Which Hand Should You Wear Your Golf Glove On? A Quick Guide for Golfers

When stepping onto the golf course, one of the small yet essential decisions a golfer makes is which hand to wear their glove on. For beginners and even some experienced golfers, this question can be a source of confusion. If you’ve ever wondered why some golfers wear their gloves on one hand and not the other, or if you’re unsure where you stand on this glove etiquette, this post is for you. Let’s dive into the basics and the reasoning behind glove placement in golf.

1. The Dominant Hand Rule: Why Most Golfers Wear a Glove on One Hand

Most golfers wear a glove on their non-dominant hand, and there’s a simple reason for this. Your non-dominant hand is the one that leads your swing and grips the club with the most pressure and control. For a right-handed golfer, this means wearing the glove on the left hand, while a left-handed golfer wears theirs on the right hand.

2. Why Only One Glove?

Golf gloves provide better grip, especially in hot or humid conditions where sweaty hands can lead to slippage. The glove hand—usually the non-dominant hand—needs that extra tackiness to maintain a firm, consistent hold on the club throughout the swing. The other (dominant) hand is typically left bare to maintain a better feel and connection with the club.

3. Comfort and Feel: Why Not Two Gloves?

Some might ask, "Why not wear gloves on both hands for even more grip?" While two gloves could provide additional grip, most golfers prefer the feel and feedback they get from having their dominant hand directly in contact with the club. The ungloved hand allows players to have more nuanced touch and feel, which can be especially important for putting and chipping.

However, wearing two gloves isn’t unheard of. Some golfers who experience joint pain or have sensitive skin may opt for two gloves for added protection. It’s not the norm, but it’s all about comfort and personal preference. One of the most notable players right now playing with two gloves is Aaron Rai, winner of the 2024 Wyndham Championship. 

4. Should You Ever Take the Glove Off?

You may have noticed professional golfers removing their gloves between shots or during putting. This practice is to ensure better feel and touch when making those short, delicate strokes. If you’re focused on putting or precise short-game shots, removing your glove can help you achieve that extra sensitivity and control. 

5. Tips for Picking the Right Glove

• Fit and Comfort: Your golf glove should fit snugly without being too tight. It should feel like a second skin—secure but not restrictive.
• Material Matters: Leather gloves provide great feel and comfort, but synthetic materials can offer more durability and are often better suited for wet or humid conditions. Whatever you chose, make sure your choice 
• Check Your Glove Often: Gloves can wear out quickly if they're not being looked after properly or in high-pressure areas like the palm or thumb. Make sure you keep the glove flat and stored safely, rather than screwed up in your bag. Without proper care can make your glove deteriorate faster than expected. Replace yours when you notice significant wear or loss of grip.

6. What About the Fashion Statement?

Golf gloves have come a long way from being purely functional. Now, they’re a part of your golf attire that can show off your personal style. At FreshGrip, we’re all about making a statement on the course with unique and colourful gloves that don’t compromise on performance. Whether you prefer bold patterns or classic colours, the right glove can be the perfect way to express your personality while improving your game.

Conclusion

Wearing a golf glove on the non-dominant hand is the standard practice for most golfers. It provides better grip, control, and comfort during swings. Whether you stick to the traditional single glove or experiment with wearing gloves on both hands, the key is finding what feels most comfortable and beneficial for your game. Don’t be afraid to test different options until you find your perfect fit!

Happy golfing, and remember—whether you’re sinking birdies or perfecting your drive, a good golf glove can be your best companion on the course.