9 Best Boxing Shoes (2024) – For Beginners and Pros

Are you struggling to decide which boxing shoes to buy for your boxing training or upcoming fight?

Just like boxing gloves, don’t underestimate the importance of good boxing shoes. Sure they’re not magic and won’t immediately make your footwork like Muhammad Ali! But they are crucial for optimal performance.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, wearing the wrong shoes can impact your technique, balance, and effectiveness. Imagine stepping into the ring with shoes that slip, lack support, or weigh you down. Your footwork suffers, your punches lose power, and you risk injury with every move. 

This is why we’ve produced a list of the best boxing shoes you can buy in 2024.

Our list is advanced, super advanced. We’ve gone to the lengths of talking about ALL the factors that are going to impact your decision on which pair you buy. We talk about budget, comfort, styles, fit, and more.

​I promise you, by the time you read this article, you will have found your perfect boxing shoe.

​If you want to dive straight into the good stuff, check out the TL;DR below.

TL;DR

Best boxing shoes overall: Hayabusa Talon Boxing Shoes

Best boxing shoes for comfort: Nike HyperKO 2.0 Boxing Shoes

Best boxing shoes for wide feet: Everlast Pro Elite Boxing Shoes

Best boxing shoes for on a budget: Adidas Box Hog 2 Boxing Shoes

Best boxing shoes for pros: Adidas Box Hog 4 Boxing Shoes

Best low-top boxing shoes: Rival Genesis 3 Boxing Shoes

Best high-top boxing shoes: Nike Machomai 2 Boxing Shoes

Best boxing shoes for women: Adidas Speedex 23 Boxing Shoes

Best non-boxing shoes for boxing: Under Armour Rogue 4 Boxing Shoes

Best Boxing Shoes Overall: Hayabusa Talon

The Hayabusa Talon Boxing shoes come at the top for our overall best boxing shoe.

Let’s start off by saying, they’re EVERYTHING you need in a boxing shoe.

Ankle support? Lightweight? Breathable? Comfortable? They tick all the boxes, not to mention, the minimalistic design makes them look great on foot.

Hayabusa is known for its high-quality boxing gear, they have quickly become popular choices for most boxers.

They can be used for typical boxing training like bag work, and for compeition.

This elite model features;

• A bespoke outsole crafted for dynamic movement and balance
• The breathable mesh panel that keeps your feet cool and minimizes sweat
• Shock-absorbing drop-in midsole to enhance comfort
• Mid-height support to protect your ankles
• Lightweight design to keep you quick on your feet

If you want the best of the best, look no further and buy the Hayabusa Talon Boxing Shoes.

Best Boxing Shoes for Comfort: Nike HyperKO 2.0

Every boxing shoe should be comfortable, but if you’re like me and comfort is a priority for you then Nike HyperKO 2.0 Boxing Shoes are a perfect choice.

Nike has a great reputation for making some of the best boxing gear on the market. The HyperKO 2.0 are an update of the original HyperKO’s which took the already amazing shoe, to a different level.

They are a high-top boxing shoe, meant to fit like a sock. You can just tell from the pictures how light these shoes are which also make them an excellent choice for those who want reduced weight. Whether you are using these for training or in a bout, they won’t be matched for comfort.

​The designs and colorways of this shoe are CRAZY. I personally love the look of them.

Some features they come with are;

• High-quality flyknit materials make them extra comfortable and breathable
• Drop-in cushioning that also enhances comfort
• Split sole for flexibility
• Cuff construction to support the ankle

One downside is they have a narrow toe, but if you don’t have wide feet, this won’t be much of a problem for you.

Best Boxing Shoe for Wide Feet: Everlast Pro Elite Boxing Boots

I know the struggle… having wide feet can be annoying. Especially when you just found a boxing shoe that looks great, but doesn’t fit well.

Of course, you want good-looking shoes, but comfort is a priority. With the Everlast Pro Elite, you can have both.

They are the perfect balance of looks and comfort for those who have wide feet. They come as more of a high-top shoe so they still give you that extra ankle protection.

Let’s not forget to mention the history that Everlast has in boxing. Dating years back from legends like Mike Tyson wearing their gear to current boxers like Canelo Alvarez.

