Although they were originally worn to maintain a sweat and stay warm heading into a fight, boxing robes have also become part of making a statement. They help create a grand entrance coming into the ring and could be considered boxing’s version of a superhero’s cape. They cover up and create a sense of mystery until the fighters meet in the center of the ring. That’s where the entertainment and fun ends, the fighter inside is unveiled, and the fight begins.
Although in the early days a boxing robe wasn’t much more than a common bath robe, over time their look and purpose has extended beyond just a basic look and functionality. Originally used to help prevent a boxer from getting cold, retain heat, and avoid the elements, the boxing robe has since taken on other roles in the sport.
In modern boxing they have become more of a fashion statement and part of a fighter’s overall appearance, rather than just being worn for function. Now, the boxing robe can feature various sleeve and waist lengths for greater coverage. Some also come with a hood, while others are designed more like a suit jacket.
The boxing robe has also been used as a part of strategy, leading into and during a bout. Some fighters who may have a size advantage come fight night, like to keep that a secret until they meet in the center of the ring. They believe that there may be a physiological advantage in keeping their size “under wraps” until the last minute. Some fighters have also used their hoods as coverage and to add mystery to their final appearance in the ring. There’s a type-of “reality check” that sets in when facing your opponent and looking him or her in the eye for the very first time. When a boxing robe helps hide a fighter from his opponent and aides in creating a sense of mystery, it can be perceived as a tactical advantage.
A women’s or kids boxing robe will typically have the same features, except they tend to be shorter cut styles that fit their body types more appropriately. Most regular style robes will also work as a kids boxing robe, simply by selecting youth medium or youth large sizes from the regular boxing robe varieties.
Robes are the ideal way to finish off a boxing outfit, provide coverage from the cold or make a stylish ring entrance. Whether they have any real impact on the outcome, if they give a fighter the sense that he’s gained an advantage, that can be reason enough to cover yourself with one.
FAQs
No, you do not need a boxing robe to compete. Robes are more to keep you as the fighter warm prior to entering the ring.
We have sizing charts on all product pages. Please refer to those pages to find your closest measurements.
We do carry youth robes, but not in all styles. We recommend reviewing the sizes available on the page. If you do not see your size, unfortunately it is not available at this time. You can filter the page to see sizes and only those with youth should query.