Hard Ground Goalkeeper Gloves? Top Answer Update

Before playing: Wash your new gloves before first use and let them dry naturally (see washing instructions below). This is to ensure that all preservatives from the manufacturing process are removed from the latex, it activates the latex and ensures you get the maximum grip out of your gloves when in use. If you want to be absolutely sure they are ready, a second pre-wash is always a good idea.

During the game: When your goalie gloves are in use, occasionally wet the palms of the gloves with water to get the best possible grip and durability from the latex palm. Latex is not designed to be dry. This is why you often see professionals on TV splashing water on them or even spitting to bring the latex to life.

After the game: Make sure to wash your goalkeeper gloves immediately after wearing them and let them air dry. However, if you let your latex dry out too much, it will become brittle, affecting its durability and feel, which isn’t what you want (our drying guide further down the page has you covered!).

Football has a long history of goalkeeper gloves, but it wasn’t a part of football until the late ’60s. Since the early days of football, goalkeepers have played bare-handed and over time, some have become accustomed to the federation style and left their fingers bare. This was not because goalies didn’t want the gloves, but because the material these gloves were made from was not readily available, nor was there a mainstream industry for these gloves. Legendary goalkeepers like Yashin have defended the goalpost with their bare hands. After the late 60’s the soccer glove trend started and today the gloves are easily accessible and feature great material and very amazing construction designs. Today’s goalkeeper gloves add extra structure to the fingers, preventing finger snapping that can lead to injury or sprains. The premium latex offers a grip that is more than what a normal hand can offer. The powerful shots of players like Cristiano Ronaldo or Roberto Lewandowski are impossible to save, but the padding of modern gloves dampens the vibrations, giving goalkeepers more control over the score. The goalkeeper gloves now have many protections. Today we’re going to go over the top goalies in the EPL and which gloves they prefer.

David De Gea—Adidas

Spanish goalkeeper and Manchester United legend David De Gea use Adidas’ Predator Pro gloves. Adidas Predator Pro is one of the most versatile option gloves available on the market today. He has used these gloves this season. These gloves use URG 1.0 latex, a latex that is unrivaled in the industry and recognized as the best. Its grip is insane, Adidas also added 3 rubber strips on the backhand of the glove called “Demon Skin Spines”. These come in handy when the goalkeeper hits the ball mid-air during a corner, as corner kicks are not easy to handle, so goalkeepers prefer to swipe them away.

Edouard Mendy – Uhlsport HyperAct

Edouard Mendy, the goalkeeper of the Champions League tournament and Chelsea keeper, prefers Uhlsport HyperAct SuperGrip gloves. One saw him with these gloves very often. His gloves attracted attention during the UCL final, which Chelsea won and throughout the tournament Mendy’s performance was key for Chelsea. One of the key features of these gloves is that the gloves have a breathable neoprene backhand. This material allows air to enter the glove and circulate to keep the temperature of the hands cool.

Emiliano Martinez—Adidas

The Aston Villa goalkeeper and one of the heroes of the Argentina national team that won the 2021 Copa America, Emiliano Martines wears the Predator 2.0 by Adidas. He has also worn Puma gloves in the past, but since his move from Arsenal to Aston Villa he has mainly been spotted in Adidas gloves. He was a great goalkeeper for both Argentina and Aston Villa. He won the Copa America wearing these gloves, conceding only 2 goals and keeping 4 clean sheets all season. Predator series also have small spikes that help goalies hit the ball from a small distance of a few centimeters.

Alisson Becker—Nike

Nike Vapor Grip3 was the first choice for Alisson Becker. He has developed into one of the best goalkeepers from the bottom up in recent years and his gloves also play a big part in this journey. He won the UCL and the EPL while defending the goal for The Reds wearing the Nike Vapor Grip3. These gloves were made from a special latex called “Contact”. This latex offers excellent grip and also the addition of internal reinforcements in the “3 finger area” provides grip, comfort and glove padding. These have been manufactured to allow the gloves to breathe air and prevent internal heating. The velcro is used at the end for the perfect fit.

Ederson – The PUMA Future Z Grip 2

Man City’s Ederson did something unique when choosing the gloves. Ederson, Pep Guardiola’s first choice goalkeeper and two-time Premier League winner, has special gloves inspired by him, the gloves are called the PUMA Future Z Grip 2 Ederson Goalkeeper Gloves. There are only 150 pieces worldwide with three color options – white, black and volt yellow.

It’s a hybrid cut, for starters it’s a combination of different glove cuts. A roll finger cut and a normal cut are used here. It also has a thumb wrap that helps with better gripping in airborne situations. Ederson has also worn Uhlsport Pure Alliance Supergrip+ gloves in the past.

These gloves have a double closure system: it is a double strap that wraps around the wrist for a better fit, Rebound zone: flexible and light material on the backhand, Airpene glove body: for air circulation and ultimate contact: additional grippy particles to improve the Handle.

Gloves play an essential role in the life of goalkeepers and choosing the best gloves should be done with the right knowledge.

I get a lot of questions about Fingersave for goalkeeper gloves. What is finger safe? Do I need fingersave? Which finger guard is better? Do professional goalkeepers use fingersave? Read on and get answers to your questions.

What is finger safe?

Fingersave is another name for finger protection in goalkeeper gloves. It is a feature that protects your fingers from finger injuries. Finger protection often consists of an individual insert in each finger except the thumb. On most top goalie gloves, they can be removed entirely or in a few fingers, giving you the protection you need.

Do I need fingersave?

