Introduction

Whether you are starting boxing, kickboxing, or Muay Thai, one thing is essential: choosing the right equipment.
Proper gear guarantees safety, comfort, and steady progress from your very first training sessions.

This guide from Fight & Shop explains how to choose your boxing equipment as a beginner, without confusion or mistakes.

1. How to Choose Boxing Gloves as a Beginner

Boxing gloves are the most important piece of equipment. Their job: protect your hands, wrists, and training partners.

1.1 Understanding Glove Sizes: What Are “oz”?

Boxing glove sizes are measured in ounces (oz).
The higher the oz number, the more padding the glove contains.

Ounces do not represent hand size — they indicate the amount of protection and the glove’s intended use.

⚖️ 1.2 Glove Sizes: What You Really Need to Know

There are two different logics when choosing glove sizes:

A — Official Federations (Competition Rules)

In many amateur federations (AIBA and national federations), glove sizes are predefined based on weight categories.

Typical example:

• 10 oz → lighter to middleweight categories

• 12 oz → heavier categories

For instance:

• Up to around 67–71 kg (147–156 lbs) → 10 oz gloves

• Above these categories → 12 oz gloves

Professional boxing follows its own rules (often 8 oz or 10 oz depending on weight class and event regulations).

B — Training in a Boxing Gym (Most Beginners)

Outside competitions, glove selection depends on:

• your body weight,

• the training type,

• the level of protection you want.

Here is a clear reference chart for beginners:

Fight & Shop Tip:
For most beginners, 12 oz (versatile) or 14 oz (more protective) is the safest choice.

2. Essential Protective Gear for Beginners

Even if you’re not sparring yet, boxing involves impact. Here’s what you absolutely need.

2.1 Hand Wraps

Hand wraps stabilize the joints and protect the knuckles.

Types:

• Cotton (non-stretch): firm support

• Elastic wraps: easier for beginners

Recommended length: 3.5–4.5 meters

2.2 Mouthguard

A must-have for partner drills and sparring.

• Single-layer: suitable for beginners

• Boil-and-bite (thermoformed): better fit & protection

2.3 Headgear

Recommended once you start sparring.

• Full-face: maximum protection

• Open-face: improved visibility

3. Choosing a Punching Bag for Home Training

Hanging Punching Bag

• Realistic feel

• Durable
  – Requires ceiling support

Free-standing Bag

• No installation required

• Ideal for beginners and cardio sessions
  – Less stable for heavy punches

Recommended weight for beginners: 30–40 kg

4. Clothing & Shoes: Comfort Boosts Technique

• Boxing shoes: improve stability, footwork, and prevent ankle injuries

• Breathable shorts: enhance mobility

• Moisture-wicking t-shirts: keep you comfortable

5. Beginner Equipment Budget

Conclusion

Choosing your boxing equipment wisely is essential for safety, comfort, and consistent progress. Whether your goal is fitness, technique, or future competition, prioritizing quality and protection ensures a better training experience.

Fight & Shop offers a curated selection of beginner-friendly boxing equipment, tested and approved by real combat sports practitioners.