Last week we explored the importance of gloves and tips on how to pick a pair of gloves. This week we will explore some important features to consider when choosing your weightlifting gloves.
How do I know what glove features are the most important?
There are four key things to remember when purchasing training gloves:
- Fit:
- Does the glove fit snugly without binding, allowing your fingers to move naturally and comfortably?
- All gloves will stretch over time, so when you first try them on you want to be sure the fit is snug without being tight, and that you have full range of motion for your fingers and hand.
- Protection/Cushioning:
- Do the gloves provide enough coverage for your fingers?
- Gloves generally come in 3 finger lengths: short; ½ finger; and ¾ finger — the longer the finger length, the more protection the gloves provide.
- Do you prefer little or a lot of padding/cushioning on the palm and the fingers?
- You need to decide if you want more padding to protect your fingers and palm, or a little less padding to give you a more “close contact” feel with the training surface.
- The glove palm and fingers should curl naturally around the training surface.
- You shouldn’t feel the “teeth” of the bar or the handle cut into your fingers or palm when firmly grasping.
- Palms and fingers should have good flexibility, with some cushioning.
- More padding equals more protection, while less padding offers more “feel” on the bar.
- Support:
- Does the glove support the hand and wrist during training?
- Depending on how often and heavy you lift or train, you need to decide how much support you need.
- Does the glove feel natural but supportive, allowing you to maintain proper positioning when training?
- If you are straining your wrists when lifting, then consider wearing a WristWrap® glove.
- The heavier and more frequently you lift, the more you will need the support of a weight lifting glove.
- Traction:
- Is there enough palm traction for a “no slip grip” when lifting?
- The palm and finger materials provide traction and abrasion resistance from the training surface.
- Suede palms and fingers are great for every surface and are reinforced for added traction and durability.
- Rubber palm and finger pads provide maximum durability and traction.
Check back next week for “How to Care for my Gloves”.