Whether or not you need finger guards depends on a lot of different things. Of course, you should use a finger guard if you like wearing it or have sensitive fingers that get injured frequently. However, many people find that as they get older, they need less finger protection. Fingersave for goalkeeper gloves is therefore perfect for young goalkeepers who need extra protection, but many older goalkeepers prefer the flexibility and ball control you get with a non-fingersave glove rather than the protection you get with a fingersave glove.

Read this guide and learn how to choose the right glove cut

Edouard Mendy broke a Champions League record last night as Chelsea reached the final of the competition.

The Blues number one kept an eighth clean sheet of the season in a 2-0 win over Real Madrid.

That’s the best performance ever achieved by a goalkeeper at an English club in a single season!

As well as keeping eight clean sheets, Mendy has conceded just three in the 11 games he has started.

Edouard Mendy kept EIGHT #UCL clean sheets in 2020/21.

Most goalkeepers ever for an English club in a single season 🤯 pic.twitter.com/COTM5H9c4O – Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) May 5, 2021

It’s been a rollercoaster ride for the Senegalese goalkeeper, who had to file for unemployment in 2014.

Mendy then played in the fourth tier of French football 2 years later where he had to work his way through the ranks.

Rennes, from Ligue 1, signed Mendy in 2019 before joining London for around £20million a year later.

He is now just one step away from the ultimate dream of winning the Champions League.

Standing in the way is Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, who beat PSG to secure their place in the final.

The all-English clash takes place on May 29, where Mendy will be hoping to get his hands on silverware.

Glove spotting: Edouard Mendy

Mendy had his own variant of the Uhlsport Pure Alliance Supergrip gloves.

Shop the latest in goalkeeper gloves from Uhlsport and all major brands at Just Keepers. We offer the world’s best selection of goalkeeper gloves, goalkeeper clothing and goalkeeper accessories.

All of our products are handpicked to bring you all the products you need in one place. Remember we are the original online goalkeeping specialists…

Just Keepers – The Number One Number One

For a serious goalkeeper, gloves are just as important as cleats. Gloves help a goaltender control a shot, provide protection and comfort. Part of learning how to be a goaltender is also understanding how to take care of the equipment that protects you from the elements and piercing shots from the attacker.

Until we turn pro or own an internet company specializing in goalie gear and training, you or your parents are responsible for purchasing your own gloves. Match gloves are not cheap. Gloves don’t last forever, maybe a season if you’re lucky.

Gloves are perishable goods:

The reality is; The more expensive the glove, the better the grip, but the less the glove lasts. Super soft and sticky latex palms found in pro gloves offer exceptional grip but not much durability. Gloves are perishable! Very sticky hunting gloves with a lot of grip will show up after wearing or even start peeling on the first use. It’s not a quality problem, it’s because it’s soft latex. Buying a glove with more durability comes at the expense of grip. A glove designed for games will last an average of 12-14 games before needing to be upgraded to the practice ranks. Some goalies get more than one season, but that depends on how well the goalie maintains the gloves, their jumping technique, the stress the gloves are subjected to, and the playing surface. You need to find a balance based on your budget.

Here are helpful tips to extend the life of your gloves:

BUY THE RIGHT SIZE – When gloves are too big or too small, not only can it affect your performance, but it can also accelerate glove wear. Fingers in gloves that are too large or too small can stress the latex and seams, causing premature failure or tears. When sizing your gloves, your fingers should be no less than ¼ inch to ideally ½ inch. An inch or more is too much.

Know Your Palm Latex – Buy a glove based on your playing surface, weather conditions, and budget. Know if your glove and latex are best suited for all weather conditions, dry conditions, wet conditions, hard floors or natural surfaces. Soft, sticky, professional-grade latex palms used for “all weather” or “dry weather” and soft “natural surfaces” should be wet when playing. A wet weather glove needs to be cared for and soaked before the game and possibly at halftime. Only wet weather gloves are good in the rain. A futsol, turf or hard ground glove is non-porous and should not be soaked with water as this will make the glove slippery. A super soft sticky glove will break on rough indoor surfaces and hard ground. The better the latex, the more expensive, the better the grip, but the sacrifice is durability. Gloves with better durability sacrifice some grip.

In Match Care – For gloves made from softer latex (traditionally Supersoft Latex and up), you will need to re-wet the palm with water as it dries. Spit only goes so far, adding bacteria to the palm. SuperSoft Latex palms can become slippery when wet. Find the right balance before your game to avoid carrying sponges when you need grip strength the most. I personally rinse my gloves under water for two seconds every 10-15 minutes before a game so the palm absorbs some of the water and feels damp.

Training Gloves – To ensure your playing gloves are in the best possible shape, do not practice with them. Buy a relatively inexpensive training glove that will stand up to the rigors of training. Once your gaming gloves start to show significant signs of wear, send them to the practice field and buy a new pair. It is important to have 1 pair exclusively for games and another one for training. Inexpensive gloves with more durable foams may not last longer, but only cost a lot less. They might be cheaper because the manufacturer uses cheaper material like PVC in the upper hand or the quality of the latex is lower.

Clean your gloves – Dirt and sweat will degrade the glove’s latex. Dirt acts like sandpaper, drying the soft, sticky, porous latex to a hard, crusty surface. The toxins in your sweat can also dry out the glove over time. Rinsing the gloves after a game will help wash away spit, sweat and dirt.

