Field Notes
How To Choose A Golf Glove (Sizing, Material, When To Replace)
A complete guide to choosing a golf glove — sizing, cabretta vs. synthetic, which hand to wear it on, when to replace it, and what makes a good golf glove gift.
Which Hand Wears The Glove?
Right-handed golfers wear the glove on the left hand (the lead hand). Left-handed golfers wear it on the right hand. The glove goes on whichever hand is at the top of the grip — the hand that does most of the work through impact.
Cabretta vs. Synthetic
Cabretta leather is the premium standard — it comes from a specific type of sheepskin that produces a thin, soft hide that grips naturally and conforms to the hand over time. Synthetic gloves are more durable and weather-resistant but sacrifice feel. For performance: cabretta. For durability or hot/humid conditions: synthetic.
Sizing
Golf gloves are sized S, M, ML, L, XL and some brands include Cadet sizes for wider short fingers. Measure hand width at the widest point (across the knuckles) and finger length. A properly sized glove fits snugly with no material bunching at the fingertips. Too loose = glove twists during swing.
When To Replace
A glove typically lasts 10–15 rounds before the palm and thumb show wear. Playing in rain or heat accelerates degradation. When the grip side of the thumb shows visible wear or the palm feels slick even when clean, replace it.
Ball Marker Feature
Some golf gloves include a built-in ball marker on the velcro closure — a small milled disc or coin-sized marker attached to the wrist strap. It saves a pocket search on every green. Worth seeking out if the price is close.
Gift Sizing
Buying a glove as a gift requires knowing the recipient's dominant hand and approximate size. For gifting without sizing info, choose an accessory instead (marker, towel, grip tape) — no sizing risk.
WYX Gloves
WYX carries cabretta leather gloves with a built-in ball marker in S, M, L, XL. Use code WYX10 for 10% off your first order.
Continue with WYX golf essentials or read The Long Game.