What Do Boxers Wear in a Fight: A Complete Guide to Boxing Gear
We love to focus on every move of the boxers, whether the attack or defence, how they throw their punches or duck from being hit. But have you wondered what sets the base for boxers to fight seamlessly in the ring? When the bells ring and the lights dim, the real fighter knows that success is hidden beyond the moves. It is also about what do boxers wear while training or in the final ring.
This blog is written to specifically discuss the details of what boxers wear, how they wear it and what are the absolute essentials to flawlessly train for the best results.
Let’s start with a little boxing equipment list then we will move on to explaining the needs and specifications of each.
Boxing Gloves
The most fundamental equipment which is used in boxing is the boxing gloves. The gloves serve the purpose of protecting the knuckles of the fighter as well as the opponent. For competitive fighters, Olympic boxing gloves are used to provide safety and security, particularly for those fighters intending to participate in the Olympics. These gloves have more padding to reduce the occasion of getting a punch without feeling peaceful while landing a punch. Boxers also have to consider the type of glove to use, one-piece boxing gloves offer better support and protection while two-piece offer better flexibility.
Learn how to take care of your boxing gloves: how to clean boxing gloves
Boxing Shorts
The next important thing in the boxing gear list is boxing shorts, these shorts are to be relatively free-flowing so that the fighter is not hampered when in combat. It can be as simple as trousers or as artistic as jeans but there’s a usual tendency to wear them above the knee so as to have ample space to play and not restricted.
Most boxers prefer shorts that are satin-finished, not only for their professional appearance but also for their ability to wick away moisture. A commonly asked question about boxing gear is what do boxers wear under their shorts? Many boxers prefer wearing tightfitting supportive athletic briefs or trunks which avoid irritation to the sensitive male parts during movements.
Boxing Shoes
Why do boxers wear shoes? The answer is simple: boxing shoes provide essential support, traction, and flexibility. These specialized shoes are lightweight and designed with a non-slip sole to help boxers maintain their footing while executing quick movements. In the ring, boxers do wear shoes for enhanced stability and mobility.
When selecting boxing shoes, fighters often choose a style that covers the ankle for additional support. High-tops are popular among boxers, helping to prevent injuries while moving in and out of striking range.
Headgear
When it comes to boxing safety equipment, headgear plays a crucial role, particularly in amateur and training bouts. Olympic boxing headgear is designed to absorb impact and protect the face and head without impairing vision. But in professional fights, boxers typically do not wear headgear.
Read more about headgear and its use in the current era: Is Headgear Still Used In Boxing?
Hand Wraps
One often-overlooked piece of boxing gear is the hand wrap. What equipment do you need for boxing? Hand wraps are essential for protecting the bones and ligaments of the hands and wrists. They are typically made of cotton or stretchy material, providing a snug fit that stabilizes the hand within the glove. Boxers may wonder, do boxers wear cups? While male boxers typically wear cups for groin protection, it varies for female fighters.
Curious about why boxers wrap their hands? Read here: why do boxers wrap their hands
Protective Gear
Apart from hand wraps and headgear boxers are allowed to use other protective gear like groin protectors. Female boxers usually wear a female boxing outfit that is usually a supportive sports bra and some women wear cups also. This leads to the question do female fighters wear cups? The answer is yes; many female fighters will add them into their training wear for additional safeguard during sparring and when in competition. On the other hand, men have to wear an abdominal groin guard to avoid harm to the genital area.
Accessories and Other Equipment
When considering what to wear to a boxing match, it's essential to remember additional accessories like mouthguards, which protect the teeth and gums during fights. These are crucial for safety and are often required by boxing regulations. A complete boxing gear list would also include items like punching bags for training, which help boxers hone their skills and improve their power and accuracy.
IN SUMMARY
The right gear is vital for any boxer, whether amateur or professional. From boxing gloves to shorts, shoes, and protective equipment, every piece of gear is designed to enhance performance and ensure safety. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the sport, it’s important to invest in quality boxing gear.
Explore Sting Sports' collection to find the best boxing equipment online, including Olympic boxing gloves, headgear, and everything else you need to gear up for your next fight.