Can You Wear Gloves for Pickleball? Should You?

Do pickleball players wear gloves? Should you wear gloves when playing pickleball? What are the benefits and drawbacks of wearing gloves for pickleball? What are the best gloves for pickleball? How do you choose a pickleball glove that fits your needs and preferences?

Why You May Want to Wear Gloves When Playing Pickleball?

There are several reasons why you may want to wear gloves when playing pickleball. Some of the most common ones are:

Improved Grip

One of the main benefits of wearing gloves for pickleball is that they can improve your grip on the paddle. This can help you control the ball better, make more accurate shots, and prevent the paddle from slipping out of your hand.

A good grip is especially important when playing in hot, humid, or wet conditions, where your hands may sweat or get wet from the ball or the court. Gloves can absorb moisture and prevent your hands from getting slippery.

Some gloves also have textured or rubberized surfaces that can enhance your grip even more. These gloves can also protect your paddle from wear and tear.

Reduces Fatigue

Another benefit of wearing gloves for pickleball is that they can reduce fatigue in your hands, fingers, and wrists. Playing pickleball can be physically demanding, especially if you play for long periods or at a high intensity.

Gloves can provide cushioning and support to your hands, fingers, and wrists, reducing the impact and vibration from hitting the ball. This can help you prevent injuries such as blisters, calluses, cramps, sprains, or strains.

Some gloves also have compression or ergonomic features that can improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation in your hands. This can help you recover faster and play longer.

Reducing Cuts and Other Minor Injuries

Another benefit of wearing gloves for pickleball is that they can reduce the risk of cuts and other minor injuries to your hands. Pickleball balls are made of hard plastic with holes, which can sometimes cause abrasions or scrapes on your skin when they hit your hand.

Gloves can protect your skin from these impacts, as well as from dirt, dust, or germs that may be on the ball or the court. Gloves can also prevent your nails from breaking or chipping when playing pickleball.

Gloves Keep Your Hands Warm and Flexible

Another benefit of wearing gloves for pickleball is that they can keep your hands warm and flexible when playing in cold weather. Cold temperatures can make your hands stiff, numb, or painful, affecting your performance and enjoyment of the game.

Gloves can insulate your hands from the cold air and keep them warm and comfortable. Warm hands are also more flexible and responsive, allowing you to move them faster and more smoothly.

Some gloves are specially designed for cold weather, with fleece or thermal materials that can provide extra warmth and comfort.

Should You Wear a Glove on One or Both Hands?

If you decide to wear gloves for pickleball, you may wonder whether you should wear a glove on one or both hands. The answer depends on your personal preference and style of play.

Most pickleball players only wear a glove on their dominant hand, which is the hand they use to hold the paddle. This is because they want to improve their grip and reduce fatigue on their main hand, while keeping their other hand free and natural.

However, some players may choose to wear gloves on both hands, especially if they play with both hands or switch hands frequently. This can provide them with consistent grip and protection on both hands, as well as balance their body temperature.

Ultimately, the choice is up to you. You can experiment with different options and see what works best for you.

Why the Controversy?

You may have noticed that not everyone agrees on whether wearing gloves for pickleball is a good idea or not. Some players swear by them, while others avoid them at all costs. Why is there such a controversy?

The main reason is that wearing gloves for pickleball has both advantages and disadvantages. Some of the pros and cons are:

Pros

• Improved grip
• Reduced fatigue
• Reduced injuries
• Warmth and comfort

Cons

• Reduced feel
• Added cost
• Added hassle
• Potential rule violation

Let’s take a closer look at each of these points.

Reduced Feel

One of the main drawbacks of wearing gloves for pickleball is that they can reduce your feel for the ball and the paddle. Feel is the ability to sense the contact and feedback from the ball and the paddle, which can help you adjust your shots and improve your accuracy and consistency.

Some players prefer to have direct contact with the paddle and the ball, without any interference from gloves. They believe that gloves can dull their feel and make them lose touch with the game.

