Section 2: Equipment
Gloves
Gloves used in IBF-sanctioned championship and elimination bouts must be approved by both the IBF and the local athletic commission. Glove weight is determined by the boxer's weight division:
- Mini Flyweight through Welterweight (up to 147 lbs): 8-ounce gloves are required.
- Super Welterweight through Heavyweight (154 lbs and above): 10-ounce gloves are required.
Both boxers must wear gloves of the same brand, model, and weight. Gloves must be new, intact, and supplied by the promoter from an IBF-approved manufacturer list. The gloves are inspected by the commission inspector before being placed on the boxer's hands. Any evidence of tampering, cutting, reshaping, or manipulation of the gloves is grounds for immediate disqualification and potential suspension of the offending boxer and their corner.
Hand Wraps
Each boxer is permitted soft surgical gauze bandage not exceeding 18 yards in length and 2 inches in width, plus adhesive tape not exceeding 10 feet in length and 1.5 inches in width per hand. Tape must not be placed directly over the knuckle area when the fist is clenched. All hand wrapping must be performed in the dressing room under the supervision of a commission inspector, and the opposing boxer's representative has the right to observe and approve the wrapping procedure. Wraps must be signed or initialed by the inspector once complete.
Mouthpiece
A properly fitted, custom mouthguard is mandatory for all boxers in IBF-sanctioned bouts. The round cannot commence unless the mouthpiece is in place. If the mouthpiece is dislodged during action, the referee will direct the boxer to retrieve and replace it at the first safe opportunity. Repeated intentional spitting out of the mouthpiece may result in point deductions at the referee's discretion.
Protective Cup
All male boxers must wear an approved foul-proof protective cup (groin protector) during competition. The protector must be of standard design and approved by the local commission. Female boxers must wear an approved chest protector, and may optionally wear a pelvic protector.
Ring Attire
Boxers must wear approved boxing trunks that do not extend below the knee and are secured at the waist. The trunks' waistband must not extend above the navel, as the beltline is used as a reference for legal punching zones. Footwear must consist of approved boxing shoes or boots without spikes, cleats, or hard soles. No jewelry, watches, body piercings, or unapproved accessories may be worn during competition. Hair must be secured so as not to obstruct the boxer's vision or impede the referee's duties.