Last Updated on February 25, 2024
Boxing gloves are inevitable for boxers, whether pro or noob. They help to protect the knuckles and prevent damage to an opponent's skull.
If you must buy them...
I suppose you just do it right. Understandably, you won't be ready to shell out hundreds of dollars on a pair of boxing gloves...
Especially when you don't plan to train often. Or if you're just trying out sports or intend to use boxing as therapy.
For this reason, most beginners go for the cheapest option recommended.
I'll recommend some of the best starter boxing gloves that won't rip your pocket or rip apart after only a few fights.
Also, a brief guide at the end of the review explains a few things to know before buying boxing gloves.
Let's get to it…
Top Rated Beginner Boxing Glove Reviews
Best Beginner Boxing Gloves - Mid Range Options
1. Ring To Cage C-17 Japanese Style Boxing Gloves
Our Verdict: Overall Best Beginner Boxing Gloves
Ring To Cage is infamously known for cloning models of revered boxing gloves. And the reason they still do well is that they still have optimal quality.
But the key factor is that they are then made affordable to those who can't or don't plan to splurge on the real version.
The Ring To Cage C-17 is essentially a lookalike of Winning gloves. While they are not of the same quality, these gloves are better than many similar-priced gloves and even more expensive ones.
They have soft padding that's similar to the "pillows" on Winning gloves - of course, it's not as good as the real thing. Anyways, if you have old injuries or want to reduce stress on your knuckles, you'd love these gloves.
However, if you don't fancy big, puffy padding, you might want to look elsewhere.
They have an impressive leather exterior. You'd be hard-pressed to find a few other gloves of the same quality for their price.
Another impressive feature is that you can choose from lots of colors, unlike Winnings and most boxing brands. Although picking the stellar ones would cost you a few extra bucks.
At their price (lace version), it's a steal. But I'll suggest looking at higher-end brands if you can afford the Velcro version.
Pros
- Pillow-like cushion
- Great for sparring
- Soft hand compartment
- Plenty of daring color options
Cons
- Puffy padding
- Rough inner lining
Takeaway
The Ring To Cage Japanese 2.0 (C-17) gloves are great for sparring and folks looking for top-notch hand protection. They are incomparable with the cheap "beginner" gloves in sporting goods stores.
2. Ringside IMF Tech Boxing Gloves
Our Verdict: Best Beginner Gloves for Hand Protection
The Ringside IMF Tech are mid-range boxing gloves that would be perfect for most beginners.
"IMF" is the padding used in the gloves and it stands for Injected Mold Foam. It's known for its superb cushioning and hand protection.
This makes it a great choice for sparring, and relatively good for heavy bag workouts. Due to its soft texture, it doesn't give loud feedback when hitting the pad. Also, you won't feel the total impact of punches on your knuckle.
In short, if you're more of a hard puncher, these gloves might restrict you. But if you are geared towards hand protection, they'll work fine.
The leather is of notable quality and is quite soft. Again, still a far cry from Winnings or Reyes, but definitely a step up from most cheap gloves.
Also, it has a smaller profile. The gloves weigh almost the exact padding size and are narrower.
Order the 18oz gloves if you have exceptionally wide or long hands. I'll set 16oz as the standard for optimum fit and protection. But you may have to break in the gloves first to enjoy them.
Pros
- Good deal
- High-quality construction
- Snug-fitting gloves
- Soft padding
- Impressive wrist support
Cons
- Takes a bit longer than usual to dry
- Doesn't put a total impact on the knuckles
- Somewhat difficult to wear
Takeaway
These are one of the best protection gloves for beginners. They have plush padding and are designed to reduce the impact on the knuckles.
3. Fairtex BGV9 Training Boxing Gloves
Our Verdict: Most Versatile
Fairtex is a Thailand-based gear company that services mainly Muay Thai fighters. But they also make quality boxing gloves too and for a fair price compared to some American brands.
The BGV9 might be over the budget of many beginners but is of impressive quality. A bit similar and cheaper is the Fairtex BGV1 - another option for someone who loves the brand. But you may have issues with the hand compartment.
