Why do golfers wear only one glove?
The golf glove is a staple in every golfer's gear, seamlessly blending tradition with performance. At SLICE TOWN, where we prioritize style and quality, we delve into the rich history of this essential accessory and its evolution in the sport. Check out our gloves here.
TL;DR: Look at the video below:
The evolution of the golf glove
The journey of the golf glove mirrors the transformation of golf itself. In the early days, golfers played barehanded, relying solely on their grip strength and technique. However, as the sport progressed, the need for enhanced grip and protection became evident. This led to the introduction of gloves made from various materials, with leather emerging as the preferred choice due to its durability and comfort.
By the mid-20th century, the golf glove had become a common sight on courses worldwide. Manufacturers began experimenting with design and materials, introducing features like perforations for breathability and elasticized cuffs for a secure fit. Today, golf gloves are engineered with advanced materials and technologies, offering players improved grip, comfort, and style.
Why do golfers wear only one glove?
The tradition of wearing a single glove is deeply rooted in both functionality and historical practices.
Historical influence
Historically, the ungloved hand was reserved for social activities on the course, such as smoking or drinking. This practice ensured that the glove remained clean and free from substances that could compromise its effectiveness. Golf.com explains, "It wasn’t until the 20th century that golfers started wearing more modernized leather gloves, likely inspired by other glove-wearing sports like baseball and equestrian."
Functional benefits
Golfers typically wear a glove on their lead hand—the hand at the top of the grip—which plays a crucial role in controlling the club. This practice enhances grip, reduces friction, and prevents blisters, especially in varying weather conditions. As noted by Golf.com, "The most popular reason is that the lead hand rests on the handle more than the lower hand, making it more susceptible to blisters and slipping while you swing."
High-quality leather: A premium choice
Leather has long been the material of choice for golf gloves, offering a superior combination of comfort, durability, and grip. At SLICE TOWN, we honor this tradition by crafting our premium black leather gloves from the finest Cabretta leather. Each glove is meticulously handmade, ensuring exceptional quality and attention to detail. The high-quality Cabretta leather molds to your hand, providing exceptional touch and feel with every swing.
Explore our premium black leather gloves here.
Two gloves? Breaking tradition with Aaron Rai
While the single-glove tradition prevails, some golfers opt for two gloves to suit their personal preferences. Professional golfer Aaron Rai is known for wearing two gloves, a choice that enhances his grip and comfort, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Reflecting on his unique approach, Rai shared, "It started when I was eight years old... I just happened to be given these two gloves... and I got into the habit of wearing them." He further explained, "Then, a few weeks down the line, my dad forgot to put the two gloves in the bag so I had to play with one. It was terrible."
The GOAT in golf style: Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan, the basketball legend, is also an avid golfer known for his love of cigars on the course. His presence in the golfing world exemplifies the blend of leisure and luxury that the sport embodies. Jordan once shared, "I smoke to remind myself that life should be enjoyed." This laid-back yet stylish ethos aligns perfectly with the SLICE TOWN philosophy of combining performance with personality.
Balancing performance and leisure: John Daly's approach
Even as golf has become increasingly performance-driven, figures like John Daly remind us of the sport's leisurely roots. Known for playing rounds barefoot and enjoying a cigarette, Daly embodies a relaxed approach to the game. He once remarked, "I grip it and rip it—that’s how I play. It’s all about feel."
Daly’s emphasis on grip and feel often leads him to forgo traditional golfing norms, highlighting the personal preferences that make the sport unique. His carefree spirit proves that golf can be both competitive and a celebration of personal style.
Modern golf gloves: Innovation meets style
Today’s golf gloves are a fusion of functionality and fashion. Advancements in materials and design have led to gloves that not only enhance performance but also make a style statement. From classic designs to bold, contemporary patterns, golfers can choose gloves that reflect their personal style.
At SLICE TOWN, we are committed to offering gloves that combine premium materials with modern aesthetics, ensuring that you look and feel your best on the course.
Photo-David Goldsbury
Why choose SLICE TOWN golf gloves?
SLICE TOWN’s premium black leather gloves are meticulously crafted from the finest Cabretta leather, ensuring a comfortable fit, superior grip, and durability. The leather adapts to the contours of your hand, providing exceptional touch and feel with every swing. Our commitment to style and quality makes our gloves the perfect accessory for golfers who want to stand out on the course. Discover our full range of golf apparel to elevate your game.
Explore more with SLICE TOWN
If you’ve enjoyed learning about the history of the golf glove, we invite you to explore our other articles, such as Humble Beginnings and our Guide to Stockholm Golfing. Dive into the Slice-Town universe and discover how we’re redefining style on the course.
