Kids Boxing Gloves Size Guide
- Nick Woodcock
- Apr 12
- 6 min read
Kids Boxing Gloves Size Guide (2026) – Why Size, Safety & Hand Wraps Matter
If your child is starting boxing, choosing the right glove size is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The wrong size can lead to discomfort, poor technique, and even injury. In this guide: Kids Boxing Gloves Size Guide, we’ll break down kids boxing gloves sizing, why it matters, and how to keep your child safe while helping them enjoy the sport.
Kids Boxing Gloves Size Guide
Boxing gloves for kids are typically measured in ounces (oz). The size doesn’t just refer to weight—it also impacts padding and protection.
Looking for kids boxing gloves kids boxing gear
General Kids Boxing Gloves Size Chart
6 oz gloves – Ages 5–8 (beginner training, pad work)
8 oz gloves – Ages 8–11 (most common size for kids)
10 oz gloves – Ages 11–14 (larger kids or advanced training)
12 oz gloves - Ages 14+ (larger kids may need small adults gloves)
Tip: If your child is between sizes, always go slightly bigger for better protection and room for hand wraps.
Why Proper Glove Size Is So Important
Choosing the correct size isn’t just about comfort—it directly affects:
Safety: Proper padding protects hands and wrists
Technique: Better form and punching mechanics
Confidence: Kids perform better when gear fits correctly
Injury prevention: Reduces risk of sprains or fractures
Using gloves that are too small can lead to hand injuries, while oversized gloves may cause poor punching habits.
Boxing Safety for Kids (It’s Safer Than You Think)
A lot of parents worry about boxing—but when done correctly, it’s a highly controlled and safe sport.
Here’s why:
Training focuses on pads, bags, and drills, not full contact
Coaches emphasize discipline and technique
Protective gear (gloves, wraps, mouthguards, headguards) reduces risk
Builds awareness of control, not aggression
In fact, kids boxing is often safer than sports like football or rugby when properly supervised.
Why Kids Should Start Boxing
Boxing offers incredible physical and mental benefits:
Improves fitness – strength, cardio, coordination
Builds confidence – kids feel stronger and more capable
Teaches discipline – respect, focus, and consistency
Boosts mental health – great for stress relief and self-esteem
Encourages goal setting – progress is easy to track
It’s not just about fighting—it’s about personal development.
Importance of boxing hand wraps
Hand wraps are just as important as gloves.
Benefits of Hand Wraps:
Protect knuckles and small bones
Stabilise the wrist
Reduce impact from punches
Extend the life of gloves (less sweat inside)
Traditional vs Gel Hand Wraps
While traditional wraps are effective, many parents and kids prefer:
Get some kids gel hand wraps here Gel Slip-On Hand Wraps
Why they’re better for kids:
Quick and easy to put on (no wrapping skills needed)
Consistent protection every time
Less hassle before training
Perfect for beginners
If convenience matters (and it usually does), gel wraps are a game changer for young boxers.
Extra Tips for Choosing Kids Boxing Gloves
To get the best results:
Choose Velcro straps for easy use
Look for breathable materials to reduce sweat
Ensure a snug fit (not too tight)
Always try gloves with wraps on
Invest in quality brands for durability and protection
Step 1: Measure Hand Circumference
This is the most accurate way to size kids boxing gloves.
How to do it:
Ask your child to open their hand flat
Wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of the hand (just below the knuckles)
Do NOT include the thumb
Record the measurement in cm or inches
This gives you the true hand size, which is key for a snug fit.
Step 2: Check Your Child’s Weight
Boxing gloves are sized in ounces (oz), and weight plays a big role in choosing the correct padding level.
Use this as a general guide:
Under 20kg → 4oz gloves
20–30kg → 6oz gloves
30–40kg → 8oz gloves
40kg+ → 10oz gloves
If your child is between weights, go slightly heavier for better protection.
Step 3: Match Measurements to Glove Size
Now combine both measurements:
Small hands + lower weight → 4oz–6oz
Average hands + mid weight → 6oz–8oz
Larger hands or older kids → 8oz–10oz
Important: Always leave a little room for hand wraps, especially if you’re using gel wraps.
