Boxing gloves are measured in ounces, and higher ounces refer to greater padding. More padding is necessary for more intense training methods for protection. We’ve put together our favorite 16 oz. gloves that offer great protection for sparring and punch bag practice. Safety is a very important consideration in choosing boxing gloves and here are ones you should try for your training!
Best 16 oz. Boxing Gloves
Here are our top picks, considering not only the quality of the glove but also the price:
#1 Venum Elite Boxing Gloves (Our Top Pick)
What Should You Look For in 16 oz Boxing Gloves?
Boxing gloves vary based on what you need them for. Gloves for bag training tend to be lighter to “feel” the punches a boxer throws. Sparring gloves require the most padding and protection as you come in contact with other athletes. Competition gloves are the lightest, especially for professional boxers. There is more even distribution throughout the glove for increased control.
16 oz gloves are usually used for sparring. They are big enough to protect both ur opponent when punching and you when you use them to block. If you weight more than 165 lbs or you are a hard puncher you definitely should use 16 oz gloves.
When choosing a 16 oz glove, you should consider:
- Thumb protection: A pair of good gloves will keep your thumb tight.
- Material: Gloves are typically found in vinyl and leather. Vinyl is the less expensive option while leather lasts for much longer and is of higher quality. The decision comes down to investment versus easy purchase.
- Closure: Lace or Velcro? Lace-up gloves are much tighter and more secure, but they do require someone to help you tie them. Velcro is easy to take on and off, but they may not provide as much stability. For non-pro boxers, velcro gloves are the better choice.
#1 Venum Elite Boxing Gloves (Our Top Pick)
Venum Elite gloves are made of semi leather, making them durable for long periods of use (click here to see them on Amazon.com). With strategically placed seaming and mesh, these gloves have been designed to maximize comfort. These gloves are handmade in Thailand and use triple density foam to protect both yourself and your partner in sparring.
Coming in many color options, the design of the glove itself is attractive to boxers. This is a major draw for users when comparing them to gloves with similar protective qualities. The leather holds up well over time and just needs a little time to be broken in for maximum comfort and control. You will love these gloves if you care about unique design as well as quality in both stitching and leather durability.
What We Like
- Attached thumb design used to eliminate injury risks
- Use of mesh aids in thermal regulation and to minimize odor
- Among the highest quality and most comfortable in the boxing glove industry
What We Don’t
- Velcro strap provides less security and tightness than lace gloves
- Strong hand protection but could improve with greater wrist strength
#2 Winning Training Boxing Gloves (Premium Pick)
We’ll start with Winning boxing gloves because they boast excellent quality and protection. They have been a market leader in boxing gloves for their performance as well as comfort. This Japanese brand is known for making the most comfortable boxing gloves available. This is helpful for many hours spent practicing in the ring without fatigue or discomfort. Winning gloves are used amongst pro boxers as well as amateurs, proving their successful use for all levels of boxing.
These specific training gloves are well-suited for both sparring and bag work. These gloves are offered in both a lace and Velcro version, with the lace being much more popular for its greater support.
These gloves are also preferred among boxers with hand injuries or sensitivities because of their maximum comfort. Many boxing gloves do not provide enough protection and result in chronic injuries over time, but you don’t have to worry about that with these! These gloves are some of the highest quality which makes them quite expensive (you can check their price on Amazon.com).
What We Like
- Among the highest quality and padding on the market for great protection
- Ergonomic construction for easy use and movement
- Quality leather allows these gloves to last for an extended time
What We Don’t
- These gloves are some of the most expensive available (pay for the quality)
- Hand size matters: maybe too big or small and require more or less padding to fit properly
- These are Lace-up gloves – non-beginner-friendly
#3 Cleto Reyes Hook and Loop Training Gloves
These gloves on Amazon.com separate themselves from the rest with their fastening technology. Using a hook and loop closure system gives you more wrist control and mobility, depending on your preferences. This has been tested by the brand to ensure customer satisfaction and high performance. They also come in a variety of colors and styles, appealing to almost anyone’s tastes.
