Golf gloves

A right-hand glove is worn by a left-handed golfer, because the glove goes on the lead hand, which is the one at the top of the grip. Left-handed players often find fewer choices on store shelves, so a well-fitting glove in their size can be a welcome gift. Before buying, confirm that the person really does swing left-handed, since some lefties play right-handed. Check the size chart, look for a snug fit across the palm with no loose material at the fingertips, and consider a pair so there's a backup when one gets sweaty or worn.

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  Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

  Left-handed golfer's grip glove (right hand)

  Specifically designed for left-handed golfers, this glove is worn on the right hand to provide optimal grip and comfort during their swing.

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Most men's gloves are cabretta leather, synthetic, or a mix of both. Leather feels soft and grips well but wears out sooner. Synthetic and hybrid gloves last longer and handle heat and damp better. An all-weather glove suits someone who plays often and doesn't want to baby his gear. Men's sizes usually run small to extra large, with cadet sizes for shorter fingers and wider palms. If you can, check an old glove in his bag for the size and hand before you buy.

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  Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

  All weather golf gloves

  A durable glove designed to maintain grip and comfort through various weather conditions, suitable for year-round play.

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Women's golf gloves are cut narrower through the palm and shorter in the fingers than men's, so a small men's glove rarely fits the same way. Many come in more colours, and some are shaped to follow the hand's natural curve when gripping the club. They suit anyone from a new player taking lessons to a regular in a weekly league. Check the size chart carefully, since sizing varies between makers. Also confirm which hand she plays, since left-handed players need a right-hand glove.

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  Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

  Womens golf gloves

  Tailored to the unique contours of a woman's hand, this glove provides a comfortable, secure fit and enhanced feel for female golfers.

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The gloves golfers keep reaching for share a few traits: a close fit with no bunching in the palm, a closure tab that stays put, and material that holds its grip after a few rounds. Fit matters more than features, so getting the size right is most of the job. Young golfers need their own junior sizes, since an adult glove will be loose and slip during the swing. When you're unsure, choose a glove with a stretchy, forgiving fit, or buy two so they can rotate between rounds.

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  Gift ideaUsually under $15

  Youth golf glove

  Designed for young aspiring golfers, this glove offers comfort and a secure grip to help them develop their swing with confidence.

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This is where most glove gifts go wrong. A glove labelled "left hand" is worn on the left hand by a right-handed golfer, and that's the standard glove most players use. A glove sold "for left-handed golfers" is actually worn on the right hand. Before you buy, find out which way the person swings, then match the glove to the hand at the top of the grip. A quick look in their golf bag for an old glove answers both the hand and size questions.

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  Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

  Standard golf grip glove (left hand)

  Essential for most right-handed golfers, this glove provides crucial grip and protection on the lead hand for a stable swing.

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Premium gloves usually use thin, high-grade leather that feels close to bare skin while still gripping the club firmly. They suit keen golfers who care how the club feels in their hands and don't mind replacing gloves more often. The thin leather gives more feel but wears faster than a synthetic glove. Check that the size runs true, the stitching is neat, and the tab closes flat. A premium glove works well as a small add-on to a bigger golf gift.

Rain gloves are made to grip better when they're wet, which is the opposite of leather. They usually come in pairs, one for each hand. Insulated winter gloves also come in pairs and keep hands warmer during early spring and late fall rounds, which matter in much of Canada and the northern US. Both suit golfers who play in any weather. Rain gloves should fit snugly. Winter gloves can be a little looser but should still let the golfer feel the grip.

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  Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

  Enhanced grip rain golf gloves set

  Specifically engineered to provide superior grip in wet conditions, this set ensures confidence and control during rainy golf rounds.

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  Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

  Insulated cold weather golf gloves pair

  Keep hands warm and maintain grip during chilly rounds with this specialized pair of gloves, perfect for off-season play.

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Pink gloves suit golfers who like a bit of colour in their gear, and some players pick them for charity or awareness rounds. They come in both women's and men's cuts, so don't assume the style. What matters most is still fit and hand, so check both before you buy. A coloured glove also makes it easy to spot in the bag. It pairs well with matching tees or a ball marker for a small, cheerful stocking stuffer.