Gloves or No Gloves?

The gloves are an essential gear in a golfer’s possession, and almost every professional golfer you ask would advise for the use of gloves. It is just as important as owning clubs, golf shoes, golf cart, golf cart cover, and all the other necessities.

Still, there are people who prefer to play without them.

One such rarity is newly-inducted World Golf Hall of Famer Fred Couples who maintains that with gloves, the feel he has on the club is reduced. Another noted golfer who favors his bare hands when swinging is 2009 US Open winner Lucas Glover. Yes, how about throwing the irony.

Normally, a golfer wears one on his left hand if he is right-handed and on his right hand if he is left-handed. There are a few who wear gloves on both hands, especially returning players who have developed soft hands from lack of golf time. Just as rare are those who don’t wear gloves at all.  

People have different reasons for not wearing gloves. Some agree with Couples, while others go the purist route of saying that wearing gloves weakens their connection with the sport. It’s a matter of choice, you say. But really, gloves are important because they not only protect the hands from the elements, they also allow for a better grip, especially during hot and humid days when your hands get sweaty. They are much like what a golf cart cover is to a golf cart.

Photo credit: disabledgolfsociety.com

If you try to compensate for the slippage by gripping too tightly, it removes a considerable amount of control, hence removing power. Gloves also prevent excessive blistering in the hands with constant friction.

One problem, especially with the cheaper ones, is that they easily wear out. They easily loosen with constant use. To make them last longer, it is best to let your gloves dry after a good round of play. Don’t dry them on direct sunlight though, as it will make them deform fast.

When choosing the right gloves, look for the one that gives you the best comfort, considering feel and ventilation. The better brands have a softer feel and ample ventilation between the fingers.

Golf is a precision sport, and having a secure grip can never be overstated.