However, this is largely a matter of personal preference and adaptation. Some players may not mind or even notice the difference in feel, while others may get used to it over time. Some gloves are also thinner and more flexible than others, which can minimize the loss of feel.

Added Cost

Another drawback of wearing gloves for pickleball is that they can add to your cost of playing the game. Gloves are not very expensive, but they are not free either. You may need to buy several pairs of gloves, depending on how often you play, how long they last, and how many you lose or damage.

You may also need to buy different types of gloves for different seasons or conditions, such as cold weather gloves, wet weather gloves, or indoor gloves. This can increase your expenses even more.

Of course, this is not a major issue for most players, especially if they enjoy the benefits of wearing gloves. However, it is something to consider if you are on a tight budget or want to save money.

Added Hassle

Another drawback of wearing gloves for pickleball is that they can add to your hassle of playing the game. Gloves are not very difficult to use, but they are not very convenient either. You may need to carry them with you, put them on and take them off, wash them and dry them, and store them properly.

You may also need to adjust them from time to time, especially if they get loose or wet. You may also forget or lose them sometimes, which can be frustrating or embarrassing.

Again, this is not a big deal for most players, especially if they are used to wearing gloves. However, it is something to consider if you value simplicity and ease of play.

Potential Rule Violation

Another drawback of wearing gloves for pickleball is that they may violate some rules or regulations of the game. According to the official rules of pickleball¹, “The paddle must be used as it was originally manufactured with no alterations or modifications”. This means that you cannot add anything to your paddle that may change its characteristics or performance.

Some people may argue that wearing gloves can alter or modify your paddle, since they change the way you hold it and hit the ball with it. They may claim that gloves can give you an unfair advantage over other players who do not wear them.

However, this is a controversial and debatable point. Most people agree that wearing gloves does not significantly change your paddle or give you an edge over others. In fact, some people may say that wearing gloves can put you at a disadvantage, since they reduce your feel and add extra weight to your hand.

Moreover, most tournaments and clubs do not have any specific rules or restrictions on wearing gloves for pickleball. As long as your glove does not have any illegal features such as spikes, magnets, or lights, you should be fine.

However, it is always a good idea to check with the organizers or officials before you play with gloves in a competitive setting. You may also want to respect the preferences and opinions of your opponents and partners when it comes to wearing gloves.

Choosing a Pickleball Glove

If you decide to wear gloves for pickleball, you may wonder how to choose a glove that suits you best. There are many factors to consider when choosing a pickleball glove, such as:

• Material
• Padding and thickness
• Wrist strap
• Breathability

Let’s take a look at each of these factors in detail.

Material

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a pickleball glove is the material it is made of. The material affects the durability, comfort, grip, and feel of the glove.

The most common materials used for pickleball gloves are:

• Leather
• Synthetic leather
• Spandex
• Nylon
• Rubber
• Fleece

Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a brief overview of each material:

Leather

Leather is one of the most popular materials for pickleball gloves. Leather is natural, durable, flexible, and comfortable. It also provides excellent grip and feel for the paddle and the ball.

However, leather also has some drawbacks. Leather can be expensive, heavy, stiff, and hard to maintain. It can also absorb moisture and become slippery or smelly when wet.

Synthetic Leather

Synthetic leather is an artificial material that mimics the properties of leather. Synthetic leather is cheaper, lighter, softer, and easier to care for than leather. It also resists moisture and repels water and sweat better than leather.

However, synthetic leather also has some drawbacks. Synthetic leather can be less durable, less flexible, and less comfortable than leather. It can also provide less grip and feel than leather.

Spandex

Spandex is a synthetic material that is stretchy, lightweight, and breathable. Spandex is often used for the back of the glove, to provide a snug and comfortable fit. Spandex can also enhance the flexibility and mobility of your hand.

However, spandex also has some drawbacks. Spandex can be less durable, less protective, and less grippy than other materials. It can also wear out or tear easily.

