Choose a Pair of Goalie/Keeper Gloves
Gloves are any Goalkeeper's most important piece of equipment, so it's important to purchase a good pair for you. This article will teach you how to find the perfect pair of Goalie/Keeper gloves. Nike and Adidas may look the coolest but other brands such as Puma, The One Glove, or Sondico are great.
Steps
- Determine your price range. How serious are you about playing? Are you on a school or travel team, or an intramural team? Gloves can get expensive quickly, and if you're only playing for fun, you're better off getting a cheaper pair.
- Determine which sort of closure you want (how the glove stays on your hand, i.e. Velcro). Closure is up to personal preference and doesn't affect glove performance. If you aren't sure which sort of closure you want, it is suggested you shop at a soccer or sport specialty shop rather than online, as you'll be able to try the gloves on and decide which system you prefer.
- Decide what you want most from your gloves. Durability, or performance? If durability is more valuable, it is suggested to go with a glove that is dimpled or has textured latex on the palms. However, they don't perform as well, and if you hold performance over durability, it isn't suggested to buy that sort of glove.
- Measure your hand to make sure you have a good fit. If you are shopping at a store, it is highly suggested to try the gloves on, too.
- Use a tape measure to measure around the widest part of your palm (not including your thumb).
- Repeat with your other hand. One will be larger. Add one inch (roughly three centimeters) to the larger measurement. You have just measured your palm.
- Measure your hand from right above the wrist to tip of your longest finger. Some glove makers also use this finger measurement.
- Go to the store. The best place to get gloves would be a soccer specialty store, if there is one in your area, or, if you don't have one, a sports store.Sometimes online stores have better selection and lower prices but you can't try them on. Once you're in the store, make sure to try on the glove you want. Move your fingers around quite a bit, maybe hold and toss a soccer ball with it. Just don't anger the manager.
Tips
- Make sure the gloves have good padding in them.
- Don't go for a pair just for the colors and decorations. Go for the quality, price and purpose you need.
- If you are between glove sizes, go with the larger size.
- Shopping in store allows you to try the gloves on a bit.
- Don't worry if the gloves tear slightly. They will still maintain original grip once pre-washed.
- Some glove makers treat the gloves to add tackiness and performance.
- Gloves are still usable once they begin to flake.
- Some players like a bit more padding in the back of their glove in case their hand gets stepped on.
- Ironically, better, more expensive gloves typically don't last as long. You may want to get a cheap, bottom of-the-line pair to use during practice and save your good pair for games.
- Some Goalkeepers prefer their gloves to be a bit larger than they technically need.
- Decide what finger cut fits your needs the most, (Negative is a very tight fit).
Warnings
- Once you get your gloves, it is very important to take proper care of them. Goalkeeper's gloves are notorious for smelling.
- It is not recommended to shop online, unless you have tried on a pair at a store first so you know exactly what you want. Some stores will price match the internet. Take advantage of this.
Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Anywhere from 10 to 130 USD, depending on how much you want to spend, and if you're purchasing multiple pairs
