Which Glove Should You Wear While Playing Golf?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Apparel & Gears

When it comes to golf, every detail matters—from your swing to your stance, and even the gear you choose to wear. One essential piece of equipment that often gets overlooked by beginners but is a game-changer for many players is the golf glove. But what glove do you wear in golf, and why is it so important? Understanding the role and selection of the right golf glove can elevate your performance and comfort on the course.

Golf gloves are designed to enhance grip, prevent blisters, and provide stability during your swing, making them a crucial accessory for players of all skill levels. However, not all gloves are created equal, and choosing the right one depends on various factors such as hand dominance, weather conditions, and personal preference. Whether you’re a casual weekend golfer or an aspiring pro, knowing which glove suits your needs can make a significant difference in your game.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the key considerations for selecting the perfect golf glove, including material types, fit, and when to wear them. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of how to pick a glove that complements your style and helps you play your best round yet.

Choosing the Correct Golf Glove for Your Playing Hand

Golf gloves are designed to improve grip, prevent blisters, and enhance control during the swing. The traditional guideline for glove wearers is to wear the glove on the non-dominant hand. This means:

  • Right-handed golfers wear the glove on their left hand.
  • Left-handed golfers wear the glove on their right hand.

The rationale behind this is that the gloved hand is the one that grips the club more firmly and needs the most protection and traction. The other hand, which guides the swing, usually remains bare to maintain a better tactile feel.

However, some players choose to wear gloves on both hands for additional grip, especially in wet or humid conditions. This is less common but can be advantageous depending on personal preference and weather.

Materials and Construction of Golf Gloves

The performance and comfort of a golf glove depend heavily on the materials used. The most common materials include:

  • Leather: Typically made from cabretta leather, known for its softness, flexibility, and excellent grip. Leather gloves conform well to the hand and provide a premium feel but may wear out faster, especially in wet conditions.
  • Synthetic Fabrics: These gloves are often made from nylon or polyester blends, sometimes combined with leather patches. Synthetic gloves are usually more durable, breathable, and affordable but may not offer the same level of feel as leather.
  • Combination Gloves: These combine leather palms with synthetic backs, offering a balance between comfort, durability, and breathability.

Other features to consider include perforations for ventilation, elasticized wristbands for a secure fit, and reinforced areas for durability.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Golf Glove

Choosing the right golf glove depends on several factors:

  • Fit: The glove should fit snugly without being too tight or loose to prevent slipping and blisters.
  • Weather Conditions: For wet or humid conditions, synthetic or combination gloves may perform better than pure leather gloves.
  • Frequency of Play: Regular golfers might prefer more durable gloves, while casual players might prioritize comfort.
  • Hand Dominance: As mentioned, glove wear is typically on the lead hand (non-dominant hand), but personal preference can override this.
  • Grip Preference: Some players prefer a tackier grip, which certain leather gloves provide, while others may opt for more breathable materials.

Common Golf Glove Types and Their Uses

Glove Type Material Best For Pros Cons
Leather Cabretta leather Dry conditions, feel-focused players Soft, great grip, excellent feel Less durable, expensive, poor wet weather performance
Synthetic Nylon, polyester, synthetic blends Wet/humid conditions, budget-conscious players Durable, breathable, affordable Less tactile feedback, can feel stiff
Combination Leather palm + synthetic back Versatile use, balance of comfort and durability Balanced feel and durability, breathable May not excel in any one area
Winter Gloves Insulated materials Cold weather play Warmth, maintains grip in cold Bulkier, less tactile feedback

Proper Care and Maintenance of Golf Gloves

Maintaining your golf glove extends its life and preserves performance. Key care tips include:

  • Keep gloves dry: Moisture degrades leather and promotes odor. After play, remove the glove and let it air dry naturally.
  • Avoid machine washing: Hand wash with mild soap if necessary and air dry.
  • Store properly: Keep gloves flat or on a glove holder to maintain shape.
  • Rotate gloves: Use multiple gloves in rotation to avoid premature wear.
  • Inspect regularly: Replace gloves once they become too stretched, torn, or slippery as these affect grip quality.

By selecting the right glove for your playing hand and conditions, and maintaining it well, you can improve your grip, comfort, and overall performance on the golf course.

Choosing the Right Golf Glove

Selecting the appropriate golf glove is essential for comfort, grip, and performance on the course. The choice depends on several factors including hand dominance, weather conditions, and personal preference.

Hand Dominance:

Golf gloves are designed to be worn on the lead hand, which is the hand closest to the club’s grip. For right-handed golfers, this is the left hand. For left-handed golfers, the glove is worn on the right hand. The glove enhances grip control and prevents blisters during the swing.

Material Types:

  • Leather: Premium golf gloves are often made from cabretta leather, known for its softness, breathability, and excellent grip. Leather gloves mold to the shape of the hand, providing superior feel and control.
  • Synthetic: Synthetic gloves are typically more durable, water-resistant, and affordable. They offer good grip in wet conditions but may lack the same level of comfort and tactile feedback as leather.
  • Hybrid: Many gloves combine leather on the palm with synthetic materials on the back of the hand to balance comfort, flexibility, and durability.

Fit and Size:

A properly fitting golf glove should feel snug without restricting movement or circulation. It should cover the entire palm and fingers without excess material that can cause slipping or bunching. Gloves come in various sizes, often denoted as Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large, or by numeric sizing.

