Fight Stronger and Train Smarter With the Best Boxing Hand Wraps

What to Look for When Shopping for Boxing Hand Wraps

• Type: There are two types of boxing wraps: traditional wraps and glove wraps. Traditional wraps look like long strips of material, while glove wraps look like fingerless gloves that are attached to a long band. Glove wraps are quicker and easier to put on, but with traditional wraps, you can better tailor the tightness and positioning to your individual anatomy.
• Size: If you choose traditional wraps, make sure that they're long enough, says Wilking—most adults need wraps that are at least 180 inches long. Longer wraps provide more flexibility and offer more support, she adds. Shorter wraps are better for kids because there's no excess length that can add bulk.
• Comfort: Boxing wraps should feel snug around your knuckles and thumb without causing you to lose circulation in your hands, says Wilking. They also should fit comfortably under your boxing gloves. Thicker wraps can provide more protection—but you don't want too much friction between the wrap and the glove, she says.
• Wrist Support: Wrist support is important for safety, says Almonte-Roman. Without proper support, you don't have as much control, you can't punch as hard, and you're more prone to injury, she says. Ask a professional to show you the right way to wrap and stay wrapped.

How We Selected the Boxing Hand Wraps

To find the best boxing hand wraps, we’ve researched dozens of options from popular, high-quality fitness brands. First, we speak with experts to learn which key features are most important to consider as you shop. Then, we review customer feedback and key specs for dozens of boxing hand wraps at a variety of price points to find the top options on the market. As we continue to evaluate more boxing hand wraps, we keep these important criteria in mind:

• Materials: Most boxing hand wraps are made from cotton because it's soft and won't chafe or irritate your hands. Some may also contain performance fabrics (like nylon) to help wick away sweat while you train. Others have built-in foam or gel padding, to cut a step out of your routine. You'll want to consider which materials feel most comfortable as you shop.
• Elasticity: The materials in a wrap will also determine how elastic it is. Look for a wrap that's stretchy, for a close fit, but not so stretchy that it's difficult to put on.
• Adjustability: Some wraps are more adjustable than others. Traditional wraps give you more control over the fit and compression, compared to glove wraps. But ultimately, it's up to your personal preference.
• Overall Value: High-quality boxing hand wraps can cost anywhere from $5 to $20. Be sure to factor in the price of additional accessories (like a hand wrap roller) when setting your budget.

Our Experts

We consulted experts at every stage of researching and reporting this story. Both trainers below helped us understand why it's important to wear boxing hand wraps, how to wear them safely, and which key features to consider when shopping for new ones. Although we choose products independently, input from experts influences our decisions.

• Ash Wilking, a trainer at Rumble Boxing and founder of Ash Fit
• Taylor Rae Almonte-Roman, a trainer at Rumble Boxing and co-founder of Activ-Ism

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you wash your wraps?

It's up to you—but try to avoid stuffing them into your gloves after you complete your workout, Almonte-Roman says. Consider washing them once a week inside a delicates bag, and make sure to attach any hook-and-loop pieces to themselves so they don't pull. You can either hang dry your wraps or toss them in the dryer, Almonte-Roman adds.

How do I learn to do my own wraps at home?

A professional can teach you how to do your own wraps—or, you can find plenty of educational videos on the Internet, says Wilking. Pay attention to how tight your wraps are when doing them at home, she says. The more spacing you have between the wraps and your skin, the more room you have for friction, leading to blisters and discomfort.

Do I need wraps if I'm not in a class?

Wrapping your hands at home can make your boxing experience more fun, says Almonte-Roman. Plus, it also helps get you in the right frame of mind.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a veteran wellness journalist and certified trainer with a decade's worth of reporting under her belt, Emily Abbate understands the importance of reliable reviews that empower us to live healthier, happier lives. She's always exploring the latest and greatest wellness tools, gadgets, and machines and understands the value that the right tools can have on your overall wellness.