Tag Archive for: boxing shoes

Boxing has seen a huge increase in popularity over the last decade, largely thanks to superstars like Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao, Danny Garcia, and Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez.  The rise of ultimate fighting (MMA) has also made many athletes more interested in boxing and other martial arts.  Many people now use boxing as a part of their fitness program and often step into the boxing ring to compete in amateur bouts.

It is easy to see why more people are taking up the sport!  Boxing is an excellent way to get fit, build strength, lift self-esteem, and socialize with other athletes.  It is also a fantastic way to relieve stress and safely channel aggression.

If you are a boxing fan looking for new gear — this is the article for you.  We are going to take a close look at boxing shoes.  We’ll identify why boxing shoes are so important for your performance in the ring, then offer some tips for choosing the best boxing shoes.  Finally, we’ll list our top 5 picks for the best boxing shoes on the market.  Let’s get started!

Why do you need high quality boxing shoes?

A good pair of boxing shoes can dramatically improve your performance in the ring or while training.  A good grip and light feel will make for the best boxing shoes. Let’s discuss it more. Here are a few of the reasons why boxing shoes are so important:

Boxing shoes have incredible traction
As any good boxer knows, having good footwork is crucial.  You need a pair of boxing shoes that give you excellent traction. The use of rubber shoes will give you stability on the canvas as you move.  This is why most pairs of boxing shoes use a non-slip rubber or synthetic outer sole.  They are specially made to help you pivot while throwing punches but still have enough traction to remain stable.  Having great outer soles on your boxing shoes is particularly important because the canvas quickly becomes wet during an intense fight.

Reminder: when choosing your pair of boxing shoes, make sure that it has non-slip rubber. It is important that your boots’ grip doesn’t hinder your feet from winning your match in the ring.

Boxing shoes are lightweight

Traditionally, boxing shoes are made of leather or suede materials.  That has changed slightly in recent years, with the introduction of synthetic leathers and nylon uppers. Leather boxing shoes are no longer as popular as they once were. Some shoes also use advanced microfiber materials in their uppers, to help keep your feet cool while boxing.  These modern boxing shoes are much lighter than traditional boxing shoes, which can help your performance in the ring.  You will find it easier to stay on the balls of your feet and quickly reposition yourself.

Boxing shoes are more comfortable
The introduction of microfiber uppers and flexible midsoles has also made modern boxing shoes extremely comfortable for your feet. Having a comfortable shoe means you will be able to train for longer periods and you will perform better against your opponent during long matches.

Boxing shoes offer your ankles excellent support

Getting good ankle support is one of the most important benefits for your feet as it reduces the risk of injury and will help you feel more confident with your movements during your training. Boxing involves a lot of ankle pivots and rapid movements across the canvas — which is sometimes a slippery surface.  That is why most boxing shoes incorporate a lot of ankle support.  It helps to improve your stability in the ring and keep your ankles safe.

Boxing shoes have more durability
Boxing shoes are designed to be extremely durable.  The upper is stitched or heavily glued onto the midsole and outer sole, so it can tolerate the abrupt movements associated with boxing.  If you use a normal pair of shoes in the ring, expect the upper to tear or the outsole to come away from the midsole.  This high level of durability means a well-made pair of boxing shoes can last for years!

Boxing shoe buying guide

Here are some simple tips to help you find the perfect pair of boxing shoes.

Make comfort your first priority

When it comes to boxing shoes, make comfort a priority.  While boxing shoe sizes are similar to normal shoes, they are usually tighter and narrower than street shoes.  For this reason, you may have to go half a size larger than normal if you have wide feet.  If you are buying leather shoes, a snug fit is desirable because the leather will eventually mold itself to your feet.

If you put the shoes on an immediately they feel like the arches are wrong or your toes are crushed — return them.  When trying on new boxing shoes, bounce on your feet a few times and stand on your toes.  You will be able to quickly decide if they are comfortable enough.

When considering comfort, think about the temperature of your feet when you box.  You may prefer to use boxing shoes that have a mesh vent on them.  This helps your feet breath and keeps your temperature down.

