So you’ve decided to up your boxing game, you’ve got a fresh new pair of boxing gloves and hand wraps… after using the old sweaty, smelly gloves from the storage cabinet for your first few training sessions (I know the pain).
You’re now wondering if you should buy a pair of boxing shoes – but do you need them?
So let’s get one thing straight. You don’t NEED boxing shoes if you are only training for fitness or just to work out. Regular running or training shoes will do the job.
BUT…
If you are interested in taking your boxing game to the next level by competing, then boxing shoes are definitely going to be a good investment for you.
If you’re in the ring, you want to look and feel the part. After all, you wouldn’t take those smelly spare boxing gloves that your boxing gym gives you into the ring, would you? (By the way, check out our guide to getting rid of that stinky smell from your gloves)
Good boxing shoes can elevate your game, the thin soles, lightweight materials, and ankle support will only help you to improve your footwork.
There you have it. You can close this article now! (Or you can keep reading on to make an informed decision)
If you’re staying, let’s take a look into the actual design of boxing shoes.
Boxing Shoes Design
Boxing shoes stand out, they look completely different from regular athletic shoes, but each part of the shoe has a purpose. Depending on your specific needs, you might go for a shoe with a thicker sole, or a low top rather than a high top. I’ll go into more detail on what each of these means.
Boxing shoes weigh a lot less than regular shoes, this is because a boxer needs to stay light on their feet and reduce any type of weight which will slow them down. They’re usually made of breathable materials and are made to be a snug fit.
Boxing shoes also look similar to wrestling shoes, this is because they serve a similar purpose of agility, light in weight, and allow for quick movement. Remember, while some features are standard, the perfect pair comes down to personal preference.
The main purpose of boxing boots are;
- To allow you to move quickly
- Make you look COOL (not really, but they do this well)
- To allow you to move in different directions without excess weight
- Protect your feet and ankles
- Give you the best boxing experience
Here’s what you need to know about boxing shoe design:
Materials
Boxing shoes are made up of synthetic materials that let your feet breathe and also create a light flexible shoe.
They can come in leather or fabric and they usually have a rubber sole that provides a better grip when you’re throwing those important punches and stops you from slipping. However, don’t rely on them completely. If you’re slipping after rolling a punch, it might not always be your shoes, it could be your technique!
Leather is less common nowadays as some people find it to be restrictive and less comfortable. Leather can be long-lasting but I would advise going for fabric/synthetic materials for optimal comfort and performance.
Features
A high-top boot will be usually look taller than low-top boots. They give you that extra protection on your ankle but some people prefer low-top shoes so they get more movement and they’re just easier to put on.
Boxing shoes usually have an ankle strap or traditional laces just so they are tied up and secure to your feet. The last thing you want is your shoe to become loose mid-fight!
They also have a thin sole that lets you move swiftly but also protects your heels and the balls of your feet. The best boxing shoes for you won’t hurt your heels when you are moving around for extended periods, so keep this in mind when you are testing them out.
Boxing shoes also have better protection around the toes. This is something you don’t usually see on regular gym shoes. Most designs have materials stitched very tightly at the toe. This stops your feet from pushing into the shoe and ripping it.
I had a perfect pair of gym shoes that lasted me over 2 years for weight lifting, but only 3 months after I started boxing, my foot ripped through the fabric. (RIP my favorite gym shoe).
Sizing
The sizing of boxing shoes is usually quite similar to the normal gym or running shoes. It can be hard to find a perfect fit. My advice is to try on a pair in your local store or order your usual size and another pair that is half a size up, then return the pair you don’t want. Half a size up is normally recommended as your feet tend to swell when you are exercising, this can make a big difference on your shoes, especially if you have wide feet like me.
FYI – Women’s boxing shoes fit the same as men’s. Convert your US size to EU sizing if you’re unsure. Check out this size chart.
Pricing
Boxing shoes vary in price. Remember, you’re paying for what you get, so the cheaper option might not always be best. Saying that, it is always a good idea to try them on, to find out what the best boxing shoes are for you.
Everyone’s feet are different, which means an expensive pair might be great quality, but just not the right fit for you. You might consider things like, enough ankle movement, thicker soles, better protection, thin soles, lightweight materials, or a wide-toe box.
Boxing shoes start from $50 and range to $250. It’s your money but my advice is to always take a closer look at what you’re buying and what your specific needs are.
There are some great boxing shoes out there like the Adidas Box Hog’s, the Nike Machomai, Nike Hyper KO, and the Hayabusa Pro Boxing Shoes.
Conclusion – So Do You Need Them?
Investing in a good pair of boxing shoes is a MUST if you are competing, or training to compete. For your type of training, regular running shoes just won’t make the cut. Investing in a good pair of shoes will pay off in the long run. After all, every professional fighter you see wears them.
If you are thinking of using boxing shoes for fitness, think about whether you really need them and if you can spare the expense. They will give you better protection and an enhanced boxing experience, but not as significantly as a pair of boxing gloves or hand wraps would.
But again, if you feel you would benefit them. Don’t listen to anyone else but your mind, and grab yourself a pair to enhance your boxing journey.
I also want to mention, don’t use boxing shoes for running! I know they have a lightweight design which might make them tempting, but they don’t offer enough protection in the soles to stop you from injuring your joints.
