How to Measure a Boxing Ring for Canvas, Side Skirts and Corner Pads

Seems simple enough: order some ring replacement equipment, until they ask for the details of the dimensions. The first rule of boxing ring measurement is don't just take the ring's size for granted.

A ring, which is often 14 ft, 16 ft, 18 ft or 20 ft, may be surrounded by platform area not included in the ring and the finished canvas may need extra material for the fastening/tension system. The Ring Authority's existing guidance for canvas products is quite clear with regard to measuring the entire platform and including some material for the correct tensioning.

As with side skirts and corner pad covers, a component's size is not the only thing you should consider when measuring, it is the size of the piece you'll be installing and the structure it needs to fit in.

If you are an Australian boxing gym owner, if you take a few minutes to carefully think about before placing an order, then doing the rest of the replacement process will be much easier.

Why Boxing Ring Measurements Matter

Boxing rings are not just about punching fists. Boxing ring measurements aren't simply about punching fists.

Not all of the canvas, side skirts or corner pads are measured the same.

A canvas should completely cover a ring platform and maintain its operation with the fastening system. Side skirts surround outside of ring platform. The corner pad covers should fit the specific corner pad and the rope setup of the ring.

The Ring Authority also cautions against taking it for granted that the dimensions of replacement canvas, corner covers, rope covers and turnbuckle covers are universal. The actual dimensions, hardware, fastening, rope positions, corner configurations and platform designs may vary.

In particular with:

• Older boxing rings
• Custom-built rings
• Imported equipment
• Rings made from parts that are manufactured by a variety of different companies.
• Rings which are modified over time.
• Converted (2nd) commercial gym equipment.

Measuring the physical ring rather than by the name of a model or from memory, decreases uncertainty before production starts.

First Things: What You'll Need Before You Begin

There's no need for complicated equipment.

Prepare:

• An accurate tape measure
• A second person for long measures
• A notebook or phone
• A simple sketch of the ring, depicting its shape and design.
• A camera
• Any canvas or covers that you have already (if available)
• Information on existing fastening method

It helps to keep track of the measurements of a gym in millimetres and centimetres as well as feet and inches when building a gym in Australia.

Boxing rings are often quoted in feet, and often product dimensions are quoted in metric units for manufacturing or detailed product dimensions. You don't want to have to do mental conversions if you can help it, so it's best to record it.

Take photos of the ring from all four sides before removing.

Then photograph:

• Canvas attachment points
• Platform edges
• Side skirt attachments
• Corners
• Rear of corner pads
• Rope positions
• Secure with Velcro, ties or grommets.

These pictures help to put the numbers in perspective.

Be Familiar With the Unit You Are Measuring

Some of the largest misconceptions when it comes to the size of a boxing ring is that they can use the term “ring size” to mean different things.

Interior Ring Area

The area that is fought or trained within the ropes.

While it is useful info, it should not be always considered as canvas measurement.

Ring Platform

This platform is not just within the rope space of the interior.

With current The Ring Authority canvas products, customers are recommended to measure the entire platform size when deciding how much canvas is needed and should allow for the amount of overlap needed for tensioning.

Canvas

The canvas needs to cover the platform and it is essential that it fits with the type of attachment being used.

As a result this canvas size may vary depending on the way the material is attached to the canvas.

Side Skirts

Side skirts are attached to the outside edge of the platform.

The Ring Authority has side skirts available throughout the standard sizes (12 ft to 24 ft) and can accommodate custom measurements. Built-in tie strings are available for its polyester side skirt and Velcro attachment upon request with the ring set up.

Corner Pad Covers

The purpose of the corner pad cover is to cover around the protective corner padding and not over the ring floor.

The Ring Authority's standard PU leather corner pad cover is 1.2 m high, 33 cm wide and features full velcro rear attachment. It is offered singly, 4 are needed to assemble a complete standard ring and so on.

If you do have a different corner system, however, be sure to measure what is in place, rather than relying on the assumption that the dimensions are the same for your ring.

To Measure a Boxing Ring for a Canvas

This is where it can make a huge difference.

Step 1: Determine the Length of the Full Platform

To determine the length of the Full Platform, follow the measurements shown below:

Set up the tape at one side of the ring platform.

Operate in a straight line to the other outside edge.

Never go to the rope.

Record the measurement.

For example:

Platform length: 5,490 mm

Avoid rounding immediately. Record the real number in the notes.

Step 2: Measure the Platform Width

The Platform Width is measured at Step 2.

Repeat with the corner again at 90°.