The BGV9 is handmade with fine and good quality leather. You may notice some differences if you buy two pairs or compare it with a friend's pair.
All in all, they are made to last. Also, the quality of finishing and colors in this model seems better than that of other Fairtex gloves.
They also have longer cuffs than most Thai gloves I've seen. This gives better wrist support if it's something you want. Also, the Velcro straps are easy to put on and can be removed quickly between sessions.
These gloves have dense padding that would hold up well to abuse. But this means they aren't the best for sparring.
Not to forget, the BGV9 has a compact profile, unlike traditional gloves.
Pros
- Good bang for the buck
- Quality leather material
- Clean stitching
- Plenty of vibrant colors to choose from
- Long cuffs
Cons
- Might be expensive for many beginners
- Not the best option for sparring
Takeaway
The Fairtex BGV9 gloves are perfect for any form of training. And you won't have to throw them out in a couple of months due to stink or wear.
4. Twins Special BGLL1 Boxing Gloves
Our Verdict: Best Quality
Twins are another reputable Thai brand that makes quality boxing gloves.
The BGLL1 is one of their well-known gloves and fairly popular among beginners as well.
BGLL1 is particularly known for its super soft padding. It gets even softer once broken in. Your sparring partner would love you if you spar with BGLL1s.
But you'll have to deal with their size. These gloves are huge, so I won't recommend them to a lady or a quick puncher.
Another thing is their colors - they are kind of loud. If you don't fancy that then you shouldn't pick bright colors, like orange.
These gloves have a snug-fitting hand compartment, like most Thai gloves. So you may have to stick to 16oz or higher if you have a large hand.
On the other hand, it's easy to open your hands or form a fist. This is why the BGLL1 is also popular in the Muay Thai scene where there's a lot of clinching and parrying action going on.
Pros
- Soft all-round padding
- Long-lasting leather
Cons
- Loose wrist for smaller hands
- Gigantic profile
Takeaway
If you want to start your boxing journey with quality gear and protection in mind, Twins Special BGLL1 would help keep your knuckles comfy.
Best Starter "Cheap" Boxing Gloves Category
5. Title Classic 2.0 Leather Training Gloves
Our Verdict: Best for Value
You don't need to be a pro to know Title is a renowned boxing gear company.
But you may not know most of their gloves are targeted at beginners. You'll have to pay a great deal of cash to get most of their high-end gloves (mostly overpriced).
However, the Title Classic 2.0 is easily the best boxing gloves under $50 you'd see anywhere. But you can be lucky to find the Ringside IMF on sale close to this price.
Worthy of mentioning is its standout leather. Its leather isn't the cheap "plasticky" type you'd see in most beginner gloves.
Also, its soft on a sparring opponent and would definitely last till you are ready to use top-quality gloves. Of course, the padding also comes into play.
It has decent padding that's not too dense and doesn't choke up the palm area. I'll suggest getting the 16oz size if you want the best protection.
On the downside, they are heavy. If you've used high-quality gloves of the same size, you'd notice the difference immediately. If not, you'll hardly notice, and just enjoy the gloves anyway.
Also, these gloves are known to have a tight fit, so they are best suited for folks with smaller hands.
Overall, the Title Classic 2.0 has a good deal of padding and support, and an unmatched affordable rate.
Pros
- Better quality leather
- Good bang for the buck
- Soft padding - works for sparring
Cons
- Color might bleed
Takeaway
At this price range, not many boxing gloves that have a better or close enough quality as the Title Classic 2.0 gloves.
6. Everlast Pro Style 12oz Boxing Gloves
Our Verdict: Best for First-Timers
The Everlast brand has been around for over a century. So it's no surprise they are usually among the first gear a beginner boxer would use.
The Everlast Pro Style is one of their many cheap beginner boxing gloves. You'll have to pay way more for any of their gloves with reasonable quality, of which you'd find better similar options.
