Hand wraps and inner gloves are the first line of defence for your hands — even before the gloves. They stabilise the wrist, protect the knuckles and absorb sweat. Essential whether you are working the bag, the pads or sparring. Swiss shipping via DPD, delivery in 2 to 3 working days.
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Hand wraps or inner gloves: what is the difference?
Hand wraps
A long strip (2.5 to 4.5 m) wrapped around the wrist, palm and knuckles. The firmest support, recommended for sparring and intense sessions. A few minutes to apply, but maximum protection.
Inner gloves
Slipped on like a glove in seconds. Less structured than wraps but practical for light training, pad work or short sessions. Some models have a gel pad over the knuckles.
The ideal setup: hand wraps for sparring and heavy sessions, inner gloves for short sessions or beginners. Many regular practitioners use both.
Which model for which use?
Standard adult training → IBA Hand Wraps — available in black, red, blue, pink and yellow — 4.5 m elastic, fast drying, the versatile reference.
Professional boxing / competition approved → WX Professional Hand Wraps — dense cotton, maximum support, used in amateur competition.
2.5 m for children and small hands. 4 m for standard adult protection. 4.5 m for large hands or if you want more wrist turns (recommended for sparring). In competition, check the maximum length allowed by your federation (generally 4.5 m for amateurs).
Elastic or cotton hand wraps?
Elastic wraps (IBA, WX) are more comfortable and conform better to the hand. Cotton offers a firmer hold preferred by some competitors. For beginners, elastic is the better choice.
How do you wash hand wraps?
Machine wash at 30°C, delicate cycle, in a laundry bag. Unrolled or loosely bundled. Air dry, never tumble dry. Lifespan: 1-3 years depending on use.
Do you really need wraps if you have inner gloves?
For light bag work and pads, inner gloves are sufficient. For heavy sparring and long heavy bag sessions, hand wraps offer significantly better wrist support. Ideally, both.
When should you replace your hand wraps?
When elasticity decreases noticeably, the velcro no longer holds or the fabric tears. With regular use (3-4 sessions per week), plan for 12 to 18 months. At minimal cost, they are the cheapest protection to replace in your entire kit.
What is the most common mistake with hand wraps?
Wrapping too tight at the fingers, too loose at the wrist — the exact opposite of what is needed. The fingers must be able to close freely into a fist; it is the wrist that must be immobilised. Second classic mistake: skipping the passes between fingers, which leaves the metacarpals without lateral support.
The protection that costs least and preserves most. 13 models below, from IBA entry-level wraps to T15 Noir gel inner gloves.
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