Take the measurement from one end of the outside platform to the other.

Even if you think your ring is square, you should make note of the width separately.

For example:

Platform width: 5,475 mm

When a replacement item is being produced a small difference can have significance.

According to the Ring Authority's own guidelines for measuring, measurements should be taken both ways and not just one side.

Step 3: Check More Than One Position

Repeat Step 3, this time checking More Than One Position.

If the ring has been worn out for a long time or made to order, do not measure through the centre.

Measure second length measurement near another area of platform and again measure width.

When the numbers are different, write the differences not the average since they may be significant.

Your supplier will then be able to decide the size of the finished product.

Step 4: Examine Whether the Ring Is Square

In this step, examine whether the ring is square. Step 4: Examine the square-ness of the ring.

One helpful tip is to use the diagonal diagonal method for checking: compare the corner to corner diagonals.

If both of the diagonal readings are quite similar, the platform is most likely fairly square.

If they have a marked discrepancy, inform the supplier.

That does not imply the ring can not be altered by swapping out the canvas. It just gives some helpful information, before cutting or printing the materials.

Step 5: Identify the Existing Fastening System

The existing fastening system is identified as indicated in step 5.

Check under or around the edge of the platform.

Your canvas could be using:

• Grommets and ties
• Rope tie-downs
• Velcro
• Straps
• A mixture of systems

This is important because this detail dictates the length of material that is required to function with the fastening system.

The Ring Authority canvas Pro Grade, for instance, features reinforced metal grommets and a velcro strip for side skirts attachment, rather than rope tie-downs, while its Champion Grade canvas employs velcro strap fastening system instead of rope tie-downs.

It is possible that two rings with the same platform size could have different manufacturing specifications.

Step 6: Measure the Existing Canvas

If the finished canvas fits well in the space, proceed to Step 6: Measure the Existing Canvas.

Do not throw away a canvas that fits well before taking the measurement for a replacement.

Take it out and spread it out.

Record:

• Overall length
• Overall width
• The distance between the edge of the platform and the attachment points.
• Grommet spacing
• Strap positions
• Velcro locations

Another great tip for replacing a canvas is to use an existing correctly fit canvas as a template, the Ring Authority says.

But, if the old canvas has not been used to fit properly, don't simply copy its size.

Why a 16 ft Ring Does Not Necessarily Mean a 16 ft Canvas

If a student has a Ring size of 16, that doesn't necessarily indicate the size of their Canvas. For example, if a student's Ring is 16, does that mean their Canvas is 16?

It's a significant difference.

The Ring Authority Training Grades product guidance example is a 16 ft interior ring on an approximately 18 ft platform, and then adding for the covering material used to fit and tension a canvas approximately 20 ft long.

This is just an example and may not be applicable in all ring-fastening systems.

Numbers are not as important as the lesson:

Take a physical platform measurement. Please do not choose from the inside rope size.

Your next question should be: "If your gym staff says that you have an 18 foot ring, then what do they mean?

Is that the interior fight space, platform or an existing canvas?

There's a lot of confusion that can be avoided by that one question.

Determine the Length of Boxing Ring Side Skirts

Side skirts might be more simple visually than a canvas, but with custom sizing, it is important to take careful measurements.

They're meant to protect the exterior of the platform that is exposed, and also can feature gym branding, event graphics and sponsor logos.

The polyester side skirts, according to the Ring Authority, are "made-to-order" skirts that can be custom sized and feature full digital printing; tie-string as standard, velcro an option.

Measure Each Side Separately

Use Measure Each Side Separately. Use Measure Each Side Separately.

Start with Side A.

To take horizontal measurements across the area that will be covered by the skirt.

Then measure:

• Side B
• Side C
• Side D

Make sure that you do not presume that all four sides are equal.

Clearly mark the measurements.

For example:

This will be very handy if a custom design has to fit a particular side of the ring.

Determine the Required Drop

Then the vertical length of the skirt to cover needs to be calculated.

Use the measurements to determine the length of the bottom of the skirt from the point to which you wish to attach the bottom of the skirt.

Do not just cut a too-short or too-low size of an existing skirt.

Enter the actual desired finished drop.

For example:

Skirt drop: 760 mm

Record the Attachment Method

Attach it to the note and make sure to write it down.

Take a picture of the present attachment pattern.

Tell whether your ring is made from:

• Ties
• Velcro
• Another currently used attachment mechanism

Note if there is a Velcro strip on a side skirt to the canvas.

For example, the Ring Authority's Pro Grade canvas has a velcro edge strip for direct attachment to the side skirt.

