8 oz boxing gloves
8 oz boxing gloves are among the most commonly used models in professional fights and high-intensity technical training. Mainly chosen by experienced boxers and competitive athletes, this type of glove offers lightness, speed, and greater punching accuracy. Unlike heavier gloves, 8 oz gloves reduce cushioning, allowing a more direct and realistic contact with the opponent. In this guide, you'll find detailed information about their features, advantages, differences with other weights, and recommendations to choose the perfect pair according to your level and needs.
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What are 8 oz boxing gloves used for?
8 oz boxing gloves are mainly designed for official fights and speed training. Their smaller size and lightness allow the boxer to throw faster and more precise punches. These gloves are recommended in professional and amateur competitions where more realistic contact and less padding than heavier models are required.
Unlike 12 or 14 oz gloves, which are used for sparring or heavy bag training, 8 oz gloves prioritize mobility and aggressiveness in punch exchanges. For this reason, they are very popular in Olympic boxing, professional fights, and lighter weight divisions.
They are also used in other combat sports like muay thai or kickboxing, especially in high-level matches where precision and agility are crucial. However, they are not recommended for beginners, as they provide less protection for the hands and wrists.
Differences between 8 oz gloves and other weights
One of the main aspects to consider when choosing boxing gloves is the glove weight, measured in ounces (oz). 8 oz gloves stand out for their lightness, which provides a different experience compared to larger ones.
- 8 oz gloves: Smaller, lighter, and with less padding. Ideal for competitions and speed training.
- 10 oz gloves: Also used in competitions, but with slightly more protection, especially in higher weight categories.
- 12-14 oz gloves: Recommended for sparring and daily training, as they offer more cushioning and reduce the risk of injuries.
- 16 oz gloves: The heaviest, ideal for intense sparring and defensive work.
In summary, 8 oz gloves focus more on speed and competition, while heavier ones better protect the hands and training partner. The choice depends on the goal: training, competing, or both.
Advantages of 8 oz boxing gloves
8 oz boxing gloves offer several benefits that make them the preferred choice for professional boxers and competitors. Their main advantages include:
- Greater speed: Being lighter, they allow faster punches, improving technique and fluidity.
- Precision in punching: With less padding, impacts are more direct, making combat training more realistic.
- Hand mobility: Thanks to their compact design, they provide better control over movements.
- Ideal for competitions: They are the official gloves in many tournaments and professional fights.
However, it should be noted that these gloves offer less protection against repeated impacts, which may increase the risk of injury if used for sparring or long training sessions. That’s why they are usually reserved for fights and specific sessions.
Tips for choosing the best 8 oz gloves
When buying 8 oz boxing gloves it’s important to consider several factors beyond price. The right choice will impact both performance and safety. Here are some practical tips:
- Material: Genuine leather gloves are more resistant and durable, while synthetic leather or PU models are cheaper but less long-lasting.
- Closure: Velcro is more convenient for training and quick on/off use, while lace-up closure offers a tighter fit and is preferred in professional competitions.
- Brand and quality: Well-known brands like Everlast, Cleto Reyes, Venum, or Adidas guarantee safety and durability standards.
- Specific use: If you need them for competition, 8 oz gloves are suitable. For sparring or daily training, you should choose heavier gloves.
- Fit: They should feel snug but comfortable. Too tight may cause discomfort, and too loose increases the risk of injury.
Investing in quality gloves not only improves performance but also protects your hands and wrists, preventing long-term injuries. Before choosing, try on different models and consult your coach to make sure they are right for you.
Common mistakes when using 8 oz boxing gloves
Many beginner and even some advanced boxers make mistakes when using 8 oz gloves, which can affect both performance and safety. Here are the most frequent ones:
- Using them for sparring: This is one of the most common mistakes. 8 oz gloves have little padding and don’t provide adequate protection for you or your partner in training sessions.
- Not wrapping hands: Hand wraps are essential to prevent injuries to knuckles and wrists, especially when using lighter gloves.
- Choosing the wrong size: Although the weight is 8 oz, size may vary by brand. It’s important to choose the right fit.
- Overusing them: Since they are designed for competition, prolonged training use may cause premature wear and joint issues.
- Buying low-quality gloves: Choosing cheap models without certification or good reviews can be a mistake, as they don’t provide the necessary protection.
The key is to use the right gloves for each situation: 8 oz for fighting and more padded ones for training. Avoiding these mistakes will extend your gloves’ lifespan and protect your hands.
Frequently asked questions about 8 oz boxing gloves
Are 8 oz boxing gloves suitable for beginners?
No, 8 oz boxing gloves are not recommended for beginners. With less padding, they provide less protection against impacts, increasing the risk of hand and wrist injuries. Beginners should opt for 12 oz gloves or heavier for safe and progressive training.
What is the difference between 8 oz and 10 oz gloves?
The main difference is padding and weight. 8 oz gloves are lighter and more compact, ideal for lightweight divisions, while 10 oz gloves offer slightly more protection and are used in heavier categories. Both are used in competition, but 8 oz prioritize speed over protection.
Can I use 8 oz gloves for bag training?
It’s not the best option. Although you can hit the bag with 8 oz gloves, the low level of cushioning can damage your hands with prolonged use. For heavy bag or mitt work, 12 or 14 oz gloves are better, as they provide more protection without sacrificing too much mobility.
In which sports are 8 oz gloves used?
8 oz gloves are mainly used in professional and amateur boxing in official competitions. They can also be found in disciplines like muay thai or kickboxing, especially in professional matches where speed and realistic striking are sought. However, in training for these sports, heavier gloves are usually preferred.
Which brands make the best 8 oz gloves?
Some of the most recognized brands for 8 oz boxing gloves are Cleto Reyes, Everlast, Venum, Adidas, and Twins Special. These brands offer high-quality, durable models designed for competition. While cheaper options exist, investing in trusted brands ensures safety and performance in the ring.
What glove size should I use if I weigh under 60 kg?
If you weigh under 60 kg and compete in boxing, 8 oz gloves may be suitable depending on your federation’s rules. However, for bag training or sparring, it’s best to use 12 oz gloves to protect your hands and wrists while improving technique.
Do 8 oz gloves protect hands well?
8 oz gloves provide limited protection compared to heavier gloves. They are designed for competition, not prolonged training. While they protect enough in fights, their reduced padding means knuckles absorb more impact, increasing injury risk if not used properly with wraps.
How do I take care of my 8 oz gloves so they last longer?
To extend the lifespan of your 8 oz gloves, follow basic care: always use hand wraps to absorb sweat, air them out after each use to avoid bad odors, wipe them regularly with a damp cloth, and never store them in closed, humid places. You can also use sports glove deodorizers to keep them fresh and bacteria-free.