What should I look for when shopping for a golf glove?
|
Time to read: 5 min
Let's discuss what you should look for when shopping for a golf glove. There are a few main considerations, first and foremost, figure out your dominant hand. If you are unsure of that, we have bigger problems!
Figuring Out Your Golf Glove Size
First question anyone has when they get into golf is, “How do I know what size golf glove to buy?”. Let's discuss.
Measure Your Hand:
You'll need a flexible tape measure to determine the circumference of your hand. Wrap the tape measure just below the knuckles (excluding the thumb) and around the palm of your dominant hand. Ensure that the tape is snug but not too tight.
Check Your Finger Length:
Length is often a factor overlooked when purchasing a golf glove. To check yours, measure from the top of your middle finger (or longest finger) down to the base of your palm where it meets the wrist.
Consult a Brand-Specific Sizing Chart:
Once you have your measurements, compare them with a sizing chart specific to the brand you're considering, most products will be consistent across brands, but sizes can vary between manufacturers. Most brands offer sizes from small (S) to extra-large (XL) and sometimes have cadet sizes, which usually mean shorter fingers.
Example our golf glove sizing:
Understanding "Cadet" Sizes: Cadet gloves are designed for players whose palms are broader and fingers are shorter than the standard sizes. If regular gloves often leave excess material at the fingers' tips, consider trying a cadet glove in your size. There tend to be less options offering cadet sizing, but if this is the case with you, all the big brands offer them, FootJoy, Callaway, etc. As well as some small DTC shops.
Consider Material Stretch: Leather gloves tend to stretch slightly with use, so they should be very snug when first worn. Synthetic gloves have less stretch, so they should be comfortable right away.
Golf Glove Material Matters
The primary materials used in golf gloves are synthetic and leather, and each comes with distinct advantages.
-
Leather: Renowned for superior comfort and natural grip, leather gloves adapt to your hand contour, offering a second-skin fit. They provide excellent breathability and softness, essential for players in temperate climates or those preferring a natural feel. However, they require more care and are less tolerant of wet conditions.
Synthetic: These gloves combine flexibility, durability, and affordability. They are excellent for all-weather conditions, offering consistent performance and often outlasting natural alternatives. However, they may lack the elite comfort level and custom fit associated with their leather counterparts.
Some gloves integrate both materials, harnessing their collective benefits. Your choice ultimately aligns with personal comfort, climate considerations, and budget.
Synthetic Materials
This section can be an entire article in itself. There are so many different variations today and we dove into each of them while exploring VivanTee golf gloves. To keep it easy and quick, we will give highlighted points on what to think when you see these materials.
Microfiber Suede: Soft, durable, and maintains grip in wet conditions.
Polyurethane (PU): Flexible, snug-fitting, and water-resistant.
Spandex/Lycra: Highly elastic for comfort and a customized fit.
Breathable Mesh Fabrics: Ventilated, keeps hands cool and dry.
Neoprene: Weather-resistant, ideal for cold or wet conditions.
Synthetic Leather: Mimics real leather, durable, and moisture-resistant.
Leather Quality
A (Standard Quality): "A" grade leather is standard quality and may contain some natural marks and blemishes. In the case of golf gloves, this level of leather would be functional and durable but might not offer the professional feel that higher grades provide. It's often found in more affordable products and can be a bit thicker or less pliable.
2. AA (High Quality): "AA" grade indicates a high-quality leather with fewer imperfections than the "A" grade. It's a middle ground between luxury and functionality, offering a softer feel and more flexibility than its "A" counterpart. For golfers, this means better comfort and potentially improved grip and hand movement. Products using "AA" grade leather will be priced higher than those made from the "A" grade.
3. AAA (Premium Quality): "AAA" grade leather represents the premium tier, the highest quality of leather with minimal to no marks or blemishes. The texture is usually very supple and smooth, providing an exceptional feel. For golf gloves, "AAA" grade leather means enhanced comfort, optimal grip, and better moisture control. Due to its high quality, it is usually the most expensive and is typically used in luxury or professional-grade products. Shameless plug, like our designer VivanTee golf gloves.
Golf Glove Fit
A glove's purpose falters if it hampers your hand's natural movements. The perfect fit is snug, without restricting finger flexibility or palm comfort. It should accommodate your palm's breadth and finger length, leaving no excessive fabric at the tips. A tighter fit typically offers better control, but beware of any constriction as that will cause for a short-lasting glove. A glove that is too tight will tear early, and you should get a good 10+ rounds out of them. Conversely, a loose glove can cause slippage, disrupting the swing's precision.
Stylish Golf Gloves or Traditional?
Golf fashion is taking over and making the industry more of a lifestyle. Your glove is the ultimate fashion accessory on the course. Your taste is up to your personality, whether it be vibrant and stylish golf gloves, like ours, or a more traditional and minimalist white glove.
Seek out gloves that showcase your unique personality and speak to you. Just remember, when you are dressed uniquely you, you are your most confident, and confidence relays better performance.
Golf Glove Functionality:
In today's market, golf gloves offer more than just a grip; they have innovative features designed to enhance convenience and functionality on the course.
Areas like golf gloves with magnetic ball markers. An added convenience for many golfers who like ease and convenience when on the green. We also use them as statement pieces or so you can customize your look with interchangeable markers.
Similarly, some gloves incorporate a tee holder, providing easy access to your tee when on the box. Located typically along the side of the glove, it saves time and simplifies the golfer's routine between shots.
Another handy feature is the built-in mini towel or absorbent patch, often located on the thumb or wrist area, which allows players to wipe away sweat or moisture, ensuring both comfort and a non-slip grip throughout the game.
Weather Conditions
Certain gloves cater specifically to weather conditions. All-weather gloves, usually synthetic, provide optimal grip in varied weather like rain or cold, while thermal models maintain hand warmth in cold weather, preventing the stiffness that could affect your swing. If you frequently play in diverse climates, consider specialized options for comfort and performance preservation. The FootJoy Rain gloves are great if you want to tough out the wet!
Conclusion: Golf Glove Shopping
Your golf glove is an extension of your equipment ensemble, deserving attention and consideration. It's the subtle link between you and your club, a facilitator of those big drives. Prioritizing fit, comfort, grip, and durability in balance with cost ensures you make an informed choice, one that could potentially refine the strokes shaving numbers off your scorecard. As you landed here and are more than likely beginning your golf journey, check out our Beginner's Guide to How to Play Golf, it is extensive and should answer all your questions. Remember, in a game governed by precision, the devil is indeed in the details.