How to clean –

Wash your gloves with lukewarm water. Squeeze out excess water carefully. Wringing can tear the seam. A mild detergent can be used to help with the odor and really dirty jobs, but it’s not necessary. Reusch makes a detergent designed for delicate latex. NEVER hang dry, never speed up the drying process with dryers, the sun or dehumidifiers. Also, don’t keep them in a sunny car for baking. All of this robs the gloves of their natural moisture, making them dry and brittle.

PROPER STORAGE – Don’t toss your gloves in a bag after a game and forget about them until the next game. If your next game is tomorrow, wipe the dirt off your palm with a damp glove towel. Washing for tomorrow’s game can result in gloves getting too wet. If that’s the case, wrap the gloves in a damp glove towel to keep them moist for tomorrow’s game. You don’t want your gloves drying with dirt and sweat in the palm of your hand. Over time, dirt and sweat absorb natural moisture, causing the glove to dry, crack and peel. Don’t keep your gloves wet for more than a day as they will get smelly and start to mold. When storing your gloves, do not place them palms together as they may stick together and tear when trying to separate them. A glove bag is the best way to store your gloves. The latex needs to breathe.

The modern goalkeeper relies on his gloves. Sponsored pros have the option to throw away their gloves after 1 or 2 games, but the rest of us don’t have that luxury. We need to take care of our gloves to make sure they last as long as we need them to.

Glove size help:

This is not an exact science as every goalie’s hand is different. There are slight differences in sizing between manufacturers, between inexpensive practice gloves and more expensive playing gloves, as well as jr-sized numbers and adult-sized numbers. Size 7 is a tough one as some manufacturers have a jr 7 and a senior 7.

Note: Goalkeeper gloves should be worn slightly larger than hand size. A goalie’s finger should not touch the tip of the glove, nor should there be too much room that makes the glove feel sloppy. , In general, 1/4″ to 1/2″ past the end of your fingertip is optimal, or a thumbnail length if you don’t have a ruler handy.

Here are some tips to estimate more efficiently. If you don’t have a local football store to try on a pair of, here are two common ways to determine the appropriate size.

Option 1: Measure the circumference of the widest part of the palm Measure the circumference of the widest part of the palm excluding the thumb. Round up to the nearest inch. Then add 1 inch to the measurement to determine your glove size.

Option 2: Measure the length of the hand from the tip of the middle finger to the base of the large thumb area where the goalie’s thumb meets the wrist. Round up to the nearest inch. Then add 1 inch to the measurement to determine your glove size.

Example: 7 ¾” rounds up to 8″ + 1″ = 9″, so a 7 ¾ wrap around hand is a size 9 glove.

Note:

Be sure to measure both hands and order the larger size.

When sizing goalie gloves, fingers should be no less than ¼ inch to ideally ½ inch from the top of the glove.

Both measurements should give relatively the same result.

Glove size measurements:

JR Size 4 or 5 – Small keeper with YS goalie gear. Age is 7 to 9 years old. Size maybe 4ft 6in to 4ft 8in for a size 5.JR

Size 6 or 7 – Medium to large youth goalkeeper. Ages 10 – 12. Size 4’10” (size 6) – 5’0″ (size 7).

Size 7 (Adult) – Small adult or large youth goalkeeper. Height 5’2″ to 5’4″

Size 8 – Small to medium sized adult pet holder. Height 5’4″ – 5’7″

Size 9 – Medium adult halter. Height 5’8″ – 5’10”

Size 10 – Medium to Larger Adult Pet Holder. 5’10” to 6’1″

Size 11 – Large halter. 6’2″ish

Size 12 – Large halter. 6’4″ish or a guard with meat hooks for hands (big hands).

Goalies come in all shapes and sizes, with long and short fingers. The above tips are just a guide to help you make an informed decision.

If you need help determining the appropriate size, we’re here to answer any questions. When emailing, have the measurements above and the height and weight of the holder ready.

Christian Benjamin, owner of www.keeperstop.com, has been a goalkeeper for almost 20 years and has been training goalkeepers and coaches for over 10 years. Keeperstop.com can help you purchase the right glove for your needs and within your budget. email [email protected]

Disclaimer: Soccer Whiz is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Affiliate Program, an affiliate advertising program that allows websites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.co.uk (Source: Section 5). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Goalkeepers in soccer have various unspoken habits that confuse viewers around the world.

Spitting on gloves seems no different than a mere habitual act, but past events tell otherwise.

The former England goalkeeper – Joe Hart – always seemed to spit on his gloves before setting set pieces, which made me wonder why he was taking it so seriously.

This article will uncover the hidden meaning, benefits, and potential downsides behind spitting on gloves, and give football fans an inside look at the unofficial technique that can have a significant impact on the game.

Let’s start with a quick answer to the overall topic at hand…

Goalkeepers spit on their gloves to get a lot more grip on the ball. This is done to make it easier for the goalkeeper to catch the ball and to reduce the chance of parrying the ball in the opposing team’s path.

Let’s examine the reasons behind this peculiar habit in more detail.

Reasons for goalies spitting on their gloves

There are a number of reasons why goalkeepers rinse their gloves with saliva.

Read on to find out more.

1. Extra grip

To get that extra grip, the palm of the latex gloves needs to be slightly damp.

Put simply, latex is a foam made up of hundreds if not thousands of holes covering the surface of the palm. When the latex is dry, these microscopic holes become hard and fragile, making it difficult for the holes to expand.

Due to the increased friction between the palm of the gloves and the ball, the durability of the gloves is compromised and this is why you may find that cracked gloves tend to offer less protection to your hands.