Step 4: Check the Fit (This Is Where Most People Go Wrong)
When the gloves arrive, test them properly:
A good fit should feel:
Snug but not tight
Fingers reaching near the top (not squashed)
Secure around the wrist
Comfortable with wraps on
Red flags:
Too tight = restricts movement and circulation
Too loose = poor protection and unstable punches
Step 5: Factor in Growth
Kids grow fast—so think ahead.
Smart tip:
If your child is close to the next size up, size up slightly
But don’t oversize too much—it can affect technique
Bonus: Measuring With Hand Wraps
Always measure and fit gloves with wraps in mind.
If you’re using:
Traditional wraps → allow extra space
Gel slip-on wraps → easier sizing, more consistent fit
This is one reason many parents prefer gel wraps—they simplify sizing and reduce guesswork.
Don't forget to check out our Boxing Hub for so much more beginners boxing info including training programmes, how to start boxing, boxing rules and so much more! DBT Apparel Blog – Beginner Boxing Tips, Gear Guides & Training Advice UK
Kids Boxing Gloves Size Guide FAQ
Choosing the right glove size for children is essential for comfort, safety, and confidence when training. The correct size helps protect growing hands and wrists while making boxing more enjoyable and easier to learn.
What size boxing gloves should kids use?
Kids’ boxing glove size depends mainly on age, hand size, and training intensity. A simple beginner guide is:
Age 5–8: 6oz boxing gloves
Age 8–11: 8oz boxing gloves
Age 11–14: 10oz boxing gloves
Age 14+: 12oz boxing gloves
Why is glove size important for kids?
Correct glove sizing helps:
Protect growing bones and joints
Reduce risk of injury
Improve comfort during training
Support better punching technique
Build confidence when learning boxing
Are 6oz boxing gloves good for young children?
Yes. 6oz gloves are ideal for ages 5–8 because they are lightweight, easier to move in, and suitable for learning basic boxing movements and coordination.
Are 8oz boxing gloves good for kids aged 8–11?
Yes. 8oz gloves offer a great balance of protection and mobility for children in this age group, making them ideal for beginner punch bag work and fitness boxing.
Are 10oz boxing gloves suitable for teenagers?
Yes. 10oz gloves are commonly used for ages 11–14. They provide extra padding for increased power and more structured training sessions.
What about 12oz boxing gloves for older kids?
12oz gloves are suitable for ages 14+ and beginners transitioning into adult training. They offer more protection and are often used for general training and punch bag work.
Should kids use heavier boxing gloves for more protection?
Not always. While heavier gloves offer more padding, the correct fit for age and size is more important. Gloves that are too heavy can make training difficult and affect technique.
Do kids need different gloves for punch bag training?
Most kids can use the same gloves for general training and punch bag work. However, proper padding and wrist support are essential for safety.
Should kids wear hand wraps with boxing gloves?
Yes. Hand wraps are recommended for older children and teenagers to provide extra wrist and knuckle support, especially during punch bag training.
Can kids use adult boxing gloves?
It is not recommended. Adult gloves are often too large and heavy for children, which can affect technique and increase the risk of injury.
How tight should kids’ boxing gloves fit?
Gloves should fit snugly but comfortably, allowing enough room for hand wraps if used. Hands should not move excessively inside the glove.
How do I know if my child needs a bigger glove size?
Signs include:
Tight or uncomfortable fit
Difficulty making a fist
Lack of wrist support
Complaints of discomfort during training
Can kids grow out of boxing gloves quickly?
Yes. Children grow quickly, so it’s normal to upgrade glove size every 1–2 years depending on growth and training frequency.
What is the best boxing glove size for beginners?
The best beginner glove size depends on age, but following the age-based guide ensures the right balance of safety, comfort, and performance.
Are lighter boxing gloves safer for kids?
Lighter gloves are easier for children to use, but safety comes from proper fit, quality padding, and correct supervision rather than weight alone.
What is the most important thing when choosing kids boxing gloves?
The most important factors are:
Proper size for age
Good wrist support
Comfortable fit
Quality padding
Safe training environment
Should kids use boxing gloves for fitness training?
Yes. Kids boxing gloves are commonly used for fitness, coordination, and basic skill development in a fun and structured way.
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