A boxing ring canvas is more than just a protective layer on the ring platform. It must fit properly, remain properly stretched and be compatible with the fastening mechanism of the ring. One aspect of replacing an old canvas that can be overlooked is how the new canvas will be held in place.

The two general ways of fastening are grommet and tie fastening and Velcro strap fastening. The right one is dependent upon the present ring, platform configuration and use of the ring.

What Do Grommets on a Boxing Ring Canvas Do?

The openings around the perimeter of a boxing ring canvas are reinforced with grommets. These openings can be used for cord to tie down and stretch the canvas over the platform.

This is a common technique used for many training rings. What's important is to ensure the position and spacing of the grommets match the existing platform and fastening arrangement.The Training Grade Boxing Ring Canvas features brass grommets for tie down installation and comes in sizes from 12 ft to 24 ft. It is ideal for regular use in boxing gyms, fight clubs, MMA training facilities and multi-use training facilities.

Don't order a new canvas or platform without checking the existing canvas and platform first, as the advertised ring size does not necessarily imply everything you need to know.

How Does Velcro Fastening Work?

Velcro is not completely dependent on rope tie downs, but it does employ a hook and loop arrangement. Straps or fixing strips on the canvas are joined to the fixing area on the ring setup.

A benefit to this is a cleaner installation. The integrated fastening system allows you to position and secure the canvas without the need for visible tie down ropes.

The Champion Grade Boxing Ring Canvas has Velcro strap fastening for a cleaner, competition focused installation. Velcro is also described as a side skirt attachment in the current product information.

A Comparison of Grommets and Velcro in Terms of Usefulness

It's the mounting of the canvas to the ring that makes the difference.

Reinforced openings around the perimeter of the canvas are used with a grommet system and tie down cord. To secure the canvas, the cord is tightened around the platform.

Integrated hook and loop straps or strips are fastened by a Velcro system. The installer matches the fastening surfaces and attaches them together.

These systems should not just be considered an old versus new approach, though. The existing ring and the selected product should be taken into account because the current range of TRA has various fastening configurations among the different grades of canvas.

What System Do You Need for a Training Gym?

If you are training in a busy gym, then compatibility with the existing ring should come first.

If the ring is already engineered around the traditional tiedown points, a canvas with grommets may be a viable option. Training Grade is a canvas for daily gym use and is installed with evenly spaced metal grommets.

The canvas in training environments will typically require proper sizing, proper fitting and the ability to be used repeatedly. It is not advantageous to select a fastening arrangement that does not correspond to the existing platform.

Before ordering, inspect the current canvas, measure the platform and record the location of the fastening points.

Consider Using Velcro When It Is the Better Choice

When the finish and simple installation are important, Velcro may be helpful.

This may be especially applicable for event rings, competition setups and rings used frequently for photography or video. You can give the ring a cleaner look with a fastening arrangement that has no exposed rope tie downs.

The Champion Grade canvas features Velcro strap fastening and is set up for sanctioned events, championship fights and televised promotions.

Nevertheless, Velcro should still be configured to the ring. If the platform isn't designed to accept a new fastening system, then you'll have a compatibility problem, and that system won't resolve the issue.

What to Check Before Ordering?

When looking for a replacement canvas, check the actual size of the ring, not the advertised size.

First, measure the entire platform. Next, determine the current fastening technique and check the following:

• Grommets
• Tie down cords
• Velcro straps
• Fastening strips
• Attachment points
• The distance between the points or locations where things are fastened

Record the edges of the platform and the places where it attaches clearly. Note the canvas size and securing points before taking off the current canvas, if it fits properly.

Additionally, the current TRA product guidance recommends measuring the outer platform dimensions rather than just the interior rope area to determine canvas size.

The Boxing Ring Measurement Guide can be used in conjunction with the existing platform and fastening configuration for further guidance.

Selecting the Correct Canvas Grade

Fastening is just part of the equation. Think about all of these factors when working with the material, the purpose for use, the size of the platform, the type of fastenings used and the desired finish.

The purpose of Training Grade is to train regularly. Pro Grade features reinforced grommets and has a Velcro strip for side-skirt attachment; Champion Grade is designed for professional and competitive use and fastens with Velcro strap.

The Pro Grade Boxing Ring Canvas features reinforced metal grommets and a Velcro strip for side skirt attachment.

Not all canvas is created equal, and the one with the most advanced fastening mechanism may not be the best choice. It is the one that fits the real ring and is appropriate for the way the ring is going to be used.

Checklist Before Ordering

Please verify before ordering:

• Full platform dimensions
• Existing canvas size
• Current fastening method
• Spacing between grommets, if any
• Velcro or strap attachment points
• Required canvas overlap
• The ring's purpose and intended use
• Appropriate canvas grade
• Colour and branding requirements
• Side skirt attachment requirements

When there is any doubt, a set of well taken photographs of the existing ring can help relay information that cannot be obtained from measurements.

Final Thoughts

Selecting a boxing ring canvas fastening system isn't just a matter of deciding on two different methods. There are two methods of attaching a canvas to a ring: grommets and Velcro. The choice will depend on the structure of the ring and the type of use it will be put to.

Using grommets and ties can be useful for many training situations, while Velcro can be suitable for appropriate rings.

The most crucial thing before ordering is to check the platform that you already have. Measure the ring, determine the fastening system, inspect attachment points and determine the appropriate canvas grade for the desired use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Is Better for a Boxing Ring Canvas, Velcro or Grommets?

Both have their own merits and considerations. The answer is dependent on the current ring platform, fastening method, intended use and the canvas configuration being ordered.

Is It Possible to Use a Velcro Canvas to Replace a Grommet Boxing Ring Canvas?

This requires consideration of the pre-existing ring. Always ensure the replacement canvas is compatible by checking the platform, fastening points and attachment system.

How Do I Know What Size Boxing Ring Canvas I Need?

Record the overall outer measurements of the ring platform and not just the fighting-area or rope to rope measurement. The canvas must be of sufficient size to fit and tighten properly.

Can a Boxing Ring Canvas Be Fitted With Both Grommets and Velcro?

Yes. There are various fastening options to choose from for different sections of the ring configuration. The reinforced grommets and Velcro strip on the side skirt of TRA's Pro Grade canvas are examples of these features.