Kickboxing gloves vs. boxing gloves: these are the differences

In our store we hear this question regularly: what exactly is the difference between kickboxing gloves and 'regular' boxing gloves? There is a difference, but it's not as big as you might think. Kickboxing gloves usually have a little less padding on the knuckles, while boxing gloves have thicker, softer padding. That said, both types can be used perfectly well for both boxing and kickboxing. That's why you'll find them together on one page in our range.

Find your new boxing gloves now

Boxing gloves: what size do you need?

Not every boxing glove is the same, however. They differ in size, which is expressed in oz. The size you need depends on your body weight, the size of your hands, whether you use hand wraps or inner gloves, and the type of training you do. On average, the following glove sizes are recommended per body weight:

• Up to 50 kg: 8 oz
• 50–60 kg: 10 oz
• 60–75 kg: 12 oz
• 75–85 kg: 14 oz
• 85–110 kg: 16 oz
• 110 kg and above: 18 oz

Want to know exactly which size suits you best? Read our earlier blog: 'Which boxing gloves do I need?'

Material choice: which is better — kickboxing gloves in leather, synthetic leather or microfibre?

If you're about to buy boxing gloves, you might be wondering which material suits you best. We completely understand. Not all gloves are the same, and the right material makes quite a difference to your comfort, performance and of course the lifespan of the product. Our range includes boxing gloves in leather, synthetic leather (PU) and microfibre. But which ones best suit your unique situation? In general, we recommend the following:

For beginners: kickboxing gloves in synthetic leather

If you've just started boxing or train no more than once a week, gloves made from PU are probably more than sufficient. They're easy to clean, kind on your wallet and require very little maintenance.

For dedicated athletes: kickboxing gloves in leather

Do you train multiple times a week and want your gloves to mould to the shape of your hand? Then leather boxing gloves are a great choice. Leather adapts, sits comfortably and allows your hands to breathe better than synthetic materials. As a result, your gloves feel less clammy after an intensive training session.

Pleasantly supple yet very strong: kickboxing gloves in microfibre

If you're looking for a slightly more affordable option than leather but still train intensively, our microfibre boxing gloves are a smart choice. This material is stronger than standard PU, breathes better and feels comfortable during training. Microfibre gloves are easy to maintain and often last longer than synthetic alternatives. You'll pay more for them than for PU gloves, but in return you get a combination of durability and wearing comfort.

Are there differences between kickboxing gloves for women and men?

Whether you're a man or a woman, when choosing boxing gloves it's not about gender but about fit. Women do often have smaller hands, which means a smaller size usually fits better. That's why it's important to always try on the gloves you have in mind before buying them, so you don't end up at home with the wrong size. Come visit us at our store in Houten. There you can try on the gloves yourself, feel the material and weight, and get direct advice from one of our martial arts specialists. Want to make sure you step into the ring with the right gloves? We'd love to see you in store.