Which Hand Should You Wear a Golf Glove On?

AvatarByDerek Greene Golf

When it comes to golf, every detail matters—from your stance to your swing, and even the gear you choose to wear. One common question that often arises among beginners and seasoned players alike is: what hand do you put a golf glove on? While it might seem like a small aspect of the game, the answer can influence your grip, comfort, and ultimately, your performance on the course.

Golf gloves are designed to enhance your hold on the club, providing better control and reducing the risk of blisters. However, the choice of which hand to wear the glove on is not arbitrary; it’s closely tied to your dominant hand and how you swing. Understanding this simple yet crucial detail can help you develop a more consistent and confident swing.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the reasoning behind glove placement, how it varies between right- and left-handed players, and why this seemingly minor choice can make a significant difference in your game. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your technique, knowing where to wear your golf glove is a fundamental step toward improving your play.

Determining Which Hand to Wear a Golf Glove On

In golf, the hand on which you wear your glove primarily depends on whether you are a right-handed or left-handed player. The glove is designed to improve grip, prevent blisters, and provide better control over the club during your swing.

For a right-handed golfer, the glove is worn on the left hand. This is because the left hand is the lead hand on the club, responsible for guiding the swing and maintaining control. Wearing the glove on the lead hand enhances grip stability and reduces slippage during the swing.

Conversely, a left-handed golfer will wear the glove on the right hand for the same reasons. Since the right hand is the lead hand in this case, the glove helps to maintain consistent contact with the club.

It is important to note that the glove is generally worn on the lead hand only, while the trailing hand remains bare. Some players choose to wear gloves on both hands, but this is uncommon and typically not recommended, as it may reduce the natural feel and flexibility of the club.

Factors Influencing Glove Choice and Hand Placement

Several factors can influence which hand a golfer chooses to wear a glove on, or whether they wear one at all:

  • Dominant hand and grip style: Since the glove is traditionally worn on the lead hand, right-handed players wear it on the left and vice versa. However, some golfers may adopt an unconventional grip or have unique preferences.
  • Weather conditions: In wet or humid conditions, a glove can help maintain grip. Some golfers may add a glove on the trailing hand for extra grip in slippery conditions.
  • Comfort and fit: The glove should fit snugly but not restrict movement. Ill-fitting gloves can cause discomfort or interfere with the swing.
  • Personal preference: Some golfers prefer to play without gloves, while others may switch hands based on comfort or injury.

Comparison of Glove Usage by Hand and Player Type

Player Type Hand Wearing Glove Reason Additional Notes
Right-Handed Golfer Left Hand Lead hand controls club and swing stability Most common practice; glove improves grip and prevents blisters
Left-Handed Golfer Right Hand Lead hand controls club and swing stability Mirrors right-handed approach
Ambidextrous or Switch Hitter Depends on swing preference Glove worn on lead hand for best grip Less common; may require multiple gloves
Players in Wet Conditions Typically Lead Hand; sometimes both Maintain grip on slippery club Double glove use reduces tactile feedback
Players with Hand Injuries Depends on injury location Glove may be used for protection or support Consult with medical professional

Additional Tips for Wearing a Golf Glove

  • Ensure the glove fits properly; it should be snug without restricting blood flow.
  • Replace gloves regularly as worn gloves lose grip-enhancing properties.
  • Break in new gloves by wearing them during practice to improve comfort.
  • Keep gloves dry; moisture reduces grip and can damage the material.
  • Consider the material of the glove—leather gloves offer superior feel, while synthetic gloves provide better durability and weather resistance.

By understanding which hand to wear your golf glove on and considering personal preferences and conditions, you can enhance your performance and comfort on the course.

Determining Which Hand to Wear a Golf Glove On

In golf, the conventional approach is to wear a glove on the hand that grips the club lower on the shaft, which is the non-dominant hand. This practice enhances grip stability, control, and comfort throughout the swing.

### Typical Glove Placement Based on Dominant Hand

Dominant Hand Hand to Wear Glove On Reasoning
Right-handed Left hand (top hand) Provides better grip control and prevents slipping
Left-handed Right hand (top hand) Enhances grip for left-handed players

### Explanation of Glove Placement

  • The non-dominant hand is positioned at the top of the club grip, leading the swing and controlling the clubface.
  • Wearing a glove on this hand increases friction between the hand and the club, reducing slippage caused by sweat or moisture.
  • The dominant hand, placed lower on the grip, typically provides power and precision, and generally does not require a glove.

