SPARRING GLOVES: WHAT TO KNOW AND WHY?

IMAGE: TEAM USA'S FREDDY ROJAS IN THE 2018 STING SPORTS VIPER SPARRING GLOVES

Sparring is an important facet of the progression of a Boxer. When sparring, certain techniques are developed to evade, strike and counter-attack when in the ring Vs an opponent, so are there different gloves to use?

Boxers wear gloves to protect their hands and to minimise injury to you and your adversary. Just as training goes, different apparatuses require alterations to the equipment you use. So what is the sparring glove style of the boxing glove?

Sparring gloves are basically training gloves with a different mould and areas of padding. The different style in padding is slightly more cushioned than the typical training gloves to make impacts less sharp, ensuring that you are not hurting your opponent. The goal of sparring is not to knock out your opponent, but to develop skills and techniques.

Boxing gloves are designed to achieve a certain amount of compression. If the material of the gloves loses its capability to compress, then the gloves’ ability to reduce impact forces will be affected negatively. Boxing gloves must be highly durable and resistant to tears, scrapes, and high speed impacts. Leather gloves are your best bet due to its high durability and natural properties.

Sparring gloves are often available in a wide array of sizes and styles. A pair of 16 oz sparring gloves is commonly used to spar for its protective properties. The weight of gloves is determined by your body weight, thus the lighter you are, the smaller weighted gloves should be used. The heavier you weigh, the heavier the boxing gloves should be used yet always try on and feel what other gloves are like to ensure you're comfortable with your choice.

For beginners, it is recommended to use bigger gloves for safety reasons, as they offer more padding and protection. You can then gradually work your way down towards competition weights.

When choosing the perfect pair of sparring gloves,

1. Ensure a snug fit so that there is not much room inside for your hands to move around, thus reducing the risk of injuries.
2. Remember to leave room for hand wraps.
3. Opt for leather gloves as they are of higher quality and they last longer.
4. Always try on gloves before purchasing them.

It is crucial to take care of your boxing gloves to prolong their lifetime. Here are ways to maintain your gloves:

1. Always dry out your gloves completely after training. This will extend the lifespan of your gloves.
2. Store gloves in a cool, out of direct sunlight dry place because moisture destroys gloves at a faster pace. The leather will disintegrate much quicker and bacteria will thrive inside the gloves producing an unpleasant odor.
3. Use a leather conditioner to preserve the life of your gloves. This prevents the leather from cracking and tearing. You can do this once a week or once in every two weeks, to keep your gloves in tip top condition.