Some boxing shoes come with cushioning near the midsole.  This provides more support for your feet and better stability.  Some boxers prefer the extra cushioning when training because it makes jumping rope and bouncy footwork easier.

Select a boxing shoe design that matches your weight and boxing style
Boxing shoes are available as low top, mid top, and high top designs:

• Low top boxing shoes look similar to a pair of running shoes, with a little more ankle support.  They are often used for general fitness training, bag work, and casual sparring.
• Mid top boxing shoes have more ankle support, covering 2 to 3 inches above your ankle.  They provide more ankle support, which is very useful when boxing.  They are the most popular type of boxing shoe and are often used for training, sparring, and the occasional bout.
• High top boxing shoes cover between 4 to 6 inches above the ankle.  They offer the boxer incredible stability and ankle support.  They are the most popular choice for serious sparring and bouts.

If you are a middleweight or heavier, you would normally opt for a high-top design because of the additional support and stability it offers.  You are less likely to fall or twist your ankle if you have that extra support.  A high-top boxing shoe makes moving around the ring safer and you can be more confident in your movements.

Mid-top and low top boxing shoes are all about speed.  Your footwork will be faster and you can move faster.  They can be very useful for training and sparring.  If you like to throw a few punches and quickly retreat, you may even use mid top shoes in actual fights.

Consider the weight of the shoes
Boxing has become faster than ever.  Athletes move and throw punches incredibly quickly.  This is why it is usually better to have light shoes that help you move around the ring quickly.  However, this also comes down to personal preference, with some fighters preferring the stability and extra durability of heavier shoes.

Consider sole thickness
Most boxing shoes have a very thin outer sole because it helps to keep the weight of the shoe low and makes rapid movements easier.  However, there is still some difference in the thickness of soles.  A very thin sole is lighter and can be useful for extra speed.  A medium thin sole can offer more stability, which some boxers enjoy.

Shoe aesthetics
The appearance of the shoe should also be a consideration!  It is important to purchase a pair of boxing shoes that you love the look of.  You will be more confident when entering the ring and look good while taking your opponent down!

5 of the best boxing shoes

Here are 5 incredible pairs of boxing shoes that are well-made and deliver excellent performance.

These men’s Stingray Escape shoes by Otomix provide ample utility in a clean, attractive package. Multiple colors make for a wider variety of training outfit combinations.

Super smooth suede uppers form soft support for your feet, while high ankles and lacing keep these from shifting as you move around the mat.

Limited height of the sole keeps your feet closer to the ground and provide a nice natural feel.

Ultra light construction ensures these shoes will not slow your roll as your face off against opponents.

The traction sole keeps you from slipping and sliding across the mat as you strike, locking in your legs for more powerful punches. Improved traction makes for excellent stability as well.

This is a great pair of boxing shoes from adidas.  They feature a breathable mesh with suede patches.  This upper material keeps your feet cool and comfortable during bouts or training.  The midsole is low profile, but uses cushioning for additional comfort and mobility.  Perhaps the best part of the shoe is its gum rubber outsole, which provides excellent traction.  They are available in an eye-catching blue and green design, which looks fantastic.  This is a light weight shoe that is perfect for both beginners and experienced boxers.

This is a very affordable pair of mid top boxing shoes that is perfect for beginners and intermediate-level boxers.  They feature a breathable leather vinyl and mesh upper which is quite comfortable to wear.  The synthetic sole provides plenty of traction.  These shoes can also be used for a range of other sports including MMA, wrestling and Muay Thai.

This is a more serious boxing shoe for athletes who intend to step into the ring for serious sparring and amateur bouts.  They are made from a durable synthetic upper with large mesh sections to keep the feet cool.  Reebok’s synthetic outer sole is excellent and will provide plenty of traction as you move around the ring.  It is a high-cut design and includes an ankle strap for additional stability.  This is a great choice for anyone who takes their boxing seriously and wants to improve their performance.

This is a fantastic pair of low cut boxing shoes that would be perfect for casual sparring and training.  They feature a colorful synthetic and fabric upper, ergonomic insole with excellent arch support, and a synthetic outsole with great traction.  They are available in a wide range of eye-catching colors.  A great choice for anyone looking for a training shoe that is suitable for sparring.

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