Glove Talk: 12oz or 14oz? What Boxers Actually Use (and What Ali Wore)

Hey fighters — whether you're new to boxing or just glove-curious, we get it:
There are way too many glove sizes, types, and opinions out there.

So, we’re answering some of the most common questions we get at KENFIT — real talk, no fluff. If you’ve ever wondered “Should I get 12 or 14 oz gloves?” or “Can I spar with 10 oz gloves?” — this post is for you.

Let’s break it down. 👇

🧤 Should I Get 12oz or 14oz Gloves?

This depends on what you’re doing in training:

• 12oz gloves are usually used for bag work or pad work. They’re lighter, so you’ll feel faster and get more feedback on your punches. Great for speed and endurance drills.
• 14oz gloves offer more padding and are a common choice for general training — especially if you’re mixing in some light sparring or just want more hand protection.

💡 If you’re around 130–160 lbs, training a few times a week, 14oz is a safe all-around choice.

👊 What Gloves Do Most Boxers Wear?

Most amateur and pro boxers train in 14oz–16oz gloves. Why? Because more padding means better protection — for your hands and your sparring partner.

But for actual fights, pros typically wear 8oz or 10oz gloves, depending on their weight class and sanctioning rules.

At KENFIT, we recommend 12oz for bag work, 14oz–16oz for sparring and training, and 10oz or less only for competition — not everyday use.

🥇 What Kind of Gloves Did Muhammad Ali Use?

Ali fought in the era of horsehair gloves, often Cleto Reyes or Everlast — brands known for their minimalist padding and puncher’s feel. These gloves were lighter, harder, and had less hand protection than modern foam-padded gloves.

Translation? They stung.

Today’s gloves (like KENFIT’s) offer modern foam layering, wrist support, and durability — making training safer, smarter, and a lot easier on your knuckles.

🛡️ Is Boxing Safer with Gloves?

Yes and no.

• Gloves reduce superficial injuries (cuts, broken hands, facial trauma).
• But they also allow boxers to punch harder for longer, which can still lead to head trauma over time.

That said, gloves are absolutely essential for training — especially for protecting your own hands. The key to safety?
➡️ Good gloves + proper technique + smart sparring.

💥 Do 14oz Gloves Hit Harder?

Not really.

Heavier gloves (like 14oz or 16oz) don’t increase punching power — they just weigh more. That means slightly more impact mass, but mostly, they help slow your punches down in training so you don’t hurt your partner or yourself.

If anything, 14oz gloves feel heavier, which is great for conditioning — but you’ll likely hit harder with 10oz gloves simply because they’re lighter and faster.

🥊 Can I Spar with 10oz Gloves?

Short answer: Not recommended.

10oz gloves are made for competition, not sparring. They're too small and don't offer enough padding to protect either you or your partner.

Most gyms (including ours) require 14oz–16oz gloves for sparring, sometimes more depending on your weight. If you try to spar with 10s, don’t be surprised if your coach gives you “the look.”

🧠 Final Thoughts

Choosing the right glove isn’t just about weight — it’s about purpose.
Here’s the cheat sheet:

At KENFIT, we believe your gloves should fit your style, your goals, and your level. If you're unsure, start with 14oz — it’s the most versatile and safe choice for most beginners and intermediates.

Still have questions? Drop us a message or visit our sizing guide — we’ve got your back (and your hands).

👊
– Team KENFIT