In the world of soccer, a goalkeeper’s role is essential, and choosing the right goalkeeper gloves is no simple task. As you go in search of the perfect pair of gloves, you’ll need to consider several factors that won’t only have an impact on your performance, but also your safety on the soccer pitch.
Each product is designed to accommodate a variety of playing styles. But even more importantly, we should fully understand the importance of ensuring each player’s safety and protection. This is something we place great emphasis on at our soccer camps and high-performance academies.
In this guide we’ll unpack the options, discover the characteristics of the best soccer goalkeeper gloves, and give you everything you need to make the perfect glove choice!
Key Points to Consider When Choosing Your Goalkeeper Gloves
Boots aren’t the only important choice a goalkeeper has to make – gloves are also fundamental for success. This is why it’s essential to take several different factors into account before deciding which goalkeeper gloves are the best choice for you. Here are some of the most important factors:
Types of Soccer Goalkeeper Gloves
There are many different types of goalkeeper gloves on the market, each one with its own unique specifications in terms of fit, comfort, and flexibility – all important factors to consider when choosing gloves. Here are some of the main types of gloves:
- Roll finger: A traditional and very popular choice nowadays. Featuring a roll design on the fingers, it provides a larger area of latex contact with the ball, albeit with a reduced feeling of ball contact. The seams are situated on the outside of the latex and it feels like a much bulkier glove.
- Flat palm: This is the most traditional cut in goalkeeper gloves. They are the least padded gloves of all, as their surface is flat. They’re made up of 2 sections, one for the palm and the other for the back of the hand, which are joined by external seams. It has a comfortable fit and a larger grip surface.
- Negative cut: Just like the previous type, these are also made up of 2 sections, and joined by internal stitching. This gives them a tighter fit and means the hands can grip the ball more effectively. They also fit very snugly around the fingers.
- Hybrid cut: These combine the characteristics of flat palm and negative cut gloves for optimal performance.
What is the best material for goalkeeper gloves?
When it comes to goalkeeper gloves, different materials are recommended, according to whether it’s for the palm area or the back of the hand.
The palm area
Latex is the preferred choice when it comes to ensuring an optimal grip, but it’s more susceptible to wear and tear. The quality of the latex will determine the quality of the grip. A softer latex will provide a better grip, whereas a harder latex will provide greater durability. Similarly, a thicker latex will provide greater cushioning but a thinner latex will provide better ball handling. In addition, they can be smooth, textured, or dimpled. The first type gives you a better grip, which makes them ideal for matches, while the latter two are more durable, making them ideal for training sessions and for providing additional grip.
The backhand
Breathable materials, such as neoprene, for comfort and other materials for ventilation are essential for the backhand section of goalkeeper gloves. Nevertheless, these should be combined with latex foam to provide cushioning. Lower-quality gloves have thinner cushioning, whereas higher-quality gloves have thicker cushioning on the backhand.
Goalkeeper gloves: fit and comfort
We recommend that you look for a snug but comfortable fit that allows you to fully control the ball, enabling quick and accurate movements. Be aware that gloves that are too big can impair your ball control and gloves that are too tight can restrict movement. For this reason, you should look for gloves that will give you the necessary flexibility and provide a comfortable fit for your hands. Learning how to choose the right size in goalkeeper gloves is essential, and you should try on the gloves before deciding whether to buy them.
Should I go for finger protection?
Whether or not to opt for goalkeeper gloves with finger protection is a highly debated issue with differing opinions. At most ages, finger protection is essential in order to prevent injuries, and for that reason, you should evaluate the need based on the player’s level of play and age. If you have recently sustained a finger injury, it is certainly best to opt for gloves with finger protection, as the fingers would be vulnerable to further injury. Also, if your child is just starting out in the sport, and you would prefer some additional protection, then finger protection may be an option.
However, if they are under the age of 12, the shots they’ll face won’t be powerful enough to require it. You should be aware that this extra protection restricts movement, which may hinder the development of certain techniques such as catching the ball or punching it away. As a result, it can actually hamper children and young people’s performance and development.
Do the best goalkeepers use finger protection?
Professional goalkeepers use several different types of gloves, some of which incorporate finger protection technology known as “fingersave”. For example, Manuel Neuer, during his time at Schalke 04, used the Adidas Response model, possibly with finger protection, but later switched to the Predator Pro model which doesn’t have this feature. In contrast, David De Gea has been seen wearing gloves both with and without fingersave, suggesting that his preferences may change. Keylor Navas, on the other hand, doesn’t use gloves with fingersave, which may account for possible issues with finger injuries. It is also speculated that Marc Andre Ter Stegen doesn’t use fingersave gloves either, as his style of play, which often involves bending back his middle fingers in certain situations, would be incompatible with that type of protection.