You’ll be happy with this glove if you are looking for high-quality material with an attached thumb and latex foam padding for increased protection. These gloves are handmade in Mexico and are a favorite among boxers of all levels for their unique technology. These straps are much easier to manipulate during training to adjust the tightness.
What We Like
- The glove technology has undergone strict quality control testing for performance and functionality
- Hook and loop technology allows for quick on and off capabilities
- Made of goatskin leather for long-lasting durability and reduced sweating
What We Don’t
- Take longer to break in than most gloves and can be stiff
- Customers have difficulty with the fit and recommend trying them on before purchase or use
#4 Ring to Cage C-17 Boxing Gloves
This glove is deemed one of the best for beginners but its price is significant (you can check it on Amazon.com). The quality and comfort of these gloves are far superior to any in their price range and even rivals some slightly more expensive gloves. You should consider this glove for both bag work and sparring training. They come in lace and Velcro varieties and offer a variety of colors (45 different ones!) depending on preference.
This design looks similar to the Winning brand and tries to replicate its comfort and functionality. For a glove that is less than half the price, it is able to accomplish this. The company has built upon its previous model to provide greater padding and thicker lining for increased comfort. This is one of the best value gloves with superior quality and design at an affordable price.
What We Like
- Emphasis on improved technology and quality in this model
What We Don’t
- Not a good choice for those with sensitive or injured hands due to protection
- Less expensive gloves do sacrifice leather quality and overall support compared to top-line products
#5 Hayabusa T3 Boxing Gloves
This is the best model in the Hayabusa line for their all-around quality and durability (click here to see it on Amazon.com). While recommended for pads and bag work, they will hold up in almost all training environments. With a 5-layer padding configuration, these gloves are not bulky and easy to maneuver in. This padding also makes energy absorption better to increase performance and comfort without fatigue.
These gloves fit tighter than most, which will have an impact on a boxer depending on preference. This glove is used and preferred by all levels, from professional to beginner. If you are looking for a glove that will last you a long time, check out this Hayabusa model.
What We Like
- Exceptional wrist support compared to many competitors with dual strap closure
- Little to no break-in period for immediate high-intensity training with comfort
- Antibacterial fabric lining eliminates odors and keeps your gloves cleaner
What We Don’t
- Should be specifically used for boxing as they are not as well-suited for Muay Thai
- It works for all training environments but could be slightly softer for sparring
#6 Title Gel World Elastic Training Gloves
Padding. Padding. Padding. If you are looking for support, Title is your glove. Best for intense bag and sparring training, these gloves are high quality and professional-grade. With strong leather and lots of padding, you’ll notice that these gloves are incredibly durable and prevent hand and wrist pain.
Having no pain after intense and continued use is a major perk among gloves for long-lasting sport. Title Boxing has built a reputation for professionalism and exceptional quality and they prove that with their Title Gel World Elastic Training Gloves on Amazon.com.
Paying a little more for quality gloves that you will not have to replace is worth it. It’s hard to put a price on the health of your hands, especially if you box frequently. These gloves will give you an extended boxing life without pain that typically occurs for experienced boxers. Try these gloves for a pain-free experience with their gel technology.
What We Like
- Almost zero knuckle or wrist pain with the toughest bags and most intense training
- Extremely durable leather and stitching for lasting use
What We Don’t
- Limited range of colors and designs, little customization
- Tend to feel heavier than 16 oz. gloves, making it challenging for training speed
#7 Twins Special Boxing Gloves
Specially designed for Muay Thai boxing, these gloves (click here to check them on Amazon.com) cross over well to sparring and heavy bag training with their extra protection of your hands and wrists. These gloves are best for lighter sparring and can handle bag work, but some users may find it slightly more uncomfortable over extended use. Strong wrist support provides stability and prevents bruising. Gel padding increases comfort and offers more protection for the user.
Genuine leather makes these gloves very durable with intricate stitching that will allow these gloves to last you a long time. While they tend to fit snuggly, their padding provides people with comfort, and they have been called “fist pillows” for their extra cushion. Practicing Muay Thai or not, these gloves serve their purpose in heavy-duty protection.
