Boxing is fun and beneficial for people of every age, especially kids. They can harness their endless energy into a sport that’s interactive and engaging while also learning self-control and discipline.
However, as a parent, it may feel overwhelming knowing where to start when it comes to gear. This guide explains kids boxing glove sizing, padding, and other essentials in choosing the best age-appropriate training gear.
The goal is to keep kids safe and comfortable as they embark on their new boxing experience, and keep them motivated to stick with it for the long term.
Kids Boxing Gloves: What Parents Should Consider
Smaller hands require smaller boxing gloves, but with the same protective qualities as adult-sized gloves. Factors parents should keep in mind when choosing the proper fit include:
Age & Size
Youth boxing gloves range from 4oz to 12oz, and the sizing largely depends on the age of the child. A typical guide to follow is:
- Ages 4–6 → 4oz
- Ages 7–9 → 6oz
- Ages 10–12 → 8oz
- Teens → 10–12oz
It’s best to take hand measurements to correspond with the boxing gloves size guide, since kids can experience growth spurts at any age, which may bump them up to the next size.
The boxing glove fit should feel snug without restricting movement, with the wrist straps securely fastened to prevent shifting when punching.
Safety Padding
Durable padding is essential to protect young hands and wrists as they learn punch techniques and proper boxing form.
Hayabusa’s Kids Boxing Gloves are designed with the ultimate in support and protection in mind, with superior knuckle coverage from multi-layered foam technology.
Wrist Support
Additionally, specific design details, such as premium wrist support from a Dual-X wrist strap plus 4x Fusion Splinting, as found with the T3 Kids Boxing Gloves, ensures proper alignment and reduces injury risk.
Training Readiness
Though kids can begin boxing training at an early age, determine training readiness by evaluating a child’s basic hand-eye coordination skills and their ability to follow instructions.
Also, seek out family-friendly gym environments with classes or training sessions designed for kids, and start with beginner boxing gloves to support young first-timers.
Essential Gear Breakdown
Helping kids get started on their boxing journey is relatively simple. All they need is a patient instructor, a good attitude, and ample wrist and knuckle protection.
1. Gloves
Finding the right boxing gloves is first and foremost for safety during punch sequences during bag work and eventual partner sparring drills.
The best boxing gloves for kids include the T3 Kids Boxing Gloves, as well as:
E1 Kids Boxing Gloves
Cloud-like padding and dual-splinted wrist support are the main features of these kid-friendly favorites.
The E1 Kids Boxing Gloves are designed to empower young fighters by delivering a secure, comfortable fit that allows them to hone their skills for everyday training.
Other design features, such as a versatile stretch wrist strap and soft inner lining, further lend themselves to the customized fit that gives kids confidence, as they look and feel the part of a champion fighter.
S4 Youth Boxing Gloves
The S4 Youth Boxing Gloves are designed for all training types, including bag work, mitt drills, and various martial arts classes.
The splinted wrist support and injection-molded foam protection doubles up on protection for the wrists and knuckles to prevent injury and promote comfort.
Additionally, the PU-engineered leather exterior and ergonomic fit deliver highly durable construction to withstand session after session without breaking down.
Marvel’s Youth Boxing Gloves
Nothing is more thrilling for kids than when they can embody their most admired superheroes in fighter form.
Whether it’s the confidence of Captain America, the clever tactics of Deadpool, or the commanding presence of Thanos, the vibrant design and recognizable symbols of each fan favorite give Marvel-loving youth an extra sense of empowerment and encouragement to stay consistent with their training.
2. Hand Wraps
In addition to boxing gloves, soft, stretchy hand wraps add another layer of protection and create wrist stability to maintain alignment for comfort and safety.
3. Headgear
As kids move beyond basic bag drills and include sparring as part of their training regimen, headgear protects the cheeks and jaw from direct contact.
How to Maintain Kids Boxing Gear
Boxing is an effective cardio workout and teaches resilience in young fighters. However, it’s also a combat sport that focuses on respect, which can extend to how kids care for the gear.
By following a few simple steps, it’s easy for them to keep everything clean, fresh, and ready to go when it’s time for the next session.
- Wipe down glove exterior - Boxing instructors will share cleaning tips with youngsters about how to wipe down heavy bags, boxing mitts, and boxing gloves to keep gear clean and bacteria-free. A quick wipe down with a microfiber cloth is typically all that’s needed post training.
- Air out gloves - Encourage kids to hang or store their gloves in the same temperature-regulated space whenever their training session or class is over. This helps to prevent odor buildup and keeps the condition of the gloves in good shape.
- Keep hand wraps clean - Additionally, hand wraps can easily build up bacteria and odor from lingering sweat. Machine wash on the cold setting with like colors in a wash bag to keep the ends from tangling and materials from breaking down.
- Store gear in a gym bag - Keep all gear and kids' boxing equipment in one place and ready to go for the next session. Hayabusa Gym Bags are available in various sizes and made with individual pockets and zippers to keep gear, snacks, water bottles, and any other essentials neatly stowed.
Marvel's Youth Captain America Boxing Gloves
Hayabusa S4 Youth Boxing Gloves
Hayabusa E1 Kids Boxing Gloves
Hayabusa T3 Kids Boxing Gloves
Other Boxing Apparel and Gear to Consider
Youth Fight Shorts
The light, breathable feel of the fight short material leads to long-lasting comfort that can help wick away sweat and keep shorts from bunching up.
Additionally, a secure waistband secures shorts in place during quick movements, and side slits promote agility when learning kicks.
Combat Youth Mouth Guard
A customizable mouth guard adds protection for the teeth and gums as kids advance in their training and are in closer contact with opponents.
Get Kids Started on Their Boxing Journey with the Right Gear
Equipping kids with proper gear ensures safety and boosts confidence for young athletes. With the right protective equipment and learning environment, they can be well on their way to boxing greatness.
Look for age-appropriate sizing to ensure the right fit. Focus on the safety features of gear and equipment used. And always consider training readiness to see which level your child is ready for and what they need to succeed.
Whether they’re interested in training for a few seasons or extend their love for the sport for a lifetime, you’ll know you started their journey off right by providing them with the best kids boxing equipment and gear.
