When we watch pro golfers on TV, we see them all wearing gloves. In fact, it is estimated that 95% of professionals on the PGA tour wear a glove. But simply because the professionals are using gloves, does this mean that regular golfers should as well?
Over time, many people have asked us the following question: Do I really need to wear a glove whilst playing golf?
What does a golf glove do?
When we look at the golf swing, our hands are the only point of contact with the club. The golf glove, therefore, acts as a second skin between our hands and the golf club grip.
1. Grip
Firstly, the golf glove increases grip. Studies have shown that compared to the skin of our bare hands, golf glove material provides increased adhesion or 'tackiness'. A golf glove increases the friction between the hands and the golf grip which prevents the club from slipping, especially in wet or warm conditions.
"95% of PGA professionals choose to wear a glove for improved grip and to increase performance"
2. Warmth & dryness
In cold or wet conditions, the golf glove keeps your hands warm and dry and improvement comfort and performance.
3. Blisters/callouses
Blisters or callouses are caused by increased friction or rubbing between our skin and the golf grip. This leads to damage of the upper skin layer (epidermis). A golf glove reduces the occurrence by minimising this form of friction.
4. Club grip durability
The hands of our skin contain natural oils that can damage golf club grips. The golf glove acts to absorb moisture and oils to increase the durability of your grips.
5. Loosens grip on the club
A tight/firm club grip causes tension in our arm muscles and restrict motion in the swing. In anticipation of a big swing or due to nerves, golfers tend to grip the club tighter. A relaxed grip promotes a full shoulder turn and can prevent issues with rhythm, timing, power, control and consistency.