Nylon

Nylon is another synthetic material that is strong, lightweight, and resistant to abrasion and moisture. Nylon is often used for the palm of the glove, to provide a smooth and durable surface. Nylon can also reduce friction and heat on your hand.

However, nylon also has some drawbacks. Nylon can be less comfortable, less breathable, and less flexible than other materials. It can also provide less grip and feel than other materials.

Rubber

Rubber is a natural or synthetic material that is elastic, waterproof, and shock-absorbing. Rubber is often used for the fingertips or the entire palm of the glove, to provide extra grip and protection. Rubber can also prevent your paddle from slipping or sliding on your hand.

However, rubber also has some drawbacks. Rubber can be heavy, stiff, and uncomfortable. It can also make your hand sweat more and reduce your feel for the ball.

Fleece

Fleece is a synthetic material that is soft, warm, and cozy. Fleece is often used for cold weather gloves, to provide insulation and comfort for your hand. Fleece can also wick away moisture and keep your hand dry.

However, fleece also has some drawbacks. Fleece can be bulky, fuzzy, and prone to pilling. It can also provide less grip and feel than other materials.

Padding and Thickness

Another factor to consider when choosing a pickleball glove is the padding and thickness of the glove. The padding and thickness affect the cushioning, protection, weight, and feel of the glove.

The most common types of padding and thickness for pickleball gloves are:

• Thin
• Medium
• Thick

Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a brief overview of each type:

Thin

Thin gloves have little or no padding on the palm or fingers of the glove. Thin gloves are lightweight, flexible, and breathable. They also provide the best feel for the paddle and the ball.

However, thin gloves also have some drawbacks. Thin gloves offer little or no cushioning or protection for your hand. They can also wear out or tear faster than thicker gloves.

Medium

Medium gloves have moderate padding on the palm or fingers of the glove. Medium gloves are balanced in terms of weight, flexibility, breathability, cushioning, protection, and feel.

However, medium gloves also have some drawbacks. Medium gloves may not offer enough cushioning or protection for some players. They may also not provide enough feel for some players.

Thick

Thick gloves have ample padding on the palm or fingers of the glove. Thick gloves are heavy, stiff, and warm. They also provide the most cushioning and protection for your hand.

However, thick gloves also have some drawbacks. Thick gloves reduce your flexibility and breathability. They also reduce your feel for the paddle and the ball.

Wrist Strap

Another factor to consider when choosing a pickleball glove is the wrist strap of the glove. The wrist strap affects the fit, security, comfort, and adjustability of the glove.

The most common types of wrist straps for pickleball gloves are:

• Velcro
• Elastic
• None

Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a brief overview of each type:

Velcro

Velcro wrist straps have a hook-and-loop closure that allows you to adjust the tightness of the glove around your wrist. Velcro wrist straps are secure, customizable, and easy to use.

However, Velcro wrist straps also have some drawbacks. Velcro wrist straps can be bulky, scratchy, or noisy. They can also wear out or lose their stickiness over time.

Elastic

Elastic wrist straps have a stretchy band that fits snugly around your wrist without any closure. Elastic wrist straps are simple, sleek, and comfortable.

However, elastic wrist straps also have some drawbacks. Elastic wrist straps can be too tight or too loose for some players. They can also lose their elasticity or break over time.

None

Some gloves do not have any wrist strap at all. These gloves rely on the shape and material of the glove to fit your hand securely without any adjustment. These gloves are minimalist, modern, and elegant.

However, gloves without wrist straps also have some drawbacks. Gloves without wrist straps can be less secure, less adjustable, and less comfortable than gloves with wrist straps. They can also slip off or slide around your hand more easily.

Breathability

Another factor to consider when choosing a pickleball glove is the breathability of the glove. The breathability affects the ventilation, moisture management, and temperature regulation of the glove.

The most common types of breathability for pickleball gloves are:

• High
• Medium
• Low

Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a brief overview of each type:

High

High breathability gloves have a lot of holes, mesh, or perforations on the glove that allow air to flow through and moisture to evaporate. High breathability gloves are cool, dry, and comfortable.

