Boxing Gear Guide: What You Need for Your First Class

Walking into a boxing gym for the first time is a commitment, and showing up prepared is your first test. A lot of beginners overcomplicate this step, getting lost in endless online reviews and buying equipment they don't actually need yet.

At 161 Boxing Club, we believe in function over flash. You don't need a professional fighter’s locker to get a high-level workout, but you do need the right essentials to protect your body and maximize your output on the floor.

If you are gearing up for your first session, here is your definitive guide to what you actually need, what it costs, and what you can hold off on buying.

1. Hand Wraps ($10 - $20)

Before you even look at a pair of gloves, you need hand wraps. This is the absolute foundation of your gear. Wraps tightly compress the fragile bones and tendons in your hands and provide critical support to your wrists when making impact with a 100-pound heavy bag.

For your first class, look for standard 180-inch wraps. They offer the best mix of breathability and elasticity. If you don't have a pair, don't sweat it—we sell premium wraps right at the front desk, and our coaches will teach you the exact wrapping technique the pros use before you hit the floor.

2. Boxing Gloves ($60 - $150)

This is where most newcomers get stuck. When searching for boxing gloves for beginners, you will see a massive range of options, from cheap $30 sporting goods store toys to $400 premium leather imports.

Avoid the absolute cheapest options—they lack the padding required to protect your knuckles and will break down after a few weeks of heavy bag work. Instead, aim for a mid-tier synthetic or entry-level leather glove from a reputable brand like Everlast, Sting, or Rival. 

For general bag work and class conditioning, a 12oz or 16oz glove is the gold standard, each serving a specific purpose. 

• If sparring’s in your horizon, 16oz gloves are universal; providing enough padding to keep your hands safe while building your shoulder endurance.

• In the instance that you’re more focused on building technical skills and precision, 12oz gloves will give you the lightness and feel to place your shots with pinpoint accuracy.
  
  Note: If you aren't ready to pull the trigger on your own pair yet, 161 provides high-quality club gloves you can borrow for your introductory classes.

3. Proper Footwear ($80 - $150)

You don't necessarily need dedicated boxing boots for your first class, but you do need the right indoor athletic shoe.

We recommend leaving the thick, spongy running shoes at home. Boxing generates power from the ground up, requiring sharp pivots and grounded stability. A thick running shoe absorbs that kinetic energy and rolls your ankle during lateral movements. Instead, show up in a lightweight, flat-soled training shoe (like a basic cross-trainer) or some supportive basketball shoes. Once you transition into taking the sport more seriously, upgrading to a lightweight boxing boot ($120+) will dramatically sharpen your footwork.

4. Athletic Apparel ($30 - $65)

Boxing is a high-output sport. Within the first three rounds on the bag, your heart rate will spike, and you will be sweating heavily.

Wear breathable, moisture-wicking athletic wear that doesn't restrict your range of motion. Think lightweight t-shirts, compression gear, and athletic shorts. You want clothing that works with you, not against you. And keep an eye out—161 Boxing Club will soon be dropping our own line of premium, performance-focused club apparel designed specifically for the grind.

5. Hydration & Towel ($15 - $30)

It sounds simple, but it is non-negotiable. Our dynamic conditioning and heavy bag drills are designed to empty the tank. Bring a large, durable water bottle and a small sweat towel for the floor. When we bring the heat; you’ll need to stay hydrated to sustain your power through the final bell.

6. Mouthguard ($15 - $35)

For your very first class, which focuses on bag work, conditioning, and shadowboxing, you do not need a mouthguard. However, if your goal is to eventually embrace the sweet science, step into the ring, and participate in technical partner drills or live sparring, a basic boil-and-bite mouthguard will be your next mandatory investment.

Step Onto the Floor

You don't need a massive budget to start boxing; you just need intention. Grab your wraps, lace up a flat pair of shoes, and borrow a pair of our gloves. As you spend more time in the sanctuary, your gear will naturally evolve with your skill level.

Book your free trial today, bring your effort, and we’ll handle the rest.