Golf Glove and Golf Shoes
Also known as: golf glove, which hand does the golf glove go on, golf glove hand, golf shoes, spikeless golf shoes, wear a golf glove, which hand to wear a golf glove
A golf glove goes on your lead hand: the left hand for a right-handed golfer and the right hand for a left-hander. It helps the top hand hold the club without slipping. Golf shoes add grip with spikes or a spikeless sole, so your feet stay planted.
The lead hand sits at the top of the grip and does much of the holding. A thin leather or synthetic glove gives it a better grip, especially in heat or damp weather. Many golfers take the glove off to putt for better feel.
Golf shoes have spikes or a patterned rubber sole. They grip the grass when you turn hard, and they help on slopes and wet turf. Spikeless styles also work for walking off the course.
Neither is required to play. Beginners can start in sneakers and no glove. Most golfers add both once they play often, because grip and balance improve.
Tips by skill level
Buy a glove that fits snugly with no loose material at the fingertips.
Rotate two gloves in hot or wet weather. A dry glove grips much better than a damp one.
Example
She plays her first rounds in sneakers and slips on a wet tee box. She buys golf shoes and a glove for her left hand, and her footing and grip improve.
Why it matters
The right gear makes grip and balance easier. Knowing which hand the glove goes on is a common first question.
Common mistakes
- Wearing the glove on the trail hand
- Buying a glove that is too loose
- Swinging hard in slippery sneakers
- Wearing a worn, shiny glove
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to wear a golf glove?
No. A glove is optional. Many golfers like the extra grip, but some play without one, and many take it off to putt.
Are golf shoes worth it?
Yes, once you play often. Golf shoes grip the turf better than sneakers, especially on wet grass and slopes.
Related terms
- GripThe grip is how your hands hold the club. It is the only contact you have with the club, so it controls the clubface more than any other fundamental.
- Grip PressureGrip pressure is how tightly the hands hold the club. Most instructors recommend a light-to-moderate pressure — enough to hold the club securely, loose enough to allow wrist hinge and a free release.
- Beginner Golf Club SetA beginner does not need a full 14-club set. A half set of seven or eight clubs is enough to learn with: a driver or fairway wood, a hybrid, a few irons, a pitching wedge, a sand wedge and a putter. Choose forgiving clubs with a shaft flex that suits your swing speed.
- Starting Golf as an AdultStart with a few lessons or a group class to learn grip, setup and solid contact. Practice at a range and short-game area, then play a par-3 or short course before a full 18. You do not need expensive clubs, since borrowed, used or half-set clubs are fine to begin.
- Playing Golf in the RainTo play well in the rain, keep your grips, gloves and hands dry. Take an extra club so you can hit a lower, controlled shot. On wet fairways the ball barely rolls, so plan to carry it to the target. Make a slightly shorter, balanced swing so your feet don't slip, and putt a little firmer on slow, wet greens.
Related guides & benchmarks
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