However, high breathability gloves also have some drawbacks. High breathability gloves can be less durable, less protective, and less grippy than low breathability gloves. They can also let in dust, dirt, or water more easily.

Medium

Medium breathability gloves have some holes, mesh, or perforations on the glove that provide moderate ventilation and moisture management. Medium breathability gloves are balanced in terms of temperature, comfort, and performance.

However, medium breathability gloves also have some drawbacks. Medium breathability gloves may not be enough for some players who sweat a lot or play in hot weather. They may also be too much for some players who play in cold weather or prefer a warmer feel.

Low

Low breathability gloves have few or no holes, mesh, or perforations on the glove that limit the air flow and moisture evaporation. Low breathability gloves are warm, cozy, and grippy.

However, low breathability gloves also have some drawbacks. Low breathability gloves can be hot, sweaty, and uncomfortable. They can also cause your hand to swell or chafe more easily.

Do You Need Fingerless Gloves?

Another question you may have when choosing a pickleball glove is whether you need fingerless gloves or not. Fingerless gloves are gloves that have the fingers cut off or partially covered, exposing your fingertips.

Fingerless gloves are popular among some pickleball players who want to combine the benefits of wearing gloves with the benefits of having direct contact with the paddle and the ball.

Some of the advantages of fingerless gloves are:

• They provide more feel for the paddle and the ball than full-fingered gloves.
• They allow you to use your fingertips for touch shots, spin shots, or dinking.
• They prevent your nails from breaking or chipping when playing pickleball.
• They are cooler and more breathable than full-fingered gloves.

Some of the disadvantages of fingerless gloves are:

• They provide less protection for your fingers than full-fingered gloves.
• They expose your fingers to cuts, scrapes, or blisters from the ball or the court.
• They may look odd or unprofessional to some people.

Ultimately, the choice between fingerless gloves and full-fingered gloves is up to you. You can try both types and see what works best for you.

Fit

The last but not least factor to consider when choosing a pickleball glove is the fit of the glove. The fit affects the comfort, security, performance, and appearance of the glove.

The most common types of fit for pickleball gloves are:

• Tight
• Loose
• Snug

Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a brief overview of each type:

Tight

Tight fit gloves are gloves that fit very closely to your hand, leaving no space or wrinkles between your skin and the glove. Tight fit gloves are secure, responsive, and sleek.

However, tight fit gloves also have some drawbacks. Tight fit gloves can be uncomfortable, restrictive, and hard to put on or take off. They can also cause your hand to sweat more or lose circulation.

Loose

Loose fit gloves are gloves that fit loosely on your hand, leaving some space or wrinkles between your skin and the glove. Loose fit gloves are comfortable, relaxed, and easy to use.

However, loose fit gloves also have some drawbacks. Loose fit gloves can be insecure, unresponsive, and sloppy. They can also slip off or slide around your hand more easily.

Snug

Snug fit gloves are gloves that fit just right on your hand, leaving no space or wrinkles between your skin and the glove, but also not too tight or too loose. Snug fit gloves are the ideal fit for most players, as they combine the best of both tight and loose fit gloves.

Snug fit gloves are comfortable, secure, responsive, and neat. They also do not cause any problems with sweating, circulation, or mobility.

However, snug fit gloves also have some drawbacks. Snug fit gloves can be hard to find, as they depend on the size and shape of your hand and the glove. They can also change over time, as they wear out or stretch.

Pickleball vs Raquetball vs Golf Gloves

You may have noticed that pickleball gloves look similar to racquetball gloves or golf gloves. You may wonder if you can use these gloves interchangeably for pickleball. The answer is yes and no.

Yes, you can use racquetball gloves or golf gloves for pickleball, as they have the same basic features and functions as pickleball gloves. They can provide you with grip, cushioning, protection, and comfort when playing pickleball.

