12oz vs 16oz Boxing Gloves: A Helpful Comparison For Fighters

If you are a seasoned MMA fighter or an individual just getting your feet wet in the proverbial waters of boxing, it is crucial to understand boxing glove sizes. Choosing the right size for boxing gloves not only impacts comfort and punch power but also affects skill development in the long run. 

Although there is a wide lineup of sizes available, with 12 oz and 16oz taking a spot front and center among the athletes as they strike a balance between speed, protection, and endurance. Either glove size has dominant traits that come with a trade-off for other qualities.

Whether you are working with pads, smashing the heavy bags, or entering sparring rounds,  the size you put on influences how you perform and recover.   

Insufficient knowledge of these subtle differences can bemuse both amateur and seasoned fighters in choosing which glove size suits their journey. That is why we have crafted this extensive blogpost that finally settles the debate around 12oz vs 16oz boxing gloves.      

Understanding  Boxing Gloves Weight & Its Influence

In Australia, glove size is usually measured by its weight in ounces (oz), not inches as some tyros might think. An ounce contains 28 grams. The size of the glove pair influences the punch intensity, speed, endurance, and fatigue — factors contributing to an athlete’s performance during training sessions and real-world matches.

Light boxing gloves offer more speed and higher punching frequency, while offering a trade-off in terms of safety. The boxer, with light gloves on hands, is more prone to injuries during bagwork. 

Heavy boxing gloves, on the other hand, provide superior protection to knuckles, stabilise the wrist, while reducing the punch frequency. 

Understanding the Difference Between 12oz and 16oz Boxing Gloves.

1-12oz Boxing Gloves  

A type of glove pair that weighs 12 ounces, which means they weigh 338 grams.

These gloves are usually lightweight and suitable for training, pad work, and moderate bag work. Featuring a lighter composition, 12 oz gloves for padwork enable the MMA fighter to deliver swift punches at a higher frequency. However, their lower weight comes with a trade-off for safety, as they are outfitted with minimal padding that offers less protection for knuckles during high-intensity training rounds, leading to hand fatigue. If you want to amplify the safety quotient of 12oz gloves, it is better to complement them with hand wraps or thick padding.

Price Range of 12oz Boxing Gloves:

Their price range between AU $26.99 to AU $199, depending on the manufacturer and quality of leather used.

Ideal Usage: 

• Suitable for beginners or mid-level trainers

• Helps in improving punching speed, accuracy, and technique

• Support swift movement, making them ideal for cardio exercises

2- 16oz Boxing Gloves:

As their name suggests, 16oz boxing gloves feature a heavy construction, which makes them suitable for HIIT(High-intensity interval training), sparring, and heavy bagwork. The usage of high-quality synthetic leather in their construction impressively shields the knuckles and wrists of the MMA fighter, amplifying their endurance for long-term fights and training sessions. Besides high-quality leather, it is outfitted with thick padding, which stabilises wrist support and adds an extra layer of safety to the hand and knuckles. However, this bulky construction of 16oz gloves for sparring comes with a speed trade-off— the punching speed drops. 

Price Range:       

In Australia, 16 oz boxing gloves fall within the range of AU $169.99— $229.50.

Ideal Usage of Australia 16 oz boxing gloves: 

• Suitable for pro-level MMA fighters and boxers who often engage in high-intensity training

• Prevent injuries and hand fatigue during heavy bag work or sparring

• Help to improve stamina and endurance— the credit goes to their weight

• Support practising and sharpening skills that include complex punching and defense combinations with safety 

Gloves Weight Corresponding To Boxer’s Weight 

Just as the training or drill type governs the weight of the gloves, the boxer’s physique also dictates it. The heavier the weight of the boxer, the heavier the gloves would be.

12oz vs. 16oz Boxing Gloves: Side-by-Side Comparison

Just as choosing the right size of boxing gloves is crucial, selecting the right punching bag for training is equally important. Read the blog below to understand how to choose the perfect punching bag that amplifies your skill-sharpening efforts. 

Read More here:  How to Choose the Right Punching Bag For Training?

How To Choose the Right Glove Size?

Choosing the right glove size dictates how comfortable it feels during any training session or match, which also impacts your performance. Follow these steps to get the right fit that translates into better grip, powerful punches, and reduced injuries.

1- Measure Your Hand Circumference:

Wrap a tape around the fingers of your dominant hand below the knuckles for a precise account of glove size and internal volume. While measuring, it is crucial to add space for hand wraps.

2- Check Wrist Support and Closure System

Based on the size number obtained from the measurement, select the glove(may be 12oz or 16oz), put it on while locking it using the velcro strips. Ensure that the glove firmly rests on the hand without causing a restrictive feeling.

3- Perform a Grip test:  

A snug fit is identified by mimicking a closed fit. Do it and then evaluate the fit. 

4-  Assess Knuckle Alignment:

The knuckles should make decent contact with the internal padding for optimal impact absorption. 

Final Words:

Deciding on the right weight of boxing gloves is closely tied to fighting level and the type of training you engage in. If you’re a beginner who participates in moderate bagwork, 12oz boxing gloves are worth your consideration for offering speed, comfort, and control. On the other hand, if you have acquired an advanced level, and intense sparring is your kind of thing, then 16oz gloves earn a spot in your fight gear as they offer enhanced protection, stabilised wrist support, and increased endurance. 

Frequently Asked Questions About 12oz vs 16oz Boxing Gloves

Q1: Why use 16oz gloves for sparring?

Ans: 16oz gloves are used for sparring because their thicker padding reduces impact and helps protect both fighters. They offer better wrist and knuckle support during repeated contact. The added weight also encourages controlled punches, making sparring safer and more technical.

Q2: How to use the boxing glove weight chart?

Ans: To use a boxing glove weight chart, start by identifying your body weight and training purpose. Match your weight to the recommended glove size on the chart, then adjust based on whether you’re doing bag work, pads, or sparring.
When in doubt, choose the heavier option for better protection during training.

Q3: - Why use 16oz gloves for sparring?

Ans: 16oz gloves are used for sparring because their extra padding reduces impact and helps protect both fighters. They provide stronger wrist and knuckle support during repeated exchanges. The added weight also encourages controlled punches, making sparring safer and more technical.