On the other hand, wet latex allows the tiny holes to expand slightly and become more flexible, which in turn means they are less likely to tear.

The added benefit of a flexible surface is that they can change shapes much more easily and complement the shape of the glove to increase the chances of catching the ball.

A hard and stiff glove could not achieve the same effect simply because it lacks the freedom to conform to the shape of the glove. It would be almost like hitting a wall and the ball would therefore bounce right off.

Watch the video below for an example of how modern glove manufacturers are using the physical properties of latex to create gloves that can retain moisture:

If you’re interested in buying a pair of great-gripping goalie gloves, I recommend the Renegade GK Eclipse Gloves with contact-grip latex.

They have some of the highest grip levels and are efficient to wear in both wet and dry conditions.

2. Superstition

Another reason goalkeepers spit on their gloves is the superstitions they are proud of, which can affect team morale.

The evolution of football over the decades has led to a new focus that is not just on the physical aspect of the game but also on the mental/psychological battles that take place on the pitch.

Most aspiring goalkeepers learn by observation and it is therefore easy to pick up this routine, especially when analyzing the habits of older and more experienced goalkeepers.

That generational learning curve is evident today with Leicester City goalkeeper – Kasper Schmeichel – who admitted he followed in his father’s footsteps in the final moments of his final penalty.

Psychological tactics can also work against opposing teams as they increase the pressure on the player preparing to take the set piece.

Penalty takers, for example, are constantly trained in how to take cool and composed penalties, but that may not always go to plan, especially in packed stadiums where the fans are increasing the pressure.

Just the fact that the goalkeeper spits on his gloves before that crucial moment in the game can be a signal of overwhelming confidence and determination to save him, which can unnerve even the most composed player.

3. Conditioned reflex reaction

Goalkeepers spitting on their gloves can also be the result of a conditioned reflex reaction to a save in progress.

Teammates regularly draw on this energy, which can consequently improve the team’s performance at game-changing moments, as this reaction could act as a catalyst for a positive team response.

Is it harmful to spit on goalkeeper gloves?

After you’ve gone through the benefits of spitting on gloves, this habit can seem like a predetermined way to gain extra grip.

However, it has its downsides.

Initially, frequent spitting on gloves will erode the glove latex and gradually reduce the durable grip of the gloves.

The average PH of saliva is relatively acidic, so while you can get extra grip in the short term, this will affect the durability of the gloves in the long run.

Without a grip, it’s virtually impossible to grab the ball as it will just slip off, and from a goalkeeper’s perspective, this is a situation where they can’t afford to compromise.

With that in mind, you might be wondering why goalies don’t care about the longevity of their gloves.

Well, that’s simply because most professional goalies have sponsorship deals and contracts with Nike, Adidas and similar sports companies to supply them with their gloves. As a result, they don’t have to worry about the durability of their gloves as they could just get a new pair after a few games or even every game.

More unhygienic, spitting on gloves can cause them to retain foul odors and smell like they’ve been in the trash for weeks.

When bacteria are broken down from saliva, molecules are released to compensate for the abundance of proteins, and these molecules contain high levels of foul odors.

Smelly gloves are not exactly ideal for use in competitive conditions and of course you would be forced to replace them.

How to improve goalkeeper glove grip without spitting on them

There are a few things you can do if you don’t want to use your own saliva to give your goalie gloves the moisture they need.

First…

Use a goalie glove balm

To improve the grip of the goalie gloves without spitting on them, you can use goalie glove washing solution.

Check out Gloveglu on Amazon because that’s a great product to use.

This handy piece of gear retains the moisture and stickiness ideal for extra grip, while removing surface debris to keep your gloves clean and moist.

Simply apply the detergent before or after a game and it will extend the life of the glove.

Or alternatively…

Apply water instead

Another way to improve glove grip is to use water as a lubricant instead of spit.

Just take a water bottle and pour some water on both gloves and then wipe them together to remove excess moisture. After that, rub them together to make sure they get that extra hold.

Final Thoughts

All in all, goalkeepers spit on their gloves to get more grip on the ball, especially when trying to counterattack. Moreover, this also happens due to superstitious beliefs that will psychologically boost performance on the field since the action is just a habitual reflex reaction.

This practice has been practiced for many years and it can clearly be seen that it has been internalized by goalkeepers from generation to generation.

I think it was important to cover this topic as it sheds light on the hidden techniques used in modern football that can have a significant impact on the outcome of a game.

However, this article can benefit young and aspiring goalies learning the art of goalkeeping by providing tips on the benefits of spitting on gloves, as well as other alternatives that have proven to be more effective for improving grip.

Football fans around the world also gain insight into the inner workings of the sport and a better understanding of why players do what they do on the pitch.

And now that you, the reader, understand why this action is being carried out, buy yourself the best goalie gloves you can find!

The negative cut goalie glove cut is a hybrid style that combines negative and roll finger for even higher levels of comfort, fit and feel. The fingers are rolled in the same way as any roller finger glove, but the inside of the palm is stitched similar to a negative glove. The benefits of this combination mean that if a tight fit is your thing and you’re a fan of negative gloves, you can have an even better fit but with more latex contact on the ball thanks to the rolled fingers. For those who are used to a more open or loose fitting glove, consider going up a size when choosing a glove with this cut. A great example is our SLYR LTX Blast, which uses a neg-roll hybrid.

Proper fit of a soccer goalie glove is determined by the space in the fingertips, palm, backhand and side of the gk glove. Is the extra space or tightness in the goalie glove manageable? Does it help control saving or hinder it?

