end gloves or those designed specifically for sparring.
2. Foam padding: More common and suitable for most training needs. It balances protection and responsiveness, allowing you to maintain a solid fist shape while still being an excellent shock absorber.
3. Horsehair padding: Horsehair padding is a lesser common material and is characteristic of traditional boxing gloves. It is made from the hair of horses and is known for its unique firmness, breathability, and a longer break-in period.

When selecting gloves based on padding material, consider the type of training you'll be doing and your personal preferences.

Gel padding is ideal for sparring and heavy bag work, while foam padding, especially closed-cell or memory foam, is suitable for a wide range of training activities.

Remember to choose gloves with enough padding to protect your hands without compromising dexterity or responsiveness.

Note: The type and amount of padding vary depending on whether the gloves are intended for bag work, mitt work, or sparring.

 

3. Closure System

 

Your gloves are on, but are they really on? Not really. You need to secure your women's boxing gloves on your wrist using your gloves’ closure system.

The type of closure affects the fit and support of the gloves. There are two main types of closure systems used on boxing gloves. Velcro and Lace-up closures.

• Hook and loop/Velcro: Velcro closures are the most common type found in training boxing gloves. They allow for quick and easy on-and-off access without needing assistance.

This closure provides wrist support and a highly customized fit. It’s also ideal for beginners and those who train alone.

However, over time and with heavy use, the Velcro may loosen, which can affect the glove's fit during high-intensity sessions.

• Lace-ups: These are typically used in professional boxing and competition settings. They provide a customizable fit and wrist support as they can be tightened to the desired level. They are less likely to loosen during intense sessions.

However, lace-up gloves require assistance to put on and take off, as the laces must be tied by someone else, making them unsuitable for solo training sessions.

The lacing up can also be time-consuming for the trainee.

When buying your women’s boxing gloves, choose those with Velcro straps or laces, that allow you to adjust the fit around your wrist.

A good closure system provides adjustable support, helping to prevent wrist injuries and ensuring a snug, comfortable fit.

4. Size and Weight

Getting the right glove fit is like finding the perfect pair of jeans - not too tight, not too loose, and just right for your body.

Women's boxing gloves are typically designed for smaller hands, providing a snug fit that helps prevent injuries. Boxing glove sizes are typically measured in ounces (oz).

The right size boxing gloves depend on the size of your hands, the type of training, and preferences. Common sizes for women’s boxing gloves range from 8 oz to 16 oz.

The hand compartment part of the glove should also provide a snug fit without being too tight. It should have enough space for your hand to move freely without feeling cramped. The thumb should also be securely positioned to prevent injuries.

Properly fitting gloves are important for:

• Preventing injuries caused by misalignment during impact
• Improving performance by enhancing speed and agility
• Enhancing comfort by reducing discomfort and fatigue allows boxers to train longer without the distraction of slipping or pinching.

Below is an illustration of how to measure your hand size plus and the corresponding glove sizes for hybrid gloves by Tussle Gear.

Read More: Women Boxing Gloves Size Guide By Cary Williams

 

5. Wrist Support

A strong wrist is important for every boxer, and your women’s boxing gloves should support it. Boxing gloves with wrist support prevent wrist injuries and provide stability during punches.

Look for these key features in gloves for maximum wrist support:

• Cuff length: The cuff is the part that wraps around your wrist. Look for gloves with cuffs or straps that extend past the wrist joint. This feature helps to keep the wrist in a neutral position and distributes the impact of punches evenly across the hand and wrist.

Shorter cuffs provide more flexibility but less support.

• Strapping: The wrist strap should be secure and adjustable to fit your wrist comfortably. Velcro straps are quick and easy, while lace-up options offer a more customized fit.
• Padding: Some gloves offer extra padding around the wrist area for protection.

Expert Tip: Always wrap your hands with boxing hand wraps under your boxing gloves for extra protection and wrist support.

 

Boxing Gloves: The Key to Safe and Effective Boxing Training

 

When you find the perfect gloves that fit like a second skin with all the above qualities, you’ll be comfortable and confident.

Looking for all the top qualities of boxing gloves in one pair? Tussle Gear has you covered!

AT Tussle, we offer a range of women’s boxing gloves that seamlessly blend durability, comfort, and style. Our boxing gloves are designed with the female boxer in mind, providing the support and protection you need to train confidently.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned fighter, Tussle Gear’s gloves are crafted to help you perform at your best, ensuring that every punch you throw is backed by quality you can trust.