Are you a trainee or professional boxer and unsure whether your boxing gloves need a replacement or not? If your answer is yes, then continue reading.
Most boxers must have asked this question at some point, so we decided to research to prepare this guide to provide the answer. We found that the lifespan of a boxing glove depends on several factors, including its craftsmanship and construction. Also, it depends on your training type and duration, plus how you maintain them.
While purchasing a pair of boxing gloves, paying attention to the above factors is essential, so you’ll need to replace them a lot less in the future. Also, there are ways through which you can increase the longevity of your boxing gloves, which we’ll discuss in this guide.
So, let’s look at when you should replace boxing gloves!
How Long Does A Boxing Glove Generally Last?
A standard boxing glove typically lasts about 1-2 years. So, you can expect to get a new one after 1-2 years of boxing. However, its longevity depends on several factors, as discussed above. So, a high-quality glove can last up to 3 years, primarily if you treat it with utmost care.
Signs That Your Boxing Gloves Need Replacing
1. Torn Material
If there’s any wear and tear on the material, you should immediately consider changing your pair of gloves. Any material tear exposes the glove padding, and this synthetic or leather material might harm your opponent’s face during a fight. They can suffer from a minor cut or multiple facial injuries.
2. Bad Smell From Gloves
If your boxing gloves emit a relatively consistent foul odour or smell, it’s time to replace them with a new ones. Boxing gloves and training gear are made of leather, so eventually, they will get smelly, no matter how much you take care of them. And as the odour remains trapped inside these gloves, replacing them with a new pair is better.
3. Worn Down Velcro
Many boxing gloves use velcro straps to stay firm, but they lose their “stickiness” when used regularly for prolonged periods. As a result, gloves lose their grip on your hand, which may be inconvenient during training or combat, where a tight glove ensures optimal wrist support. So, if the velcro of your gloves has worn down, consider replacing them with new ones.
4. Foam Breaking Down
In most situations, the breakdown of internal foam is the primary reason behind the tearing down of the boxing gloves. If the gloves have developed bubbles, cracks, or folds, or if your knuckles are exposed, you should get some knuckle accessories or buy a new pair.
5. Lose Fitting
If you need massive hand wrappings or your gloves don’t fit as they used to, it’s time to replace them. Loose-fitting gloves increase the risks of uncertain injuries, some of which may end your boxing career, which you want to avoid at all costs.
How To Increase The Lifespan Of Your Gloves?
1. Using Natural Cleaning Spray
After the end of a training session or a boxing bout, it’s important to thoroughly wipe your boxing gloves and clean them nicely using a natural cleaning spray. And there are several options available on the market to choose from.
Squirt the cleaner on a soft cotton cloth and gently clean the outside of your glove. Once done, use a towel to remove excess spray on the glove. Since you’re eliminating any germs deposited on gloves, the material is preserved through this process.
2. Drying The Gloves Using A Dryer
Once you’ve used a natural cleaner to clean the outside, place them under a fan or air dryer to dry them from the inside. Air dryers are more suitable in this respect, as they quickly dry your gloves, keep them odour-free and maintain their natural shape. Also, any moisture deposited on the interior or exterior surface gets absorbed, thereby preventing the build-up of any germs.
3. Store Them In A Cool And Dry Place
As your gloves are cleaned inside and outside, do not just throw them in the gym bag. Instead, try storing them in a dry and cool place. This way, you prevent moisture from depositing on the gloves, potentially increasing their lifetime.
4. Purchase High-Quality Gloves
You must purchase high-quality premium gloves if you’re a professional boxer who needs to train regularly. Remember that the greater the glove quality, the longer they will last and the more you will box with them.
An expensive glove is typically made of high-quality synthetics or leather and is less prone to being torn quickly. While many high-cost options last long, they don’t deliver the same wrist support and protection level. So, always try your gloves before purchasing, as this will help you determine the grip and the comfort on offer.
Time To Upgrade Your Boxing Gloves?
We hope this guide answers when your boxing gloves need replacement. The tips we outlined on how to take care of them will enhance their overall longevity and usefulness.
If you’re a professional boxer, consider purchasing premium-quality options for yourself. Remember that quality comes ahead of cost, and spending some extra to grab a quality glove that lasts long is viable.
Apart from that, many cleaning agencies provide professional cleaning services, so you can consider having your gloves cleaned. They might charge some extra bucks, but it’s worth it.
Are you ready to replace your gloves? MMA Factory offers a wide variety of boxing gloves and equipment for people of all ages and experiences. Don’t hesitate to contact our team anytime if you need assistance purchasing new gloves.
On that note, it’s a wrap on when to replace boxing gloves! We will see you another day, so till then, take care and goodbye!
