The pros and cons of leather versus synthetic boxing gloves
von {{ author }} Kate Rosindale an Oct 15, 2020
There are many decisions to make when looking to purchase a new pair of boxing gloves – such as colourway, fastening and size – but one of the most fundamental choices to settle upon concerns the material they are made from.
Boxing gloves are stocked in shops and online in a variety of materials – from artificial fabrics like Vinyl and Polyurethane (PU), to leathers like Cowhide and Buffalo.
Of course, when it comes to getting kitted out for boxing, gloves are the most important item to get right. They will protect your hands, wrists and thumbs, not to mention protect your sparring partner whenever they are on the receiving end of your punches.
The material you choose will have an impact on not only how well you perform, but how comfortable and protected you feel while doing so.
How to choose the best boxing gloves
At Bravose we offer a fantastic array of designs that offer second-to-none comfort and protection, in either a PU synthetic leather or a genuine cowhide leather finish.
As such, it is important to think about the pros and cons of each finish, and understand how they differ. That way you can be more than confident in your ability to make an informed decision.
Here we take you through the crucial points to consider as and when it comes to determining which type of boxing gloves you are going to invest your hard-earned cash in next time around.
Design appeal: PU can be made in a variety of colours and styles. While PU can offer a perfect finish, fans of leather may see it as being less than genuine.
Use: Experienced heavy-hitters tend to favour leather gloves. More suited to boxers who are starting out, PU gloves are great for fitness boxing and anyone visiting the boxing gym no more than around once per week.
Durability: This point depends somewhat on the conditions in which the gloves are being used, however in a standard UK boxing studio environment, PU will not age as well as leather, with the finish cracking over time. Be aware that PU can also rip and tear more easily than leather, which is a stronger and more durable material.
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Comfort: Leather gloves will mould to the shape of your hands over time. This means that the more you box and train with them, the more they will begin to feel like a second skin. While certainly not uncomfortable, PU gloves do not offer the same in terms of this malleability.
Cleanliness: Odour can be an issue with the interior of PU gloves because the material is not breathable like leather. However, on the plus side, PU doesn’t absorb water making the outside finish easier to clean.
Stay fresh - how to clean and maintain your boxing gloves
Ethical credentials: An artificial alternative to leather, PU is a more ethical choice of material for vegans or anyone else concerned about animal welfare. But although PU gloves are also better for sustainability, as fewer resources are needed to create the finish, they are nevertheless plastic, which does not decompose.
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Wallet damage: Being honest, cost can often be the key factor in any buying decision. PU is easier to produce and therefore gloves made from this material are less expensive than their leather counterparts.
As mentioned above, the Bravose range of boxing gloves boasts both PU and leather options, so you can choose the best material for your needs.
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