Which Hand Do You Wear a Golf Glove On?
It’s easy for beginner golfers to overlook the importance of golf gloves. Any pro will tell you that a well-fitting golf glove can make all the difference in comfort and playability.
Golf gloves can also protect both hands in changeable weather conditions; it’s not just about how gloves can improve your game.
Golfers tend to wear a golf glove on one hand only. However, there is no hard and fast rule that says you cannot wear a pair of gloves, and some golfers do. Even more confusing, many players don’t wear any gloves or remove their gloves for certain shots.
So which hand do you wear a golf glove on, and how will it affect your performance? We address everything you need to know about gloves and grip here.
What Hand Do You Wear a Golf Glove On?
The golf glove is worn on the opposite of the dominant hand in golf swings. Therefore, for players who swing right-handed, the glove is worn on the left hand, while for left-handed golfers, the glove is worn on the right hand.
The weaker hand is sometimes also called the lead hand. If you are right-handed, then your lead hand will be your left hand, which is the hand on top of the grip which leads the swing. The right hand remains bare.
The dominant hand is absent a glove because most players feel this gives them a better feel for the club. It is also why some players will not wear any gloves for short-iron shots and putts.
Getting the Right Size and Fit
If you decide to wear one or a pair of golf gloves, getting the right size and fit is vital.
Most golf glove brands come in a range of sizes to accommodate most hand shapes.
A golfing glove should be snug but not restrictive. Every brand will offer a different fit and feel different on the hand, so it is essential to try on a selection.
The glove should feel snug across the palm but not tight so that it feels like it will cut off the blood supply after you have worn it for a little while.
Try on assorted styles and sizes. You should be able to curl your hand around, make a fist, and stretch your fingers without feeling any restriction from the glove. Equally, there should be no loose or spare glove at the end of your fingers.
If you are in a good golf shop, try some practice swings with one of their clubs. It will help you get a feel for which glove is right for you.
There are dedicated ranges for women players and children with specific sizing for smaller hands.
What to Consider When Choosing Golf Gloves
The Fit
The fit should be snug, not sloppy. Too much bulk or a too loose glove will interfere with your grip and your swing. The idea is that the glove reduces the movement of your hand as you grip the club.
Try and aim for a glove that fits like a second skin. Most players find a brand that they like and then stick with it. Every manufacturer will feel different on the hand, even if the glove size is the same.
The Rules
There are rules about the style, design, and fit of golf gloves that focus on not providing any form of interference or player advantage.
Gloves must not provide additional enhancements or features that could unfairly influence a player’s game. The rules are pretty specific on fit, materials, and style.
If you are playing at a new course or in a tournament, always check beforehand that your glove or gloves comply with any local regulations.
The Weather Conditions
If you are a glove wearer, weather conditions will make a difference to your choice on the day.
Soft leather gloves are the perfect choice for fine weather. They offer a snug fit and won’t overheat the hand but also give a firm grip on the club and offer the most feedback and feel on the swing.
However, smooth leather is not the best choice in wet conditions, and, over time, leather can harden and become brittle and inflexible unless you look after it very well.
In varied or changeable conditions, a synthetic glove is probably the best option, and these gloves tend to offer better longevity for long days out on the course.
Most golfers will have a dedicated pair of wet weather golfing gloves for rainy conditions. Your hands always need to be dry to optimize that swing. These gloves offer more grip the wetter it becomes.
Should I Buy One Glove or Two?
Always buy a pair as you never know when you may need both gloves. Most golfers will keep a selection of gloves for different conditions in their golf bags.
You will undoubtedly want to buy winter gloves in pairs to keep both hands warm in cold conditions. Sometimes, it doesn’t come down to which hand you wear the glove on to improve your game, but just pure comfort and practicality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Golf Glove Make a Difference?
The answer to this is yes, and that difference can be positive or negative. If you watch pros play, you will see some with gloves and some playing bare-handed. It all depends on the shot and the course conditions.
A leading proponent of glove-wearing is Tiger Woods. Woods carries more gloves than most golfers would wear in several years, but he is very selective about what he chooses to use and when.
Many players remove their glove or gloves for certain shots. Player preference, the course, the shot, and the weather conditions will dictate whether a glove will enhance or detract from your game at that particular moment in time.
Should You Wear a Glove For All Shots?
A glove is there to enhance your grip and feel, so whether you take a glove off or put one on will depend upon the shot, the course conditions, and the weather.
Some players will remove their gloves for putts or short-iron shots, but if it is pouring with rain, you may feel it more advantageous to put on a dry glove or gloves to aid grip.
Should I Wear Two Golf Gloves?
The general opinion is that one glove can be ideal for some shots in good, dry conditions. However, if it is pouring rain, a pair of synthetic gloves will be a much better option to enhance your grip.
A sole glove on the lead hand with a bare dominant hand offers a better feel, but it’s a judgment call based on each shot.
What Golf Glove Do I Need?
You need a golf glove that fits snugly but not too tight, enhancing your grip and feel on the club. For right-handed players, wear it on your left hand, and for left-handed players, on your right hand. Choose soft leather for fair weather and synthetic for varied conditions, and always keep a glove in your bag to keep your options open.
Conclusion
Golf gloves will improve your comfort and avoid blisters and callouses; they may even improve your game. However, not every shot requires one, and some golfers don’t wear gloves at all.
Golf gloves serve two purposes: to protect the hands from different weather conditions and enhance grip and feel. They don’t take up much room in your golf bag, so most players will carry several pairs.
Ready to hit the course with your new gloves in hand? Check out STITCH’s collection of golf bags so that you can look stylish and carry all your equipment with ease.