Is wrist protection necessary?
Wrist support ensures stability and can prevent injury. It is especially important in high-intensity game situations.
Goalkeeper gloves according to playing style and positioning
- Goalkeeper gloves for goalkeepers based more on their lines: Opt for lightweight and agile gloves for fast reactions.
- Goalkeeper gloves for goalkeepers who like to protect their area: Choose gloves with more protection and grip for one-on-one situations.
- Indoor Soccer Gloves: You should opt for durable models with a strong grip, ideal for playing in tight spaces.
The importance of choosing the correct type of goalkeeper gloves
The right gloves can make the difference between a good and an excellent performance, whatever the goalkeeper’s style of play. The right choice won’t only improve your performance, but will also protect your hands from potential injury.
What gloves should I choose for artificial pitches?
Artificial turf can be tough on soccer gloves. Here are two important points to consider:
- Reinforced Grip: Choose gloves with a reinforced grip to withstand the abrasiveness of artificial turf and ensure a solid contact with the ball.
- Durability: Choose gloves with resistant materials to withstand the constant wear and tear on artificial turf and ensure high durability.
The 8 best soccer goalkeeper gloves
Knowing the qualities and characteristics that professional goalkeepers look for can be a real help when choosing which gloves to opt for. Without a doubt, the gloves used by Real Madrid’s goalkeeper – considered the best goalkeeper in the world – are bound to have excellent specifications for those looking to excel in this position. Here are some standout models that have what it takes to help you shine in goal:
1. Gloveglu s:PIRIT original RF: the best goalkeeper gloves
These Gloveglu s:PIRIT original RF goalkeeper gloves are ideal for those who want to be in control by increasing the contact area with the ball whilst maintaining a loose, comfortable fit. Gloveglu has brought a quality product to the market, designed with the same characteristics as the best goalkeeper’s gloves, with an excellent price-quality ratio. This model provides a very comfortable roll finger fit together with an extended strap to provide comfort and greater support to the wrist.
- Cut: Roll finger
- Palm: Gloveglu Original latex foam ensures an excellent grip, especially in dry climates.
- Backhand: Latex to improve shock absorption.
- Strap: Extended latex foam wrist protection, with an optional wrist strap.
- Finger protection: No
- Color: Blue & White
- Price: 88€
- Rating: 5/5
2. i:NTRON Gloveglu Original Goalkeeper Gloves with an excellent grip
These gloves have been designed with the finest materials and technology to ensure greater comfort and performance. They offer an excellent ball grip, and come with a traditional design for those who prefer a more elegant style. Gloveglu’s i:Ntron gloves combine a classic look with technological innovation. In addition, for those who are just starting out, the i:Ntron Junior Gloveglu Junior goalkeeper gloves for kids are also available. So, if you’re on the lookout for a goalkeeping camp, these gloves are an excellent choice before getting started.
- Cut: Negative
- Palm: Original Gloveglu foam technology for an improved ball grip and control.
- Backside: Breathable neoprene for optimal comfort.
- Finger protection: Roll finger
- Wrist support with an elastic strap for a snug fit.
- Price: 88 €
- Rating: 5/5
3. Gloveglu Dry Skin – The best goalkeeper gloves for dry climates
Not only do these gloves look amazing, with their bright, vivid colors, but they also have a great lightweight and comfortable fit, which makes it easy for the keeper to hold on to the ball. They are the first goalkeeper gloves designed by Gloveglu for dry climates, and their silicone palm ensures a better grip than almost any other glove on the market. They’re also excellent value for money. So, if you’re looking for gloves to play soccer in the summer or for playing on artificial turf, Gloveglu’s Dry Skin gloves are the best option. They’re also available in a junior version for kids.
- Cut: Negative
- Palm: Gloveglu Silicon Technology
- Backhand: Reinforced with silicone
- Extended wrist for added comfort and support
- Breathable finger padding
- With no finger protection.
- Price: 54 €
- Rating: 5/5
4. Adidas Predator Pro Goalkeeper Gloves
Some of the world’s best goalkeepers such as Manuel Neuer totally rely on the Adidas Predator Pro goalkeeper gloves. Adidas’ innovative quality and premium fit is helping professional goalkeepers stay at the top of their game.
