When it comes to boxing gloves, the weight plays a crucial role in determining the intensity of your training and the level of protection for both you and your sparring partner. Among the various weight options available, 14oz and 16oz gloves are popular choices for training sessions and sparring matches.
This is because the added weight in the boxing gloves provides more padding, making a safer boxing glove for contact in sparring. Also, training with heavier gloves, not only makes a tougher workout, but will also increase hand speed when you swap to a lighter competition glove.
In this article, we will delve into the differences between these two glove weights to help you make an informed decision based on your specific training requirements.
14oz vs 16oz Boxing Gloves: Which Ones To Choose?
Weight Considerations:
- 14oz Boxing Gloves:
- Lightweight: 14oz gloves are lighter compared to their counterparts, making them suitable for speed and agility-focused training sessions.
- Ideal for Pad Work: These gloves are well-suited for pad work and bag drills, allowing boxers to maintain quick movements without sacrificing protection.
- Less Impact: Due to their lighter weight, 14oz gloves may offer less impact absorption, making them less suitable for heavy sparring sessions where protection is paramount.
- 16oz Boxing Gloves:
- Increased Protection: With additional padding and weight, 16oz gloves offer enhanced protection for both the wearer and the sparring partner during intense training sessions.
- Suitable for Sparring: The extra padding makes 16oz gloves ideal for sparring, where minimizing the risk of injury is crucial.
- Slower Speed: The added weight may slightly decrease the speed and agility of movements during training, but this trade-off is often worth it for the added protection.
Training Scenarios:
- Technical Training: For technical drills, footwork exercises, and speed-focused training, 14oz boxing gloves provide the agility and freedom of movement needed to execute precise techniques.
- Sparring Sessions: When engaging in sparring sessions, especially with heavier opponents, 16oz gloves offer superior protection for both parties involved, reducing the risk of injuries from powerful punches. However, women may opt for 14oz boxing gloves for sparring as they are slightly lighter than 16oz.
- Bag and Pad Work: Both 14oz and 16oz gloves are suitable for bag work and pad drills. However, if you prioritize speed and agility, 14oz gloves might be more preferable, while 16oz gloves provide added cushioning for heavy bag workouts.
Final Considerations:
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the choice between 14oz and 16oz gloves depends on your personal preferences, training goals, and the intensity of your workouts.
- Club and Competition Requirements: In many boxing clubs, there may be specific sizes for regarding the weight of gloves allowed for training and sparring, so it’s essential to consider these guidelines as well.
In conclusion, both 14oz and 16oz boxing gloves have their distinct advantages and are suited for different training scenarios. Whether you prioritize speed and agility or prioritize protection and impact absorption, selecting the right glove weight is essential for optimizing your training experience and achieving your fitness goals.
Just remember, before you decide which size to choose, check with your boxing gym, to make sure the size is correct for their club.