Once you begin sparring or partner drills, finding the best mouthguards for beginner boxers becomes essential, as a mouthguard is one of the most important pieces of boxing gear you can own. It protects your teeth, jaw, and tongue from injury, giving you the confidence to train harder.
In this guide, we look at the best mouthguards for beginner boxers, what to look for when buying one, and a few trusted recommendations to get you started.
Why beginner boxers need a mouthguard?
Even in light sparring, punches can slip through your block or catch you in a slip and cause damage. A good mouthguard absorbs impact and spreads the force across your jaw, protecting your teeth and gums (NHS England Certified). Beginners often underestimate the importance of this until they take their first sparring session and realise how much of a difference a quality mouthguard makes. Finding an excellent starter mouthguard is key for new boxers.
Wearing a mouthguard also helps you stay relaxed and breathe naturally during training, something that is harder to do when you are worried about getting hit.
What to look for in the best mouthguards for beginner boxers?
When choosing the best mouthguard for boxing as a beginner, look for these key features. These factors are what separate the best mouthguards for beginner boxers from lower quality alternatives:
- Comfortable fit: It should sit securely without feeling too tight or bulky.
- Boil and bite design: Most beginner mouthguards can be softened in hot water and moulded to your teeth for a custom fit.
- Durability: Frequent sparring can quickly wear down inexpensive guards.
- Easy breathing: Some models have airflow channels to help you breathe while wearing them.
- Single or double layer: Single-layer guards are lighter, while double-layer ones offer extra protection.
Best mouthguards for beginner boxers
Below are three of the best mouthguards for beginner boxers that strike a balance between comfort, protection, and value for money.
1. Shock Doctor Gel Max Mouthguard
One of the most popular choices for beginners. The Shock Doctor Gel Max offers a secure gel-fit liner that moulds comfortably to your teeth. It also has breathing channels for better airflow during sparring or bag work, making it an excellent choice for novice boxers seeking the best mouthguards.
Pros:
- Great fit and comfort
- Durable materials for regular training
- Wide colour range
Cons:
- Slightly bulkier than some single-layer options
2. Opro Bronze Level Mouthguard
A British brand trusted by many clubs. The Opro Bronze is designed for beginners and general sports use. It features a simple boil-and-bite design and comes with a storage case, making it a suitable option for those new to boxing.
Pros:
- Affordable and reliable
- Easy to mould at home
- Trusted sports protection brand
Cons:
- Basic airflow design compared to higher-end models
3. RDX Gum Shield Mouthguard
RDX is well-known in the boxing gear industry, and their mouthguards are solid for the price. The RDX Gum Shield features dual-layer protection with gel fit technology for added comfort, ensuring optimal safety for those selecting their first protective gear.
Pros:
- Excellent value for beginners
- Strong jaw protection
- Available in adult and youth sizes
Cons:
- Slightly firmer fit that takes getting used to
Overall, each of these options is among the best mouthguards for beginner boxers who want reliable protection without overspending.
How to fit the best mouthguards for beginner boxers properly
Learning how to fit the best mouthguards for beginner boxers properly ensures comfort and protection during every training session.
- Boil water and let it cool for a few seconds.
- Submerge the mouthguard in the water for 10 to 20 seconds until it becomes soft.
- Place it in your mouth and bite down firmly while pressing against your teeth with your fingers.
- Hold for about 30 seconds, then place it in cold water to set the shape.
If it feels uncomfortable, repeat the process. Most boil-and-bite mouthguards can be reshaped once or twice.
Caring for your mouthguard
Proper cleaning helps the best mouthguards for beginner boxers last longer and stay fresh for sparring.
- Rinse it with cool water after every session.
- Use mild soap or mouthguard cleaning tablets weekly.
- Store it in a ventilated case to prevent bacteria build-up.
- Replace it every 6 to 12 months, or sooner if it loses shape.
Keeping your mouthguard clean ensures better hygiene and prolongs its lifespan. Paying attention to care will lead to owning one of the best mouthguards for beginners.
With regular cleaning and care, the best mouthguards for beginner boxers can easily last for months of consistent training.
Final thoughts on the best mouthguards for beginner boxers
A beginner boxing mouthguard is a small yet essential piece of boxing gear. It gives you confidence to train harder, protects your teeth, and helps you stay relaxed during sparring. For most beginners, a boil and bite model from a trusted brand like Shock Doctor, Opro, or RDX will do the job perfectly.
If you are still building your kit, check out our guide to the best boxing gloves for beginners to make sure you are fully protected before stepping into training.