​

A fingernail length or 1/4 inch is optimal in the fingertips. A little more or less can also work. A goalie just doesn’t want 3/4 inch or more because the goalie glove is harder to control and wear incorrectly. The sides of the finger should also feel manageable. Is it too tight or does it feel like your fingers are slipping around in the fingers and finger patches?

The hand and glove should feel as one and comfortable during the save. It is important that there is no excessive space or bunching in the palm, backhand, side, or wrist closure. If a goalie glove has a finger guard, too much room can make the finger guard feel uncomfortable. Conversely, make sure that the glove is not too tight when you put it on and take it off. If a glove is too tight, the goalkeeper glove can tear at the palm, seams or wrist closure.

Sizing goalie gloves can be tricky as goalies come in all shapes and sizes; Manufacturers can have different sizes; and goalkeepers have their own priorities. For adidas, Reusch, Uhlsport, Elite Sport and Storelli glove sizing questions, contact keeperstop.com in the US.

Looking for a new pair of goalkeeper gloves? Not sure what to buy or how much to spend? You are in the right place.

In this goalkeeper glove guide, I list my current top pairs for 2022, followed by a detailed guide on what features to look for when buying GK gloves.

So here are the 10 best goalkeeper gloves I can recommend right now. The list below is by no means extensive – but it certainly gives every goalie an option within their price range.

Exceptional grip and comfort | Perfect for all abilities | High durability | Unsurpassed value for money

Buy on Amazon »

available in the US

advantages

High-quality contact latex with pro-level grip

Maximum comfort thanks to the high-quality negative cut

High durability (fully tested over 20+ games on artificial and grass surfaces)

Engineered to offer unmatched value for money. Performs like 40-60lb gloves

Suitable for all ages. Comes in sizes 4-11.

Classic, traditional look

Full blackout version prevents dirt/scuffs from showing

High quality heavy duty strap provides extra hand protection

Including glove bag

Regularly available as part of the Buy 2, Get 1 Free sponsorship offer. Full details will be posted on the Rectrix Sponsorships page.

Unsurpassed value for money

Free Shipping.

Disadvantages

Only two color options (white or blackout)

Simple look compared to other “bolder” backhand designs.

Check out our full review of the Rectrix 1.0 gloves.

Striking gloves with high-quality grip | Addons Available | Competitive price

Buy on Amazon »

not available in the US

advantages

High quality contact latex

Finger protection available

Personalization service offered

Maximum comfort thanks to the premium negative cut – without gussets on the outer fingers

The backhand features durable 8-10mm neoprene foam for high impact shots and punches.

Bold design with red splashes and distinctive ribbed fingers

Free Shipping.

Disadvantages

The strap offers no protection for the inner wrist compared to other gloves in this price range

Not everyone will like the ribbed finger design

No blackout version available.

High specification| Engineered to maximize grip and absorb shock | Extremely stylish

Buy on Amazon »

available in the US

advantages

High-quality EXT Contact latex – the standard for professional goalkeeper gloves

Extended palm for extra grip

Rubber ribs on the backhand provide additional shock absorption and ball control

Fingersaves available for multiple variations

The extended “pull” on the strap makes it easier to put on the gloves

Maximum convenience available through premium negative and hybrid cuts

Free Shipping.

Disadvantages

Very high price. Not ideal when you are likely to use multiple pairs of gloves per season.

Lightweight, comfortable design | Excellent grip | Good for punching

Buy on Amazon »

available in the US

advantages

Available in Kontakt or Giga latex variants

Maximum comfort thanks to the premium negative cut – without gussets on the outer fingers

Super light, designed to offer more flexibility while improving grip and touch

Injection molded silicone punch zone and non-slip grip on backhand

Extended, full-body latex palm for total ball contact

Excellent grip in wet and dry conditions

Several striking color variations

Free Shipping.

Disadvantages

The lightweight design compromises on backhand protection

It is unlikely to last as long as traditional designs

Relative expensive

Inexpensive Mid-Spec Blackout Gloves | Ideal for aspiring goalkeepers

Buy on Amazon »

not available in the US

advantages

High-quality, thick Giga latex offers excellent support

Offers finger protection as an add-on

Blackout design means dirt is not visible

Outstanding comfort thanks to the premium negative roll hybrid cut

Decent durability

Competitive price

An ideal option for a young/amateur goalkeeper

Free Shipping.

Disadvantages

Blackout designs are not everyone’s preferred look

The standard strap offers only moderate support

Only available in black/yellow

Excellent grip and flexibility | Lightweight | Extremely stylish

Buy on Amazon »

not available in the US

advantages

High-quality, thick “Gecko” or “Monster” grip – a type of contact latex at a professional level

Blackout, white and other versions available

Ultra light and very comfortable negative cut

Made of robust mechano-polyester or silicone on the back of the hand (depending on the model).

The extended palm offers more grip on the ball

A great option for goalkeepers of all skill levels

Innovative, modern design – one of the most beautiful gloves on the market

Free Shipping.

Disadvantages

Expensive. The strong look/brand drives up the price significantly

Durability is no better than many cheaper gloves.

Simple, sharp appearance | Great performance and durability for the price

Buy on Amazon »

not available in the US

advantages

High quality contact latex

Finger protection available

Personalization service offered

Excellent grip and comfort thanks to the premium hybrid cut (negative and roll finger combination)

Good durability for the price

Simple, neat and stylish backhand design

Free Shipping.

