3 / October / 2023

What hand should you wear a golf glove on?

As a golfer, you know that every detail matters when it comes to your game. From the type of clubs you use to the shoes you wear, every choice can impact your performance on the course. One often-overlooked piece of equipment that can make a big difference is the golf glove. Many high-level golfers swear by wearing a glove, but have you ever wondered which hand you should wear it on? In this article, we’ll explore the common practice and reasons behind wearing a golf glove on a specific hand, the different types of golf gloves available, and whether wearing two gloves is a viable option. So let’s dive in and find out what hand you should wear a golf glove on and why.

The Common Practice: Non-Dominant Hand

The most common practice among golfers is to wear a golf glove on their non-dominant hand. This means that if you have a right-handed golf swing, you would wear the glove on your left hand, and if you have a left-handed swing, you would wear the glove on your right hand. The reasoning behind this is that the non-dominant hand, also known as the lead hand, has the most contact with the club grip during the swing. Wearing a glove on this hand helps to maintain a consistent grip and prevent slipping, especially when the hands get sweaty.

“The most common practice is to wear one golf glove and to wear it on your non-dominant hand.” – Independent Golf Reviews

A person wearing a gold glove holding a golf tee

A person wearing a gold glove holding a golf tee

Reasons for Wearing a Golf Glove

There are several reasons why golfers choose to wear a glove on their lead hand. The primary reason is to maintain a consistent grip on the club. The material of a golf glove provides more tackiness than bare skin, which can help prevent the club from slipping during the swing. This is especially important when playing in hot and humid conditions or when the hands are prone to sweating. The glove’s grip-enhancing properties can improve control and accuracy in your shots.

“The main reason for wearing a golf glove is to maintain a consistent grip when swinging the golf club.” – Independent Golf Reviews

Another advantage of wearing a glove is that it can help prevent blisters and callouses. The friction between the hand and the grip can cause irritation and discomfort, especially during repetitive swinging motions. By wearing a glove, you create a barrier between the hand and the grip, reducing friction and minimizing the risk of developing blisters or callouses.

“By wearing a glove on your lead hand… you can reduce friction that irritates the skin.” – Independent Golf Reviews

Additionally, a golf glove can provide insulation and warmth on cooler days. It acts as a protective layer against the cold, keeping your hand comfortable and allowing you to maintain a firm grip on the club. Some golfers even opt for specialized winter gloves designed to keep both hands warm in extremely cold conditions.

Types of Golf Gloves

When it comes to golf gloves, there are various options available to suit different preferences and playing conditions. The most common types of golf gloves are made from leather or synthetic materials. Leather gloves are known for their superior feel, breathability, and durability. They are often more expensive but offer excellent performance and a premium look. Synthetic gloves, on the other hand, are typically more affordable and provide good grip and flexibility. They are also more resistant to moisture, making them a popular choice for playing in wet conditions.

“The best golf gloves are made of premium leather that offers the best in terms of performance… Lesser gloves use synthetic material that can still provide feel while keeping down costs.” – Independent Golf Reviews

For golfers who frequently play in rainy conditions, there are specialized rain gloves available. These gloves are designed to provide a secure grip even when wet and often come in pairs. They are made from materials that dry quickly, allowing you to maintain control over the club in wet weather.

When playing in colder temperatures, golfers can opt for winter gloves that offer additional insulation. These gloves are often thicker and may come in pairs to keep both hands warm. However, it’s important to note that the increased thickness of winter gloves can affect the feel and sensitivity of your grip on the club.

A golf glove, hat and golf tees laid on the ground

A golf glove, hat and golf tees laid on the ground

Two Gloves: Is It a Viable Option?

While the common practice is to wear a single glove on the lead hand, some golfers choose to wear gloves on both hands. One notable example is professional golfer Tommy “Two Gloves” Gainey, who wears gloves on both hands during his rounds. However, wearing two gloves is not the norm and is mostly a personal preference. It’s important to note that wearing two gloves can impact the feel and sensitivity of your grip, as the material of the gloves adds an additional layer between your hands and the club.

“Most players, including professional golfers, only wear one glove when playing under normal weather conditions.” – Invictus Gloves

Ultimately, the decision of whether to wear one or two gloves comes down to personal preference and comfort. Some golfers may find that wearing two gloves provides a more secure grip and added protection, while others prefer the feel of a bare hand on certain shots. It’s recommended to experiment with different combinations and find what works best for your game.

Conclusion

In conclusion, wearing a golf glove can have significant benefits for your game. The common practice is to wear a glove on your non-dominant hand, which helps maintain a consistent grip and prevents slipping. Golf gloves can provide better grip, prevent blisters and callouses, offer insulation in cold weather, and enhance overall control and accuracy. There are different types of golf gloves available, including leather and synthetic options, as well as specialized gloves for rainy and cold conditions. While wearing two gloves is not the norm, some golfers prefer it for added grip and protection. Ultimately, the choice of wearing a golf glove and which hand to wear it on is a personal decision that should be based on comfort and performance.

So, the next time you step onto the golf course, remember to slip on your golf glove and enjoy the benefits it brings to your game.