What Are the Best Golf Gloves?

In this guide we will cover all the important questions and answers you’ll have about choosing a golf glove. You’ll learn why a golf glove is important to wear as well as any pro’s and con’s to wearing a glove vs no glove.

Let’s dive in…

Why Golf Gloves Matter

If you’ve ever lost control of the club during a sweaty summer round or developed blisters after a long day at the range, you already know why golf gloves are so widely used. They’re not just a fashion statement — they serve a real performance purpose.

The primary role of a golf glove is to improve your grip. Most golfers wear a glove on their lead hand (left hand for right-handed players) because that’s the hand that controls the club face the most. A quality glove helps maintain a firm, secure hold on the club without having to grip it tightly, which can restrict your swing and lead to tension.

Gloves also provide protection. When you’re hitting hundreds of balls or playing multiple rounds in a week, friction between your hand and the grip can cause skin irritation, calluses, or painful blisters. A glove creates a barrier that reduces these issues — especially during hot or humid weather when your hands are more likely to sweat.

For many players, a glove is also part of their mental routine. It signals that it’s time to focus, just like stepping into your pre-shot routine. While some pros play without one, the vast majority of golfers benefit from the added comfort, control, and confidence a glove brings to every swing.

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Types of Golf Glove Styles

Not all golf gloves are created equal. The materials, fit, and purpose vary depending on the conditions you play in and your personal preferences. Choosing the right glove can make a big difference in how your hands feel during and after a round.

Leather Gloves

Leather gloves are the most popular style among serious golfers. They offer a soft, premium feel with excellent grip and responsiveness. Leather molds to your hand over time and gives you maximum feedback with each swing. However, they tend to wear out faster and perform best in dry conditions.

Synthetic and Hybrid Gloves

Synthetic gloves are typically more affordable and durable than leather. They’re made with flexible materials that enhance breathability and stretch. Many hybrid gloves combine a leather palm (for feel) with synthetic backing (for comfort and flexibility), making them a versatile choice for practice or everyday play.

All-Weather Gloves

These gloves are designed for golfers who play in a variety of conditions. With moisture-resistant fabrics and added durability, all-weather gloves perform well in heat, humidity, or light rain. They’re ideal for year-round players who want consistent performance without switching gloves frequently.

Rain Gloves

Rain gloves are a must-have in wet conditions. Unlike regular gloves, they actually get tackier as they get wetter. Sold in pairs, these gloves give you full-hand grip and control when rain would otherwise make swinging risky. Keep a set in your bag just in case the skies open mid-round.

Winter Gloves

When temperatures drop, winter gloves provide warmth and insulation. They’re sold as a pair and are thicker than traditional gloves, offering full-hand coverage and wind resistance. While you may lose a bit of feel, they’re essential for off-season practice or cold-weather rounds.

Wearing a Glove vs. No Glove: Pros and Cons

Every golfer has their preferences when it comes to wearing a glove — and some even ditch it altogether. While gloves are standard for most players, there are pros and cons to both approaches worth understanding.

Pros of Wearing a Glove

Wearing a glove offers one big benefit: grip. On hot days when your hands sweat, a glove provides tackiness and control that bare skin can’t match. It also reduces the friction between your hand and the club, which cuts down on the chance of blisters and calluses.

A glove can also help maintain a consistent feel throughout the round. Since it fits snugly and evenly distributes pressure, you’re less likely to over-grip the club. This promotes a more relaxed and efficient swing — especially for beginners who tend to squeeze too tight.

Cons of Wearing a Glove

Despite the advantages, gloves aren’t perfect. They wear out, especially if you hit a lot of balls, and they need regular replacement. Some players also feel they lose “touch” with the club, particularly on short shots or putts, which is why many golfers remove their glove on the greens.

Additionally, during cold or wet rounds, a traditional glove may not offer enough insulation or grip — which is where winter or rain gloves step in.

Pros of Going Gloveless

Some golfers — including a few pros — go gloveless for more feel and connection with the club. They prefer the direct feedback they get through bare hands, especially for finesse shots. Skipping the glove also means less gear to maintain and replace.