That said, these gloves are intended for beginners who don't train often. For example, if you train only on the weekends or box as a form of rehab, you'll be fine.
I won't say much about their padding and overall texture. But these are one of those "cheap" gloves that can stink over time.
Funny enough, the Pro Style has full mesh palms that aid breathability and makes it dry fast. But the stink actually comes from the dye on the gloves.
Overall, a first-timer would appreciate these gloves. And it won't be a surprise if you spot another beginner wearing them in your gym.
Finally, keep in mind that these are 12oz gloves. I'd only recommend them to a small or short person.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Decent first buy for beginners
- Large sweat-wicking/breathable mesh palm
- Full wrist Velcro closure
- Popular choice
Cons
- Dye stinks over time
- Large hand compartment
- Won't last long under intense use
Takeaway
The Everlast Pro Style gloves are ideal for first-timers.
7. Venum Challenger 2.0 Boxing Gloves
Our Verdict: Best for Training
For the most part, Venum is a reputable MMA brand, but they also have plenty of affordable, quality, and stylish boxing gloves.
But most old-school or traditional boxers don't fancy them because they haven't earned the respect. However, I'll say they do make some quality gloves for beginners.
The Venum Challenger 2.0 challenges the Title Classic 2.0 as one of the best boxing gloves under 50 bucks I've seen. Only that it's most likely a clone of the Titles, but more stylish at least.
These gloves have synthetic leather but it's been known to withstand abuse. The stitching is flawless as well.
However, the padding is awfully dense. Not the type of gloves you would want to use for sparring. Well, unless you hate your sparring partner.
Also, they're relatively lightweight. By this, I mean they are true-to-size.
Important to mention is that they have an up to par wrist support. A beginner would also like the elastic-velcro combo. But it doesn't give fit tighter, and just a way to cut costs to offer an affordable product (IMO).
Pros
- Durable synthetic leather
- Good bang for the buck
- Perfect for heavy bag and mitt
- Satisfactory wrist support
- Striking designs
- Popular choice
Cons
- Voluminous hand compartment
- Cheaply stitched seams
Takeaway
The Venum Challenger 2.0 is one of the best training gloves you'd find in its price range. It's durable, protective, and aesthetically pleasing.
8. Title Pro Style Training Gloves 3.0
Our Verdict: Most Affordable
This is yet another Title glove in this and is sure worth it for beginners.
The best thing about the Title Pro Style gloves is that they're suitable for not only men but also women and kids.
Better yet, they are unimaginably cheap. You can also get these gloves for kids as a first pair. It would be better off than most "youth" gloves with abysmal quality.
However, you can tell at a glance they are cheap. They have a cheap synthetic leather exterior and weak stitching for a serious boxer.
The gloves are generally tight-fitting. The satin inner lining wicks also does a good job of wicking away sweat from the padding.
Pros
- Tremendously cheap
- Tight-fitting gloves
Cons
- Cheap construction
- May need breaking in for larger hands
Takeaway
For the price, you can't go wrong with these gloves. Even under intense use, which a beginner won't do, they last a couple of months.
9. Winning MS-600 Boxing Gloves
Our Noteworthy Mention
It's safe to say these are one of the greatest boxing gloves of all-time. You've probably heard stories or seen some pros or sophisticated in your gym wearing them.
And you wonder why on earth they'd be mentioned as beginner gloves?
Well, no rule says beginners must use cheap gloves to start boxing. If you can splurge on your first gloves or don't want to settle for low quality, you won't regret investing in a pair of Winnings.
Winning MS-600 Boxing Gloves can typically last 5-10 years under average use. You can almost feel the difference in quality compared to cheap gloves without touching them.
And there's their famed "pillow" padding. Winning MS600 gloves have a soft padding that absorbs the impact on punches almost completely. It's why they are popular among pro fighters.
The wrist support of the lacing system is phenomenal. Understandably, a beginner would prefer Velcro for convenience, but you'll have to pay a couple of bucks more.
Overall, these Winning gloves tick all the right boxes. Everything from a leather quality, breathability, thumbing, to their inner lining is top-notch.