Disadvantages

White palms get dirty/worn very quickly, defeating the main purpose of a blackout design

Strap offers less inner wrist protection than other gloves in this price range

Extremely sticky palms | Breathable and Comfortable | Unique technology & design

Buy from Amazon (Europe) »

Buy on Amazon (US) »

available in the US

advantages

The unique “G3 SpeedBump” latex ensures maximum friction and tactility on the ball.

Uses Reusch’s “Evolution” Negative Cut – a variation on a negative roll hybrid – which offers excellent control

Extremely sticky palms! The strongest grip in the Reusch range, stretching from the palms down over the wrist

All-weather performance

Better durability than other soft latex gloves

The one-piece backhand design goes under the strap. This offers exceptional comfort

Perforations to increase airflow

A truly unique, outstanding glove design

Free Shipping

Disadvantages

Very expensive. It is only economical for advanced goalies

Many cheaper gloves are just as durable

Text based backhand design and blue dotted palms are not everyone’s preferred style!

Hard-wearing high-end latex with all-weather performance | Light and flexible

Buy on Amazon »

available in the US

advantages

Patented Super Grip Latex offers an excellent balance of grip and abrasion resistance (durability)

Maximum comfort thanks to the unique Uhlsport Negative Roll Hybrid cut

Features a wraparound index finger for maximum latex grip

Breathable lightweight backhand

Well-designed 3D embossing area to hit the ball

Excellent fitting gloves that adapt to the shape of your hand

All-weather performance

Free Shipping

Disadvantages

Very expensive. It is only economical for advanced goalies

Red/black scale design is not for everyone. There are no other color variations.

Very sticky pro grip| Flexible & Natural Fit | Unusual design

Buy on Amazon »

available in the US

advantages

Featuring pro-level sticky URG 1.0 – a sticky latex engineered for our pro players, providing excellent grip for all conditions and thick cushioning of shots.

Durable, seamless backhand engineered to provide more flexibility and power when hitting the ball

Maximum comfort thanks to the high-quality negative cut. It hugs the hand and feels both light and natural

Anatomical flex zones mimic the natural movements of the hand and help bring the ball closer to the hand

All-weather performance

Striking appearance

Free Shipping

Disadvantages

Very expensive. It is only economical for advanced goalies

Many cheaper gloves are just as durable

Latex loses its stickiness fairly quickly (like most other Adidas gloves).

Pro-level grip | Raised surface to maximize friction | Abrasion-resistant design

Buy from Amazon (Europe) »

Buy on Amazon (US) »

available in the US

advantages

Unique hybrid latex balances grip and durability (black dots = durability, blue dots = grip)

Maximum ball-to-hand contact through Reusch’s unique “Dual Rolled Expanse” cut

Includes an effective abrasion resistant zone called “Duraloop” that protects the underside of the palm and wrist strap

Well-designed backhand area for hitting the ball

Wide fingers help wrap the ball

Very easy to put on and take off

All-weather performance

Free Shipping

Disadvantages

Very expensive. It is only economical for advanced goalies

A looser and less comfortable fit than other gloves in this price range

Less sticky latex than other comparable high-end gloves.

Goalkeeper gloves on a tight budget

You are unlikely to find high performance goalkeeper gloves for under €30. The Rectrix 1.0 offer the best value for money at a typical price of £29.99 – £31.99.

However, if you’re on a tight budget, we recommend the negative-cut Rectrix Bold goalie gloves. These stylish goalkeeper gloves offer finger-friendly protection and excellent grip thanks to their German latex palms. We recommend them to amateurs and casual owners who want to reduce finger injuries – without breaking the bank.

Buy on Amazon »

not available in the US

What you should look for in goalkeeper gloves

A general rule of thumb to remember is that the big players – Nike, Adidas, Puma, Under Armour, Umbro – don’t dominate goalkeeping the way they do the rest of football.

Manufactured by many smaller, specialist brands, goalkeeper gloves offer the same (and often better) specifications – without the premium price tag.

Whichever brand of GK gloves you choose, look out for the following characteristics.

perfomance

The performance of your goalkeeper gloves is determined by the materials used to make them and how they are composed. I wrote two posts to help you:

Types of latex goalkeeper gloves. It is the most important feature of your gloves. The quality of the latex palm affects how much grip and control you have over the ball.

. It is the most important feature of your gloves. The quality of the latex palm affects how much grip and control you have over the ball. Cuts in the goalkeeper glove. This describes the way the materials – the latex palms and backhand – were sewn together. Your glove cut can affect your comfort, flexibility and “feel” with the ball. But it’s mostly a matter of preference.

comfort fit

Comfort is subjective. Goalies tend to prefer a cut type that is offered by a specific brand in a specific size (which is not necessarily the one suggested by the sizing guidelines).

In general, high quality goalkeeper gloves feel softer, more padded and with significantly higher quality inner materials. However, some glove lines will never properly fit your hand shape no matter what size you try. So the perfect “feeling” is not always tied to the price.

Finding the perfect glove is really a matter of trial and error. Read product reviews, try your friends’ gloves on, and watch YouTube review videos to get an idea of ​​the gloves you might want to buy. Of course, read my articles here on Top Goalkeeping – they will save you some time!

value for money

The value is determined by the performance of your gloves in relation to their durability. Finding that balance is the key to a good deal.

The general advice I give is to shop in the £30-40 price range. Here’s how you can dodge:

Low quality flat cuts. These are the entry-level gloves (like the Nike FA16) that are typically sold in sporting goods stores. They are made from cheap materials and offer a weak grip and minimal hand protection. They also tend to tear and wear out fairly quickly.