- Cut: Negative
- Primary Fabric: Knit 91% recycled polyester / 8% elastane / 1% nylon
- Palm: URG 2.0 100% latex foam
- Inserts: Rubber on the backside
- Panel: Latex on the thumb section to increase the grip area
- Price: 91 – 130 €
- Rating: 4.6/5
5. Adidas Predator Edge League Goalkeeper Gloves
The Predator Edge League goalkeeper gloves have been used by many professional goalkeepers, and feature a URG 3.0 latex palm that ensures an excellent grip, even in wet conditions. The backhand is made of a breathable mesh material that helps keep your hands cool and dry.
These Adidas Predator Edge League goalkeeper gloves are an outstanding product for keepers of all levels who are looking for a premium performance glove with a great grip.
- Cut: Negative
- Primary Fabric: 91% polyester / 8% elastane / 1% nylon
- Palm: URG 3.0 100% latex foam
- Flexible knit backhand
- Zone Skin on fingers and backhand
- Price: 45.50 – 70 €
- Rating: 4.7/5
6. Reusch Attrakt Gold X Goalkeeper Gloves- from Decathlon
These Reusch Attrakt Gold X goalkeeper gloves are designed to deliver the best possible grip, even in the toughest conditions. Their Grip Gold X latex palm technology has created the best grip yet – the latex is treated with special adhesive additives that ensure a superb grip in all weather conditions.
These gloves are used by some of the world’s best goalkeepers, such as Hugo Lloris, Unai Simon and Wojciech Szczesny.
- Cut: Semi-Negative
- Primary Fabric: Neoprene
- Palm: Grip Gold X
- Inserts: Rubber on the backhand
- Panel: Latex on the thumb section to increase the grip area
- Price: 59 – 89 €.
- Rating: 5/5
7. Reusch Pure Contact Gold goalkeeper gloves from Decathlon
These Reusch Pure Contact Gold goalkeeper gloves, as worn by Unai Simon – Spain international and Athletic Bilbao keeper – are an excellent choice for both professional and amateur goalkeepers looking for a premium performance glove that offers an exceptional grip, comfort, and precision.
These Reusch Pure Contact neoprene gloves are ultra-lightweight, ultra-comfortable, and highly accurate. The palm of the gloves is manufactured with Reusch Grip Gold foam, which ensures an excellent grip in dry, wet, and greasy conditions. The latex is treated with special adhesive additives that guarantee a superb grip in any weather condition.
- Cut: Negative
- Primary fabric: Neoprene
- Inserts: Rubber on the backhand
- Panel: Latex on the thumb section to increase the gripping area
- Price: 59.99 – 70 €
- Rating: 5/5
8. F500 Viralto Kids’ Goalkeeper Gloves from Decathlon
The F500 Viralto goalkeeper gloves for kids are an excellent choice for tomorrow’s goalkeepers – safe and durable gloves at an affordable price. They’re ideal for intermediate to advanced-level goalkeepers who have mastered most of the main techniques.
The 3mm pre-shaped latex palm has an excellent grip, even in wet conditions. The 3mm HARDSOFT latex is highly resistant to impacts, and its anti-torsion finger system helps prevent injuries. On top of that, it also has a 2-year warranty.
- Cut: Negative
- Primary Material: Neoprene (50% polyester, 30% cotton, 20% polyurethane)
- Palm: HARDSOFT Latex (44% rubber, 31% natural rubber, 20% cotton, 5% polyurethane)
- Inserts: Rubber on the backhand
- Panel: Latex on the thumb section to increase the grip area
- Price: 24.99 – 30 €
- Rating: 4.2/5
Final Recommendations
- Tailor your choice to your playing style: Assess whether you normally spend more time on your line as a shot-stopper or if you’re a keeper who wants to command your area – in that way you’ll be able to choose the best gloves for your specific needs.
- Consider the pitch conditions: Choose gloves with specific features to fit the playing conditions, such as a reinforced grip for artificial turf.
- Put the fit first: Look for gloves that offer a snug but comfortable fit, enabling better ball control and faster reactions.
- Additional protection: Consider purchasing gloves with finger protection, especially in high-intensity game situations.
- Wrist support: Weigh up the importance of going for wrist support, which can make all the difference in the most intense moments of a game.
- Check out reviews: Read up on users’ opinions online to get additional insights and feedback from other goalkeepers.
- Affordable price: Find a price/quality balance to suit your needs and pocket, and make the best possible choice for you.
By following these guidelines and recommendations, you’ll be ready to make an informed decision and shine on the pitch with your new goalkeeper gloves – confidence and style guaranteed!
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