The 10 Best Boxing Gloves

If you're ready to take the next step toward some serious training, the Hayabusa T3 (about $130) are the best choice out there, made from quality leather that won't easily crack and providing better wrist support than lesser models, so you can practice every day without soreness.

If you appreciate the feel of real leather on your hands, the Venum Elite (around $78) are fully handmade and feature reinforced padding on the palms, so you won't get injured if you have to block a few shots from a challenging sparring partner.

Boxing is a heck of a workout, and you may find yourself sweating quite a bit. To combat that slick feel and stench, the Fairtex BGV14 (appx. $109) have 15 ventilation holes on each side for improved air circulation, so the whole house won't stink after every session.

You may get a few admiring glances at the gym with the Venum Impact (about $70), featuring a serpent design and the option of a gold pair. The Velcro straps allow you to easily put on and remove them yourself in case you can't find a friend after a few rough rounds in the ring.

For the price, Trideer Pro Grade (about $21) are a solid choice for men and women, whether you're attending your first boxing class or gearing up for a Muay Thai fight. The shock absorption of the foam helps prevent injuries, so you won't be sidelined.

The best way to improve hand speed is by using heavier gloves, and the 16-ounce Everlast PowerLock (appx. $45) add weight without being too bulky. The compact design means you can close your fist easily while working a heavy bag or practicing with a trainer.

For a different feel, check out the Anthem Athletics STORMBRINGER (about $59), made from buffalo leather and designed for Muay Thai training. The moisture-wicking lining should help you cut down on breaks when you're prepping for that first bout in the octagon.

If you're a tough person who values some flair in their training equipment, the Everlast Women's Pro Style (appx. $79) offer several color options and sizes as light as 8 ounces. The Thumb-Lok feature keeps your fingers in the proper position to help avoid injuries.

For those on the larger side, the Cleto Reyes Hook & Loop (about $179) offer the option of an 18-ounce pair, meaning you can pack a real wallop when practicing on a heavy bag. They also feature a water-repellent lining to keep your hands dry.

The brand name alone will draw a lot of beginners to the Everlast Pro Style (around $31), which are designed to conform to the natural shape of your fist to promote proper punching technique. The range of sizes ensures even smaller users can find a comfortable pair.