Pros
- Long-lasting overall construction
- Perfect for sparring and bag work
- Supports folks with a history of hand injuries.
- Secure wrist support
Cons
- Pricey
- Not a hard puncher's type of gloves (soft padding)
Takeaway
This isn't a Winning commercial, but you'll have peace of mind knowing you have a pair of top-quality gloves that can last you a decade. And maybe even earn you respect or new friends in the gym. (prepare to live up to the name on your gloves).
Don't Forget To Buy Hand Wraps
Like I stressed earlier, protecting your hands is the ultimate goal. And using the best boxing gloves is only a part of the process.
You'll need to wear hand wraps before putting on gloves. Not only does it give you the necessary extra protection but also a snug fit in your gloves.
Let's not get started on professionals going all the way to use tape and gauze. Their career depends on it, ergo, protection by all means possible.
On another hand, want to age without serious injuries impeding your daily life - especially not one caused by carelessness or laziness to tie hand wraps.
What Glove Size Should You Pick?
As you may already know, boxing gloves are sized by the weight of their padding. And also that they usually vary between 8oz-18oz by increments of 2oz.
Most brands would use a sizing chart that's categorized into height and weight class. For instance, if you're below 120 pounds, you'll be asked to pick 12oz gloves.
But these are only approximations. You need adequate padding to keep your hands protected.
In my opinion, you should train with 16oz boxing gloves, regardless of your weight or height. Ladies can go lighter and use 14oz boxing gloves for women.
Whenever you're ready for serious fights or competitions, you can look for a pair of 8oz or 10 gloves to train in.
Lastly, some gloves are weighted to increase hand speed when you switch to lighter gloves. For example, these Ring To Cage Deluxe MIM gloves available in 34oz and 50oz.
How To Choose The Best Boxing Gloves For Beginners
Although most beginners won't get quality gloves right off the bat, you should be able to identify one.
Price
First, the price remains a key factor.
Beginners can escape it by using cheap $23-$60 gloves but not a serious fighter. It would deteriorate faster than you can think about it.
Synthetic Or Genuine Leather
Right from inception, boxing gloves have always had a leather exterior.
However, technological advancement allowed manufacturers the opportunity to cut costs using synthetic leather.
Generally, real leather looks better, feels better, lasts longer, and is more ventilated. Of course, it comes at a higher cost, which is why most beginner gloves have fake leather.
Despite this, some serious fighters have applauded Hayabusa's success with Vylar - a type of synthetic leather - in their T3 gloves. But it goes without saying that they'd be of last resort.
Here's a breakdown of real and fake leather gloves from Revgear:
Padding
I already made a detailed explanation of padding in this review of the best boxing gloves for serious fighters.
Basically, you need a pair of gloves with padding that suits your style of training. Most beginner gloves are more suited for heavy bags because of their dense padding.
If you're sparring, you'll want to go for gloves with soft padding. Using a dense pair of gloves (you or your opponent) feels worse than getting hit in the face with bare knuckles.
Wrist Strap (Lace-Up/Velcro)
The wrist strap wraps around your wrist to provide support while throwing punches.
For beginners, Velcro gloves seem to be the go-to option. You can use them without any needed assistance.
The lace-up gives better wrist support but is impractical for beginners. Not to mention only serious fighters can truly appreciate its extra protection.
Besides, many brands offer Velcro gloves that are up there with laces in terms of protection.
By the way, don't buy elastic Velcro gloves. It sounds like a better option, but its only a tactic some manufactures use in cutting production costs.
Final Thoughts
That's a wrap on the best boxing gloves for beginners.
Hopefully, you'll find a pair within your budget, and that suits your taste.
Undecided?
The Ring To Cage C-17 Japanese Style boxing gloves is my best gloves for beginners. They are long-lasting and great for use on the heavy bag and sparring.
There are also many budget options if you hope to start off with typical beginner gloves.
Which gloves are your favorite? Do you still have issues choosing good beginner gloves?