A properly fitted golf glove is crucial for optimum performance on the course. But getting the tightness just right can be tricky. This article will guide you through finding your ideal golf glove fit for comfort, feel and improved play.
The Role of a Golf Glove in Your Game
Wearing a golf glove serves multiple purposes for the modern player. The key benefits include:
- Better grip and control
- Reduced club slippage
- Blister prevention
- Absorption of sweat
- Stabilization during the swing
With a correctly fitted glove, you can maximize these advantages to elevate your golf skills.
The Ideal Fit for Golf Gloves
A properly fitted glove should feel snug but comfortable. Here are signs you’ve found the sweet spot:
- No pinching or binding in the fingers
- Palm and fingertips make full contact with the club
- Easy to clench fist and grip club
- Smooth swing without adjustments
Follow the tightness test below to dial in the perfect fit.
Golf Glove Sizing Chart
Golf gloves come in standard sizes based on hand measurements:
| Size | Hand Length | Hand Width |
|---|---|---|
| Cadet | 6.5 – 7.5 inches | 2.5 – 3 inches |
| Small | 7 – 8 inches | 2.5 – 3.25 inches |
| Medium | 7.5 – 8.5 inches | 3 – 3.5 inches |
| Medium/Large | 8 – 9 inches | 3.25 – 3.75 inches |
| Large | 8.5 – 9.5 inches | 3.5 – 4 inches |
| Extra Large | 9 – 10 inches | 3.75 – 4.5 inches |
Golf Glove Sizing Chart (Centimeters)
| Size | Hand Length (cm) | Hand Width (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| Cadet | 16.5 – 19.05 | 6.35 – 7.62 |
| Small | 17.78 – 20.32 | 6.35 – 8.255 |
| Medium | 19.05 – 21.59 | 7.62 – 8.89 |
| Medium/Large | 20.32 – 22.86 | 8.255 – 9.525 |
| Large | 21.59 – 24.13 | 8.89 – 10.16 |
| Extra Large | 22.86 – 25.4 | 9.525 – 11.43 |
The Tightness Test: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Check the palm area by gripping the club. The entire palm should touch the grip.
Step 2: Assess finger length by clenching a fist. The glove should smoothly gather at the knuckles without pulling.
Step 3: Perform the snap test. Snap your gloved fingers together. You should hear a light snap, not a muffled thud.
The Finger Fitting Factor
Pay special attention to the finger lengths when finding the right tightness:
- There should be no empty fabric bunched at the fingertips.
- The seams should align with your actual knuckles when making a fist.
- The glove should not tug or strain when flexing your fingers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many golfers err on the side of too tight or too loose. Be aware of these glove fitting blunders:
| Too Tight | Just Right |
|---|---|
| Restricted finger mobility | Comfortable finger movement |
| Thumb feels pinched | Thumb position enables grip |
| Palms sweat excessively | Light perspiration |
| Fingertips turn red | Normal fingertip color |
| Hand cramps up | No hand fatigue |
Adjusting to Your Golf Glove
It takes time to get used to a new glove’s feel. Here are tips to help:
- Wear it around the house to break it in
- Grip and regrip your club to adapt to the snugness
- Play a few relaxed rounds to ease into the right tightness
With practice, an ideally fitted glove will feel like a second skin.
When to Replace Your Golf Glove
Replace your golf glove when you notice:
- Worn out palms with holes
- Fraying seams around fingers
- Discoloration from dirt and wear
- Loss of elasticity
Also factor in usage frequency, storage and care between replacements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I wear a glove on both hands?
Most golfers wear a glove only on their leading hand for improved feel. However, some players opt for two gloves in cold weather.
Can the glove affect my grip technique?
An improperly fitted glove can hinder your chance for proper hand positioning. Ensure your glove allows your hands to hold the club naturally.
Conclusion
Finding your glove’s “just right” tightness comes down to comfort and performance. By following these tips and focusing on the details, you can zero in on your golf glove’s ideal fit for the course. Sign up for our newsletter to get more golf game-improvement tips sent right to your inbox.