Starting golf can feel overwhelming with all the details, from learning swing mechanics to picking the right gear. A common question beginners ask is, “Which hand should I wear a golf glove on?” Let’s break it down.
Which Hand Wears the Glove?
The glove is worn on your non-dominant hand—the hand closer to your body when gripping the club.
- Right-handed golfers wear the glove on their left hand.
- Left-handed golfers wear the glove on their right hand.
Why the non-dominant hand? It’s the lead hand, your main point of contact with the club. A glove enhances grip, reduces slippage, and ensures more control, helping you make better shots.
Can You Wear Gloves on Both Hands?
Yes, but it’s uncommon. Some golfers, including professionals like Aaron Rai, prefer wearing gloves on both hands for extra grip and comfort. This is especially useful in rainy conditions, where rain gloves (sold in pairs) improve grip on slippery clubs.
However, in most dry conditions, wearing a single glove on the lead hand is sufficient.
Benefits of Wearing a Golf Glove?
A golf glove isn’t just about comfort; it directly impacts your performance. Here are the key benefits:
- Improved Grip:
A glove provides a secure grip, preventing the club from slipping, even if your hands are sweaty or the weather is damp. This leads to more consistent swings and better ball contact. - Enhanced Control:
A secure grip allows you to control the clubface more precisely, improving accuracy and shot direction. This can reduce errant shots and make your game more enjoyable. - Reduced Tension:
Without a glove, players often grip the club too tightly to maintain control. This tension can hinder your swing’s natural motion. A glove allows a relaxed grip while still providing security. - Protection from Blisters and Calluses:
Repeated swings can cause friction between your hands and the club, leading to blisters or calluses. A glove acts as a barrier protecting your hands during long games. - Consistency in Wet Conditions:
A glove ensures grip even in rain or high humidity. It’s an essential accessory for keeping control when conditions are less than ideal. - Better Performance Metrics:
Studies show that wearing a glove improves key performance metrics such as ball speed, shot dispersion, and carry distance. These benefits are seen across different clubs, from wedges to drivers.
Tips for Choosing the Right Golf Glove
Consider these tips to buy the right gold glove:
- Fit Matters
The glove should fit snugly, like a second skin. - Material
High-quality gloves are typically made from cabretta leather, which offers excellent grip, a soft feel, and decent durability. - Durability vs. Feel:
Thin gloves provide a close connection to the club but wear out faster. Thicker gloves last longer but may sacrifice some feel. - Glove Hand Labels:
Gloves are labeled as “left-hand” or “right-hand,” referring to the hand they’re worn on. Make sure to check before buying. - Cadet Sizing:
Cadet gloves are for golfers with shorter fingers and wider palms. If regular gloves don’t fit well, cadet sizes might work better.
Final Thoughts
Wearing a golf glove on your non-dominant hand can improve your grip, accuracy, and comfort during your golf game. A few things to consider before buying a golf glove is its fit, material, durability, hand labels, and sizing. At Longwood Golf Club, we provide a variety of high-quality gloves you can buy for a fulfilling experience. For more inquiries call us at (281) 213-2400.