These are the entry-level gloves (like the Nike FA16) that are typically sold in sporting goods stores. They are made from cheap materials and offer a weak grip and minimal hand protection. They also tend to tear and wear out fairly quickly. Overpriced specs with low payoff. Expensive gloves offer a performance boost that’s somewhat negligible unless you’re playing at a very high level in consistent conditions. In addition, this high price does not guarantee that the gloves will last longer than slightly cheaper models.

Expensive gloves offer a performance boost that’s somewhat negligible unless you’re playing at a very high level in consistent conditions. In addition, this high price does not guarantee that the gloves will last longer than slightly cheaper models. Highly hyped new lines. Every year glove brands release new designs to capture their market share. The fact is, however, that many new models often make little difference to their predecessors. It’s often better to buy last year’s collection (the same goes for football boots).

There are certainly some expensive goalkeeper gloves that perform excellently – such as the Reusch G3. Be careful, however, as some high-end innovations – like those of the Nike Mercurial Touch Elite – have gained a reputation for poor durability. Price and brand do not guarantee quality.

There are literally hundreds of similar goalkeeper gloves that would have made this list. I have selected current, varied and well-received gloves to offer you some potential options. If you can recommend a specific pair of gloves, please suggest them in the comments section.

Disclaimer: Soccer Whiz is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Affiliate Program, an affiliate advertising program that allows websites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.co.uk (Source: Section 5). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This blog also earns small commissions from ShareASale affiliate links placed within the article.

The goalkeeping role is possibly one of the most important in modern football.

All attacking momentum starts from behind as the number one’s job is to distribute the ball accurately between midfielders and forwards.

But a goalkeeper’s core duties revolve heavily around stopping shots, as his main focus is on parrying and hitting balls out of harm’s way.

Without a good set of gloves, even the best professional goalkeepers in the world can struggle to perform positively.

At the highest level of the sport, players need every advantage they can get as outcomes with massive financial implications are at stake.

That’s partly why clubs ensure their stars get the very best football gear.

In this article I will examine the types of gloves that professional goalkeepers wear as their selection can reliably influence your own decision making when it comes to a pair of gloves to buy for yourself.

So let’s get started!

Which goalkeeper gloves do professionals wear?

Now I could go ahead and list all possible options.

But that wouldn’t really help you as a reader because you’re overwhelmed with so many options.

So I’ll only discuss a handful of solutions, starting with…

1. Adidas Predator Pro Gloves

Adidas has definitely created a masterpiece with these goalkeeper gloves.

For starters, the blue and red color combination is really striking to the eye.

But beyond their visual appeal, these gloves offer goalies many performance advantages.

First of all, silicone elements are knitted into the upper hand and finger area.

This gives goalies a safety cushion to give their all at those fist distances.

You get a lot more distance and better ball control on these shots as the adaptive knit digs into the structure of the football after contact.

Another plus point is the unsurpassed grip – called URG 2.0 – which the palm of the hand is coated with rubber foam.

Catching and holding a soccer ball becomes a breeze as the rubber foam prevents basic slipping.

After all, which goalkeepers are wearing Adidas Predator Pro Gloves?

Well for starters, an absolute legend of the game who plays for German club Bayern Munich uses them.

You guessed right!

Manuel Neuer wears Adidas Predator Pro gloves and has been for a while.

Here are some proof photos:

This picture was taken in a recent game where Neuer successfully eclipsed retired goalkeeper Oliver Khan’s record for most Bundesliga wins.

Bayern Munich and Germany’s captain had a record of 311 wins in his 460th game.

Super impressive if you ask me!

Incidentally, it is interesting that Neuer’s German compatriot – Marc-Andre ter Stegen – also uses the same pair!

Here’s a tweet the Barcelona man released after his side sensationally scored 4 goals against their biggest rivals Real Madrid in an El Clasico derby that took place on March 20, 2022:

If you’re convinced these gloves will require you to get your wallet out of your pocket, then you have two great purchase options.

You can either buy them on Amazon for a cheap price or you can go for another online soccer store called ProSoccer.com.

2. PUMA Ultra Grip 1 Hybrid Pro Gloves

There are so many things to like about these gloves that I really feel like I could write a whole book about them!

As you can see, PUMA has set itself the goal of achieving a kind of ecological sustainability in production.

The company opted for a latex that consists almost exclusively of renewable raw materials.

So when you buy these, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are not actually contributing to environmental degradation.

On top of that, the latex itself does its job pretty well, giving the wearer excellent grip in all sorts of weather conditions.

These gloves also feature a ‘GRDKXN Strike Zone’ which gives the men between the posts a solid silicon platform to smash away footballs flung towards the box from open crosses and other set pieces.

Now you must be curious to know which professional goalkeepers go onto the soccer field with these gloves in their hands.

Don’t worry, I won’t prolong the short moment of suspense!

Everton and England’s first-choice goalkeeper – Jordan Pickford – wears these gloves during matches.

Pickford signed an exclusive sponsorship deal with the PUMA brand in 2020, with the company even launching a pair of limited edition gold Ultra Grip 1 Hybrid Pro goalkeeper gloves later the next year in honor of his achievements at Euro 2020 when he retained the highest number of goals conceded.

And Gianluigi Buffon is another great player wearing these PUMA Ultra Grip gloves.

The Italian has been a servant of football for almost three decades, having started his career with Parma in 1995.

As his career comes full circle, it’s great to see that the 44-year-old still has plenty of energy in his tank:

What gloves do Premier League goalkeepers use?