Think About Branding Prior to Manufacturing

If your skirt is to be printed, determine which side will be printed:

• Spectators
• Cameras
• The main entrance to the main gym.
• Sponsor areas

Measurements and creating artwork must be done at the same time to ensure the key branding is placed on the side desired.

How to Measure Boxing Ring Corner Pad Covers

However, corner pads are unique in that you are installing a three dimensional padded piece, rather than a flat floor.

Decide if you want to measure before you do so:

• A new complete corner pad,
• Only an outer cover is needed to be replaced.

The Ring Authority standard product is a cover only - the internal padding is not included.

That distinction matters.

A badly damaged or compressed outer cover will not fix a badly damaged or compressed inner cover. The Ring Authority's safety advice also advises going through the foam without the outer shell to get the foam inspected separately.

Measure the Height of Current Pad

Take the measurement starting from the top of the padded portion and going to the bottom.

Make the measurement by not stretching or compressing the foam.

Measure Face Width

Take a measurement on the front face of the pad that is visible.

In the event that the width of the pad is not the same between top and bottom, measure and note both widths and take a picture of the shape.

Examine Rear Closure

Rotate the pad or cover and determine how it's closed.

Record:

• Velcro position
• Strap configuration
• Opening width
• Any unusual points of attachment

When replacing a corner pad cover, it is highly recommended that you check the dimensions and rear closure of the ring.

Record Rope Configuration

Make a straight shot with pictures of the corner with all ropes.

Note:

• Number of ropes
• Approximate spacing
• The location of the pad in relation to them
• Any unusual turn buckle installation

You don't want to redesign the corner by yourself. You are just providing enough information to the manufacturer so they can get the idea of how it is.

Confirm Quantity

A regular boxing ring should have four corners but don't assume that a product listing is necessarily being sold as a set!

The Ring Authority's standard corner pad cover is sold individually and so 4 would be 4 complete corner pad covers.

Be sure to check quantity prior to ordering.

Make One Boxing Ring Measurement Sheet

Try to get all the dimensions in one measurement sheet rather than sending them in a number of messages.

One of the simplest may be this:

Include photographs next to appropriate measurements, if available.

This is a much simpler thing to check than a message such as “It's an eighteen foot ring.”

Boxing Ring Measuring Errors

Mistake 1: Measuring Between the Ropes Only

The first mistake is measuring between the ropes only. The first mistake is to measure between the ropes only.

This does not necessarily indicate what canvas size you need for the interior fight.

Existing Ring Authority canvas instructions require customers to use the full size of the platform, and to provide the required overlap for tensioning.

Mistake 2: Assuming the Ring Is a Perfect Square

Mistake 2: Assuming the ring is perfectly square. Mistake 2: Assuming the ring is a perfect square.

Compare measure length and width.

Don't just measure one side and write down the measurement.

Mistake 3: Rounding Prematurely

If you measure 5,475 mm, write 5,475 mm.

Never say right away “it is approximately 5.5 metres.”

The more information that the supplier has, the easier it will be to make a proper job of things.

Mistake 4: Not Understanding the Fastening System

If you're not familiar with the Fastening System, it can be a common mistake.

The size of the Canvas is not the only specification.

The finished piece may be impacted with the use of grommet positions, straps and velcro.

Mistake 5: Believing Side Skirts Use the Canvas Measurement

Lieutenant Conway stated that the mistake was believing Side Skirts used the Canvas Measurement.

They have different functions and are different things to measure.

Take actual external measurements of the size of the skirt to be made.

Mistake 6: Corner Covers by Ring Size

Not all 16' rings tell you about the size of their corner pads.

Take actual measurements of pad or cover.

Mistake 7: Changing Out the Cover Without Checking the Padding

When the top cover becomes damaged or compressed, replacing just that cover will NOT replace the padding.

Mistake 8: Sending Numbers Without Pictures

Photos are used to explain what each measurement is.

That's especially true of an unusual or custom ring.

How to Measure an Older or Non-Standard Boxing Ring

Commercial rings that are older should be given special consideration.

Time may have passed and equipment may have been:

• Repaired
• Reconfigured
• Re-platformed
• With the various ropes installed.
• Given replacement padding
• Adapted to a new site

So, the size of a previous bill or manual might no longer correspond to that of the ring you have at your gym today.

Take all the measurements of the equipment available.

The general idea of the Ring Authority's safety recommendations is: replacement parts should be compatible with the actual size, hardware, fastening method, rope position, corner configuration and platform design, and should not be assumed to be universal.

