One of the most common questions beginner golfers ask is whether they actually need to wear a golf glove.
The short answer is no, you don’t have to. But for most golfers, wearing one definitely helps.
A golf glove is mainly about grip, comfort, control and consistency, and once most golfers get used to wearing one, they rarely want to play without it. As a PGA Professional, I’d say the majority of golfers will benefit from wearing a glove, especially beginners.
Why do golfers wear a glove?
The main reason is simple. A glove helps you hold the club more securely without needing to squeeze too tightly.
That matters because tension is one of the biggest problems in golf swings. If the club feels slippery or unstable, golfers often grip too hard, which reduces swing speed, creates tension through the forearms and shoulders, hurts rhythm and timing, and makes it harder to release the club naturally.
A glove helps create a more stable connection between your hands and the club.
Which hand does the golf glove go on?
A right-handed golfer wears the glove on the left hand. A left-handed golfer wears it on the right hand.
The glove goes on your lead hand because that hand plays the biggest role in controlling the club during the swing.
Do professional golfers wear gloves?
Yes, almost all of them do. There are a few exceptions, but the vast majority wear one because it improves grip consistency, helps in different weather conditions, and reduces slipping during powerful swings.
Even at the highest level, grip matters.
Should beginners wear a golf glove?
In most cases, yes. A glove helps beginners by improving confidence, preventing blisters, reducing club twisting at impact and helping maintain lighter grip pressure.
Many new golfers grip the club too tightly already, so a glove often helps relax the hands slightly.
What happens if you don’t wear a glove?
Some golfers prefer the feel of playing without one, especially around the greens.
But without a glove your hands can get sweaty, the club may slip slightly, blisters become more common and grip pressure often increases. In dry conditions it may not matter much, but in humid, wet or hot weather a glove becomes much more useful.
How tight should a golf glove be?
This is important. A golf glove should fit snug and tight across the fingers and palm, without loose material bunching up.
A common mistake is wearing gloves that are too big. A properly fitted glove should feel almost like a second skin. Loose gloves move during the swing, wear out faster and reduce feel and control.
Leather vs synthetic golf gloves
There are two main types most golfers choose between, and both work well. It just depends on what you value most.
Leather golf gloves
Leather gloves are generally considered the premium option. They offer a softer feel, excellent grip, and more connection and feedback through the swing, which makes them popular with golfers who play regularly and want maximum feel.
One of the most popular premium leather gloves we stock is the FootJoy StaSof golf glove, which has been a favourite among serious golfers for years because of its soft feel and all-round performance.
The trade-off is durability. Leather gloves tend to wear out a bit faster, especially if you grip the club tightly, play frequently, or practise a lot in hot conditions.
Synthetic golf gloves
Synthetic gloves are usually more durable, more breathable and slightly more affordable, which makes them a great option for beginners, casual golfers, practice sessions and hot weather.
A good example is the FootJoy FLX golf glove, which combines comfort, flexibility and durability really well as an everyday option.
Which type should you choose?
Go leather if you value feel and softness, play regularly, and want premium performance.
Go synthetic if you want durability, you’re newer to the game, you practise a lot, or you want a great value option.
A lot of golfers actually keep both, a premium leather glove for playing and a synthetic glove for practice and range sessions.
How long does a golf glove last?
That depends on how often you play, your grip pressure, the weather and how well you care for it.
If your glove is going hard, stretching, wearing through the palm or becoming slippery, it’s probably time for a replacement. Gloves are one of the cheaper upgrades in golf, but they can make a surprisingly big difference. They are also one of the items golfers tend to leave far too long, which I have written about in the most overlooked golf accessories.
Should you wear a glove for putting?
Most golfers remove their glove when putting, mainly for feel. Without a glove, some players feel more connected to the putter and get more touch and feedback.
But there’s no rule. Some golfers leave it on the entire round. Do whatever feels comfortable and consistent for you.
Wet weather makes gloves more important
If you play in wet or humid conditions, gloves become even more valuable. Rain, sweat and moisture make it much harder to maintain grip.
Many experienced golfers carry a spare glove, or even several during wet rounds, because dry gloves help maintain control and confidence. The same logic applies to your feet, which I have covered in why having the right golf shoes matters.
Final thoughts
You don’t absolutely need a golf glove to play good golf. But for most golfers, especially beginners, wearing one makes the game easier and more comfortable.
A good glove can improve grip, reduce tension, prevent blisters and increase confidence. Sometimes the small things in golf make a bigger difference than people realise.
If you’re unsure, try a few different styles and fits until you find one that feels natural in your hands. You can browse our full range of golf gloves at Golf 360.
FAQs
Do all golfers wear gloves?
Most golfers do, especially when hitting full shots, but some players prefer not to.
Why do golfers take their glove off to putt?
Usually for feel and touch around the greens.
How often should I replace my golf glove?
Whenever it becomes slippery, stretched, hard, or starts wearing through the palm.
Should beginner golfers wear a glove?
Yes, in most cases beginners benefit from the added grip and comfort.
Can a golf glove help stop slicing?
Not directly, but improved grip and reduced tension can help improve overall swing control.
Happy golfing,
Scott Pickett
PGA Professional
Founder – Golf 360
Mount Maunganui