However, no, you cannot use racquetball gloves or golf gloves for pickleball, as they have some differences and disadvantages compared to pickleball gloves. They may not be optimized or suitable for pickleball.

Some of the differences and disadvantages are:

• Racquetball gloves are designed for racquetball, which is a different sport than pickleball. Racquetball is played indoors with a rubber ball and a stringed racquet. Pickleball is played outdoors or indoors with a plastic ball and a solid paddle.
• Racquetball gloves may have more padding and thickness than pickleball gloves, as racquetball involves more impact and vibration from hitting the ball. This may reduce your feel and flexibility for pickleball.
• Racquetball gloves may have less breathability than pickleball gloves, as racquetball is played indoors where the temperature and humidity are controlled. This may make your hand sweat more or overheat when playing pickleball.
• Golf gloves are designed for golf, which is a different sport than pickleball. Golf is played outdoors with a club and a ball. Pickleball is played on a court with a net, a paddle, and a ball.
• Golf gloves may have less grip than pickleball gloves, as golf involves more finesse and precision than power and speed. This may make your paddle slip or slide more when playing pickleball.
• Golf gloves may have less protection than pickleball gloves, as golf involves less contact and risk of injury than pickleball. This may expose your hand to more cuts or scrapes when playing pickleball.
• Golf gloves may have less durability than pickleball gloves, as golf involves less wear and tear than pickleball. This may make your glove wear out or tear faster when playing pickleball.

Therefore, it is better to use pickleball gloves for pickleball, as they are specially designed and tailored for the sport. Pickleball gloves can provide you with the best performance and experience when playing pickleball.

Can You Wear Gloves for Pickleball? (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about wearing gloves for pickleball:

How do you deal with sweaty hands from pickleball?

Sweaty hands from pickleball can be annoying and uncomfortable. They can also affect your grip and performance. Here are some tips on how to deal with sweaty hands from pickleball:

• Wear breathable gloves that can wick away moisture and keep your hands dry.
• Use a towel or a wristband to wipe off sweat from your hands or forehead.
• Use chalk or powder to absorb sweat and improve grip.
• Use an antiperspirant or deodorant on your hands to reduce sweating.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and cool down.
• Change your glove or paddle if they get too wet or slippery.

How do I choose a pickleball glove?

Choosing a pickleball glove can be tricky, as there are many factors to consider. Here are some steps on how to choose a pickleball glove:

• Decide whether you want to wear a glove or not for pickleball.
• Decide whether you want to wear a glove on one or both hands for pickleball.
• Decide what kind of material, padding, wrist strap, breathability, finger style, and fit you prefer for your glove.
• Try on different sizes and brands of gloves until you find one that fits you well and feels comfortable.
• Test out your glove on the court and see how it affects your grip, feel, performance, and enjoyment of the game.

What is appropriate attire for pickleball?

Pickleball is a casual and friendly sport that does not have any strict dress code or rules. However, there are some general guidelines and recommendations on what to wear for pickleball:

• Wear comfortable and breathable clothing that allows you to move freely and stay cool.
• Wear athletic shoes that provide good traction, support, and cushioning for your feet.
• Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
• Wear a glove, if you prefer, to improve your grip and protect your hand.
• Wear any accessories or equipment that enhance your performance or enjoyment of the game, such as a paddle, a ball, a bag, a towel, a water bottle, etc.

What is the best pickleball glove for sweaty hands?

The best pickleball glove for sweaty hands is one that can prevent or reduce sweating and improve grip. Here are some features to look for in a pickleball glove for sweaty hands:

• Breathable material that can wick away moisture and keep your hand dry.
• Rubber or synthetic leather palm that can repel water and sweat and provide good grip.
• Mesh or perforated back that can allow air flow and ventilation.
• Thin or medium padding that can reduce weight and heat.
• Velcro or elastic wrist strap that can adjust the tightness and fit of the glove.

Some examples of pickleball gloves that are good for sweaty hands are:

• Wilson Clutch Glove
• Gearbox Movement Glove
• HEAD Airflow Tour Glove