Starting out in boxing? The right gloves make a big difference – not just in comfort, but in protection, confidence, and performance. Whether you’re hitting the bag, training with a coach, or sparring lightly, this guide will help you choose the best boxing gloves for beginners in 2025.
Checkout our comparison on lace up vs velcro boxing gloves for beginners!
What to Look for in Beginner Boxing Gloves
Before jumping into the top picks for the best boxing gloves for beginners, here’s what matters most: selecting gloves that suit your needs and protect you effectively.
- Comfort & Fit – Gloves should feel snug but not tight
- Padding – Good shock absorption protects your knuckles and wrists
- Ease of Use – Velcro (hook & loop) is easiest to take on and off
- Durability – Cheap gloves wear out quickly and may lead to injury
- Purpose – Are you training on the bag, doing mitts, or sparring?
Bonus tip: Always pair gloves with quality hand wraps to stay protected.
1. Everlast Powerlock 2 Training Gloves
Great all-rounder for beginners on a budget, definitely among the best boxing gloves to consider.
- Pros:
Solid wrist support
Comfortable fit right out of the box
Reliable hook-and-loop strap - Cons:
Outer material can wear faster than premium gloves
Padding is further back on the glove, making it slightly worse for sparring (in my opinion)
“Having bought them for a competition, I find them very reliable and great all rounders. Wouldn’t use them in sparring much as the padding is behind the glove and I am weary of hurting my opponents. But overall great training glove!”
Everlast Powerlock 2 Training Gloves
2. Venum Contender 2.0 Boxing Gloves
Stylish, reliable, and a good choice of boxing glove for a beginner to intermediary boxer. Among beginners, these gloves are often recommended.
- Pros:
Multi-density foam offers good knuckle protection
Breathable palm helps reduce sweat buildup
Sleek design with many colour options - Cons:
Slightly stiff at first; requires break-in
A little bit expensive for beginner gloves
Venum Contender 2.0 Boxing Gloves
3. Everlast 1910 Classic Training Gloves (Best for Sparring)
Ideal for beginners who plan to spar regularly are searching for their first boxing gloves.
- Pros:
Great wrist and thumb protection
Roomier fit for those with larger hands or wraps
Ventilation features for breathability - Cons:
Bulky feel for smaller hands
Pricier than general training gloves
“Great padding and fit for almost all hands, price is very worth what you get. Best sparring gloves for beginners who don’t want to cause large amounts of damage and want ample padding for blocks”
Everlast 1910 Classic Training Gloves
4. Sanabul Essential Gel Boxing Gloves (Budget Option)
Affordable and great for casual or fitness-focused beginners. Those looking for the best boxing gloves for beginners often come across this glove.
While they can be worthwhile, I believe investing a bit more money to increase the longevity of the gloves goes a long way.
- Pros:
Very affordable
Gel padding is forgiving on knuckles
Easy to use and lightweight - Cons:
Not ideal for sparring
Stitching may loosen with heavy use
Sanabul Essential Gel Boxing Gloves
FAQs for Beginner Boxing Gloves
Q: What size gloves should I get as a beginner?
A: Most beginners do well with 12oz–16oz gloves. Check out our Boxing Glove Size Guide for help.
Q: Can I use the same gloves for sparring and bag work?
A: It’s best to keep sparring gloves separate, but many beginners start with one pair until they’re more experienced.
Q: Do I need to wear hand wraps?
A: Yes – they protect your wrists and help your gloves last longer. Read our full Hand Wraps Guide.
Quick Tips to Make Your Gloves Last
- Air them out after every session
- Use hand wraps to reduce sweat absorption
- Wipe them down with a clean cloth post-workout
- Never leave them in your gym bag overnight
Final Thoughts
Choosing your first pair of gloves can feel overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to be. Hopefully this guide has given you some options to consider when choosing the best boxing gloves for beginners in 2025. Stick with a reliable pair that fits well, offers decent protection, and suits your training goals. As your experience grows, you’ll get a feel for what you like when exploring different beginner gloves options.
📌 Still unsure? Start with the Everlast Powerlock 2s or Venum Contenders – both offer excellent value for beginner boxers.
