Golf equipment comes in many sizes, shapes, and materials. Some have multiple uses, but most have a single use. There are different tools used by golfers to improve many aspects of their golf game that are easily identifiable. The most obvious (removing clubs and balls) is a golf glove. It is the one accessory 75% of golfers feel is required to play great golf. I am not completely convinced, however it is a topic worth investigating.

At the beginning of my golfing journey, I wore a golf glove. I actually donned one because my Dad wore a glove and I thought that was the right thing to do. I was told that a glove helps golfers grip the club better in all conditions. I followed this advice for about 10 years, then something strange happened.

I arrived at the golf course ready to play. I was fitting my glove on my left hand and it ripped all across the palm. I am sure many of you have experienced this shocking event. I did not have the time or money to replace this torn accessory, so I played my round anyway. After 18 holes, I came to the conclusion that a golf glove did not help my game in any way. Everything felt the same. From that point forward, I decided not to wear a glove and never really looked back.

If you are wondering, most golfers wear a glove (as seen by my recent poll) and I am not really sure why.

Do you wear a golf glove? #golfchat

— The Grateful Golfer (@TheGratefulGolf) February 16, 2024

The most popular response was to wear a glove to prevent slippage between the grip and hand. This makes sense as some players suggested they use multiple gloves during one round. Unfortunately, I have never experienced this issue of sweat hands while on the golf course. I could see this reason being more likely when it is raining, but for the most part sweaty hands is not a thing for my game.

Some respondents did not have a reason. They wore a glove because most amateurs and professionals wear a golf. If players like Rory McIlroy wear a glove, it has to be a requirement for great golf…..right? Well, I hate to fly in the face of opposition, but I do not believe this. I never wear a glove and find that I grip my clubs just fine. After thinking about it more, it really comes down to a personal choice. There is no right or wrong answer on this topic.

If you wear a golf glove then who am I to challenge your choice. I would, however, suggest removing your glove during on practice session and see if it makes any difference to your game. You might be like me and see not difference. You might find that you need a glove. Regardless of your decision, at least you would have actual data to make the decision instead of being a lemming.

Golf gloves cost money. Low end gloves in my area are about $10, where more expensive gloves run double or triple that price. By not wearing a glove, I figure I am saving at least $100 dollars a year or more. This is a round of golf at a pretty nice course sometime during the season. I would rather play a round than by something I do not need. That is a value choice for me.

I am not advocating either way. The choice to wear a golf glove is entirely personal.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!