Whether you are a pro or just starting out in the world of golf, finding the right gear can often feel overwhelming. The fits, the colours, the designs, and even the various types of gear can be hard to navigate. You might find yourself wondering, Is all this necessary? Can’t I just take my clubs and strike a few shots? Not exactly. Golfing gear exists for a reason. From keeping your appearance worthy of the sport to enhancing the way you hit your balls, the right gear can take you to the next level.

By far, the most important item in your golfing apparel is your golf gloves. They improve your grip, boost your striking precision, and enhance your overall performance. Before you throw on your polo shirt and order some comfy golf gloves, here’s everything you should know to find the perfect ones for your needs!

Why Are Golf Gloves Necessary?

Golf is a game of chance as much as it is about precision. You could strike the ball at exactly the right angle with the perfect level of force, and it still might not go in. That’s the honest truth.

For the perfect shot, all the universe must align your way. The wind would seize, the noise would disappear, and your hands would cut through the air with magnificent accuracy. However, the chances of that happening are close to zero.

Although gloves aren’t a rule on the golf course, you need every advantage that may improve your game, and gloves bring many of those advantages to the table!

When you are wearing golf gloves, you secure your grip on the club. Golf gloves allow you to swing accurately before you strike, without the need to apply extra pressure on the clubs to prevent them from slipping.

Whether you are playing a short game or completing a full course, your hands need extra protection. Either to prevent natural elements, such as a chilly breeze or the hot sun, from interfering with your shot or to avoid getting calluses from the strong grip. Gloves keep you both protected and sharpen your skills. For that reason, it never hurts to keep one in your golf bag, just in case you need it.

What To Look For in a Golf Glove?

While golf clubs and clothing apparel get much more attention in the world of golf, having the right accessories is equally important. Golf gloves are quite simple to understand. There are only a handful of characteristics you need to keep in mind before getting your first glove.

Most golf gloves don’t typically come in pairs, because golf players usually wear only one. It’s a practice to glove your non-dominant, aka weaker, hand while striking.  

Gloves that fit well should feel like they’re not even there. There shouldn’t be any extra space around your fingertips to ensure you still have full control while swinging your golf club. Because everyone’s hand shape is different, try different sizes until you find the perfect one for you.

Gloves can be mainly found composed of three materials. Those being:

• Cabretta Leather – soft leather that provides a secure grip. However, it’s not ideal for use in wet conditions.

• Synthetic materials – easily maintain their shape and are very lightweight, and durable.

• Hybrid of both – a combination of leather on the palms for grip and synthetic fibres on the fingers for breathability.

Not all glove materials are compatible with every weather condition. Access what the weather is like on the days you spend on the course to best decide what level of weather compatibility you want your gloves to possess.

Lastly, gloves, just as every other sports accessory, come in various designs and colours. Some players prefer a more casual look, while others like to make a statement. Choose your golfing glove wisely, and enjoy its full benefits.

How To Maintain Your Gloves

You’ve purchased a pair of golf gloves. What now? Although golf gloves are made with durability as a forethought, to keep their lifespan long, you need to properly take care of them.

​Don’t just wear the same glove every time you go to strike some shots. Rotate between two to three pairs to leave enough time for the previous one to dry completely.

When you’re not playing, store your gloves properly. Place them in a zip-lock bag or a drawer, where they will be kept dry and at a safe distance from anything sharp that can tear them.

While you’re riding your golf cart from one shot to another, there is no need to wear your glove. Take it off. Let your hand breathe or let your glove dry from any moisture it might have soaked up during the game.

Golf gloves, just as any other form of sport apparel, collect debris, oils, and moisture. It’s important to wash them regularly in order to keep them in their best shape. Throw them in the washing machine with the rest of your clothes, or just wash them by hand. Just don’t put them in the dryer; let them air dry outside.

Lastly, check your gloves regularly for any holes or tears. If you can stitch them up, that’s great. A couple of stitches and they’re as good as new. If they’re torn beyond repair, it’s time to consider getting a new pair.

Conclusion

Golf gloves are a desired item to carry in your golf bag. Finding the right glove for your hand or comfort can get tricky, but it ultimately comes down to a few simple characteristics. Consider which material, fit, and style best suit you and your golfing needs. Whether you are just in the game for fun or are looking to make it big, take your time. Try out different designs and styles before choosing your endgame.