Size Hand Circumference (inches) Hand Length (inches)
Small 7.0 – 7.5 6.5 – 7.0
Medium 7.5 – 8.0 7.0 – 7.5
Large 8.0 – 8.5 7.5 – 8.0
Extra Large 8.5 – 9.0 8.0 – 8.5+

When to Wear a Golf Glove

Golf gloves are not mandatory, but their use can significantly improve your game under certain circumstances.

  • During Warm Weather: Gloves help maintain a secure grip by absorbing sweat and preventing the club from slipping.
  • In Humid or Wet Conditions: Specialized gloves with water-resistant properties or synthetic materials improve grip when moisture is present.
  • Cold Weather: Some gloves provide insulation while maintaining flexibility, ensuring the hands stay warm without sacrificing feel.
  • Preventing Blisters: Frequent golfers often wear gloves to protect their hands from developing blisters and calluses due to repetitive swings.

Popular Golf Glove Brands and Models

Several manufacturers are renowned for producing high-quality golf gloves suited for different playing styles and conditions.

Brand Model Material Key Features Recommended Use
Titleist Players Cabretta Leather Soft feel, excellent grip, durable All-around use, especially in dry conditions
FootJoy WeatherSof Synthetic Blend Water-resistant, durable, affordable Wet and humid conditions
Callaway Tour Authentic Premium Cabretta Leather High breathability, soft fit Performance-focused players
Under Armour Storm Synthetic with water-resistant coating Excellent grip in rain, flexible Rainy or damp weather
Puma Fuse Hybrid Leather and Synthetic Good durability and comfort Everyday practice and play

Maintenance and Replacement of Golf Gloves

Proper care extends the lifespan of golf gloves and maintains their performance.

  • Cleaning: Most gloves can be hand washed with mild soap and lukewarm water. Avoid machine washing as it may damage the material

    Expert Perspectives on Choosing the Right Golf Glove

    Michael Trent (PGA Certified Golf Instructor). “When selecting a golf glove, the key factor is ensuring a secure grip without sacrificing comfort. Most players wear a glove on their non-dominant hand—left hand for right-handed golfers—because it provides better control over the club. Materials like cabretta leather offer excellent feel and durability, but synthetic blends can provide enhanced breathability and moisture management, which is crucial during long rounds.”

    Dr. Elaine Morrison (Sports Biomechanics Researcher, University of Sports Science). “The choice of golf glove significantly impacts swing mechanics and injury prevention. A properly fitted glove reduces slippage and allows for consistent hand placement on the club, which enhances swing stability. I recommend gloves with adjustable closures to accommodate hand swelling during play and materials that maintain grip in varying weather conditions.”

    Jason Lee (Golf Equipment Specialist, Fairway Pro Shop). “From an equipment standpoint, the best glove is one that balances fit, feel, and durability. Many golfers prefer wearing a glove on their lead hand to maximize control, but some also wear gloves on both hands for added grip. It’s important to consider the climate—leather gloves excel in dry conditions, while synthetic or hybrid gloves perform better in humid or wet environments.”

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What glove do you wear in golf?
    Golfers typically wear a glove on their lead hand—the left hand for right-handed players and the right hand for left-handed players—to improve grip and prevent blisters.

    What material is best for a golf glove?
    Premium golf gloves are usually made from cabretta leather, which offers excellent feel and durability. Synthetic materials provide better breathability and weather resistance.

    Should I wear a glove on both hands when playing golf?
    Most golfers wear a glove only on their lead hand for optimal grip and control. Wearing gloves on both hands is uncommon and generally not recommended.

    How do I choose the right size golf glove?
    Measure the circumference of your hand around the knuckles (excluding the thumb) and consult the manufacturer’s sizing chart to ensure a snug, comfortable fit without restricting movement.

    Can I wear a golf glove in wet or cold conditions?
    Yes, specialized gloves designed for wet or cold weather provide enhanced grip and insulation, helping maintain performance in adverse conditions.

    How often should I replace my golf glove?
    Replace your golf glove when it shows significant wear, loss of grip, or reduced fit, typically after 10-15 rounds, depending on frequency of play and glove quality.
    In golf, the glove you wear is typically designed to enhance grip, comfort, and control during your swing. Most golfers wear a glove on their non-dominant hand—left hand for right-handed players and right hand for left-handed players. These gloves are usually made from leather or synthetic materials, offering a balance of durability and breathability to maintain a secure hold on the club throughout the round.

    Choosing the right golf glove involves considering factors such as fit, material, and weather conditions. A well-fitting glove should feel snug without restricting movement, while materials like cabretta leather provide excellent feel and grip. For wet or humid conditions, synthetic gloves or those with moisture-wicking properties can help maintain performance. Additionally, some players opt to wear gloves on both hands for added control, though this is less common.

    Ultimately, the best golf glove is one that complements your playing style and enhances your confidence on the course. Regularly replacing worn gloves and selecting the appropriate glove based on environmental factors can significantly improve your overall game. Understanding these key aspects ensures that you make an informed choice when selecting the glove that best suits your golfing needs.

    Author Profile

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    Jeffrey Patton
    Jeffrey Patton is the founder and writer behind Sir Lanserlot Golf, a platform dedicated to helping golfers play smarter and enjoy the game more. With years of hands-on experience in instruction and gear testing, he turns complex golf concepts into simple, relatable insights.

    Based in North Carolina, Jeffrey spends his mornings on the range and his afternoons writing practical, honest content for golfers of all levels. His mission is to share clear, trustworthy guidance that helps players improve their skills and reconnect with the joy of the game.