These specific shoes are perfect for fight night and for training. A key factor that makes them different is the thicker sole and lightweight mesh upper. You can’t go wrong with Everlast boxing shoes.

Some features they have are;

• Thicker material rubber sole for maximum heel protection
• Lightweight upper mesh
• Hook and loop tape for ankle support

Best Boxing Shoe on a Budget: Adidas Box Hog 2

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ve most likely heard of these. In almost every boxing gym you step into, someone will be wearing a pair of Adidas Box Hog 2’s.

And they have a reason to. Adidas shoes only promote top-tier performance. They have thin soles, with a breathable mesh upper to keep them light and airy. They also use synthetic materials which adds to the durability and comfort.

They provide everything you need for your training needs. They will keep you quick on your feet but still provide comfort.

And let’s not forget to mention, the value you’re getting for such a small cost. This is why they take our spot for the best budget boxing shoes.

Some of the features of this shoe are;

• Mesh upper for breathability
• Textile internal lining
• EVA midsole

Best Boxing Shoe for Pros: Adidas Box Hog 4

Another mention for Adidas, which goes to show the quality of their products.

The Box Hog 4s take the place of the best boxing shoe for pros. If you’re frequently fighting or are looking to go in that direction, these upgrades of the Box Hog 2’s are the right pair of boxing boots for you.

The Box Hog 4’s are at the top for the best Adidas shoes you can buy. They come with an eye-catching breathable mesh upper with a snug fit and extra stability through the mid-cut design. They also have a thin rubber outsole for extra grip.

The newly designed Box Hogs also stand out with their traditional fresh 3 stripes but in gold this time. Everything you need for fight night.

Some features they have are;

• Lightweight stability
• Breathable materials
• Thin EVA sole
• Thick toe cap

Best Low Top Boxing Shoes: Rival Genesis 3 

Let’s get onto the best choice for low-top lovers. 

You might be wondering what the actual difference between high-top and low-top boxing shoes is. It’s simply that low-top boots are much easier to slip on, and they are also lighter than high-tops which some users prefer.

The Rival Genesis 3 takes our top spot for the best low-top boxing shoe. The resemblance might look similar to wrestling shoes, but let me assure you, they are all boxing.

The Genesis 3 is a perfect example of a lightweight, easy-to-slip-on boxing shoe. Not to mention they are listed at a reasonable price point.

Some of the features they have are;

• High-quality suede materials
• Breathable mesh sides
• Sturdy heel and steel midsole shaft
• Strap and lace fitting

Best High-Top Boxing Shoe: Nike Machomai 2

One of my personal favorites and a boxing shoe I’m currently using, is the Nike Machomai 2.

A massive upgrade from the Machomai 1. When I heard about these shoes, I had to get them straight away. 

I’ll be honest, I’m a big lover of Nike. Not just their boxing gear, but their whole idea of making quality products for running, tennis, martial arts, and every other sport you can name.

I love these shoes. From the moment I slipped them on, I could feel the comfort and spring in my step. And the weight… it felt like I wasn’t wearing anything on my feet.

Another thing to mention is the re-engineered rubber sole, the traction from the rubber sole will only help improve your speed and agility.

Lastly, they have a wide toe box! Yeah, that’s right, they’re actually good for people like me who struggle with wide feet (you’re not alone).

Just remember, to get the right size, stay true to your normal shoe size.

Some features they have are;

• Lightweight mesh upper
• Thin rubber sole
• High-quality comfortable leather

Best Boxing Shoes for Women: Adidas Speedex 23

Right, let’s answer the question you’re all thinking. Are women’s boxing shoes actually any different from men’s? No, they’re not.

Both men’s and women’s boxing shoes serve the same purpose. Only the sizing would be different. This is why you see most professional male and female athletes wearing the same brands and designs.

That being said, we have still ranked the Adidas Speedex 23 as our best boxing shoes for women. This is because of the subtle differences from the traditional boxing shoe. 

Firstly, they come in a better size range than other boots. From sizes 2-15. They also have a more narrow toe box which might be more suitable for women.

Best Non-Boxing Shoes for Boxing: Under Armour Rogue 4

This is for those who are not quite ready to purchase their first pair of boxing shoes but need a pair of shoes in the meantime for training.

