What Gear Do I Need to Start Boxing?

What Gear Do I Need to Start Boxing?

Starting boxing doesn't mean you need to gear up like you’re heading into a title fight. But showing up with the right essentials? That’s how you train smart and stay safe.

Whether you're stepping into your first class at Undisputed Boxing or hitting the bag at home, here’s the gear every beginner boxer should have.

Boxing Gloves

This is your first major purchase — and for good reason. A solid pair of gloves protects your hands and wrists from injury while you train on the bag, pads, or mitts. Don’t cheap out. You want gloves with good wrist support and quality padding.

Start with:

• 12oz or 14oz gloves for general training

• 16oz gloves if you’re a bigger athlete or doing more sparring-style drills (non-contact, of course)

  
  

Hand Wraps

Boxers wrap their hands for a reason — to prevent injury and keep everything in place when you're throwing heat. Hand wraps support your knuckles, wrists, and small bones in your hands. Learn to wrap them right, or go with gel wraps for convenience.

We recommend 180-inch wraps for full support.

Skipping Rope

This isn’t just warm-up gear — it’s footwork and cardio in one. Every boxer skips rope. It builds endurance, foot speed, and coordination. Bonus: it’s affordable and portable.

Look for a speed rope or weighted rope depending on your goal.

Mouthguard (Even If You’re Not Sparring)

Even in non-contact boxing classes, you might be doing drills where you clench your jaw or push intensity. A simple mouthguard helps prevent grinding or accidental knocks if you’re training hard with a partner.

If you’re thinking about sparring down the road, it’s a must.

Running Shoes or Trainers (Not Just Boxing Shoes)

You don’t need fancy boxing boots on day one. A pair of lightweight, supportive training shoes with a flat sole will get the job done. If you’re serious about footwork, boxing shoes are great — but they’re not essential for your first class.

Athletic Wear

You don’t need to dress like a pro. Just wear something you can move in:

• Breathable, fitted shirts or tanks

• Shorts that won’t ride up when you move or squat

• Compression gear is a bonus if you want extra support

  
  

Optional But Awesome Add-Ons

Once you’re in the flow, you might want to add:

• A gym bag to stash your gear

• A water bottle that actually keeps things cold

• Personal jump rope or quick wraps

• Small towel — because you're gonna sweat

  
  

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The Undisputed Approach

At Undisputed Boxing, we keep it real. We don’t expect you to come in fully loaded with pro-level gear. Show up with gloves, wraps, and the right mindset — and we’ll meet you there.

We’ve got boxing classes for beginners in Calgary and Strathmore, full of people just like you: ready to work, learn, and grow. Need help picking out gear? Our coaches are always down to guide you.

Come train with us. First class is free.