Cons of Going Gloveless

Without a glove, you risk slipping, especially on humid days or when your hands get sweaty. You’re also more likely to develop blisters or skin irritation during long practice sessions. For most players, a glove adds both comfort and control that bare hands can’t match.”

When Should You Replace a Golf Glove?

Even the best golf gloves won’t last forever. Over time, the material stretches, thins out, or becomes slick — all signs that it’s time for a fresh one. Knowing when to replace your glove is key to maintaining consistent grip and performance.

A good rule of thumb is to replace your glove every 15 to 25 rounds, depending on how often you play and how well you care for it. If you’re practicing frequently, especially in hot or humid weather, that lifespan might shrink considerably.

Here are some signs your glove needs to be swapped out:

• Visible holes or tears, especially in the palm or fingertips
• Loss of tackiness or grip — it feels slick or “shiny”
• Stretching or sagging that changes the fit
• Hard, crusty feel from sweat buildup or poor drying

To extend a glove’s life, avoid crumpling it up and leaving it in your bag. After each round, air it out and let it dry flat. Some golfers even rotate between two or three gloves to keep them lasting longer.

🧤 Pro tip: Keep a backup glove in your bag — especially during tournament play or summer rounds. A quick switch can save your grip mid-round if your glove wears out or gets soaked.

🎯 Quick Check:

• Do you play in hot, humid weather? A glove is almost essential.
• Do you value maximum feel on finesse shots? You might try removing the glove occasionally.

Best Golf Gloves to Try

Looking for a glove that fits your hand and your game? Here are some top-rated golf gloves that combine comfort, performance, and value. Each glove listed below is highly rated by golfers across skill levels.

FootJoy StaSof

One of the most popular tour-level gloves, the StaSof offers soft cabretta leather, excellent durability, and a snug fit. It performs well in various conditions and molds to your hand over time for consistent feel.

• Premium leather for great grip and feel
• Excellent breathability and moisture control
• Trusted by many PGA Tour players

Titleist Players Glove

Known for its clean, minimalist design and incredible feel, the Titleist Players glove is perfect for golfers who value feedback and precision.

• Ultra-thin cabretta leather
• Lightweight and responsive
• High-end feel, ideal for dry conditions

Callaway Tour Authentic

This glove combines tour-grade leather with a slightly more tailored fit. Callaway’s premium construction offers great traction and longevity.

• Soft leather with moisture-wicking features
• Stretch panels for a snug, custom feel
• Durable enough for regular play

TaylorMade Tour Preferred

Designed for competitive golfers, this glove balances grip, comfort, and breathability. The contoured fit ensures minimal bunching and a sleek feel.

• Excellent fit and craftsmanship
• Strategically placed perforations for airflow
• Great for serious practice and tournament play

Under Armour Iso-Chill

If you play in hot climates, this glove is a game-changer. Its cooling material keeps your hand comfortable while maintaining grip and support.

• Iso-Chill fabric draws heat away from your hand
• Durable synthetic construction
• Ideal for summer rounds

Bionic StableGrip

This glove stands out for golfers with joint pain or arthritis. It uses ergonomic pad technology to reduce grip pressure and fatigue.

• Great for players with hand strain or discomfort
• Extra padding enhances comfort and durability
• Long-lasting design for heavy use

Zero Friction Compression-Fit Glove

A one-size-fits-most option, this glove is perfect if you’re unsure about sizing. It’s budget-friendly, functional, and comes in multiple colors.

• Stretch fit molds to your hand shape
• Affordable and reliable for casual play
• Great backup glove for your bag

Conclusion

A quality golf glove does more than just complete your outfit — it improves your grip, enhances consistency, and helps protect your hands over the course of a round. Whether you prefer the soft feel of premium leather or the durability of synthetic materials, there’s a glove out there to match your game and budget.

Try out different styles and brands to see what feels best for your hand. Don’t be afraid to rotate gloves based on weather conditions — a rain glove on a stormy day or a winter glove in cold temperatures can make a big difference in performance.

And remember: if your current glove is stretched out, slick, or torn, it’s probably time for a replacement. Investing in a good glove is one of the simplest ways to improve your comfort and confidence on the course.

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Thanks for reading today’s article!

Nick Foy – Golf Instructor