There’s a lot of options out there, but the reason why the Under Armour Rogue 4 is the best option is simply because of their, comfort, affordability, heel support, and lightweight.

The exact same things we are looking for in boxing boots, apart from the ankle protection (which most normal training sneakers don’t have).

I started off my boxing journey with this very pair of shoes and I used them until my toe ripped through the fabric (which took a very long time), but they were an excellent choice.

These shoes are also perfect for normal gym training and other sports, so you will get your money’s worth. But please… don’t try to use these if you are competing! Stick to one of the above options or I’ll have your coach hunting me down!

Understanding what to look for in boxing shoes

Size & Fit

​Size and fit are the most important factors when deciding on your boxing shoes. Size can vary depending on the type of boxing shoe, but this is usually covered by the seller in their description.

For example, some brands such as Hayabusa recommend buying half a size or a whole size down, depending on the model of the shoe.

Also, consider whether you have narrow or wide feet. If you have more of a wider foot, go for options like the Everlast Pro Elite that we mentioned above.

Keep in mind, that your normal sneakers are sized differently. So refer to the manufacturer’s sizing chart and try it on in a local store if you can before purchasing.

Ankle support

The higher the boot, the more ankle support you will get. This is why many boxers choose high-tops or the classic mid-top design.

​Some people find mid and high tops to be uncomfortable, so they might go for the low-top, but just keep in mind the support will be minimal on your ankle.

Finding the right balance in your priorities is key.

Design

Of course, design is important. In this day and age, most boxing shoes have sleek designs, especially with the bigger brands like Nike, Adidas, and Everlast.

But apart from the looks, think about how the sole feels, how narrow the toe box is, and what materials are being used.

For example, leather is a material that most fighters avoid in boxing shoes. But years ago, this was the trend. Now we’re more aware that leather can be tough on the feet and restricts movement.

If you prefer a flat shoe, with a great design, the Nike HyperKO are a good option for you.

Price

Price is super important. Not everyone has the cash to spend on the best gear on the market.

With that said, higher prices do usually get you better quality.

It’s a good thing boxing shoes are made to last because the investment is a long-term one.

Try to make a budget for yourself and consider all of your options. Also consider if you can afford to spend a bit more for a better pair, or slightly less for a equally good pair.

Buyers Guide: How We Conducted Our Research

We take our research and advice seriously. When researching to find the best boxing shoes, we looked at the following factors;

1. Features – The ankle support, grip, weight, ankle height, and ventilation.
2. Price – We considered pricing for each shoe to make the choices reasonable and affordable for you.
3. Brand reliability – We only recommend reliable and reputable brands that deliver high-quality products.
4. Reviews – We read and considered reviews of each product to determine its quality.

Conclusion – Wrapping up

With over 7+ years of experience in boxing, I have been through my fair share of boxing shoes. I have experienced using them in training and during fighting and my advice is only tailored to make your buying experience easier.

Quality and comfort are king. This is why I have only selected the products that you are going to enjoy using, be comfortable in, and benefit from to take your boxing journey to the next level!

Frequently Asked Questions

​Can I use boxing shoes for running?

Technically, boxing shoes can be used for running, but we don’t recommend it. Your feet need more protection, especially on your heels and boxing shoes are generally quite flat. This is why its best to use an actual running or gym sneaker for your jogs.

Can I use running shoes for boxing?

There are no issues with using running shoes for boxing, they can be comfortable and it’s a good idea for starting out. However, it’s not recommended if you are training regularly or training to compete.

How should boxing shoes fit?

Your boxing shoes should have a very snug fit and shouldn’t feel loose. They should almost feel wrapped around your feet like a sock. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidance for the perfect size and fitting.

Are boxing shoes and wrestling shoes the same?

Boxing shoes look similar to wrestling shoes but they’re not the same. Boxing shoes have more cushioning in the sole and wrestling shoes have thinner soles focused on better grip.

Can I use boxing shoes for weightlifting?

You can use boxing shoes for weight lifting. They are pretty flat so they are good for exercises like squats. Some people might not have the same opinion but they serve the same purpose. Just bear in mind the comfort might not be the same after long periods of time.