Football’s most-watched professional league draws a lot of attention.

This means that many players get the media spotlight for their performances, but also for less trivial things like the type of gear they wear or bring with them to games.

You certainly can’t blame people for wanting to dress just like the pros!

So let’s answer the above question.

To get the ball rolling, Ederson wears Morae’s PUMA Future Z 2 gloves.

If you don’t know who Ederson is, I highly recommend checking out some match footage of him in action on YouTube.

He is a goalkeeper who plays for Manchester City and he has played a crucial role in that club’s domestic success since he was signed by Benfica.

Another goalkeeper is Alisson Becker who plays for Liverpool.

Alisson uses Nike Vapor Grip3 goalkeeper gloves which look fantastic, especially in combination with his Liverpool branded shorts and goalkeeper shirt.

Third is Tottenham Hotspur’s French goalkeeper – Hugo Lloris.

Lloris wears Reusch Fit Control Pro G3 Fusion goalkeeper gloves, which offer an interesting mix of comfort, breathability and grip in all-weather playing environments.

And last but not least, we have Manchester United’s first-choice goalkeeper, David de Gea.

David de Gea opts for Adidas Predator Pro goalkeeper gloves, as do Manuel Neuer and Marc Andre ter Stegen, who play in the German and Spanish leagues respectively.

Final Thoughts

This article has given you a comprehensive overview of the gloves that professional goalkeepers wear.

Hopefully you can use the information provided to make an informed purchasing decision if you choose to do so.

For more insights on this topic, you can also check out our article on the best goalkeeper gloves.

This product summary will discuss other options that I think are worth considering.

Make sure you have the right goalie gloves to make those game-changing saves.

Soccer goalkeeper gloves are an essential piece of goalkeeper equipment. Each component of the glove protects a goalkeeper’s hand in different ways, and different variations help goalkeepers play in specific playing conditions. Before you hit the field this season, learn what to look for when buying goalie gloves and how to measure your hands to find the right size.

CONSTRUCTION

The construction of goalkeeper gloves consists of four different parts, each with specific functions.

Backhand: The backhand is heavily padded to protect the hand when hitting the ball. The quality usually depends on the price. Less expensive gloves tend to have just one layer of foam padding, while higher-end models have latex padding.

Fingers: The fingers are a goalkeeper’s best defense mechanism as they allow the ball to be grabbed and held. Gloves contain spikes on the inside of the fingers to provide finger support. The material tightens when force is applied, helping to prevent overextension and finger breakage when catching hard-hit footballs. The fit depends on the goalkeeper’s preferences; Some like the control that stiffer gloves offer, while others choose a looser fit to allow for more dexterity. For the best finger protection, look for gloves that have bendable plastic supports rather than simply being padded. This prevents tension and other injuries.

Palm: The palm also helps in catching and belaying the ball. Palm species come in two textures: smooth and knobbly. Smooth palms are best for match play; They have an adhesive that helps a player grab the ball, but it tends to wear off with more use so it’s best to only use them in games to prolong their lifespan. Conversely, dimples are best for practice; They have an adhesive, and while it doesn’t stick as strongly as matchstick gloves, it’s much more durable, hence its suitability for practice.

Closure: The closure is the part that secures the glove to your hand and comes in three styles: Velcro, V-Notch and Bandage. Velcro straps are rubber and have an adjustable strap that can be tightened or loosened. V-shaped closures allow ventilation (hence the “v”), keeping your hands cool and dry. Bandage clasps wrap securely around your wrist just like a regular bandage and provide excellent wrist support.

TYPES

MATCH: Match goalie gloves are designed for competitive football players in high school or adult leagues. They are made of high quality latex to protect fingers and have maximum gripping technology. Because of these high demands, match gloves require a lot of maintenance and don’t last as long as other types of goalkeeper gloves.

Training: Training gloves are designed for beginners and practice needs for elite players. They have less grip but are more durable than match gloves.

Weather: Weather gloves are intended for occasional wear as they are designed to protect hands from extreme water and wind conditions. They have specially made latex palms that actually get stickier when wet, which is crucial when playing in the rain.

CUT/FIT

The cut or fit of the glove is how the palm material is made.

Flat: This is the most traditional glove cut. The palm consists of a piece of flat foam. The fit is looser on the hand, which gives you more freedom of movement.

Rolled/Gunn: The sides of the palm are “rolled” and sewn onto the backs of the fingers. As a result, the glove fits tighter.

Negative: With this cut, the fingers are sewn from the inside, which offers the best fit of all gloves. Negative cuts are often recommended for female or male goalkeepers who have thinner hands.

Hybrid: Hybrid cuts are a combination of two of the above.

HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT SIZE

Now that you know what to look for when choosing a goalkeeper glove, it’s time to find the size that works best for you.

Being a goalkeeper is tough, isn’t it?

You have to throw yourself before every shot, the fate of your team is often in your hands and even if you make a hundred saves, you will very rarely be the hero of the game.

When I was asked by TheChampLair.com to write a top 10 guide to the best goalkeeper gloves on the market, I knew the task wasn’t going to be easy. As a goaltender, I own 30+ pairs myself and have had to base my decisions on cold hard facts rather than the emotional attachment I have to some of them.

A goalkeeper glove becomes a part of him, it is an essential tool that must be of high quality to protect the hand and also to function optimally.

The gloves discussed in this guide are professionally rated, often worn by the best goalies in the world and most importantly, they will help you crush the competition.