Golfers are particular about their equipment, and for good reason. Choosing the right clubs, balls, and accessories can have a significant impact on a golfer’s performance. One such accessory is the golf glove, which is designed to improve grip, reduce friction, and prevent blisters. But with the glove worn on only one hand, many golfers are left wondering: Which Hand Should A Golf Glove Be Worn?
In this article, we’ll explore the purpose of a golf glove and factors to consider when choosing which hand to wear your glove. We’ll also examine the benefits of wearing a golf glove on the dominant and non-dominant hand, answer some frequently asked questions, and provide a final recommendation on which hand to wear your golf glove.
The Purpose of a Golf Glove
Golf gloves serve several purposes, and the most important of them is to improve grip. A golf club is a smooth and often slippery object, making it challenging to maintain a consistent grip throughout the swing. A golf glove’s design includes a textured surface on the palm and fingers, providing an improved grip on the club. This helps golfers maintain control, especially in damp or wet conditions.
Another purpose of a golf glove is to reduce friction. The repetitive motion of swinging a golf club can lead to blisters and calluses on the hands, which can be painful and negatively impact performance. Wearing a golf glove provides a barrier between the skin and the grip of the club, reducing friction and the likelihood of developing blisters.
Finally, golf gloves help prevent blisters. As mentioned earlier, the repetitive motion of swinging a golf club can cause blisters on the hands. Golf gloves protect the skin from friction, reducing the likelihood of developing blisters, and allowing golfers to practice and play longer without experiencing discomfort.
Choosing the Correct Hand for Your Golf Glove
When choosing which hand to wear your golf glove, there are a few factors to consider. The first is whether you are right-handed or left-handed. For right-handed golfers, the left hand is the non-dominant hand, while the right hand is the dominant hand. For left-handed golfers, the opposite is true: the right hand is the non-dominant hand, and the left hand is the dominant hand.
Another factor to consider is the purpose of the golf glove. If you’re looking for improved grip, wearing the golf glove on your non-dominant hand is typically the best choice. This is because the non-dominant hand provides stability and control, while the dominant hand is responsible for power and speed. By wearing the glove on the non-dominant hand, you can maintain a consistent grip throughout the swing and improve accuracy.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for better feel and sensitivity, wearing the golf glove on your dominant hand may be the way to go. With the glove on your dominant hand, you can feel the club better, allowing for greater precision and control. It’s worth noting, however, that this can be a matter of personal preference, and some golfers may prefer to wear the glove on their non-dominant hand even if they’re looking for better feel and sensitivity.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Golf Glove Hand
When choosing which hand to wear your golf glove, there are several factors to consider. The first is comfort. The golf glove should fit snugly but not be too tight or too loose, and it should feel comfortable on your hand. It’s also essential to consider the material of the glove, as some materials may be more comfortable than others.
Another important factor is fit. The golf glove should fit well and not move around on your hand during the swing. This can be particularly important for golfers with smaller or larger hands, as finding the right size can make a big difference in performance.
Finally, grip is an essential factor to consider when choosing which hand to wear your golf glove. As previously mentioned, wearing the glove on your non-dominant hand can improve grip and control, but it’s important to ensure that the glove you choose provides an adequate grip on the club. Some gloves may have more or less texture on the palm and fingers, so it’s essential to choose one that meets your specific needs.
Benefits of Wearing a Golf Glove on the Non-Dominant Hand
Wearing a golf glove on the non-dominant hand can provide several benefits to golfers. First and foremost, it improves grip and control over the club, especially in damp or wet conditions. By providing a better grip, golfers can maintain a consistent swing and improve accuracy.
Another benefit of wearing a golf glove on the non-dominant hand is reduced friction. As previously mentioned, the repetitive motion of swinging a golf club can cause blisters and calluses on the hands. By wearing a glove on the non-dominant hand, golfers can protect their skin and reduce the likelihood of developing blisters.
Finally, wearing a golf glove on the non-dominant hand can enhance club control. Since the non-dominant hand provides stability and control, wearing a glove on that hand can help golfers maintain a consistent grip and control over the club throughout the swing.
Benefits of Wearing a Golf Glove on the Dominant Hand
While wearing a golf glove on the non-dominant hand is generally recommended for improved grip and control, some golfers may prefer to wear the glove on their dominant hand. Wearing a golf glove on the dominant hand can provide several benefits, including better feel and increased sensitivity.
With the glove on the dominant hand, golfers can feel the club better, allowing for greater precision and control over the swing. This can be particularly helpful for golfers who prefer a lighter grip on the club or those who play in dry conditions.
Another benefit of wearing a golf glove on the dominant hand is increased sensitivity. Without the glove, the skin on the hand can become calloused and toughened, reducing sensitivity and making it more challenging to feel the club during the swing. By wearing a glove on the dominant hand, golfers can maintain sensitivity and feel for the club, improving overall performance.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wearing a Golf Glove
Can I wear two gloves?
While it is technically possible to wear two gloves, it is not recommended. Wearing two gloves can reduce sensitivity and feel, making it more challenging to control the club during the swing. It can also cause overheating and discomfort, particularly in warmer weather.
Can I switch glove hands during a round?
It is generally not recommended to switch glove hands during a round of golf. Doing so can cause inconsistency in grip and feel, making it more challenging to control the club. It’s best to choose which hand to wear your golf glove before the round and stick with that decision.
How often should I replace my golf glove?
The frequency with which you should replace your golf glove depends on several factors, including how often you play, how sweaty your hands get, and the quality of the glove. As a general rule, golf gloves should be replaced every 10-15 rounds of golf or sooner if they become excessively sweaty or worn.
Conclusion
Choosing which hand to wear your golf glove can have a significant impact on your performance. While wearing the glove on the non-dominant hand is generally recommended for improved grip and control, wearing it on the dominant hand can provide better feel and increased sensitivity. When choosing which hand to wear your golf glove, it’s important to consider factors such as comfort, fit, and grip.
In summary, the purpose of a golf glove is to improve grip, reduce friction, and prevent blisters. When choosing which hand to wear your golf glove, consider whether you are right-handed or left-handed, and the purpose of the glove. Wearing a golf glove on the non-dominant hand can provide improved grip and control, while wearing it on the dominant hand can provide better feel and increased sensitivity. Remember to replace your golf glove regularly, and avoid wearing two gloves or switching glove hands during a round.