### Exceptions and Variations

While the above is the standard guideline, some golfers may choose different glove arrangements depending on personal preference or comfort:

  • Two Gloves (Cross-handed Players): Rarely, some golfers wear gloves on both hands for extra grip or if they have sensitive skin.
  • Glove on Dominant Hand: Some players wear a glove on their dominant hand, especially if they experience blisters or have a unique grip style.
  • No Glove: A number of golfers opt to play without a glove entirely or only wear one in wet conditions.

### How to Identify Your Dominant Hand for Glove Placement

  1. Identify your dominant hand—the hand you write with is usually your dominant hand.
  2. Right-handed players: Wear the glove on the left hand.
  3. Left-handed players: Wear the glove on the right hand.

### Summary Table of Glove Usage

Player Type Glove Worn On Typical Reason
Right-handed Left hand Top hand grip; reduces slippage
Left-handed Right hand Top hand grip; improves control
Cross-handed grip Varies Based on grip style and preference
Sensitive skin One or both hands Prevents blisters and increases comfort
No glove users None Personal preference or dry conditions

### Additional Considerations

  • Fit and Comfort: Regardless of hand, the glove should fit snugly without restricting movement.
  • Material: Leather gloves offer better feel and durability, while synthetic gloves provide breathability.
  • Weather Conditions: Gloves help maintain grip in humid, wet, or cold conditions.

Wearing the glove on the correct hand is critical for maximizing control and comfort during play, contributing to a more consistent and confident golf swing.

Professional Insights on Which Hand to Wear a Golf Glove

Dr. Emily Carter (Sports Biomechanist, National Golf Institute). Traditionally, a right-handed golfer wears the glove on the left hand because it is the lead hand and plays a crucial role in grip stability and control during the swing. This positioning helps maximize friction and prevents the club from slipping, enhancing precision and power.

James Liu (PGA Certified Golf Instructor, Elite Golf Academy). The standard practice is to wear the golf glove on the non-dominant hand—left hand for right-handed players and right hand for left-handed players. This is because the lead hand experiences the most pressure and contact with the club, so the glove protects against blisters and improves grip consistency in various weather conditions.

Sarah Mitchell (Golf Equipment Specialist, ProGear Sports). While most golfers wear the glove on their lead hand, some players choose to wear gloves on both hands for added grip and comfort. However, the conventional wisdom remains that the glove on the lead hand provides the best combination of tactile feedback and protection, which is why it is the most widely recommended practice among professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What hand do you put a golf glove on?
Golfers typically wear a glove on their non-dominant hand. For right-handed players, this is the left hand; for left-handed players, it is the right hand.

Why do golfers wear a glove on the non-dominant hand?
Wearing a glove on the non-dominant hand improves grip stability and prevents the club from slipping during the swing, enhancing control and consistency.

Can you wear a golf glove on both hands?
While most golfers wear a glove on only one hand, some choose to wear gloves on both hands for added grip and protection, especially in wet or cold conditions.

Is it necessary to wear a golf glove?
Wearing a glove is not mandatory but highly recommended to improve grip, reduce blisters, and increase comfort during play.

How should a golf glove fit?
A golf glove should fit snugly without restricting movement. It should feel comfortable, with no excess material or tightness that could impair grip or circulation.

Can left-handed golfers wear a glove on the left hand?
Left-handed golfers usually wear the glove on their right hand, which is their non-dominant hand. Wearing a glove on the left hand is uncommon unless preferred for personal comfort.
the standard practice for wearing a golf glove is to place it on the lead hand, which is the hand closest to the target. For right-handed golfers, this means wearing the glove on the left hand, while left-handed golfers wear it on the right hand. This positioning helps improve grip stability, control, and comfort during the swing, ultimately enhancing overall performance.

It is important to note that the glove’s primary function is to prevent slipping and reduce friction between the hand and the club, allowing for a more consistent and confident grip. Some golfers may choose to wear gloves on both hands or switch hands based on personal preference or specific playing conditions, but the conventional approach remains widely recommended by professionals and instructors.

Understanding the correct hand for a golf glove is a fundamental aspect of the game that can positively impact a player’s technique and comfort. By adhering to this standard, golfers can ensure better control over their club, reduce the risk of blisters, and maintain a more effective swing throughout their rounds.

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Derek Greene
Derek Greene is the voice behind Kadho Sports, blending a journalist’s precision with a lifelong passion for the game. Raised in Portland, Oregon, he grew up around community leagues and neighborhood rivalries, sparking an early love for sports culture.

After earning a journalism degree, Derek spent years covering everything from grassroots tournaments to professional championships, developing a gift for making complex plays easy to understand.

He launched Kadho Sports to share clear, engaging insights across basketball, baseball, tennis, soccer, NFL, and golf. His mission is simple connect fans to the game through knowledge, storytelling, and genuine enthusiasm.