What We Like
- Great quality at an attractive price point
- Tight fit for increased stability and control in glove
- High-quality materials translate to long-lasting durability and continued use
What We Don’t
- Designed for Muay Thai makes them more specific toward one style of boxing than other offerings
- May take a little time to break in for comfortable and efficient training
#8 Sanabul Essential Gel Boxing Training Gloves (best glove for the money)
A much more budget-friendly option that many of the top gloves, this Sanabul glove gives you the protection and snug fit of a professional glove at an affordable price (check it on Amazon.com). These gloves are designed for hard-hitting, making them perfect for intense training. You’ll be able to work through the heaviest of bags with the proper support and protection.
The use of leather makes these gloves last longer, allowing you to work through rounds and rounds without wear on the gloves. The gel technology in the gloves lets you hit hard without pain from your power. You should try these gloves if you are new to boxing and want a glove that provides great support and is going to last you through the toughest of workouts.
What We Like
- Hook and loop closure system is easy to take on and off but also increases security during training
- Easy to break in gloves for great workouts from the start
- Tested by professional boxers to confirm quality and performance in training for beginners
What We Don’t
- Consumers feel that the snug nature of the glove can be too snug with the use of hand wraps
- Not preferred among experienced and professional boxers for frequent training use
#9 Fairtex Muay Thai Style Training Sparring Gloves
The old-school style and variety of colors definitely catch your eye with the Fairtex Training Gloves (see them on Amazon.com). With a durable Velcro strap, these are easy to take on and off, perfect for training sessions. If you are looking for a tight-fitting and versatile glove, check out the Fairtex. Used for kickboxing, Muay Thai style boxing, and traditional boxing, this is a great all-purpose training glove.
With ample wrist support and quality stitching on leather, users like the durable feel where they feel like they’re getting enough protection. Sitting at an affordable price point for quality gloves, we recommend these for boxers who enjoy cross-training and versatility for other variations on the sport.
What We Like
- Consumers enjoy incredible customer service when problems arise with their gloves
- Last up to two years without problems, a long life for intense boxing styles
What We Don’t
- Ventilation could be improved to regulate temperature and control odor
- Padding may wear down after extended use, making snug fit much looser
#10 Everlast Pro Style Training Gloves
Everlast offers a product line that is much more affordable than the top of the line brands. The brand has a long history in boxing for its consistent performance. The Everlast Pro gloves are a great option if you are a sparring or boxing beginner (check their price on Amazon.com). While this may not compete in padding or leather quality compared to the other gloves mentioned throughout this article, Everlast has a reputation for consistent performance in the industry.
These gloves are good for beginners who not need as much padding and do not hit as hard yet. If you want to jump into light sparring, these are a great option for your skill level and price range. For the price point, we put them on our list for quality and value.
What We Like
- Synthetic leather and clean stitching increases durability for longer use
- Affordable price point for those looking to get into boxing
- Mesh and antimicrobial technology minimize sweating and odor problems
What We Don’t
- Not suited for boxers with experience who will need greater protection for harder hitting
- Less padding and simpler quality than premium boxing gloves for sparring and bags
Final Recommendation
We’ve laid out many options for your boxing glove needs, but which one is the best? Well, it depends on what you’re looking for.
1. If you want the absolute best glove that will last you a long time, save up and invest in the Winning Training Glove. This is by far the most expensive on our list but also one of the absolute best 16 oz. boxing gloves available today. Instead of buying inexpensive gloves that may lead to injuries or need replacement after little use, opt for a glove that lasts and protects.
2. If you aren’t willing to put that kind of money into a glove but still want premier quality, go with the Venum Elite Boxing Gloves. This is by far the best value gloves for the quality they bring. It is a great option for beginners as well as experienced fighters for comfort and quality material. With many options in the boxing glove market, remember that you only get one pair of hands.
3. And finally, if you are on a budget but still want to get a decent glove I recommend the Sanabul Essential Gel Boxing Gloves it’s not the best glove for more experienced boxers who train very frequently but if you are just starting it’s fine.
If you want to make boxing a lifelong hobby and live day to day without pain, think of the quality you want to put into a well-designed and padded glove.
