For most people who train, a pair of 4.5 m hand wraps remains the most complete hand protection. Inner gloves are quicker to put on and work well for short sessions or boxing fitness. The right choice mainly depends on how hard you train, the size of your hands and how much time you want to spend on it.
In short
- Low-stretch wraps (cotton or cotton blend): firm support, favoured for sparring and competition.
- Elasticated wraps: they mould to the hand and forgive small wrapping errors.
- Inner gloves: on in seconds, with or without gel padding over the knuckles.
- Length: 4.5 m for most adults, 3.5 m for smaller hands, 2.5 m for children.
- Many regular boxers own both: wraps for hard sessions, inner gloves for the rest.
The three main types
Low-stretch wraps. The traditional option, often cotton or a blend of cotton and synthetic fibres. They hardly stretch at all, so the support depends entirely on the tension you apply while wrapping. Done well, they give very stable wrist support. They do take a little more practice.
Elasticated or semi-elastic wraps. Sometimes called Mexican-style wraps, they contain some elastane or a stretchy weave. They follow the movement of your hand, stay in place during long sessions and make up for a slightly uneven wrap. Usually the easiest choice for beginners.
Inner gloves. You slip them on like a thin glove and close them at the wrist with a hook-and-loop strap. Some have gel or foam padding over the knuckles. They save time and suit light bag work, pad work and group classes well. Wrist support is less adjustable than with a wrap, though.
Quick comparison
| Criterion | Low-stretch wraps | Elasticated wraps | Inner gloves |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time to put on | 2 to 3 min per hand | 2 min per hand | A few seconds |
| Wrist support | Very firm if well applied | Firm and flexible | Moderate |
| Beginner-friendly | Takes practice | Good | Very good |
| Fit to your hand | Tailored every time | Tailored, more forgiving | Depends on the size chosen |
| Typical use | Sparring, competition | Regular training | Boxing fitness, short sessions |
Choosing the right length
Wrap length decides how many turns you can make around the wrist and knuckles. Too short and some areas stay exposed; too long for a small hand and the extra fabric bunches up inside the glove.
- 2.5 m: children and juniors.
- 3.5 m: smaller hands, teenagers or a lighter wrap for technical work.
- 4.5 m: the standard for most adults, especially for heavy bag work and sparring.
With inner gloves, size is what matters. They should cover the knuckles without creases and support the wrist without squeezing. If you are between two sizes, measure the circumference of your hand across the knuckles and compare it with the size guide on the product page.
Which option for your training
- Boxing fitness once or twice a week: inner gloves are usually enough, especially with knuckle padding.
- Club training on bags and pads: 4.5 m wraps, elasticated if you are new. Keep inner gloves for days when time is short.
- Regular sparring: wraps, because the wrist support can be tailored exactly to your hand. Some people add a thin inner glove on top for comfort.
- Amateur competition: the rules usually require compliant wraps. IBA-approved models are available; always check your federation's requirements before a bout.
- Children: 2.5 m wraps or small inner gloves. Until they can wrap their own hands, inner gloves are often simpler for younger children.
For the wrapping technique itself, see our guide How to wrap your hands for boxing.
When to replace wraps and inner gloves
A wrap that no longer springs back, whose fastener barely grips or whose fabric is fraying no longer gives proper support. With inner gloves, look out for flattened padding and a wrist strap that no longer holds. At three or four sessions a week, regular replacement is normal: it is the cheapest part of your kit, and the one that works hardest.
Our RDX picks
- RDX IBA Boxing Hand Wraps Black – IBA-approved for amateur competition, 30% cotton and 70% nylon, in 2.5 m, 3.5 m or 4.5 m. From CHF 15.00
- RDX HI Inner Gloves – half-finger, elasticated, with extended thumb and wrist coverage, machine washable, sizes S to XL. From CHF 26.00
- RDX IS Gel Padded Inner Gloves – gel and foam padding over the knuckles, 75 cm hook-and-loop wrist strap, OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified. CHF 29.00
- RDX Kids Boxing Hand Wraps 2.5 m – cotton and nylon blend, thumb loop and hook-and-loop closure, made for small hands. CHF 12.00
Compare every model in our Hand Wraps & Inner Gloves collection.
Frequently asked questions
Can inner gloves really replace hand wraps?
For boxing fitness and light sessions, yes. For hard heavy bag work and sparring, wraps support the wrist more precisely.
Elasticated or cotton wraps for beginners?
Elasticated wraps are more forgiving and easier to apply correctly. You can move on to firmer wraps once your technique is solid.
Do I need approved wraps for competition?
In amateur boxing, the rules usually set the type and length of wraps. Check with your club or federation before the event.
What size of inner gloves should I choose?
They should cover the knuckles without creases and fit without pinching. The size guide is on the product page.
Can children wear inner gloves?
Yes. For the RDX IS, sizes S and M are recommended for ages 10 to 14. For younger children, 2.5 m wraps are a good fit.
Find your hand protection in our Hand Wraps & Inner Gloves collection. Free delivery in Switzerland from CHF 100 – order before 12:00 for same-day dispatch from Meyrin.
Adapted from a guide by the RDX Sports team.
