What Hand Do You Wear a Golf Glove On?

Updated:
Cole Pippo
Webmaster and Partner at Independent Golf Reviews

Right-swinging golfers typically wear a glove on their left hand, and left-swinging golfers wear it on their right hand.

You are supposed to wear one golf glove on the non-dominant hand in your swing, that’s the one on the top of the golf club when you grip it.

The reason for this is to maintain a secure grip, reduce friction, and prevent blisters or discomfort.

Why Golfers Wear A Glove

The main reason for wearing a golf glove is to maintain a consistent grip when swinging the golf club.

Gloves help keep moisture from causing your hands to slip on a full swing, as the glove material has more tack than skin.

The lead hand is the strongest point of contact between the club and the ball, and any slippage in your grip will result in errant shots.

By wearing a glove, you will gain more club control, accuracy and distance when hitting your targets.

It also prevents blisters or calluses from developing, and protects your hands from inclement weather conditions.

The glove’s design absorbs the friction that occurs upon striking the ball.

The bottom hand is left bare, as it rests more on the lead hand so wearing a golf glove is unnecessary.

The bare hand offers a better read on your grip of the club.

The natural feel provides immediate feedback on whether to maintain your current grip or change the position of your hands before approaching your next shot. 

Most golfers will wear a glove on all shots except when putting.

This is because putting requires a better feel of the club coming off the ball. Your hands will provide immediate feedback if the grip is off. 

Types of Golf Gloves

There are many different options when choosing a golf glove, ranging in cost depending on its material.

The best golf gloves are made of premium leather that offers the best in terms of performance.

Lower quality gloves use synthetic material that can still provide feel while keeping down costs.

Find the one that is best for you, and you’ll add a valuable piece of golf equipment to your bag.

There are options based on weather conditions, as well.

Many companies offer gloves made for playing in rainy conditions, so you don’t have to worry about losing your grip as the precipitation falls.

Rain gloves usually come in pairs and material that dries quickly.

Winter or cold weather gloves are also available for players that don’t want to miss a round just because temperatures drop.

Winter gloves often come in pairs to keep both hands warm but can restrict your feel of the golf club.

How To Pick A Golf Glove

Today’s marketplace offers a variety of different styles and materials.

Your glove should offer comfortability, durability, and breathability.

These factors are important in keeping your hand dry for the entire round. 

Before purchasing a golf glove, try on all the models, then make your selection.

You want a natural fit that allows your hand to move freely when attempting a shot.

Any resistant felt, that glove should be removed from consideration.

The more popular golf gloves are made from cabretta leather.

The material is durable for extended use, comfortable on the hand, and breathable on hot, humid days.

To speed up the process, use a golf glove sizing guide.

It guarantees a proper fit, as sizing guides can be found inside most pro shops.

Wearing the right glove will improve your overall play on the course. 

Should You Wear 2 Golf Gloves?

Most players, including professional golfers, only wear one glove when playing under normal weather conditions.

However, there are some players that regularly wear gloves on both hands. Tommy “Two Gloves” Gainey is the most notable of these.

He made his way onto the PGA Tour in 2008 and won the 2012 McGladrey Classic, all while playing the way that worked best for him.

However, it is common to wear golf gloves on both hands during rain or cold weather.