Filled vs Unfilled Punching Bags: Which Is Better?

Should you buy a punching bag that’s already filled, or choose an unfilled bag and fill it yourself?

Both options have their advantages, and the better choice depends on your budget, training needs, available space, and how much setup you’re willing to do.

In short: a filled punching bag is the easiest choice if you want to start training straight away, while an unfilled punching bag gives you more control over the final weight and firmness and can be more convenient to transport before filling.

For most beginners, a filled bag offers the simplest setup.

Experienced fighters, gyms, or anyone who wants to customise their bag may prefer an unfilled option.

Filled vs Unfilled Punching Bags: What's the Difference?

A filled punching bag arrives with the filling already inside, so it’s ready to set up and use.

It’s the more convenient option if you want to avoid sourcing materials and filling the bag yourself.

However, it is heavier to transport and offers less control over the final weight and firmness.

An unfilled punching bag comes as an empty shell, allowing you to choose and add the filling yourself.

This can make it easier to transport and gives you more control over the bag’s weight and feel, but it requires extra time and preparation before you can train.

The key difference is convenience versus customisation: filled bags save you time, while unfilled bags give you more control.

Filled vs Unfilled Punching Bags: At a Glance

If convenience is your priority, choose filled. If flexibility and potentially lower delivery costs matter more, choose unfilled.

Filled Punching Bags: Pros & Cons

A filled punching bag is designed to remove most of the preparation involved in getting your training setup ready.

You pay more upfront, but you gain convenience and avoid the work of filling the bag yourself.

Advantages of Filled Punching Bags

Ready to Use

The filling is already inside the bag, so there is no need to collect materials or spend time preparing the interior before training.

Less Setup

You can focus on installing the bag correctly rather than spending hours packing, compressing and distributing the filling.

Convenient for Beginners

If this is your first punching bag, a pre-filled option can make the buying and setup process much simpler, with fewer decisions to make before you can start training.

Consistent Construction

A properly prepared filled bag should have its contents distributed throughout the shell, helping provide a more consistent striking surface.

No Need to Source Filling Materials

You don't have to find enough suitable fabric, foam or other materials to fill a large bag, which can save both time and effort.

Disadvantages of Filled Punching Bags

Higher Upfront Cost

A filled bag generally costs more because you're also paying for the filling and the preparation required to make it ready for use.

Heavier to Deliver

The filling adds considerable weight to the package, which can make transportation and delivery more challenging than with an empty bag.

Less Ability to Customise

Because the bag has already been filled, you have limited control over the type, amount and arrangement of the material inside.

Harder to Handle

A fully filled punching bag can be difficult to move once delivered.

It's worth planning where the bag will be installed before it arrives, particularly with larger and heavier models.

Unfilled Punching Bags: Pros & Cons

Advantages of Unfilled Punching Bags

Lower Initial Cost

The empty shell is generally cheaper than buying the equivalent bag already filled.

The Fairtex 6 FT Banana Punch Bag shows the price difference clearly:

• Filled: £284.95
  
• Unfilled: £199.95

The unfilled option saves £85, while the filled version offers the convenience of being ready to use.

Lower Shipping Weight

This can be particularly useful when purchasing larger or multiple bags.

Customisable Weight

You can add filling until the bag reaches the weight you want.

Customisable Firmness

The type, distribution and compression of the filling can influence how the bag feels.

Easier to Transport Before Filling

An empty bag is considerably easier to move into position before adding the weight.

Disadvantages of Unfilled Punching Bags

Requires DIY Filling

An unfilled punching bag isn't ready to use out of the box. You'll need to source suitable materials and fill the bag yourself.

Takes Time to Prepare

Filling a large punching bag properly can take time, especially when the material needs to be packed and distributed evenly.

Can Feel Uneven if Filled Poorly

Incorrectly packed filling can create softer or harder areas, affecting the consistency of the striking surface.

Extra Materials May Cost More

Although the bag itself may be cheaper, you'll still need suitable filling materials, which can add to the overall cost.

More Effort Before Training

If you want to start training immediately, an unfilled bag requires considerably more preparation than a pre-filled option.

Which Is Better: Filled or Unfilled Punching Bag?

Neither option is automatically better. The right choice depends on how much convenience, control and preparation you want.

Choose a Filled Punching Bag If You:

• Are buying your first punching bag
  
• Want to start training with minimal setup
  
• Don't want to source filling materials
  
• Prefer a ready-to-use option
  
• Want to avoid the work of filling the bag yourself
  
• Value convenience over customisation

Choose an Unfilled Punching Bag If You:

• Want greater control over the bag's weight
  
• Want to adjust the firmness to suit your training
  
• Are comfortable filling the bag yourself
  
• Want a lighter package before filling
  
• Are buying multiple punching bags
  
• Already have suitable filling materials available

What Can You Use to Fill an Unfilled Punching Bag?

An unfilled punching bag gives you the flexibility to choose the materials used inside.

Different fillings can affect the bag's weight, firmness and overall impact feel.

Common filling options include:

• Shredded clothes and fabric – Affordable, easy to source and provides a forgiving striking surface.
  
• Foam – Adds cushioning and can help create a softer impact.
  
• Sand – Adds significant weight and density when securely contained.
  
• Rubber – A dense option that can increase weight and firmness.
  
• Sawdust – Can add density, but it may settle and compact over time, so it needs to be used carefully.
  
• Mixed filling – Combining suitable materials can help balance weight, cushioning and firmness.

The best filling depends on how you want your punching bag to feel and how much weight you need.

For the full process, including the best materials and how to pack them correctly, read our guide: How to Fill a Punching Bag: Best Materials & Step-by-Step Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are filled punching bags better?

Not necessarily. Filled punching bags are better for convenience and quick setup, while unfilled punching bags give you more control over the weight and firmness. The better option depends on your training needs and preferences.

Is it cheaper to buy an unfilled punching bag?

Usually, the unfilled bag costs less upfront because you're not paying for the filling. However, you should also consider the cost of filling materials and the time needed to prepare the bag.

Can you fill a punching bag yourself?

Yes. An unfilled punching bag can be filled at home using suitable materials such as shredded fabric, foam, securely contained sand, rubber or sawdust. Proper packing and distribution are important for a consistent feel.

What is the best filling for a punching bag?

For most home users, shredded clothes and fabric are a practical choice because they are affordable and provide a forgiving striking surface. Other materials can be combined to adjust the bag's weight and firmness.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a filled and unfilled punching bag ultimately comes down to convenience versus customisation.

A filled bag is the simpler option if you want to start training with minimal preparation, while an unfilled bag gives you more control over the filling, weight and firmness.

If you're still deciding which bag is right for you, our guide on how to choose a punching bag can help you compare the key factors before buying.

You can also explore our best punching bags for every training style & space for recommendations based on your setup and training goals.

Not sure whether a banana bag or traditional heavy bag is the better choice? Read banana bag vs heavy bag to compare their differences and find the right style for your training.