Should Australian Gyms Use Metric or Imperial Measurements?

Both of these can be helpful for Australian gyms.

For example:

Platform: 5,486 mm × 5,480 mm

This is a roughly 18' x 18' reference.

As a convenient reference for making the rings, the familiar measurement 'feet' is convenient to use; for detailed manufacturing communication, use the actual metric size of the ring.

It is persisted here that consistency is crucial.

Never send one size in feet, another in centimetres and another as an guess size.

What Should You Send Before Ordering?

The following is a checklist of useful questions to ask in a sizing inquiry:

1. Platform Dimensions

Length and width.

2. Interior Ring Size

Supportive – helpful as additional information.

3. Canvas Fastening

Photos and description.

4. Existing Canvas Measurements

If the canvas is a good size for the present context.

5. Side Skirt Dimensions

All sides and necessary drop.

6. Corner Pad Dimensions

The parameters of height, width, closure and quantity.

7. Clear Photos

Use the entire ring and close-ups.

8. Branding Requirements

Indicate if logos, sponsor graphics, and/or custom colours are required.

The Ring Authority will also offer custom canvas and ring accessories for gyms and fight events as well as allow the customer to send in measurements and/or images for confirmation prior to production.

Final Pre-Order Measurement Checklist

Before placing an order please check:

• I took the actual ring size measurement, instead of the advertised size alone.
• I measured the length of the whole platform.
• I took the total platform width measurement.
• No unnecessary rounding done on the measurements.
• Examined the fastening on canvas.
• If the canvas is a good template and already established, then I will measure it.
• Made measurements of all side skirts.
• I took the measurement of the desired side skirts drop.
• I found an approach to attaching the side skirts.
• The corner pads were measured individually.
• Found out if I need pads or full pads.
• Checked the amount needed.
• I took pictures of the ring and attachment points.
• I will request a confirmation if any measurement is not certain.

Final Thoughts

There is no standard number for boxing rings; it is more about measuring a ring in front of you than it is about finding one.

If replacing a canvas, begin with the full canvas and determine how it will be stretched and secured to. To determine the length of side skirts for the outside areas they will cover, you must measure the length of the outside skirts (drop and method of fastening). When using corner pad covers, measure the pad to determine the configuration and closure of the covers.

Most important of all, don't guess!

The best boxing ring measurements provide the manufacturer a clear picture of what they are making for, and can help you make an informed decision when you are purchasing boxing equipment.

If your ring is an unusual, modified or older ring or ring that is hard to measure, take a picture of it, photograph all the dimensions that can be measured and send them to the manufacturer for verification prior to production.

This is a much more sensible route to take than finding out after the delivery that the “18 ft ring” you measured was in fact for just part of the set-up.

FAQs

1. How Much Does a Boxer's Ring Measure When He Needs to Install a New Canvas?

Take the outside to outside measurements of the entire ring platform in both directions. Record the fastening system, and any additional material needed for correct tensioning.

2. Will I Measure Within the Boxing Ring Ropes?

Not for the canvas per se. The interior rope area is useful supporting information, however existing The Ring Authority canvas guidance sizes based on the full platform dimensions.

3. Do a 16 ft Boxing Ring and a 16 ft Canvas Equal Each Other?

Not necessarily. The nominal size of the ring can refer to the inside area instead of the total platform/finished canvas demand.

4. How Do You Fit Boxer's Side Skirts?

Take every measurement of the exterior of the skirt that is needed and write down what length the vertical drop of the skirt needs to be and how the skirt will be attached.

5. Do All Four Sides of the Rings Have to Be Measured?

Yes. Side by side measurements will help to detect the minute differences and will provide a better dimensioning for custom components.

6. How Many Pounds Does a Boxing Ring Corner Pad Cover Weigh?

Note the pad height, width of face and type of corner. If it is just a cover, check the film under the cover too.

7. How Many Types of Corner Pad Covers Does The Ring Authority Offer for the Corners?

The leather corner pad cover is currently listed as 1.2 m high, 33 cm wide with full velcro back.

8. Do I Need to Measure My Previous Boxing Ring Canvas?

Yes, provided that it fits properly. Use it flat as a helpful reference guide, along with new platform measurements.

9. Do You Agree With the Statements Below?

Note down where possible. Nominal boxing ring size is best described in feet, but if measuring for custom made size, it's best to measure in millimetres or centimetres.

10. How If I Have Any Doubt About My Measurements?

Record the size of the ring and clearly photograph the ring and attachment points then send to the supplier to confirm the size prior to the manufacture of the ring.